Walleyes can be a challenging catch, but with the right tools and techniques, anglers can significantly increase their chances of success. Brad Hawthorne, an experienced angler, recently highlighted the effectiveness of Northland’s innovative Pitchin’ Puppet lure for targeting these prized fish.
"For years, anglers have been using vertical jigging lures like the Northland Puppet Minnow® as casting lures with great success," said Hawthorne. He emphasized that the Pitchin' Puppet is specifically designed for casting, which makes it a game changer in the walleye fishing world.
"For years, anglers have been using vertical jigging lures like the Northland Puppet Minnow® as casting lures with great success,"
The Pitchin' Puppet comes equipped with a lead frame and an over-molded resin body, providing both durability and a lifelike appearance that mimics a translucent baitfish. This realistic design is crucial for attracting walleyes. "When jigged, snapped, and ripped, this lure darts and rolls, triggering strikes," explained Hawthorne, highlighting the lure's dynamic action in the water.
"When jigged, snapped, and ripped, this lure darts and rolls, triggering strikes,"
The lure’s features only add to its effectiveness. It boasts a wide gap rear hook without a front hook, making it ideal for maneuvering along the bottom. Additionally, the treble hook is connected to a split ring, ensuring that it remains free from tangling during use. "For better hooking percentages, the wide gap rear hook is definitely a plus," added Hawthorne.
"For better hooking percentages, the wide gap rear hook is definitely a plus,"
Race Results
This versatile lure allows anglers to cast and retrieve effectively while also being suitable for vertical jigging. This dual capability is essential for adapting to different fishing conditions. The Pitchin' Puppet’s translucent finishes come in various colors and sizes, allowing anglers to choose the best option for their local water conditions.
The Pitchin’ Puppet is just the latest innovation from Northland Fishing Tackle, a company with roots tracing back to 1975. Founded by John Peterson, a young fishing guide in northern Minnesota, the company began by creating jigs that worked when other baits failed. "The word spread like wildfire, and the Northland Fishing Tackle brand was in hot demand!" said Peterson, reflecting on the company’s growth over the decades.
Team Dynamics
With over 45 years in the industry, Northland Fishing Tackle has established itself as a leading producer of premium fishing tackle. Their products—from jigs to crankbaits—are designed with input from professional anglers and experienced fishing guides. The management team is composed of passionate fishermen who are dedicated to developing cutting-edge products that help anglers catch fish effectively.
Team Northland’s Pro-staff includes renowned figures in the fishing community such as Brian “Bro” Brosdahl, Jeff “Gussy” Gustafson, and Jason Mitchell, whose expertise helps fine-tune the brand's offerings. These professionals spend hundreds of days annually on the water, ensuring that Northland remains ahead of the curve in product innovation.
Their content-rich website and active social media presence provide anglers with an abundance of resources, including fishing tips, tricks, and the latest product information.
Being able to educate anglers and share their passion for fishing is a core aspect of Northland’s mission. "The invaluable feedback from our pro staff keeps us on the 'cutting edge' of the fishing tackle industry," said a spokesperson from the brand.
"The invaluable feedback from our pro staff keeps us on the 'cutting edge' of the fishing tackle industry,"
As more anglers look for effective ways to target walleyes, the Pitchin’ Puppet is poised to become a must-have in tackle boxes across the region. By leveraging insights from experts like Brad Hawthorne and utilizing innovative products from Northland Fishing Tackle, enthusiasts can enhance their fishing experience and increase their chances of landing the big one.
Looking Ahead
With ongoing advancements in fishing gear and techniques, the future looks bright for walleye enthusiasts eager to make the most of their time on the water.
