Trolling: The Angler's Guide

For those more familiar with fishing, trolling primarily means hunting for larger pelagic species, those fish shaped by sea and ocean depths and distances! A technique that can be anything from relatively relaxed to outrageously difficult and one that pushes the limits of fishing skills! 

Sharks, Marlin, and Tuna are primarily targeted by trolling, which requires skill and patience. You'll need a lot of practice and experience before you land a Marlin in your basket, but it's worth the wait!

We have created this guide to help you better understand trolling fishing and all its complexities and nuances. We will walk you through the methods, equipment, and tips to hint at what joy awaits you. So, let's get started and dive into the basics of trolling!

Understanding Trolling

Trolling involves dragging a bait line behind a moving boat. Baits "dance" in the water, creating a visual and sound show and releasing smells, thus attracting various types of fish. The angler must know the terrain, read signs from the environment, and interpret them according to the given weather situation. 

The essence of trolling fishing lies in the angler's ability to read the water, observe the fish's behavior, and anticipate changes in behavior following the current, weather, and seasonal conditions. 

Trolling requires constant adjustment, precision, and a keen sense of timing and composition of factors such as bait, speed, and direction of the boat, as well as the angler's skill in managing the line and interpreting the underwater terrain. 

There is no easy technique, and you have to be prepared for a dynamic and engaging experience that balances the thrill of the hunt with the tranquility of the water.

Why Use Trolling

Trolling allows anglers to cover large water surfaces, exploring different depths, regions, lakes, oceans, and rivers. Knowing what you're doing, you can catch the ocean's meanest fish! It is adaptable, and you can easily change the bait, speed, and fishing location! Trolling keeps anglers constantly active, even when it doesn't seem like it.

This continuous movement often results in a higher catch rate, as it mimics the natural movement of the prey and causes the fish to strike. In addition, trolling can discover new fishing locations and explore the complex system and rhythm of various underwater structures. 

Although the basics of trolling are accessible to beginners, this method offers complexity and depth for experienced anglers. Moreover, a slight advantage goes to the side that trolling is a fishing technique for masters and those who intuitively and mentally are at a very high fishing level.

When to Use Trolling

Trolling is not the happiest choice if you want to fish in shallower water or just throw recreationally. This technique shows all its fullness and beauty on larger bodies of water when you need to cover large areas such as lakes, reservoirs, or oceans. It is ideal for targeting species such as Salmon, Trout, and Tuna that respond well to moving bait.

First, it is a shame not to experience trolling in deep or open water during seasonal migrations and in unknown locations where you must scout productive spots.

For the best results from this technique, following the seasonal patterns of the target fish species and adjusting the bait presentation to the feeding or spawning patterns is best. Then, they are generally very active and strongly driven by instinct, and they could be more careful.

Why Fish Gather on Trolling

In addition to being big predators, fish are also very sensual and curious creatures and anything that disturbs the usual dynamics attracts them. So it is with trolling, which relies on bait mimicking natural prey movements, triggering fish's predatory instincts. 

The visual and auditory cues of the baits, along with the commotion of the boat, further entice the fish. This combination of movement, depth variation, and sensory stimulation makes trolling as attractive to fish as it is to anglers.

Fish Species Commonly Caught by Trolling

It is a shame not to take advantage of the magic of trolling, and even if you are not familiar with this technique, you can take a charter and enjoy the incredible excitement that this technique brings. Here are some of the most commonly targeted fish using this technique:

• Salmon: Various types of Salmon, including Chinook (King), Coho (Silver), and Sockeye, are frequent and widespread trolling targets and can be found in both freshwater and saltwater environments. 

• Trout: There are many species of Trout, such as Rainbow, Brown, and Lake Trout. Because they respond well to constant bait movement, they are a frequent target of trolling anglers.

• Walleye: Walleye are fish that follow moving bait, especially in the deeper waters where they often reside.

• Mackerel: Both King and Spanish Mackerel are often caught by trolling; their ravenous appetites and nature make them chase moving baits.

• Tuna: Bluefin, Yellowfin, and Albacore. These fast-swimming species are attracted to the movement and speed of trolling lures.

• Marlin: Both Blue Marlin and White Marlin are large, powerful fish. They are one of the main fish species considered major trophies and are most often caught by trolling.

• Mahi Mahi: Inhabitant of tropical and subtropical waters. They are attracted to brightly colored decoys and fast bait presentations.

• Barracuda: These fish are often caught by trolling in coastal and offshore waters. They are very aggressive, which makes them prone to hitting fast-moving lures.

• Striped Bass: Striped bass are a target for trolling in saltwater and freshwater environments, as they respond pretty well to the trolling presentation of lures.

