The walleye population took a downturn late 90s and early 2000s. During that time alot of rec anglers and charters took up smally fishing to enjoy fishing. I am guilty of it too. I have caught and eaten smallmouth. They are not eyes or perch, but very good. It has been many many years since I have and we now know the threats of the round goby. If somebody wanted a taste of fresh fish and that is all they can get, by all means eat 1 or 2, but I wouldn't advise filling a freezer. They grow slow and might be struggling to poulate. The eyes and perch are thick and should provide millions of great meals. Nothing beats a good bronzeback tail dance.