The walleye is a highly sought-after freshwater fish, popular among anglers for its taste and challenging catch. A common question among those new to fishing or learning about this species is whether walleye are bottom feeders. This article will clarify the walleye’s actual feeding habits and address why this misconception might persist.
What Defines a Bottom Feeder?
A bottom feeder is an aquatic animal that primarily forages for food on or in the substrate of a body of water. These fish often exhibit specific anatomical adaptations, such as mouths positioned on the underside of their heads or barbels, which are whisker-like sensory organs. Some bottom feeders consume organic materials that sink to the bottom, while others graze on plants or hunt other benthic animals. Examples include various species of catfish, carp, and flatfish like flounder and sole.
Walleye’s Actual Diet and Feeding Behavior
Walleye are predatory fish that actively hunt their prey throughout the water column. Their diet primarily consists of smaller fish, such as yellow perch, minnows, shiners, and even other walleye. While young walleye may consume zooplankton, insects, and small invertebrates, their diet rapidly shifts to fish as they grow. They are opportunistic feeders, capable of consuming almost anything they can fit into their mouths.
Walleye employ an ambush feeding strategy, often positioning themselves near structures like submerged logs, rocks, or aquatic vegetation to surprise unsuspecting prey. Their exceptional vision in low-light conditions, attributed to a reflective layer in their eyes called the tapetum lucidum, gives them a distinct advantage. This allows them to hunt effectively when light is scarce. While walleye may occasionally consume prey found near the bottom, this behavior does not categorize them as primary bottom feeders. Their feeding is largely driven by active pursuit rather than sifting through substrate.
The Source of the Walleye Bottom Feeder Myth
The misconception that walleye are bottom feeders likely stems from their preferred habitats and where anglers often find them. Walleye frequently inhabit deeper, cooler waters or areas near the bottom, particularly during daylight hours. They also tend to associate with structures and cover on the lakebed or riverbed. Anglers often target walleye by presenting lures or baits near the bottom, which can inadvertently reinforce the idea that the fish are feeding exclusively there.
However, their presence near the bottom is often for cover, to ambush prey, or to seek optimal temperature and oxygen levels, rather than to forage directly from the substrate. While they might consume prey near the bottom, their method of feeding involves actively pursuing and striking. This is distinct from the sifting or scavenging behavior of true bottom feeders. Therefore, being found near the bottom does not define their primary feeding strategy.