What’s in a Name?

How did walleye get its name?

The most famous sportfish in the Midwest bears the most bizarre name, which comes from the large, unusual glassy-appearing eyes that point outwards, as if looking at the walls.  They are not sunk into eye sockets—like ours—nor are they level with the skin. They protrude out and are so light-sensitive, if there’s no shade, walleye go as deep as necessary to escape the rays penetrating the water. They are, as Bruce Springsteen sang, Blinded by the Light.

Factoid #2: Given this peculiarity, their vision is actually excellent in the low-light conditions of dawn or dusk, or when it’s choppy and rough—when the light that penetrates the lake is broken up.

Fishing Tip: go in the very early morning or at dusk and watch for something called “eyeshine” bouncing off the fish. The taste is worth the trouble!!