• Sailfish: Another intriguing and often hunted species; Their acrobatic nature and speed make them a prized catch for many anglers.

• Wahoo: These fish are targeted by trolling in warm ocean waters, and their speed and aggressive nature make them challenging and rewarding to catch.

• Snapper and Grouper: Certain species of Snapper and Grouper can also be caught by trolling, as these fish are often found near reefs and underwater structures.

So, it's pretty straightforward: Trolling is the way to go if you're looking for an exciting fishing day.

Essential Gear for Trolling

Trolling should be a pleasant and joyful experience, primarily involving making a good catch supported by quality gear. It's essential to understand which equipment is vital for trolling and what to pay attention to. Read the detailed information below to find out more.

Rods

Yes, you guessed right; you need slightly stronger rods for trolling. Here are the most commonly used ones. 

• Conventional Trolling Rods: As their name suggests, these are traditional sticks adapted over time. They are longer and sturdier, ranging from 6 to 12 feet, designed for general trolling in fresh and saltwater. They have a strong backbone for handling and will support a fight with a big fish.

• Downrigger Rods: This type is slightly shorter, about 8 to 9 feet, and has medium to heavy power. It is primarily used for trolling with downriggers in lakes and oceans. The rods have sensitive tips for detecting strikes while retaining the power to reel in big fish.

• Planner Board Rod: Planer rods can be used with planer boards that spread the lines to the boat's sides. Their action is moderate, aimed at absorbing the stress of the planer boards. They tend to be longer to help spread the lines further apart, making them ideal for covering vast areas in lakes and reservoirs.

• Lead Core and Wire Line Rods: They contain a lead core and wire rods to handle the unique stresses of the lead core or wire lines used to reach greater depths without lowering. In addition, they have reinforced guides and robust construction to manage the weight and wear of these ropes.

• Standing Trolling Rods: These sturdy rods, about 5 to 6 feet long, are designed to fight big fish while standing up. They are primarily used to catch large saltwater fish such as Tuna, Marlin, and Sailfish, offering strength, support, and power to withstand the intense pressure of a fight. 

• Electric Trolling Rods: This type of trolling rod is specialized for use with electric reels. They are built to withstand the heavy-duty demands of electric reels, including reinforced butts and guides, and are used for deep-sea fishing in conditions where manual reeling would be too laborious.

The common characteristic of all trolling rods is that they are very durable, and your choice depends on the environment and your experience or preference.

Reels

Suitable reels must also support your choice of the right trolling rod. Here are the reels best optimized for trolling.

• Conventional Reels: You can also find them under the name baitcasting reels. They are a popular choice for trolling due to their strength and durability. Their extensive line capacity, supported by a strong anchor system and robust construction, makes them ideal for handling large and heavy fish.

• Lever Drag Reels: Lever reels are a type of conventional spool, ideal for saltwater trolling for large fish such as Tuna, Marlin, and Sailfish. They provide smoother and more accurate drag settings, crucial when fighting big, powerful fish.

• Star Drag Reels: Star rollers use a star-shaped resistance adjustment system. They are relatively easy to adjust and offer reliable drag performance. They are generally more affordable than lever reels.

• Line Counter Reels: This type has a built-in mechanism that measures the line dropped, making it ideal for precision trolling in lakes and reservoirs. It helps anglers maintain consistent trolling depths and distances and is great for targeting specific species and fishing structured areas.

• Electric Rods: They have a built-in electric motor that is used to help with winding, reducing the physical effort required. They are excellent for targeting deep water species because they can handle heavy lines and big fish. Some even have advanced options like programmable depth settings and auto-stop functions.

Invest wisely in reels, and first understand their unique advantages. Then, you will be well-equipped to catch trophies.

Lines

Many things in the trolling process depend on the type of fish since you are most probably pursuing big game species. One of the critical elements is lines, so choose the appropriate one. Here are the main types of lines used for trolling:

• Monofilament Line: This is a single line made of nylon or similar synthetic materials. It is multifunctional and can be used for trolling in fresh and saltwater. It provides good stretch, which acts as a shock absorber when the fish strikes. It is an inexpensive option, yet easy to handle and buoyant, making it suitable for surface trolling.

• Braided Line: Made up of multiple strands of synthetic fibers woven together, it is best for trolling in deep water and situations that require great strength and sensitivity. It has an excellent power-to-diameter ratio, which makes it possible to wind more strings on the reels. It also has minimal stretch, provides excellent sensitivity for detecting even small bites, and is less visible in the water.

