I think walleye get the same rap that SMB have gotten. That they can only do well in cooler rocky clear lakes, not muddier warmer lakes like LMB do well in. Just as SMB can live in 90 degree AZ ponds, walleyes may not be quite that tolerant, but are far from trout in needing cold water. Perhaps the very large specimens need cool water refuge, but those sizes are rarely grown in a pond environment. I think water quality may be a more important factor.
Very well put. I've seen numerous examples of walleye tolerating water temps in the 80's for several weeks and maintaining good body condition...likely the result of good water quality. I think it's a very safe generalization to say that fish regularly tolerate temperature parameters beyond the so-called "maximum" if they have high D.O., low exposure to pathogens, and consistent access to preferred prey items.
