How To Use Planer Boards For Walleye
Planer boards are a valuable tool for walleye fishermen, allowing them to cover a larger area of water and reach fish that are spread out. By using planer boards, anglers can present multiple lines at different depths and distances from the boat, increasing their chances of catching walleye.
To use planer boards effectively, it’s important to understand how they work and how to set them up. Planer boards are attached to the fishing line and pulled through the water, causing them to move away from the boat and take the line out to the side. By using clips or releases on the planer boards, anglers can attach additional lines to the boards and present multiple baits simultaneously.
When using planer boards for walleye fishing, it’s important to consider the depth at which the fish are feeding. By adjusting the position of the planer board on the fishing line, anglers can control the depth at which the bait is presented. This allows them to target walleye that are feeding at different depths and increases the chances of a successful catch.
In addition to controlling depth, anglers can also use planer boards to spread out their lines and cover a larger area of water. This is especially useful when walleye are spread out and not concentrated in a specific area. By spreading out the lines, anglers can increase their chances of encountering walleye and maximize their fishing efforts.
What are Planer Boards
Planer boards are a popular tool used by anglers to extend their reach and increase their chances of catching walleye and other fish. These devices are essentially flat boards that are attached to fishing lines and can be used to spread out multiple lines away from the main fishing boat.
When fishing for walleye, using planer boards can be especially effective because walleye tend to be wary of boats and are often found near the surface or in shallower waters. By using planer boards, anglers can position their lines away from the boat and closer to the fish, increasing the likelihood of a successful catch.
How Planer Boards Work
Planer boards work by creating resistance in the water, which causes them to move away from the boat and carry the fishing line along with them. This allows anglers to cover a larger area and bring their baits to where the walleye are hiding.
The boards are attached to the fishing line using a release clip, which holds the line securely until a fish bites. Once a fish is hooked, the line is released from the clip, allowing the angler to reel in their catch without interference from the planer board.
Types of Planer Boards
There are different types of planer boards available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. The most common types include fixed planer boards, inline planer boards, and mast-style planer boards.
Fixed planer boards are the simplest and most affordable option. They are attached to the fishing line and rely on the pressure of the water to keep them in place. Inline planer boards, on the other hand, are designed to run along the fishing line and can be easily adjusted for different depths and distances from the boat. Mast-style planer boards are larger and require a mast system to suspend them from the boat. They offer increased stability and can handle rougher waters.
Overall, planer boards are a valuable tool for walleye fishing, allowing anglers to cover more water and increase their chances of hooking a prize catch. By understanding how these boards work and choosing the right type for your needs, you can enhance your fishing experience and improve your chances of success.
Benefits of Planer Boards
Planer boards are an essential tool for anglers targeting walleye. These simple devices offer a wide range of benefits that can greatly increase your chances of success on the water. Here are some of the key benefits of using planer boards:
1. Increased Coverage
One of the primary advantages of planer boards is that they allow you to cover a larger area of water. By deploying planer boards off the sides of your boat, you can spread your lines out and fish a wider path. This helps you search for active walleye and locate the most productive areas.
2. Reduced Spooking
Walleye can be easily spooked by the presence of a boat or fishing lines. Planer boards help mitigate this issue by moving your lines away from the boat and keeping them at a distance from the fish. This reduces the chances of scaring walleye and increases your chances of getting a bite.
3. Multiple Lines
Planer boards allow you to fish multiple lines at the same time, without tangling or crossing them. This is particularly useful when walleye are scattered or relating to specific areas. By spreading out your lines using planer boards, you can effectively cover different depths and locations to increase your chances of hooking into fish.
Using planer boards effectively requires some practice and experimentation, but the benefits are well worth the effort. They offer increased coverage, reduced spooking, and the ability to fish multiple lines simultaneously. Incorporating planer boards into your walleye fishing arsenal can greatly improve your success on the water.
Choosing the Right Planer Boards
When it comes to using planer boards for walleye fishing, choosing the right boards is crucial. There are a few key factors to consider when making this decision.
1. Size
The size of the planer board you choose will depend on several factors, including the size of your boat, the conditions you will be fishing in, and the size of the lures you plan to use. Larger boards are generally better for larger boats and rougher water conditions, as they offer more stability and can handle larger lures. Smaller boards, on the other hand, are better for smaller boats and calmer waters.
2. Type
There are several types of planer boards available, including fixed, inline, and double-action boards. Fixed boards are the most basic type and are great for beginners. Inline boards are designed to run in a straight line behind the boat and are ideal for trolling in open water. Double-action boards have a release mechanism that allows them to drop back when a fish strikes, reducing the chance of the fish pulling the board under.
Pro tip: Consider investing in a set of planer boards that offer adjustable weights or keels. These features can help you fine-tune the performance of the boards and make it easier to customize your setup for different fishing conditions.
3. Visibility
The visibility of your planer boards is another important factor to consider. Brightly colored or fluorescent boards are easier to spot in the water, especially in low-light conditions. This can be helpful for keeping track of your boards and preventing tangles with other lines.
Ultimately, the right planer boards for walleye fishing will depend on your personal preferences and fishing conditions. It’s a good idea to invest in a variety of sizes and types of boards so that you have options for different situations. Experimenting with different boards and setups will help you determine what works best for you and increase your chances of success on the water.
Setting Up Planer Boards
When it comes to using planer boards for walleye fishing, a proper setup is essential for success. Follow these steps to set up your planer boards before hitting the water:
- Start by attaching the planer board mast to the boat. Make sure it is securely fastened to provide stability during trolling.