• Fluorocarbon Line: This type's main advantage is that it is made of a polymer with a refractive index similar to water. It is excellent for trolling in clear water and targeting shy fish. Almost entirely invisible, it has little stretch, good resistance to wear, and sinks faster than monofilament. It is suitable for great depths.

• Lead Core Line: These lines have a lead wire core wrapped in a durable fiber outer layer, allowing the line to sink quickly and maintain a consistent depth. They are color-coded in segments, allowing anglers to judge depth based on the colors dropped.

• Wire Line: Made of stainless steel or other metal alloys, it is used for extreme deep trolling and targeting big, powerful fish. Its characteristics are that it sinks quickly, is very resistant to wear, and is suitable around stone structures or fish with sharp teeth. Wire handling requires special care and equipment to manage stiffness and prevent bending.

• Hybrid Lines: This line type combines the features of monofilament, braided, and fluorocarbon lines, offering versatility for various trolling applications. Robust, responsive, and invisible hybrid lines suit anglers looking for a multi-purpose trolling line that performs well in multiple fishing conditions and scenarios.

Whether you need the stretch and affordability of monofilament, the strength and sensitivity of braided line, or the stealth of fluorocarbon, before you buy them, make sure they fit perfectly into your fishing strategy and, of course, can withstand the weight and character of the species you're targeting.

Hooks

Different hook types support different fishing conditions, target species, and trolling techniques. Here are the main types of hooks used for trolling:

• J-Hooks: Typical and common, and almost all anglers have them. They feature the classic "J" shape and are effective for many freshwater and saltwater trolling applications. Available in a variety of sizes and strengths, J-hooks work well with a variety of baits.

• Circle Hooks: Their curved, circular shape helps them nestle into the corner of a fish's mouth, increasing hooking rates while minimizing fish harm. This makes them a preferred choice for conservation anglers.

• Treble Hooks: Made of three points that extend from one handle and form a trident shape, they are mainly used with artificial baits and trolling plugs. They provide a higher probability of hooking. However, they can be challenging to remove and cause more damage than single hooks.

• Double Hooks: Consist of two points extending from a single shank and are often used in specific trolling setups such as tandem rigs or certain artificial lures. They are less obtrusive than treble hooks and provide a balance between efficiency and fish-friendly hooks.

• Siwash Hooks: A long shank and a straight eye make those hooks an easy replacement for treble hooks on trolling lures. They minimize damage to the fish during hook removal, making them the preferred choice for anglers who want to reduce potential injury.

• Octopus Hooks: They have a very short shank and wide spacing, with a curved eye, and are ideal for live bait trolling and situations that require a strong and secure hook hold. 

• Kahle Hooks: It characterizes wide spacing and a shape that combines J-hook and circle hook elements. It offers versatility in trolling applications and ensures a high connection rate and secure hold.

Each hook type offers different advantages depending on fishing conditions and trolling technique. Choosing the right hook can improve your fishing efficiency and maximize your success on the water.

Rigs

Trolling rigs are carefully designed to present the baits while they move through the water effectively. Here are some common types of trolling rigs that will show your bait in the best possible way.

• Daisy Chain Rigs: They are designed to mimic a school of lures consisting of a series of teasers or small lures placed in a line. The main one is an attractor, while the teasers create visual and sometimes auditory disturbances in the water. It is used to attract aggressive, challenging, and temperamental fish.

• Spreaders: They are primarily used to cover a vast water area. They consist of a central line with multiple branches, each holding the bait or bait at different depths and distances. Spreaders are typically used with planing boards to distribute lines horizontally or vertically in the water column.

• Umbrella Rigs: This type has multiple wire arms extending from a central point, each equipped with a lure. In this way, they mimic a school of baitfish and effectively attract species such as Striped Bass and Muskies. They create a realistic swimming action, making the umbrellas suitable for trolling at different speeds and depths. 

• Tandem Rigs: This type involves placing two hooks or lures in tandem along the same fishing line, spaced out to cover more areas. They are versatile and can be used with various baits and lures, making them popular for trolling applications where anglers want to present different offerings simultaneously. 

• Downrigger Rigs: are used for trolling lures at controlled depths below the surface. They consist of a heavy weight attached to a cable with a fishing release clip. They are essential for deep water trolling, where precise depth control is required to target fish held more profoundly in the water column.

Each type of rig has different features and advantages. You can increase your chances of success by choosing the right equipment for your fishing conditions and desires.

Essential Baits and Lures for Trolling

The art of trolling, among other things, involves the presentation of artificial or natural lures behind a moving boat to attract predatory fish. Let's get to know them in more detail.

