Drill a series of holes and spend about ten minuets in each. By jumping around, you will find the active fish. While jigging use both jigging spoons and minnow baits, and give them equal attention. On some days you will have action on the spoon, then the action can stop, and the jigging Rapala will start catching fish. When using tip ups, use the largest minnows if you are in pursuit of a trophy walleye or pike.
Golden shiners are the favorite bait of most winter fishermen.
They are hardy and the preferred forage. If you are just out for action, than use smaller minnows. However, even a 20-inch walleye will take a large golden shiner. If you are looking for walleye after a passing cold front, go to a smaller minnow. Fatheads are also a good choice in this situation.