How To Set Up A Planer For Trolling
Trolling is a popular fishing technique that allows anglers to cover a large area of water and target fish that are actively feeding near the surface. One of the most effective ways to improve your trolling success is by using a planer. A planer is a device that attaches to your fishing line and allows you to fish at different depths by adjusting the planer’s settings.
Setting up a planer for trolling can be a bit tricky if you’re new to the technique, but with a little practice and some helpful tips, you’ll be reeling in more fish in no time. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Choose the right planer
There are different types of planers available on the market, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs. Consider factors such as the size of the planer, the depth at which you want to fish, and the type of fish you’re targeting. It’s also a good idea to read reviews and ask for recommendations from experienced anglers.
Step 2: Set up your fishing rod and reel
Before attaching the planer, make sure your fishing rod and reel are properly set up. Use a medium to heavy rod with a fast-action tip, as this will give you better control over the planer. The reel should have a high line capacity and a smooth drag system to handle the resistance caused by the planer.
Step 3: Attach the planer to your line
To attach the planer to your fishing line, thread the line through the hole at the front of the planer and then tie a secure knot. Make sure the knot is tight to prevent the planer from sliding up or down the line. You can also use a planer board or release clip for added stability.
Step 4: Adjust the planer’s settings
Once the planer is attached, adjust its settings according to the depth you want to fish. Most planers have adjustable release clips or weights that allow you to control the distance between the planer and your lure. Experiment with different settings until you find the one that works best for your fishing conditions.
Step 5: Start trolling
With your planer properly set up, it’s time to start trolling. Let out enough line to get your lure to your desired depth and then engage the reel to start trolling. Keep an eye on your rod tip for any signs of a strike and be ready to set the hook when a fish bites.
Setting up a planer for trolling may take some practice, but once you master the technique, you’ll have a valuable tool that will greatly increase your chances of catching fish. So, grab your planer, head out on the water, and get ready for a successful day of trolling!
Understanding Planer Boards
Planer boards are a crucial tool for trolling anglers. They are designed to spread out lines and keep them away from the boat, allowing anglers to cover more water and increase their chances of catching fish. Understanding how planer boards work and how to use them effectively can greatly improve your trolling success.
Key Components of Planer Boards
- Main Board: This is the larger board that attaches to the fishing line and is responsible for carrying the line away from the boat.
- Release Clips: These are clips that attach the fishing line to the planer board. When a fish bites, the release clip releases the line, allowing the angler to fight the fish without the drag of the planer board.
- Keel Weights: These weights are located on the bottom of the planer board and help keep it balanced and running straight in the water.
- Trolling Line: This is the line that is attached to the release clip and extends back to the fishing rod and reel.
How Planer Boards Work
When a planer board is deployed, the main board is attached to the fishing line using the release clip. As the boat moves forward, the water pressure pushes against the planer board, causing it to move away from the boat. The keel weights help keep the planer board balanced and running straight. The trolling line extends back from the planer board, allowing the angler to cover a larger area of water.
One of the main advantages of using planer boards is that they allow anglers to present multiple lines at different depths and distances from the boat. By attaching planer boards to lines with different lengths and attaching them at different positions on the boat, anglers can cover a larger area of water and target fish at different depths. This increases the chances of locating active fish and catching more fish.
Tips for Using Planer Boards
- Ensure that your planer boards run straight and don’t veer off to one side. Adjust the keel weights if necessary to achieve optimal balance.
- Experiment with different positions and lengths for your planer board lines to cover more water and target fish at different depths.
- Pay close attention to the release clips. Make sure they are securely attached to the fishing line, but also able to release when a fish bites.
- Use brightly colored planer boards to improve visibility and attract more fish.
- Regularly check your planer boards for any tangles or debris that may affect their performance.
By understanding the key components of planer boards and how they work, as well as following these tips, you can effectively utilize planer boards in your trolling setup and increase your chances of catching more fish.
Choosing the Right Planer Board
When it comes to trolling, having the right planer board can make all the difference in the success of your fishing trip. Here are some important factors to consider when choosing the right planer board:
- Type of fishing: Different planer boards are designed for different types of fishing. If you are trolling in shallow waters, a planer board with a smaller surface area may be more suitable. On the other hand, if you are trolling in deeper waters, a larger planer board that can handle heavier lines and heavier lures may be necessary.
- Size and weight: The size and weight of the planer board will affect its stability and performance in the water. It’s important to choose a planer board that is the right size and weight for the fishing conditions you will be facing.
- Materials: Planer boards are typically made from materials such as plastic, wood, or foam. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages. Plastic planer boards are lightweight and durable, but they can be affected by high winds. Wooden planer boards are heavier and more stable, but they may not last as long as plastic boards. Foam planer boards are lightweight and buoyant, but they may not be as durable as plastic or wooden boards.
- Attachment options: Look for a planer board that offers multiple attachment options, such as clips or brackets, to help secure your fishing line and bait. This will ensure that your line stays in place and doesn’t get tangled during trolling.
- Visibility: Some planer boards come in bright colors or with reflective features to help increase visibility in the water. This can be especially useful in low-light conditions or when trolling in busy waters.
By considering these factors and choosing the right planer board for your fishing needs, you can increase your chances of trolling success and have a more enjoyable fishing experience.
Trolling Techniques with Planer Boards
Planer boards are an essential tool for trolling in freshwater and saltwater environments. They allow you to cover a larger area of water, increasing your chances of catching fish. Here are some effective trolling techniques using planer boards:
1. Offshore Trolling
Offshore trolling involves using planer boards to target fish species that are located away from the shore. Start by setting up your planer boards on each side of your boat, attaching them to release clips on your fishing lines. Let out enough line so that the planer boards are deployed away from the boat. Adjust the depth of your lures or bait depending on the target species. The planer boards will create a spread, covering a wider area and increasing your chances of attracting fish.
2. Nearshore Trolling
For nearshore trolling, you can use planer boards to target fish species that are located close to the shore or areas with structure. Attach the planer boards to your fishing lines and let them run parallel to the shoreline or structure. Adjust the depth of your lures or bait to match the target fish’s preferred habitat. By trolling with planer boards, you can avoid spooking fish that may be near the surface or close to the boat, increasing your chances of a successful catch.
Note: It’s important to monitor your planer boards regularly to ensure they are running properly and not tangled with other lines or obstacles. Adjust the distance between the planer boards and the boat as needed, depending on the water conditions and target fish species.
Using planer boards while trolling can significantly improve your fishing success. By covering a larger area of water, you increase your chances of encountering active fish and triggering more strikes. Experiment with different trolling speeds, lure sizes, and colors to find the most effective combination for your target species. So next time you are out trolling, don’t forget to include planer boards in your setup!
Questions and answers
What is trolling and why is it important to set up a planer for trolling?
Trolling is a fishing technique where you drag a fishing line through the water to catch fish. Setting up a planer for trolling is important because it allows you to control the depth at which your bait is presented to the fish, increasing your chances of catching them.
What equipment do I need to set up a planer for trolling?
To set up a planer for trolling, you will need a planer board, a planer release clip, a fishing rod and reel, fishing line, and a fishing bait or lure.
How do I attach the planer board to my fishing line?
To attach the planer board to your fishing line, first tie a loop knot at the end of your fishing line. Then, loop the line through the planer release clip and back through the loop knot. Finally, tighten the knot and ensure that it is secure.
What factors should I consider when setting up a planer for trolling?
When setting up a planer for trolling, it is important to consider the depth at which you want to fish, the speed at which you are trolling, the type of bait or lure you are using, and the desired spread of your lines.
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