How To Build Planer Boards For Stripers
Planer boards are an essential tool for anglers who target striped bass, also known as stripers. These versatile devices allow you to spread your fishing lines out to cover a wider area, increasing your chances of hooking into a big one. Building your own planer boards can be a rewarding and cost-effective alternative to purchasing them.
Before getting started, it’s important to know the basic components of a planer board. Each board typically consists of a wooden or foam plank, a keel weight for stability, release clips to hold the fishing lines, and a flag to indicate when a fish has taken the bait. With a few materials and some simple steps, you can create your own planer boards that will help you land more stripers.
The first step in building your planer boards is to choose the right materials. For the plank, select a sturdy wood like cedar or a buoyant foam board. The keel weight can be made from lead or steel, ensuring it is heavy enough to keep the board upright in the water. Release clips are essential for holding the fishing lines securely, so be sure to choose high-quality clips that can withstand the tension. Finally, select a durable and brightly colored flag that will be visible from a distance.
What Are Planer Boards?
Planer boards are a type of fishing accessory used to spread out fishing lines and cover a wider area of water. They are commonly used in striper fishing to help increase the chances of catching more fish.
A planer board consists of a mast, a board, and a clip. The mast is an upright pole that is secured to the boat and holds the board in place. The board is a flat, rectangular piece of material, usually made of plastic or wood, that is attached to the mast. The clip is used to attach the fishing line to the board.
The purpose of a planer board is to allow anglers to fish multiple lines at different depths and distances from the boat. By using planer boards, fishermen can cover a larger area of water and present their baits or lures in different locations. This increases their chances of attracting fish and getting more bites.
Planer boards are especially useful in striper fishing because stripers tend to be found in schools and are often located in specific areas. By using planer boards, anglers can effectively target these areas and increase their chances of catching more stripers.
When using planer boards, it is important to have the right equipment and setup. Each fishing line should be attached to a separate planer board, allowing them to spread out and cover a larger area. The depth at which the lines are set can be adjusted by changing the length of the leader or adding weights.
Overall, planer boards are a valuable tool for striper fishing and can greatly increase the chances of success. By spreading out fishing lines and covering more water, anglers can attract more stripers and have a more productive fishing experience.
Benefits of Using Planer Boards for Stripers
Fishing for stripers can be an exhilarating experience, but it can also be challenging. One way to increase your chances of success is by using planer boards. These simple devices can greatly enhance your fishing experience and make it easier to catch stripers. Here are some of the benefits of using planer boards:
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1. Cover More Water: With planer boards, you can cover a larger area of water while trolling. By spreading out your lines and lures, you increase your chances of finding active stripers. This is especially beneficial when fishing in large bodies of water where stripers may be scattered. |
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2. Avoid Spooking Fish: Stripers can be wary and easily spooked by large boats or trolling motors. By using planer boards, you can keep your lines away from your boat, reducing the chance of scaring off the fish. This allows you to get closer to the stripers without alerting them to your presence. |
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3. Detect Strikes More Easily: When using planer boards, your lines are spread out, making it easier to detect when a striper strikes. The board will pull back, indicating that a fish has taken the bait. This allows you to react quickly and increase your chances of hooking the fish. |
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4. Control Depth and Presentation: Planer boards allow you to control the depth at which your lures are presented to the stripers. By adjusting the position of the board and adding weights, you can fish at different depths and target stripers at various levels of the water column. |
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5. Minimize Tangles and Snags: By using planer boards, you can keep your lines separate from each other, reducing the risk of tangles and snags. This saves you time and frustration, allowing you to focus on fishing instead of untangling lines. |
In conclusion, planer boards are a valuable tool for striper fishing. They allow you to cover more water, avoid spooking fish, detect strikes more easily, control depth and presentation, and minimize tangles and snags. By incorporating planer boards into your fishing arsenal, you can significantly increase your chances of landing a trophy striper.
Choosing the Right Materials
When it comes to building planer boards for stripers, choosing the right materials is crucial for a successful fishing experience. Here are some key factors to consider:
1. Board Size
The size of the planer board will depend on your personal preference and the type of fishing you plan to do. Larger boards are more stable and can handle rougher waters, while smaller boards are more maneuverable and can be easier to handle.
2. Board Material
The material of the board should be durable and lightweight. Common materials used for planer boards include wood, plastic, and foam. Wood boards are sturdy but may be heavier, while plastic and foam boards are lighter but may not be as durable.
Plastic boards are often preferred for their resistance to water and durability. They are also easy to clean and maintain. Foam boards, on the other hand, are lightweight and can float if they accidentally come off the line.
