Best Hook Size For Ice Fishing Walleye: Ideal Sizes

For most ice-fishing walleye, size 6 to 10 hooks offer the best balance of bait fit and solid hookups.

You drill a hole, mark fish on your flasher, and drop your bait. Then the walleye bites softly, but the hook feels too large, too heavy, or hard to hide. This is a common ice-fishing problem. The right hook size can make your bait look natural and help you land more fish. For most jigging and live-bait setups, I start with size 8. I move to size 6 for large minnows or aggressive fish, and size 10 when walleye act shy or feed on small prey. The products below cover jigs, spoons, bait hooks, and tip-up rigs.

See the differences between my top picks at a glance.

FishTrip Glow Jig Kit

The FishTrip kit gives you a broad set of glow ice jigs for winter fishing. That makes it useful when walleye change depth, mood, or feeding pattern. The compact jig style fits the common size 6 to 10 range used for many ice-fishing presentations. Glow paint can also help fish find the bait in dark water under the ice.

I like this type of kit for anglers who want several colors and profiles in one box. You can tip a jig with a minnow head, waxworm, or soft plastic. The set also suits other fish, such as perch, crappie, and bluegill. Before buying, check the current listing for the exact piece count and hook sizes, since package options can vary.

Pros:

• Offers several glow colors and jig styles
• Useful for walleye and other ice species
• Supports both bait and soft-plastic tipping
• Compact designs suit finesse presentations
• Storage box helps keep small hooks organized

Cons:

• Exact sizes may vary by package option
• Glow performance needs charging with light
• Some anglers may want stronger hooks for large fish

What Amazon Buyers Are Saying

Amazon shoppers commonly look at this kit for its variety, glow colors, and storage box. Buyers who fish several species tend to value the mix more than anglers who want one exact walleye hook size. As with many budget jig sets, shoppers should inspect the current reviews for comments about paint, hook sharpness, and the selected package.

My Recommendation

I recommend this kit as a flexible starter set. It is a good match for anglers who want to test size 8-style presentations before buying specialized walleye jigs. It is less ideal if you need a clearly labeled heavy hook for trophy fish. Overall, I rate it 4.1 out of 5.

Tungsten Tear Drop Ice Jig Set

This tungsten set uses a 4 mm tear-drop jig and lists a 1/25-ounce weight. Tungsten packs more weight into a smaller body than lead. That compact shape can help you reach deep water while keeping the bait profile small. It is a strong choice when walleye inspect a lure for a long time.

The small body pairs well with a minnow piece or a small plastic. It can also help you keep contact with the lure in deeper water or light current. The 14-color mix gives you room to test bright, dark, and glow patterns. For the best hook size for ice fishing walleye, this set fits anglers who favor a small jig with a sharp, compact presentation.

Pros:

• Dense tungsten body reaches depth quickly
• Small profile suits cautious walleye
• Multiple colors support fast pattern changes
• Useful for both walleye and panfish
• Good choice for vertical jigging

Cons:

• Small jigs may be harder to tie with cold hands
• Not the best choice for very large live bait
• Small hooks require careful pressure during the fight

What Amazon Buyers Are Saying

Buyers commonly focus on the compact tungsten body, color range, and fast drop. Shoppers who use small jigs often appreciate the size for panfish and finesse fishing. Reviews can differ on paint durability and hook strength, so I suggest checking the latest customer photos and comments before ordering.

My Recommendation

This is one of my favorite options for clear water, deep fish, and cautious bites. I would choose it when size 8 or size 10 presentations outperform larger lures. It offers strong value for anglers who understand that a small hook needs a smooth drag. Overall, I rate it 4.5 out of 5.

Dovesun Ice Fishing Jig and Spoon Kit

The Dovesun kit combines ice jigs and spoons in one 15-piece set. That mix helps when walleye want either a slow flutter or a sharper flash. Rattling and glow features may draw attention in stained water and low light. The lure choice also lets you switch from calling fish to closing the deal.

I see this kit as a search-and-catch option. Start with the spoon to attract fish from a wider area, then change to a smaller jig when a fish comes close. Use a modest bait piece so the hook remains exposed. The product name does not give one single hook size, so inspect the current listing if exact size matters to your walleye plan.

Pros:

• Combines spoons and jigs for more options
• Glow patterns suit dark ice conditions
• Rattle can help call fish from nearby water
• Useful for walleye, perch, and panfish
• Supports both aggressive and subtle tactics

Cons:

• Mixed lure styles make exact size comparison harder
• Some spoons may be too large for a finesse bite
• Anglers must check the listing for current size details

What Amazon Buyers Are Saying

Amazon buyers tend to notice the number of lure styles and the bright finish. Many shoppers choose it as a variety pack for winter species. Because the kit contains different lure types, customer experiences can vary from one piece to another. Check recent reviews for notes on finish, rattles, and hook sharpness.

