For the past four years, the Winter Walleye Social has become a highly anticipated event, drawing anglers from all corners of the Pacific Northwest to the Columbia River. The semi-annual event started as a small gathering of three or four fishing enthusiasts and evolved into a social event attracting 50 to 80 anglers.
The area we fish is located just west of Irrigon, Oregon, and east of Boardman, Oregon. The social focuses on the pursuit of “eater size,” walleye between 15 and 22 inches. Participants are encouraged to release anything over 22 inches to promote conservation. This approach ensures a sustainable fishing experience and contributes to the thriving walleye population in the region.
Safety is paramount during the social, with participants encouraged to wear a dry suit or equivalent and a personal flotation device at all times.
The event’s impact on the local community has also grown. I offer camping at my house and there are plenty of local accommodations from Airbnb to hotels. The local restaurants get a weekend of good business. The camaraderie extends beyond the fishing grounds, creating a sense of community that keeps participants returning year after year.
The event kicks off at first light with participants hitting the water to pursue the elusive walleye. One of my favorite things is to go from angler to angler, providing tips such as how to stay vertical in the current or how to work a specific lure. Witnessing participants catching their first walleye is the highlight of the event.
With support from Mack’s Lure, the Winter Walleye Social has become a showcase of top-notch tackle and gear. At the end of the event, prizes and gift certificates were handed to the top three anglers who caught a walleye closest to 22 inches without going over.
The Annual Winter Walleye Social stands out as a celebration of camaraderie, conservation and the chance to take home some of the best-eating freshwater fish. As the event continues to grow, it remains a testament to the passion and dedication of the Pacific Northwest kayak fishing community.
