1. Low-light conditions: Walleye have excellent eyesight, but they are particularly well-adapted to seeing in low-light conditions. Their eyes have a reflective layer called the tapetum lucidum, which helps them gather and concentrate light, enhancing their vision in darkness. This advantage allows walleyes to effectively hunt prey in the dimly lit environment of night.
2. Prey availability: Many of the prey species that walleyes feed on, such as smaller fish and invertebrates, are also more active and vulnerable during nighttime hours. Baitfish like shad, minnows, and smelt often move closer to the surface at night to feed on plankton, making them easier targets for walleyes.
3. Reduced competition: During the day, walleyes face competition from other predators, including other fish species, birds, and mammals. At night, there is reduced competition, giving walleyes a better chance of catching prey undisturbed.
4. Water temperature: Walleye prefer cooler water temperatures, and during summer, the nights can provide more favorable temperature conditions for them. In warmer climates, walleyes are more likely to feed in deeper waters during the day to find cooler temperatures and then move to shallower areas to hunt at night when the temperatures drop.
5. Energy conservation: Feeding at night might be an energy-saving strategy for walleyes. By reducing their activity during the day when temperatures are higher and prey may be less abundant, they can conserve energy for hunting at night.
These factors combined contribute to the nocturnal feeding behavior of walleyes, allowing them to effectively find and capture prey in their natural environment.