Quinte Fishing

Walleyes caught from extreme depths undergo terrific stress as they are brought to the surface. Reel slowly, and enjoy the fight to give fish time to adjust to pressure changes on the way up. If releasing the fish, "fizz" it to empty the air bladder or it will struggle helplessly on the surface, unable to descend after it is freed.

With a cattle inoculation needle or a hypodermic needle about 1-1/2 inches long and with the fish submerged in the livewell belly up, count three scales to either side of the anus and five scales forward toward the head. Carefully use the needle to lift the scale and insert the needle at a 45-degree angle until the first bubble appears. Then gently hold the fish as the air escapes. Do not force it. The procedure could take 20 to 30 seconds for an 8-pound walleye, which should right itself after you remove the needle. Let the fish recuperate in your livewell a while if it is of legal length. If not, release it immediately.