i like to get my holes in way before the prime bite so as not to spook fish .i also carry at least 5 rods set up differently so i can switch rigs if one comes in on the vex but doesnt commit i can throw something down that might entice it to hit . as previously stated have a minnow on the hook it does help althogh i have gotten them on blank hooks, they like meat. i have tried every lure i could posible jig with and have gotten them on almost all in different conditions also have a assortment of colors of the same lure it makes a difference. spoons i have found are productive in most situations ,start with the basics (sweedish pimple ,castmaster or most northland jigs ) can and will trigger hits just try different colors as previously stated. on tip-ups you cant go wrong with a fathead minnow atleast 2.5" long i know others will say their bait works better but they are hardy (will last all day on a hook) walleye love them and are extreamly cheep. i fish mine about a foot off bottom and have gotten everything from salmon ,lake trout ,and every kind of panfish and some verry large pike on them .not to meation walleye. good luck
