Chasing Greenback Walleyes: Fall Fishing Gear Guide

Each fall, Manitoba anglers eagerly await the arrival of the famed greenback walleye. As these emerald-backed giants slide into their fall movements, they feed aggressively in preparation for the upcoming winter. This seasonal migration brings huge numbers of trophy-class walleye into the Red River, Winnipeg River, and Lake Winnipeg, offering some of the best fishing opportunities in North America. Whether you’re planning a quick day trip or a multi-day stay at a resort, fall is the season to target your next Master Angler walleye.

To help anglers prepare, we’ve put together a gear guide featuring proven tactics and high-quality equipment available at Bass Pro Shops/Cabela’s. From rods and reels to lures and rain gear, here’s everything you need to make the most of this incredible fishery.

Where to Go: Red River at Selkirk and Lockport

The Red River is perhaps Manitoba’s most famous fall greenback destination. Selkirk and Lockport are the most popular spots for shore anglers, with plenty of access along the banks. They also serve as excellent launching points for boat anglers looking to explore the stretch of river leading down toward Lake Winnipeg, a run that consistently produces trophy-class greenbacks.

For those new to the river or looking to maximize their time on the water, several experienced outfitters and guides operate in this area:

Blackwater Cats Outfitter – Specializes in trophy catfish and walleye trips, offering years of expertise on the Red River.

City Cats Guiding Service – Known for targeting both giant channel catfish and walleye, with trips based out of Selkirk.

Red River Cats – Offers guided experiences on the Red, complete with a convenient floating dock at their Lockport location and access to both channel catfish and walleye.

CatDaddy Fishing Guide Services – Based out of Selkirk, CatDaddy offers fully guided trips on the Red River with a focus on big channel catfish and walleye. Known for running their own boats and gear, they provide everything you need for a memorable day on the water, from tackle and bait to local expertise.

With easy access, abundant fish, and professional guides to lean on, Selkirk and Lockport remain staples of Manitoba’s fall greenback season.

Where to Go: Pine Falls into Traverse Bay on the Winnipeg River

The Winnipeg River is another top choice for anglers chasing strong numbers of walleye with the potential for trophies. Launching at the town of Pine Falls provides direct access to the lower river, where greenbacks stage in heavy numbers during their fall migration. From there, anglers can work the Winnipeg River downstream into Traverse Bay on Lake Winnipeg, a stretch of water that has earned a reputation for producing both quantity and quality.

Jocelynn Wilson 28.25-inch walleye caught in Traverse Bay

This area is not only productive, it is also incredibly scenic. The Winnipeg River flows past rocky points, forested shorelines, and deep runs that come alive with feeding walleye each fall. For anglers looking for a quick escape, the Pine Falls and Traverse Bay area offers an ideal day-trip option. Just a couple of hours’ drive from Winnipeg, and you can be on the water by morning, fishing through the afternoon, and back home that evening with stories to tell.

Tim Au's 28-inch greenback walleye on the Winnipeg River

For a closer look at what this fishery has to offer, check out the video linked below from Jay Siemens’ fall walleye tour, where he explored these very waters in search of big greenbacks.

Where to Go: Hecla Island, Lake Winnipeg

For anglers looking to turn a fishing trip into a weekend getaway, Hecla Island is the perfect basecamp for chasing fall greenbacks on Lake Winnipeg. This island setting not only offers productive waters for trolling and jigging, but it also sets the stage for a true multi-day escape where fishing blends seamlessly with relaxation.

Kyle Klassen caught this 31-inch Lake Winnipeg greenback walleye

Two excellent fall lodging options make Hecla especially attractive:

Gull Harbour Marina & Resort:

Featuring cozy accommodations, a full-service marina, and an on-site restaurant, this resort puts you right on the water with everything you need for a convenient fishing-focused stay.

Lakeview Hecla Resort:

A family-friendly option that offers modern amenities such as a spa, pool, and restaurant, allowing anglers and their families to enjoy both the outdoors and a touch of luxury between outings.

Beyond the fishing, Hecla itself has an unmistakable island charm. Scenic shorelines, the picturesque Hecla village, winding forest trails, and wildlife sightings are all part of the experience. It’s not uncommon to encounter deer grazing along the road, moose moving through the marsh, or even wolves, lynx, and foxes during an early morning drive. That combination of trophy walleye fishing, comfortable lodging, and natural beauty makes Hecla Island a destination that feels like much more than just a fishing trip; it’s a true fall adventure.

Kade Michael Buss with a 29-inch walleye on Lake Winnipeg

Gear Up for Greenbacks

With so many incredible places to chase greenbacks in Manitoba, the next step is making sure you’re equipped for the job. From vertical jigging in the Red River current to trolling the open waters of Lake Winnipeg, having the right rods, reels, and tackle can make all the difference.

The good news is that many of these items are featured in Cabela’s and Bass Pro Shops’ Fall Into Savings Catalogue, making it a great time to stock up and save some cash while you prep for your next fall fishing trip.

Bill Peters with a 30-inch Lake Winnipeg greenback walleye

Rod and Reel Combos

Having the right gear for the job goes a long way when it comes to fall walleye fishing. Many anglers already have trusted setups that will get the job done, but this season also presents a great opportunity to fine-tune your arsenal with rods and reels specifically designed for walleye tactics. Whether you’re jigging in current, trolling open water, or packing light for a quick trip, the following options from Cabela’s and Bass Pro Shops are proven tools that can make your time on the water even more enjoyable.

