Whats up with this Walleye? Help!!

[Hudsons20]

I'm just a weekend warrior fisherman for the past 45 years and do not recall seeing a walleye that looked like this one. The picture really did not do it justice as it was very yellow/gold.
The fillet also had a very yellow/gold tint, so why or how did it get this way ?

[West Basin]

Walleye like many fish species have a large variation in color, both in actual color and hue. There are several reasons for this. Finding a fish that exhibits a color variation noticeably different from other walleye really isn't that rare as far as the species goes. But seeing one like this is a bit unique, such a striking difference according to your description. Occasionally one will be caught with a similar striking difference, but the color will be a dark blue and silver. There may be something else going on with this fish, but most likely it's just a more extreme color variation. Great you got the chance to see it in person.

[jonk]

I don't see anything odd about that fish, and I have noticed a yellow tint to the fillets on several this year.

Fish coloration can change according to water condition, age, and genetic variation. Plus diet, bottom condition, ***, and time of the season.

In general, I find younger fish in the 10-16" range are lighter in color. Silver and dark green. As they get older they take on a more yellowish hue.

Sauger and saugeye are fairly uncommon in lake erie, though I have chanced into them once or twice. Some mixing of the genetics there might contribute to an odd looking 'eye as well.

[Eyezcrazy]

I've caught the gold tinted walleye like that before. I always thought they were fish that came up the river and spent more time in the mud.

I had a pic on this site a few years ago when my son caught a blue walleye.

[Hudsons20]

Thanks for your thoughts!