How Big Should Walleye Be to Mount? (Complete Guide)

To mount a walleye, aim for a size of around 30 inches, typically weighing near 10 pounds. This length not only represents a trophy-sized walleye but also aligns with sustainable fishing practices.

A good size to mount a walleye is about 30 inches, which usually weighs around 10 pounds. This size is great for showing off as it’s considered a trophy, and it also supports ethical fishing. Smaller walleyes should be released to grow and keep the species healthy.

Remember, fishing rules can change based on the location, so always check local regulations and think about the fish population’s health before deciding to keep or release your catch.

Click here to learn what prey walleye eat. You may also be interested in this article how big walleye should be to considered a trophy.

How Big Should Walleye Be to Mount (Factors)

Legal Considerations

State and regional regulations significantly impact walleye fishing, including size limits for a legal catch. These laws vary by location and are designed to sustain walleye populations, making it crucial for anglers to be informed about and comply with these regulations when considering mounting a walleye.

Ethical Considerations

Sustainable fishing practices are paramount in the decision to mount a walleye. Anglers should understand the species’ growth and breeding patterns to ensure their fishing activities do not adversely affect walleye populations or their habitats, thus maintaining ecological balance.

Personal Meaning of the Fish

The sentimental value of a walleye can outweigh conventional size criteria. If a fish has special meaning, regardless of its size, it can be a suitable candidate for mounting. This aspect celebrates the personal connection and memories associated with the catch, rather than just its physical attributes.

Region or Lake Where the Fish Was Caught

The significance of a walleye’s size can also depend on the region or lake where it was caught. For example, a 10-pound walleye might be quite extraordinary in Arizona but more common in Ontario. In areas known for smaller walleye, even a relatively small fish can be considered a ‘monster’. This regional context adds another layer to understanding what makes a walleye special enough for mounting.

Type of Mount Considerations

The type of mount you choose for a walleye can influence the size requirements and overall presentation. Each method has its unique considerations:

Shadow Box

• Influence on Size Decision: Ideal for smaller walleye, typically under 20 inches. The compact space of a shadow box makes it more suitable for showcasing smaller fish alongside complementary items like lures or memorable photographs.
• Size Requirements: Smaller walleye can be ideal for shadow boxes, as space is limited. This type of mount encases the fish in a framed, glass-front box, often alongside other memorabilia.
• Impact on Decision: A shadow box can accentuate smaller catches, making them appear more significant due to the added context and background.

Traditional Skin Mounts

• Influence on Size Decision: Best suited for larger walleye, ideally over 25 inches. Larger fish display more pronounced features and coloration, which enhances the visual appeal of traditional skin mounts.
• Size Requirements: Traditional skin mounts are versatile and can accommodate a wide range of sizes. However, larger walleye are often preferred for their visual impact.
• Impact on Decision: The condition of the fish’s skin is crucial. Larger specimens tend to display better coloration and details, making them more suitable for this type of mount.

Diorama

• Influence on Size Decision: Size can vary; smaller walleye, around 15-24 inches, are great for dynamic scenes, while larger ones, over 25 inches, can be used as a centerpiece in a more static display. The size should harmonize with the scale and theme of the diorama.
• Size Requirements: The size for a diorama mount depends on the scene being depicted. Smaller walleye can be used to create more dynamic scenes, while larger fish can be the centerpiece.
• Impact on Decision: The focus is on creating a naturalistic scene. The size should complement the diorama’s setting, whether it’s a re-creation of the fish’s natural habitat or a depiction of the catch.

Fiberglass Replica

For fiberglass replicas, the legal size of a walleye doesn’t matter since you can release the fish unharmed after capturing accurate measurements and photos for the replica. This method allows for a detailed and ethical recreation without the need to keep the fish.

• Influence on Size Decision: Size is not limited by legal constraints. Anglers often choose to replicate larger, trophy-sized walleye, typically over 30 inches, for a more impressive display. Since the fish is released, accurate measurements and photographs are essential for a realistic replica.
• Size Requirements: Fiberglass replicas are often made from molds of larger, trophy-sized walleye due to their impressive appearance.
• Impact on Decision: This option is suitable when the original fish is released back into the water. The size of the replica often reflects the angler’s personal achievement, so larger sizes are common.

Importance of Accurate Measurement

Methods for Accurately Measuring Walleye

• Length Measurement: Use a measuring tape or a ruler to measure from the tip of the snout to the end of the tail fin. This measurement is crucial for all types of mounts.
• Girth Measurement: Measure the widest part of the fish’s body, usually around the belly. This is particularly important for creating lifelike skin and fiberglass mounts.
• Weight Measurement: While not always necessary for the mount itself, knowing the weight can help in creating a more accurate representation, especially in dioramas.
• Color and Pattern Notes: For traditional skin mounts and fiberglass replicas, take detailed notes or photographs of the fish’s coloration and unique markings.

Importance of Documenting the Catch

• Photographs: Essential for all types of mounts, photos provide a reference for the fish’s appearance, especially its coloring and patterns. They are particularly crucial for fiberglass replicas, where the mount is created based on the photograph.
• Video Recording: If possible, a short video capturing the fish in natural light can offer additional detail for the taxidermist, especially for intricate diorama setups.
• Documentation of Habitat: For diorama mounts, pictures or descriptions of the environment where the walleye was caught can help in creating a realistic and contextually accurate background.

Specific Considerations for Different Mount Types

• Traditional Skin Mounts: Exact measurements are vital to ensure the skin fits the mold perfectly. Detailed notes on the skin’s texture and coloration are also critical for a lifelike representation.
• Fiberglass Replicas: Here, the focus is on length, girth, and photographic documentation. Since the fish is often released, these details will guide the creation of the replica.
• Shadow Boxes: While length is important, documenting the fish’s overall appearance is crucial as it often forms part of a larger narrative within the box.
• Dioramas: Accurate measurements ensure the fish fits appropriately within the scene. Documentation of the surrounding environment where the fish was caught can significantly enhance the authenticity of the diorama.

Additional Mounting Considerations

Aesthetic Factors

The size of the walleye significantly impacts the visual appeal of the mount. Larger walleye often present a more striking and majestic appearance, showcasing detailed patterns and features, which can make a bolder statement in any display.

Conversely, smaller walleye, while less imposing, can offer a more delicate and intricate look, suitable for detailed and personalized displays.

Cost Implications

The size of the walleye directly affects the cost of mounting. Larger walleye generally incur higher costs due to the increased amount of materials and labor required for the mount. On the other hand, smaller walleye can be more economical to mount, requiring fewer resources and less time to complete, making them a budget-friendly option for anglers.

Display Considerations

When displaying the mounted walleye, consider the size in relation to the available space. Large mounts make a statement and are best suited for spacious areas where they can be the focal point.

For smaller walleye, consider more intimate spaces or groupings with other mounts or memorabilia. Ensure that the mount is placed in a location where it can be viewed comfortably and where lighting can enhance its features, regardless of size.

Conclusion

In summary, when displaying a mounted walleye, size and placement are key. Smaller walleye mounts are best suited for intimate spaces or as part of a collection with other memorabilia, creating a more personal display.

The location of the mount should allow for easy viewing and be enhanced by good lighting, which brings out the best in the fish’s features. Ultimately, the goal is to showcase the walleye in a way that highlights its unique characteristics and the angler’s experience, regardless of its size.