3. Attachment System
The attachment system is an important consideration when choosing the right materials for planer boards. A secure and reliable attachment system is necessary to ensure that the boards stay in place and do not come off during fishing.
There are various types of attachment systems available, such as clips, pins, and screws. It is important to choose a system that is strong enough to hold the board securely, but also easy to attach and detach when necessary.
Overall, selecting the right materials for your planer boards is essential for a successful fishing trip. Consider factors such as board size, material, and attachment system to ensure that your planer boards are durable, lightweight, and easy to use.
Step-by-Step Guide to Building Planer Boards
Building your own planer boards can be a fun and rewarding project that can greatly enhance your striper fishing experience. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Materials Needed:
- 1/2 inch thick marine-grade plywood (size can vary based on your preference)
- Hand saw or jigsaw
- Measuring tape
- Pencil or marker
- Drill with drill bits
- Wood screws
- Eye bolts
- Stainless steel nuts and washers
- Steel cable or fishing line
- Fishing clips
Step 1: Cutting the Boards
Measure and mark the desired dimensions on the plywood using a measuring tape and pencil or marker. Use the hand saw or jigsaw to carefully cut out the planer board shapes.
Step 2: Adding the Eye Bolts
Drill holes on both sides of each planer board where you want to attach the eye bolts. Insert the eye bolts into the holes and secure them with stainless steel nuts and washers.
Step 3: Attaching the Fishing Line
Thread the steel cable or fishing line through the eye bolts on each planer board, ensuring they are taut. Attach fishing clips to the lines to easily attach and release the planer boards when needed.
Step 4: Testing and Adjusting
Before using the planer boards in the water, it’s important to test them to ensure they are functioning properly. Attach them to your fishing line and slowly let them out in calm water. Make any necessary adjustments to the lines or clips to achieve the desired spacing and depth.
Step 5: Enjoying Striper Fishing with Planer Boards
Once you have successfully built and tested your planer boards, it’s time to hit the water and enjoy striper fishing with this new tool. Experiment with different setups and techniques to find what works best for you.
Remember to always prioritize safety and follow local fishing regulations while using planer boards.
Tips for Using Planer Boards Effectively
Planer boards are a great tool for targeting stripers, but using them effectively requires some knowledge and technique. Here are some tips to help you maximize your success when using planer boards:
1. Positioning
When deploying planer boards, it’s crucial to position them correctly. Place your planer boards out to the sides of your boat, ideally at a distance of 50-75 feet. This will allow you to cover a wider area of water and increase your chances of encountering stripers.
2. Tension
Proper tension on your planer board line is essential for maintaining control and detecting strikes. Adjust the tension so that the planer board is pulling slightly to the side, but not so much that it becomes difficult to manage. This will help you detect slight movements and bites more effectively.
3. Speed and Depth Control
Controlling the speed and depth at which your planer boards run is crucial for effectively targeting stripers. Adjust your boat’s speed to match the desired depth you want to fish, and use additional weight if needed. Experiment with different depths to find where the stripers are feeding.
4. Bait Placement
Consider the placement of your bait when using planer boards. Attach your bait to a separate line and position it behind the planer board. This will allow the bait to swim freely and entice stripers to strike. Experiment with different bait placements to see what works best in your fishing spot.
5. Be Observant
Keep a close eye on your planer boards while fishing. Look for any changes in movement, as this could indicate a strike. Stripers may pull the board under, cause it to move erratically, or create slack in the line. Stay attentive and ready to react when you see these signs.
By following these tips, you can effectively use planer boards to target stripers and increase your chances of success on the water. Remember to practice patience and adapt your techniques as needed to the conditions you encounter. Happy fishing!
Questions and answers
What are planer boards used for when fishing for stripers?
Planer boards are used to spread out fishing lines horizontally in the water, allowing anglers to cover a larger area and increase their chances of catching stripers. They help keep the lines away from the boat, reducing the chances of spooking the fish.
What is the purpose of the release clips on planer boards?
The release clips on planer boards are used to hold the fishing line securely in place until a fish strikes. Once a fish is hooked, the clip releases, allowing the angler to fight the fish without any resistance from the board. This ensures that the planer board does not interfere with the fight and enables the angler to bring in the fish with ease.
Are planer boards suitable for beginners?
Yes, planer boards can be used by beginners. While they may require some practice to master, they are relatively easy to use once you get the hang of it. Planer boards can be a great addition to any angler’s tackle box, as they can help increase your chances of catching fish such as stripers. It is important to familiarize yourself with the proper techniques and safety precautions before using planer boards.
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