Author: Bullbuster Admin
Trolling is a popular fishing technique used to catch fish while moving through the water. It involves dragging lures or bait behind a moving boat to attract and entice fish to strike. Here are some trolling techniques to help you catch fish on the move:
1. Choose the Right Trolling Speed:
The speed at which you troll can greatly affect your success. Start by trolling at a moderate speed, typically around 2 to 4 knots, and adjust based on the target species, water conditions, and lure/bait selection. Experiment with different speeds to find what works best.
2. Use Planers or Downriggers:
Planers or downriggers can help you reach different depths in the water column. Planers are designed to take your lure or bait deeper, while downriggers allow you to precisely control the depth by attaching a weight to a cable. This helps you target fish at various depths.
3. Pay Attention to Lure Selection:
Choose lures that imitate the prey species of the fish you are targeting. Use a variety of colors, sizes, and types to determine what the fish are responding to. Popular trolling lures include spoons, plugs, and diving or skirted baits.
4. Incorporate Artificial Baits:
Along with lures, consider using artificial baits like trolling flies, squid skirts, or soft plastic baits. These can mimic natural prey and increase your chances of enticing strikes.
5. Add Flash and Attractors:
Enhance your trolling spread by incorporating flash and attractor devices. These can include dodgers, flashers, or trolling teasers. They create visual and auditory stimulation in the water, making your presentation more enticing to fish.
6. Maintain a Varying Spread:
To cover a wider area and increase your chances of attracting fish, set up multiple lines at different distances and angles from the boat. This creates a spread of lures or baits and increases the likelihood of fish encountering your offerings.
7. Consider Using Natural Baits:
When targeting specific species, using natural baits for trolling like live (slow trolled) or rigged dead bait can be highly effective. Examples include live baitfish, rigged ballyhoo, or strips of squid. Make sure to rig them properly to ensure they swim naturally in the water.
8. Pay Attention to Depth and Structure:
Fish are often found near underwater structures such as reefs, drop-offs, or submerged features. Use your fishfinder or nautical charts to locate these areas and troll around them to increase your chances of encountering fish.
9. Watch for Birds and Surface Activity:
Keep an eye out for diving birds, surface disturbances, or feeding frenzies. These indicate the presence of baitfish and predator fish below. Trolling near these areas can lead to productive catches.
10. Adjust Trolling Patterns:
Vary your trolling patterns by making turns, zig-zags, or figure-eights. Changing direction can trigger a fish's predatory instinct and entice strikes. Additionally, try altering the speed or making occasional stops and starts to add variation to your presentation.
11. Maintain a Clean Spread:
Check your lines regularly to ensure they are not tangled or fouled. Clear any debris or weeds that may have accumulated on your lures or bait. A clean spread will improve the action and effectiveness of your offerings.
Remember to check and comply with local fishing regulations, including size and bag limits, and practice catch-and-release when appropriate. Trolling can be a productive and exciting fishing technique, allowing you to cover a lot of water and target a wide range of fish species.
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