West Virginia Walleye

The walleye is the largest member of the perch family, which also includes sauger, yellow perch and darters. This species can be recognized by its torpedo-shaped body, forked tail, white spot on its lower tail fin, sharp canine teeth, and reflective eyes. The luminous appearance of the eyes is due to the tapetum lucidum, a layer of pigment that helps the Walleye to see at night or in murky water. Body coloration ranges from dark olive brown to yellowish gold, with brassy flecks on its sides.

Walleyes are native to central North America and Canada, including the Ohio River and Great Lakes watersheds. These popular sport fish have been extensively stocked throughout much of North America including West Virginias New River. Walleye typically weigh one or two pounds, although trophy catches may exceeds 15 pounds or more and reach lengths around 36 inches.