Trolling
Dragging lures or baits behind a moving boat to cover large areas and target pelagic or predatory fish at various depths.
Equipment
Water Type
Guide
Trolling involves pulling lures or baits behind a slowly moving boat, typically at 2-6 knots depending on target species. Set your rods in rod holders at varying angles and distances from the boat to create a spread that covers different depths and widths. Use planers, downriggers, or diving plugs to reach specific depths.
Start by identifying productive water — look for structure, baitfish on sonar, temperature breaks, or current edges. Set your spread with the furthest lines deepest and closest lines near the surface. Maintain consistent speed and make gentle S-turns to change lure speed and trigger strikes.
When you get a strike, keep the boat moving at a slightly reduced speed. Clear other lines if fighting a large fish. Common mistakes include trolling too fast, running lures too close together (causing tangles), and not checking baits regularly for weed or damage.
Pro tips: Use a GPS to mark productive tracks and repeat them. Vary your speed — even small changes can trigger bites. In freshwater, trolling with planer boards lets you cover a wider swath. Match your trolling speed to the target species: walleye prefer 1-2 knots, while wahoo may need 8+ knots.
FAQ
How do beginners get started with trolling?
Start with two rods and basic lures. Focus on maintaining steady boat speed between 2-4 knots. Use your electronics to locate baitfish and structure. Mark successful paths on GPS and repeat proven trolling runs. Practice in calm water first.
What is the best season and conditions for trolling?
Spring and fall offer the best action when predatory fish are most active. Ideal conditions include light winds, stable water temperatures, and visible bait on sonar. Avoid heavy waves that make boat control difficult and lure action erratic.
What species are best targeted by trolling?
Freshwater anglers target walleye, pike, lake trout and salmon. In saltwater, trolling is effective for tuna, wahoo, king mackerel, dolphin and billfish. The technique excels for any predatory species that roam open water in search of baitfish.
How much does trolling gear cost?
A basic starter setup with two rods, reels and downriggers costs $350-700. Quality professional setups with planer boards, line counters and electronics can reach $1500-3500. Many anglers begin with existing boat gear and upgrade gradually.
What are the most common trolling mistakes?
The top mistakes include trolling too fast, placing lines too close together causing tangles, and failing to monitor lure action or sonar. Many beginners also forget to check baits for weeds or damage and don't adjust depth or speed when conditions change.
Trip types using this technique
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