Walleye

Photo by Matthew R. Thomas

Identification: A large, streamlined perch with an opaque eye, large mouth, and enlarged canine teeth. The upper jaw extends beyond the middle of the eye. Color is olive-green to brown with darker blotches on the back and side. The 1st dorsal fin has dark streaks or wavy bands, and a black botch covering the membranes of the last few spines. The anal fin and lower lobe of the caudal fin are tipped in white. Adults can grow to 36 in. (25 lbs.), but usually range from 12-30 in. (2-10 lbs.).

Distribution and Habitat: Occurs in most of the large rivers statewide, but most common in the Cumberland River drainage, including the Big South Fork and Rockcastle River. Several reservoirs across the state are stocked with a Lake Erie strain, but efforts are also underway by Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources to restore a native river-adapted strain to free-flowing sections of selected river systems. Walleye often occur in deep pools of rivers or open waters of reservoirs with abundant bottom cover. They will also congregate below dams or near rocky shoals in rivers.

Walleye

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