Background
Whiskey n’ Walleye is a walleye-focused media brand and fishing community founded by Russell Thomas in 2018. What started as a grassroots passion project has grown into a highly engaged community of anglers across the United States and Canada who share a deep appreciation for walleye fishing, both open water and ice.
At its core, Whiskey n’ Walleye exists to connect anglers from all walks of life through a shared love of fishing. We’ve built a welcoming online community where members can exchange knowledge, share experiences, learn from one another, and celebrate the fishing lifestyle. From tactics and gear to travel, stories, and conservation-minded discussions, Whiskey n’ Walleye brings anglers together in a meaningful way.
As the brand has grown, so has our focus on quality partnerships, trusted recommendations, and creating real value for our members. Everything we do is built around authenticity, respect for the resource, and supporting the long-term health of the fisheries we enjoy.
Mission
Our mission is to strengthen the walleye fishing community while giving back to the waters that make our sport possible.
Whiskey n’ Walleye is committed to supporting water conservation by donating a portion of our sales to efforts focused on preserving lakes, protecting fisheries, and maintaining healthy aquatic ecosystems. We believe anglers have a responsibility to care for the resource, and giving back is one way we help ensure these waters remain strong for future generations.
Through our community, partnerships, and content, we aim to promote responsible angling, support conservation-minded initiatives, and encourage a deeper respect for the lakes and fisheries we all depend on. Our mission is rooted in the belief that great fishing experiences today should not come at the expense of tomorrow.
Purpose & Importance
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Bring anglers together
Unite walleye anglers from diverse backgrounds into a strong, supportive community built around shared experiences and respect for the sport. -
Promote responsible fishing
Encourage ethical angling practices that protect fisheries, support healthy ecosystems, and respect the resource. -
Strengthen community and camaraderie
Foster meaningful connections through shared knowledge, stories, and on-the-water experiences. -
Provide a trusted online platform
Offer a welcoming digital space where anglers can connect, learn, and exchange information year-round. -
Support conservation initiatives
Contribute to efforts focused on preserving lakes, waterways, and aquatic habitats through partnerships and direct support. -
Educate and inform
Share resources and insights that help anglers fish responsibly and understand the long-term impact of their actions. -
Create a family-friendly environment
Encourage anglers of all ages and experience levels to participate, learn, and develop a lifelong appreciation for fishing. -
Deliver real member value
Enhance the fishing experience through exclusive member benefits, trusted recommendations, and access to quality partners. -
Build meaningful partnerships
Work with brands, destinations, and organizations that align with our values and support the fishing community. -
Protect fishing for the future
Prioritize sustainability and stewardship to help ensure walleye fishing remains strong for generations to come.
From the Founder
Hey there, I'm Russ! I grew up in a big family of six in a cozy little town in Western Nebraska, right next to a huge lake called Lake McConaughy (or "Big Mac" to the locals). This lake was the heart and soul of my childhood – I spent countless summers there, tubing, boating, fishing, and just hanging out with friends and family.
After college, I got a boat of my own and started exploring lakes all over the Midwest. But there was just something about Big Mac that kept calling me back. I eventually realized how lucky I was to grow up near one of the best fisheries around, and I started making the most of it. Fast forward a bit, and I even bought a little fishing cabin right on the lake!
That cabin fueled my love for fishing and the outdoors, and I began documenting all my adventures, which eventually led to the creation of Whiskey n' Walleye. My passion isn't just about catching fish (though I do love that); it's about sharing the thrill with friends and family, learning from other anglers, and connecting with everyone who shares this love.
Whiskey n' Walleye is all about bringing people together, regardless of age, gender, or where they're from. Our mission is to inspire connection, inclusivity, and a shared love for the great outdoors. Plus, we want to help protect and sustain the lakes and wildlife we all cherish.
Our logo represents that burning desire for adventure that lives in all of us: the tackle box and fishing pole for your tools, the wheat for the land beneath you, and the whiskey barrel to celebrate when you finally get home. So if you spot our emblem on the road, on the ice, or at the bar, give us a honk, a wave, or even buy us a beer – because everyone could use a little more whiskey and walleye in their lives!
NEW LAKES FISHED
Keep up with where the Whiskey n' Walleye
team has been fishing with this map!