Saltwater

Trolling in the seas and oceans is much more complex than in freshwater areas because these vast bodies of water are much more dangerous since they are usually very unstable. It also affects the choice of bait presentation. Find out below which live and artificial baits you can use.

Live Baits

Live bait trolling in saltwater fishing is a strategy anglers use to attract powerful game fish such as Marlin, Tuna, Mahi Mahi, and many others. This increases the probability of capturing valuable catches and enables strategic maneuvering to target specific depths.

• Shrimp: Small, single-seeded, and versatile, shrimp is a typical and frequent choice for many marine species, including Pike, Redfish, and Trout.

• Mullet: Robust and lively, it will attract fish like Tarpon, Snout, and Kingfish.

• Mackerel: Mackerel are fat and attractive, and predators like Tuna, Marlin, and Striped Bass favor them.

• Sardines: They are excellent bait for a variety of marine species, including Redfish and Redfish.

• Menhaden: Also called Pogies or Bunkers, menhaden are fat and effective for targeting species such as striped bass and bluefish.

• Squid: They come in many varieties and are suitable for many fish, including predators such as Mahi Mahi and Swordfish.

• Ballyhoo: Also a commonly used bait that is widely used as a trolling lure in the sea, especially for species such as Sailfish and Wahoo.

• Sand Fleas: They are easily found in coastal areas and are great for board fishing and hunting Pompano and Sheepshead.

Live baits are traditionally selected based on availability, attractiveness to target species, and ability to remain buoyant and mobile in the water.

Artificial Baits

Yes, you can use a variety of lures for saltwater trolling, and each has its advantages and areas where it is best to use them.

• Trolling Lures: This category includes edged lures designed with baits to imitate small fish or squid. Vibrant colors and realistic action attract pelagic species.

• Soft Plastic Swimmers: Popular for their colorful appearance and swimming action. They also come in various sizes and colors, similar to baitfish or squid, and are effective for targeting Striped Bass, Walleye, and Redfish.

• Spoons: These lures spray and flash underwater, imitating an injured baitfish. They are a good choice for trolling at various speeds and depths and are commonly used to target species such as Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish, and King Mackerel.

• Diving Plugs: These are made of a rigid body with a diving lip that allows them to dive to specific depths when trolled. They imitate the swimming action of bait fish and are effective at trolling on the bottom or in medium water depths.

• Surface Poppers: Designed to create a splash and commotion on the water's surface, simulating a runaway or wounded. It will attract aggressive predators and surface-feeding species such as Walleye and Trevally.

• Trolling Squid: This is a soft plastic or rubber lure designed to mimic primary squid or cephalopods. They may have skirts or tentacles that create realistic movement in the water.

• Surface Skimmers: These are designed to skim the water's surface, imitating a fleeing baitfish. They effectively target species such as Bonito, Albacore, and other fast-swimming pelagic fish.

Artificial lures are chosen based on their ability to mimic natural prey, attract fish in various water conditions, and withstand the rigors of saltwater trolling.

Freshwater

From live baits such as worms and lures to artificial baits such as crankbaits and soft plastics, each will offer a distinct advantage in attracting fish to strike, along with your trolling skills.

Live Baits

From lively nightcrawlers that seem to dance on the hooks to bait that darts through the water, these live freshwater lures provide a dynamic advantage. Their natural movements and smells mimic local prey, luring Bass, Trout, Panfish, and other freshwater game. Here are the most commonly used ones.

• Minnows: These are small lures or shiners that mimic natural forage fish. They target species such as Bass, Walleye, and Pike.

• Night Crawlers: Also known as earthworms, they are versatile baits that most freshwater species like, so they are trendy. They can slowly drive behind the boat to attract Trout, Panfish, and even larger predators such as Muskies and Catfish.

• Leeches: Another popular live bait for freshwater trolling. They are characterized by a natural swimming motion that attracts fish such as Perch, Bass, and Perch. They can be combined with a slip-sinker setup.

• Crayfish: Crayfish are natural prey for many freshwater fish species, so trolling them can be effective in rocky areas or along the bottom where these crayfish are found.

• Crickets: Crickets are a favorite live bait for targeting Panfish such as Bluegill, Crappie, and Perch. They are easily moved into the nearby vegetation or structure where these species congregate.

• Spawning: At certain times of the year, fish eggs or spawn bags can be effective live bait for trolling. They are commonly used to target Trout, Salmon, and Steelhead.

Trolling Anglers often change their bait choices depending on target species, water conditions, and seasonal preferences.

Artificial Baits 

From realistic lures that mimic injured lures to colorful lures that flash through the water, some even have meat fillings and scents; these lures have almost all the features of live baits.

