Horizontal presentations, like spinner rigs paired with bottom bouncers, can be trolled at 2 mph to sift large areas of water fast for the most aggressive fish. Other techniques, like drifting Lindy rigs or jigs, force you to slow down to take hesitant biters. Use a drift sock or electric trolling motor to slowly work bait along the bottom. Go vertical by anchoring and use a Thill float to dangle bait right in front of their noses. Start your attack with a variety of live bait on board.
Nightcrawlers are a good choice year-round.
Minnows are often best in spring and fall with larger ones the choice later in the calendar. Leeches are generally good when the water temperature warms above 55 degrees. Ask around at bait shops and boat ramps what's been working. But, don't be afraid to try something different. Once on the water, use a lake map, your electronics and an underwater camera, like the , to search bars and humps and other traditional structure for walleyes.