Amanda Korchinski with a 28.5-inch Master Angler greenback walleye near Selkirk

Spinning Setup:

The Fenwick HMG Walleye Spinning Rod paired with the Johnny Morris Signature Series Spinning Reel offers finesse and versatility. This can be your go-to combo for vertical jigging or casting lighter lures, where sensitivity is crucial.

Casting Setup:

The Fenwick HMG Walleye Casting Rod with the Pro Qualifier Baitcast Reel provides extra control and power. This is a great option for working crankbaits or bottom-bouncer rigs where precision and smooth retrieves make a difference.

Travel-Friendly Option:

For anglers packing light or looking to save space, the Daiwa Crossfire Telescoping Spinning Combo is a compact solution that still has the backbone to handle trophy fish.

Tackle Breakdown: Jigs

Jigs are the bread and butter of walleye fishing in the fall. A mix of weights and colours is essential to adapt to current strength and fish behaviour.

Jessie Trylinski with a 28.25-inch greenback from the shorelines of the Red River

Premium Option:

ReelBait Tournament Series Long Shank Flasher Jigs are highly durable and come with a flasher blade that adds extra attraction.

Budget-Friendly Option:

Cabela’s Fisherman Series Round Head Jigs are perfect for areas with heavy snags where losing tackle is common.

Start with lighter weights such as 1/8 or 1/4 oz in calm current, and bump up to 3/8 or 1/2 oz when the river is pushing harder.

Pair your jigs with soft plastics like Rapala Crush City “The Mayor”. My favourite colour pattern is the perch, but they have a whole hosts of other options to try as well. Alternatively, salted minnows or worms remain tried-and-true natural options.

Tackle Breakdown: Expanding your Verticle Presentations

Rattle Baits

When walleye are aggressive, a rattle bait can trigger reaction strikes. The Rapala Rippin’ Rap is a proven lure on Lake Winnipeg, especially when fish are schooled up. The vibration and sound can call in fish from a distance, making it a great search bait. My favourite colour pattern of this lure is the in Chrome/Blue Back design.

Spoons

When the bite slows, spoons offer a different profile and flash that can entice even the most stubborn fish to bite. The PK Lures Flutterfish Jigging Spoon falls with an enticing fluttering action, ideal for vertical jigging beneath the boat or through schools marked on sonar.

Jigging Raps

Few lures trigger strikes like a Rapala Jigging Rap. Designed for sharp, darting movements, they excel when sharpshooting individual fish marked on electronics. This unique action often convinces neutral or pressured walleye to strike when other lures fail.

Tackle Breakdown: Search Baits and Presentations

Crankbaits

When fish are scattered, crankbaits allow you to cover ground quickly. The Bass Pro Shops Charter Series Walleye Runner is designed to dive to key depths and stay in the strike zone. Troll different colours and sizes until you dial in on an active school.

Bottom Bouncers and Spinner Rigs

Another effective way to cover water is with the classic bottom bouncer paired with a spinner rig. The Cabela’s Bottom Bouncers combined with the Charter Series Walleye Rig allow you to present bait close to bottom-hugging walleye. Rig with worms or salted minnows for consistent results.

And for anyone who has used this setup, they know how messy storing these rigs after the fact can be, but the Cabela’s Fisherman Series Spinner/ Snell Holder w/ Plano Utility Box takes care of that problem, eliminating tangles and saving you time.

Gear Essentials

Hook Removal:

Cuda Long Needle Nose Pliers are a must-have for safely handling fish and removing hooks efficiently. They are also handy to have close by for pinching those barbs.

Measuring Board:

For those Master Angler catches, the Cabela’s Canada Fish Measuring Board ensures quick and accurate measurements for those Manitoba Master Angler Program submissions.

Staying Warm

Gallagher Christie caught this 30-inch on the Red River last fall

Fall weather in Manitoba can swing from sunny skies to cold rain in a matter of hours. Staying dry keeps you comfortable and on the water longer.

The Cabela's Guidewear Men’s Xtreme Jacket and Guidewear Men’s Xtreme Bib with Gore-Tex are a favourite among even the most hardcore anglers.

Cooking Your Catch

One of the great things about fall greenback season is that while anglers often target trophy fish, there are always opportunities to mix in a few “eaters” for the table. Manitoba’s slot limits are designed to protect those big breeders, but the smaller walleye within the keep range are perfect for a fresh meal. Their mild, flaky fillets are a favourite among anglers and non-anglers alike, making walleye one of the most sought-after freshwater fish for the table.

Nothing caps off a day on the water quite like a traditional fish fry. Be prepared with the right tools:

XPS Professional Grade Fillet Kit for clean fillets.

Catch and Cook Fish Batter for a crispy coating.

Bass Pro Shops Fish Fryer for a classic fish and chips feast.

Fall Fishing Awaits: Gear Up and Get After Greenbacks

Fall greenback fishing in Manitoba is world-class, and with the right locations, tactics, and gear, you’ll be ready to connect with the fish of a lifetime.

Joseph Funk Clements 28-inch Lake Winnipeg walleye

From the Red River to the Winnipeg River and across Lake Winnipeg, these waters hold some of the largest walleye you’ll ever encounter. Stock up on proven equipment from Cabela’s and Bass Pro Shops, stay prepared for any conditions, and enjoy every moment chasing these incredible fish.

Elena La 32-inch Walleye from Hecla Island

Author

Keevin Erickson | Hunt Fish Consultant

Keevin Is a passionate hunter and angler with a love for filming, photography, and writing. Watch for his blogs where he'll share his tips, techniques and stories as he explores the province.

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