My Recommendation

I recommend this set for anglers who like to change tactics without carrying many separate boxes. It is not my first pick for a precisely measured size 8 hook setup, but it can help locate active walleye. Overall, I rate it 4.1 out of 5.

Alichino Micro Jig Balance Lure Set

The Alichino set contains five balance-style ice lures with a small jig profile. Its design suits anglers who want a natural look and a controlled horizontal presentation. Small balance lures can work well when walleye follow but refuse a fast-moving bait. They also let you test a compact profile close to the bottom.

This set is best for a light touch. I use short lifts, small pauses, and slow drops when fish show interest on sonar. Keep the rod tip steady and avoid covering the hook with too much bait. This product is a good fit for the best hook size for ice fishing walleye when fish prefer a small meal.

Pros:

• Small profile supports finesse fishing
• Balance design can create a natural glide
• Five-piece set provides useful backups
• Works for several freshwater ice species
• Good option for slow, subtle jigging

Cons:

• Only five lures provide less color variety
• Small lures need careful knot and drag control
• Not suited to very large bait or heavy current

What Amazon Buyers Are Saying

Shoppers often look for this set when they want small balance lures at a simple price. Buyers may like the compact shape and the chance to try several pieces. As with any small lure set, comments can vary about finish, hook sharpness, and how each lure tracks. Read the newest reviews for the most useful details.

My Recommendation

I recommend Alichino for clear water and neutral walleye. It is a better finesse choice than a heavy calling lure. It will not replace a large tip-up hook, but it fills an important small-lure role. Overall, I rate it 4.2 out of 5.

Dr.Fish Baitholder Hooks

The Dr.Fish listing features 100 baitholder hooks in size 10. A baitholder pattern uses small barbs on the shank to help keep bait in place. That feature helps when you tip a hook with a minnow piece, worm, or soft bait. Size 10 is on the smaller side for walleye, but it can work when fish feed on small prey.

This hook set suits anglers who want a simple live-bait option. I would use it with light line and a small bait in clear water. For a large shiner or a strong tip-up run, I would move up to a larger hook. Always keep the point exposed, and check your local rules for live bait and hook limits.

Pros:

• Large 100-hook quantity offers useful backups
• Size 10 suits small bait and light bites
• Baitholder shank helps reduce bait sliding
• Useful for walleye, trout, and panfish
• Simple design works with common rigs

Cons:

• Size 10 may be too small for large minnows
• Not a complete leader or tip-up rig
• Bulk packaging may need a separate hook box

What Amazon Buyers Are Saying

Amazon shoppers commonly value the high count and the baitholder design. Buyers who use small live bait may find the size practical. Some anglers may want a thicker hook for large fish or heavy cover. Since hook quality can vary by user expectations, inspect current reviews for comments about sharpness, wire strength, and rust resistance.

My Recommendation

This is my clearest pick for a small-bait setup. If you ask me for the best hook size for ice fishing walleye in a finesse live-bait situation, I often start with size 10. Choose a larger hook for big minnows or heavy line. Overall, I rate it 4.3 out of 5.

Lindy Perch Talker Ice Fishing Lure

The Lindy Perch Talker is made for perch, walleye, trout, and whitefish. Its perch-style shape gives anglers a lure that can create movement and visual appeal under the ice. It can work as a search lure when fish sit near the bottom or suspend above it. The lure also fits a wider ice-fishing approach than a plain bait hook.

I would use it with lifts, pauses, and short snaps. Start with more movement to call fish, then slow down when a mark follows. Exact hook size is not shown in the supplied product title, so confirm the current listing before ordering if size is your main concern. This lure is more about presentation than choosing a bare size 8 hook.

Pros:

• Designed with walleye among its target species
• Useful for calling fish under the ice
• Perch profile fits a common walleye food source
• Can cover bottom and suspended fish
• Works without a complex live-bait rig

Cons:

• Exact hook size needs listing confirmation
• May require a bait tip when fish want scent
• One lure gives less color choice than a set

What Amazon Buyers Are Saying

Buyers often choose the Perch Talker for its target species and compact ice-lure concept. Anglers who like active jigging may appreciate its calling power. The best results depend on cadence, depth, and fish mood, so one customer’s experience may differ from another’s. Check current reviews for notes about action, finish, and hook performance.

My Recommendation

I recommend this lure for anglers who want a proven-style search presentation. It is not the simplest answer when you need a known hook number, but it can complement size 6 to 10 jig options. Overall, I rate it 4.2 out of 5.

