Half Day Walleye Fishing Trip in De Pere
If you're serious about walleye fishing, the Fox River in De Pere during trophy season is where you want to be. Captain John Reddy has been working these waters for over 40 years, and he knows exactly where those big walleye stage up as they move through the system. This 6-hour private trip runs from March through April when the ice is out, targeting trophy walleye over 28 inches long. Whether you're new to walleye fishing or looking to dial in your technique, John's hands-on instruction and local knowledge will put you on fish. You'll fish from his updated 18-foot Alumacraft rigged with GPS, advanced electronics, and a live bait well – everything you need for a productive day chasing Wisconsin's premier game fish.
What to Expect on the Water
The Fox River in De Pere offers some of the best walleye fishing in Wisconsin, especially during the early season trophy run. Captain John runs a top-rated operation that accommodates up to 5 anglers, making it perfect for family trips, buddy outings, or corporate groups. The 18-foot Alumacraft is set up specifically for walleye fishing with modern fishfinder electronics that let you see exactly what's happening below. John keeps a live bait well stocked and brings all the tackle you'll need, though you're welcome to bring your own rods if you prefer. The Fox River system here has great structure and current breaks where walleye hold, and John's four decades of experience mean he knows every productive spot. You'll launch right in De Pere and spend the day working the best water, adjusting techniques based on conditions and what the fish are telling you.
Techniques You'll Master
This trip covers all the essential walleye techniques that work best on the Fox River system. You'll learn proper jigging with live bait and plastics, working structure and current seams where walleye ambush prey. John teaches casting techniques for covering shallow flats and drop-offs, plus trolling methods for efficiently searching water and triggering strikes from suspended fish. The advanced fishfinder electronics on the boat let you see fish, bait, and bottom structure in real time, so you'll understand why certain spots hold walleye and others don't. Live bait presentation is crucial for walleye success, and John shows you how to rig everything from minnows to leeches for different situations. Whether you're vertical jigging in deeper holes or casting jigs along current breaks, you'll get hands-on instruction that improves your walleye game. The key on the Fox River is reading the water and understanding how walleye use current and structure during their spring movement patterns.
Species You'll Want to Hook
Walleye are the crown jewel of freshwater fishing in Wisconsin, and the Fox River system produces some true giants during the March through April trophy season. These fish average 18 to 24 inches, but during the spring run, you've got a real shot at walleye over 28 inches – the kind of fish that make lifelong memories. Spring walleye are aggressive and feeding heavily as they prepare for spawning, making them more willing to chase lures and hit bait presentations. What makes walleye so exciting to catch is their finicky nature – they require technique, patience, and local knowledge to consistently hook up. They're also fantastic table fare, with firm white meat that's perfect for a fish fry. The Fox River walleye are particularly healthy and hard-fighting thanks to the river's abundant forage base and current. During trophy season, these fish are at their heaviest weight and fight harder than any other time of year. You'll feel that distinctive walleye headshake when they grab your jig, and bigger fish will make solid runs that test your drag and technique.
Time to Book Your Spot
Captain John's walleye trips book up fast during trophy season – and for good reason. With over 40 years guiding the Fox River, he's earned a reputation as one of Wisconsin's most knowledgeable walleye guides. This half-day trip gives you concentrated fishing time on proven water with expert instruction that'll make you a better angler. The private charter format means you get personalized attention whether you're learning basics or fine-tuning advanced techniques. Don't forget to grab your Wisconsin fishing license before the trip – you can get one online or at local bait shops. Early season walleye fishing only lasts a few months, so secure your dates now while the best spots are still available. Whether you're chasing your first trophy walleye or looking to put together a memorable day with friends and family, this Fox River experience delivers the goods.