What is the role of submerged timber and dense vegetation in attracting walleye forage bases?

They draw in minnows and perch, which subsequently attract the walleye seeking that forage.

Healthy, dense vegetation, whether it manifests as weeds, submerged timber in reservoirs, or thick brush, plays a crucial ecological role in the feeding hierarchy. This cover provides necessary habitat and protection for smaller baitfish species, such as minnows and perch. Because walleye actively hunt this forage base, the presence of robust cover inherently draws the predators near. Productive fishing often occurs along the outside edges of large weed flats or within isolated clumps where the density creates an excellent ambush opportunity.