Soulchen Size 4 Tip-Up Leader Rig

The Soulchen set includes eight weighted stainless-steel tip-up leader rigs with size 4 single hooks. This is a much larger hook choice than the size 8 to 10 range I use for small jigging presentations. It makes more sense with a large sucker, shiner, or other substantial bait. The 7.9-inch leader length can also help keep the bait away from the main line and weight.

This rig targets predator-style ice angling for walleye, pike, and musky. I would use it when the goal is a tip-up presentation rather than delicate jigging. Size 4 can be a good practical choice for large walleye bait, but it may look too big in clear water with small forage. Check local regulations before using any tip-up or live-bait rig.

Pros:

• Eight ready-made rigs save tying time
• Size 4 suits larger bait presentations
• Weighted leader helps place the bait
• Stainless-steel construction suits winter use
• Designed for predator-style ice fishing

Cons:

• Too large for small-bait finesse fishing
• Single-hook design may not fit every regulation
• Not the right choice for light jigging

What Amazon Buyers Are Saying

Shoppers who buy this type of product usually want ready-made tip-up rigs and a larger hook. Buyers may like the convenience of having several leaders prepared before going onto the ice. The main concerns to check in current reviews include leader stiffness, hook sharpness, and the actual weight and finish of each rig.

My Recommendation

I recommend Soulchen for large-bait tip-ups, not for the smallest walleye jigs. It fills the larger end of the hook-size range and can complement a size 8 jigging setup. Choose it only when your bait and local rules support a size 4 hook. Overall, I rate it 4.1 out of 5.

L PATTERN Tungsten Glow Jig Set

The L PATTERN set offers 36 tungsten glow jigs with a tackle box. A larger assortment helps you respond to changes in water clarity, light, and fish mood. Tungsten gives these small jigs a dense body that can reach depth with less bulk. That can make the set useful when walleye want a subtle meal but still hold deep.

I like this type of box for anglers who fish many lakes or spend long days on the ice. You can start with a brighter glow jig, then shift to a darker or smaller option. Use the hook that matches your bait instead of adding a large bait clump. Review the current listing for the exact size range, since the supplied title does not name one single hook size.

Pros:

• 36-piece assortment gives many backup choices
• Tungsten supports compact deep-water jigs
• Glow finishes help in low light
• Tackle box improves transport and storage
• Useful for walleye and several panfish species

Cons:

• Large sets can include sizes you rarely use
• Exact hook range needs confirmation before purchase
• Small jig eyes may challenge cold fingers

What Amazon Buyers Are Saying

Amazon shoppers commonly value the large assortment and tackle box. Buyers who fish mixed species may find the variety more useful than a small single-color pack. As with other multi-piece sets, current reviews may mention differences in paint, hook sharpness, or size labeling. I suggest checking recent listing photos before choosing a package.

My Recommendation

This is a strong value pick for anglers who want several ways to test the best hook size for ice fishing walleye. It gives you room to compare small and medium jig profiles. It may be more tackle than a casual angler needs. Overall, I rate it 4.4 out of 5.

Glow Fishing Bait Jig Kit

This 10-piece kit offers glow fishing bait jigs for winter use. Its simple format suits new anglers who want ready-to-use metal hooks and lures. Glow can help fish find the bait during early morning, late afternoon, and deep-water conditions. The kit also gives you spare lures when a hook catches ice, wood, or another obstruction.

I would use these jigs with a small minnow head or soft bait. Keep the bait short so it does not hide the point. The best hook size for ice fishing walleye depends on the bait, but this type of kit is most useful when its included jigs match small to medium forage. Check the product page for the exact style and current dimensions before ordering.

Pros:

• Simple 10-piece format is easy to understand
• Glow finish suits low-light ice fishing
• Spare lures help reduce lost-fishing time
• Works for walleye, crappie, and bluegill
• Can be tipped with bait or soft plastic

Cons:

• Exact hook sizes are not clear in the title
• Small package offers less color range
• May need stronger tackle for very large fish

What Amazon Buyers Are Saying

Buyers commonly look for this kit because it offers several glow jigs in a simple box. New ice anglers may like the easy setup and low learning curve. Review details can vary by style, so check current comments about hook points, coating, and whether the actual size matches your planned bait.

My Recommendation

I recommend this kit for beginners and as a backup box. It is not as versatile as a 36-piece tungsten set, but it can cover basic walleye jigging needs. Confirm the dimensions before purchase if you need a precise size 8 or size 10 hook. Overall, I rate it 4 out of 5.

Hook Eze Fishing Hook Tool

The Hook Eze tool is not a hook or lure, but it can help anglers tie small ice-fishing hooks. Small hooks can feel awkward when your fingers are cold. A knot tool may also lower the risk of touching an exposed point while working with line. The two-piece pack gives you a spare for a tackle box or fishing partner.

