Trolling on the open water can be challenging for beginners but mastering the act can make the task enjoyable. Unlike other fishing techniques, trolling requires using more than two fishing lines to be set up to the back part of the boat you’ll be using.
If you want to manipulate the attraction of different fish species while swiping the fishing lines, having the best trolling reel in your arsenal is a must. One common question among the anglers is how to use a trolling reel. Well, wholly read on the blog to learn using a trolling reel in a proper way.
Supplies Needed
The supplies needed for trolling depends on your skills and the boat you’ll be using. Like other fishing methods, trolling requires saltwater reels, fishing lines, and rods. One more thing- you have to make sure that you can handle the heavy load using your basic gears.
Rod Holder
What can be the best solution to steady your rods behind your boat all the time? Of course, setting a rod holder. No matter if you’re fishing with a single rod, it’s not a good idea to hold it still when you’re driving your boat.
Depth Rings
Depth rings are heavy sinkers attached to your fishing line to take it to the desired depth when you’re trolling from a static or moving boat.
Paravane
Paravane is an inverted wing-like device that is made of plastic. They are used to drag the bait deeper. Only use this device when your boat is running at an increased speed.
Planer Board
A planner board is necessary to keep your lines secured and to keep them apart from each other. It will help prevent tangling and to cover a wide area. It will also attract the fishes trying to keep distance from the boat.
Sonar
Sonars are devices that help find fishes and the right location. Also, perform sea bottom reading and predict the temperature using a sonar.
Tips and Tricks of Using Trolling Reel
Stick to a Plan
Heading out to a fishing session with the gears without a proper plan is not a good idea. A proper plan is a must to have an enjoyable session as well as for overall success. Check the weather forecast, use the right bait and lure, take time to plan your route, and get all the essential information.
Use Electronic Devices
Be familiar with the space you’re about to go fishing. Use a fish finder or a sonar to get a clear idea of what type of fish is available there. Monitor temperature changes, location, and read the bottom using a sonar.
Keep Depth in Mind
Knowing the position of your bait and the right time of making necessary changes is a must to ensure a great catch. If you remain certain about the lure’s position, you’ll get more edge as well as a consistent catch because fishes used to swim in a particular depth.
Start Small
Having a giant fishing boat and multiple rods can increase the possibilities of a great catch but for this, you have to master all the skills. So, starting small is often recommended. You can start with three lines and planer boards. If you think you have the proper expertise, set up to ten lines. Otherwise, all the efforts will result in a poor experience.
Keep Moving
One common mistake among the newbie anglers is that they stop their boat where they find their first catch. Remember- kicking the boat into neutral can cause the lines to get tangled automatically. No matter how experienced you are, never stop your boat because the natural force of the current helps your lines remain straight.
Try Variations
All of your rods shouldn’t be with the same type of lures. Try various lures and baits to catch a wide variety of fishes. You may have to change the bait color every 25-30 seconds if you notice fishes are not coming around.
Conclusion
Hopefully, this guide has helped you know the basics of using a trolling reel. Well, make sure that the boat is running at the right speed for a better result. Remember- your skill level has a dramatic influence on your overall success.
FAQs
1. What is the right boat speed for trolling?
Ans. In general, baits and lures get trolled when the speed gets up to 9 knots but the recommended speed is 15 knots when you’re entering a different fishing area. Remember the speed has a remarkable impact on the result.
2. What type of line should I use for trolling?
Ans. When it’s about trolling, monofilament lines can be the best bet. In general, use up to 30 Lb glass gear on the same amount of monofilament. This type will treat the fishes like the small tuna, Mahi, sailfish, and wahoo well.