• Crankbaits: These are hard-bodied with a diving lip that allows them to dive to specific depths when trolled. They are primarily used for Bass, Walleye, and Pike species.

• Spinner Lures: Consists of a metal blade or blades that spin around a wire shaft, creating vibrations and flashes. They are excellent for targeting Bass, Pike, and Muskies.

• Spoons: Metal spoons are a good choice for trolling when changing speeds and depths frequently. They flutter and flash underwater, imitating injured baitfish and attracting fish like Trout, Salmon, and Northern Pike.

• Inline Spinners: This type of lure has a blade that rotates around a straight wire shaft. 

• Jerkbaits: Jerkbaits are long, slender baits with a suspension or floating action. They are used to target Bass, Pike, and Muskies.

• Trolling Plugs: They come in various shapes and sizes and are designed to sink to specific depths when trolled.

• Trolling Flies: They are primarily used with a dodger or flasher, can be found in various designs and colors, and are effective for fishing Trout and Kokanee.

• Umbrella Rigs: These consist of multiple wire arms with individual lures or swim attachments. Thus, they imitate a flock of baits and effectively target Bass.

If you frequent freshwater habitats, having your trolling tackle box full of as diverse a range of lures as possible is a good idea.

Where to Go Trolling

As we have already mentioned, trolling can be practiced from various locations, but the beauty of the character of this complex technique is best presented in deeper and restless waters. However, the trolling allure is also reflected in the possibility of location variations.

From a Shore

Shore trolling involves fishing along the shoreline and near coastal features such as reefs, drop-offs, and underwater structures. The advantage is year-round availability and less dependence on weather conditions. Species such as Striped Bass, Kingfish, Wahoo, and Snook are mainly targeted. It's also easier to adjust your fishing speed and depth to match the behavior and location of the fish, increasing your chances of success.

From Estuaries and Bays

These are transitional water zones where fresh water meets salt water, creating rich ecosystems that attract different types of fish. Trolling primarily targets species like Striped Bass, Bluefish, and Flounder. Successful navigation through tidal currents and varying water salinity levels is required, which affects fish behavior and feeding patterns.

In Shallow Waters

Trolling can also be practiced in shallow water to target species often living close to the surface, such as Pike, Musky, shallow-water Bass, Redfish, and Snook. It implies using bait that can work effectively at shallow depths without sticking to the bottom.

This approach requires careful navigation and awareness of underwater structures and vegetation where fish may seek cover or be ambushed. It is best to practice trolling in shallow waters in the early morning or late evening when the fish are more active near the surface.

Specific Trolling Strategies 

Trolling is a comprehensive set of mini-strategies composed of one strategy that will bring success in freshwater and saltwater fishing, including the luck factor. However, there are some specific strategies you can adapt. 

Downrigger Trolling

Downrigger trolling is a popular strategy that involves using a downrigger device to precisely control the depth of your bait. A weight attached to the line descends to the desired depth, and a string is connected to the cable. In this way, it locates Salmon, Trout, and Walleye. Anglers also love it because it enables effective trolling in deep waters without their baits rising to the surface.

Lead Core Line Trolling

For this type of trolling, you must use a particular fishing line with a lead core, which will quickly descend to the desired depth without additional weights or devices. This approach is great because the line color changes every 10 yards, allowing anglers to judge depth based on how far the line is out. It is often used when trolling in freshwater environments, where the underwater scenario and environments can be tricky.

Planer Board Trolling

Planer board trolling uses small boards attached to fishing rods to spread the lines further away from the boat. This technique allows anglers to cover a large area and avoid spooking the fish. It is effective in fresh and saltwater and commonly targets species such as Pike, Muskellunge, and Bass.

Flat Line Trolling

This type of trolling involves running the bait directly behind the boat without using sinkers, lead cores, or planer boards. Because of such a relatively simple approach, this method is often used in shallow waters and during the late periods of the day when fish are known to feed close to the surface. And these are mostly Bass, Snook, or other species that change depth when hunting. 

Final Thoughts 

The world of trolling is never dull; it is exciting and incredibly diverse, and at the same time, it has all the breadth and beauty that fishing can offer! If you are skilled and brave, only the sky's the limit for you! From the thrill of deep sea trolling for Marlin to the lake or river trolling excitement and challenge, plus open possibilities for experimentation, you can always count on it! 

If you venture on this adventure to perfect your techniques, our guide will be handy as you sail towards unforgettable fishing expeditions.

In the meantime, don't hesitate to talk to us in the comments. Share photos, comments, favorite trolling strategies, memorable catches, or what motivates you most to troll. We look forward to hearing or seeing your stories and catches! Happy trolling and solid queues!