This tool becomes more useful as you move from a size 6 to a size 10 hook. I still suggest practicing at home before a cold trip. Keep the line trimmed and check every knot with a firm pull. The tool does not improve hook size, but it can help you rig the best hook size for ice fishing walleye with more confidence.

Pros:

• Helps tie small hooks in cold conditions
• Two-piece pack provides a spare
• May reduce contact with sharp hook points
• Useful for new and experienced anglers
• Fits a wide range of freshwater rigs

Cons:

• Does not replace practice with fishing knots
• Adds one more item to carry
• Not a direct walleye lure or hook product

What Amazon Buyers Are Saying

Shoppers often consider this tool for safer, easier knot tying. Buyers who struggle with small hooks may find it useful, while skilled anglers may prefer their normal knot method. Read current reviews for comments about ease of use, tool size, and learning time. Results can depend on the knot and hook style.

My Recommendation

I recommend it as a useful accessory, especially for beginners and anglers with limited hand movement. It does not belong in a hook-size ranking, but it can make small-hook rigging easier. Overall, I rate it 4.1 out of 5 as a supporting tool.

How to Choose Best Hook Size for Ice Fishing Walleye

Choosing the best hook size for ice fishing walleye means matching the hook to the bait, water, depth, and fishing method. Hook numbers work in reverse order. A size 10 hook is smaller than a size 6 hook. I use size 8 as a starting point for many jigging and small-bait situations, then adjust after watching fish behavior.

1. Match the Hook to Your Bait

Bait size should guide your first choice. Use a size 8 or 10 hook with a small minnow head, tiny shiner piece, or soft plastic. Move to size 6 when you use a larger minnow or need a wider gap. A size 4 hook, such as the Soulchen tip-up rig, fits large-bait predator fishing better than delicate jigging.

Do not cover the hook point with bait. Walleye can bite softly under the ice. A hidden point can turn a bite into a missed fish. Trim bait so it adds scent and movement without blocking the hook gap.

2. Match Hook Size to Water and Fish Mood

Clear water often calls for a smaller, less visible presentation. Start with size 10 or a compact 4 mm tungsten jig when fish follow but do not strike. In stained water, low light, or deeper water, a glow jig or spoon can help fish locate the bait. You may then use a size 6 to 8 hook if the bait is larger.

Watch your sonar. If fish rise fast and strike, you can use a bigger profile. If fish pause below the lure, reduce the size and slow the cadence. The best hook size for ice fishing walleye can change during the same day.

3. Check Hook Strength, Gap, and Rig Style

Hook size alone does not tell the full story. Look at the hook gap, wire thickness, point sharpness, and lure weight. A tiny hook may work for light line but fail if you pull too hard. A large hook may land strong fish but look unnatural with a small bait.

Jigging lures need a balanced body and a hook that stays exposed. Live-bait hooks need a useful shank and a point that penetrates well. Tip-up rigs need a leader and hook that fit the bait and local laws. I also check every hook after a fish, snag, or contact with the ice hole.

Buyers should also compare the complete package. A large kit may offer better value, but only if its sizes match the lake you fish. Review the current Amazon listing for piece count, size options, and updated customer photos. Product details can change, so do not rely only on an old review or image.

Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?

For most anglers, I recommend the Tungsten Tear Drop Set or the L PATTERN Tungsten Set. Both support compact presentations near the common size 6 to 10 range. Choose Dr.Fish size 10 hooks for small live bait, or Soulchen size 4 for large-bait tip-ups.

The best hook size for ice fishing walleye is usually size 8, but conditions matter. Carry size 6, 8, and 10 options, keep the point exposed, and adjust to the bait and bite.

FAQs Of best hook size for ice fishing walleye

What is the best hook size for ice fishing walleye?

Size 8 is a strong starting point for many ice-fishing walleye setups. Use size 6 for larger bait and size 10 for small bait or cautious fish.

Is a size 10 hook too small for walleye?

No. A size 10 hook can work well with small minnows, minnow pieces, and finesse jigs. It may be too small for large bait or heavy cover.

What hook size should I use for walleye tip-ups?

Use size 4 to 8 based on bait size and local rules. A size 4 hook suits large-bait tip-ups, while size 6 or 8 fits smaller bait.

Are tungsten jigs good for ice-fishing walleye?

Yes. Tungsten gives a small jig useful weight. It can reach deep water fast while keeping the bait profile compact.

Should I use a bigger hook in stained water?

Not always. Start with glow or flash, then adjust hook size to the bait. A size 6 to 8 hook often fits a larger, more visible presentation.