- Next, attach the planer board line to the mast. This line should be thin and durable, allowing it to resist tangles and snap under pressure.
- Attach the planer board releases to the planer board line. These releases securely hold the fishing line in place until a fish strikes. Make sure they are properly adjusted to allow for easy release when a fish bites.
- Once the planer board releases are in place, attach the fishing line to the releases. Ensure that the fishing line is securely connected, ensuring it won’t come loose during trolling.
- Rig the fishing line with the desired bait or lure. Many anglers use live bait, such as minnows or nightcrawlers, to attract walleye. However, artificial lures can also be effective.
- Repeat the process for each planer board you plan to use. Be sure to set up multiple planer boards at different distances from the boat to cover a larger area and increase your chances of hooking a walleye.
Once your planer boards are set up, you’re ready to hit the water and start trolling for walleye. Remember to adjust your trolling speed and depth based on the preferences of the fish and the conditions of the water. With proper setup and technique, planer boards can significantly improve your chances of catching walleye.
Techniques for Using Planer Boards
Planer boards are an essential tool for walleye fishing, allowing you to cover a wider area and present your bait at different depths. Here are some techniques for using planer boards effectively:
1. Trolling Speed: Adjust your trolling speed based on the depth and the current. A slower speed will allow your bait to stay in the strike zone longer, while a faster speed can help you cover more water. Experiment with different speeds to find what works best for the conditions.
2. Board Placement: Position your planer boards at varying distances from the boat to cover a wider area. Place them closer for a tighter spread or further apart for a wider spread. Adjust the distance between each board to avoid tangles.
3. Depth Control: Use different types of weights or divers to control the depth at which your bait is running. Attach these weights or divers to your planer board line to achieve the desired depth. Experiment with different combinations until you find the right setup for the walleye’s feeding pattern.
4. Board Direction: If you’re fishing a contour or structure, consider running some of your planer boards along the edge to target walleye that are holding in the breaklines. This technique can often be effective in triggering strikes from fish that might otherwise be missed with a straight trolling pattern.
5. Board Releases: Invest in good quality planer board releases to ensure smooth operation and minimize false releases. These releases are designed to hold onto the line until a fish strikes, allowing you to easily detect bites and maintain control over your setup.
6. Picking the Right Baits: Selecting the right bait is crucial when using planer boards. Consider using crankbaits, spoons, or live bait rigs that are known to attract walleye. Pay attention to the color, size, and action of the bait to match the feeding preferences of the fish.
7. Boat Control: Maintain proper boat control while using planer boards to ensure the best presentation and avoid tangling lines. Use a trolling motor or make adjustments with your main motor to maintain a consistent speed and direction. This will help you keep your lines spread out and prevent them from crossing.
8. Monitoring the Boards: Keep a close eye on your planer boards while trolling. Watch for any changes in their position or behavior that may indicate a strike. A board that suddenly stops or moves erratically could signal that a fish has taken the bait, so be ready to reel it in.
Mastering the use of planer boards takes practice and patience, but once you get the hang of it, they can significantly improve your walleye fishing success. Play around with different techniques and setups to find what works best for you and the conditions you’re fishing in.
Tips and Tricks for Walleye Fishing with Planer Boards
When it comes to walleye fishing, planer boards can be a game-changer. These devices allow you to cover more water and target more fish, increasing your chances of success. Here are some tips and tricks to help you make the most of planer boards when fishing for walleye:
1. Positioning the Planer Boards
When using planer boards, it’s important to position them correctly to maximize your chances of catching walleye. Start by attaching them to each side of your boat at a distance of about 50-75 feet. This will create a wide spread and allow you to cover more water.
Tip: The depth at which you should position your planer boards will depend on the water conditions and the depth at which walleye are feeding. Experiment with different depths until you find the sweet spot.
2. Using the Right Lure
Choosing the right lure is crucial when fishing for walleye with planer boards. Opt for lures that mimic the baitfish that walleye feed on, such as crankbaits, spinnerbaits, or jigs. Bright colors like chartreuse or orange often work well in attracting walleye’s attention.
Tip: Vary your lure color and size until you find what works best for the current conditions and the walleye’s preferences.
3. Adjusting the Tension
The tension on your planer boards is essential for maintaining control and detecting bites. Adjust the tension according to the wind and current conditions. Lighten the tension in calm conditions and increase it when it’s windy or when there’s a strong current.
Tip: Pay close attention to the tension while trolling, as walleye bites can sometimes be subtle. A sudden change in tension could indicate a bite.
4. Managing the Lines
When using planer boards, it’s important to manage your lines effectively to avoid tangles. Consider using line releases or clips to attach your lines to the planer boards. This will allow the boards to slide freely when a fish bites, reducing the risk of tangles and line breakages.
Tip: Periodically check your lines for any tangles or debris and adjust as necessary to prevent any hindrance to the planer boards’ movement.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to a successful walleye fishing experience with planer boards. Remember to always stay alert and adapt to changing conditions to increase your chances of landing that trophy walleye!
Questions and answers
What are planer boards?
Planer boards are devices used in fishing to spread out fishing lines horizontally. They are attached to the fishing line and extended out from the boat to distribute the lines over a larger area.
Why are planer boards important for walleye fishing?
Planer boards are important for walleye fishing because they allow anglers to cover a larger area of water, increasing their chances of catching more walleye. They also help to keep the lines from tangling up and provide better control over the fishing lines.
How do you attach planer boards to the fishing line?
To attach a planer board to a fishing line, you will need a planer board release clip. Open the clip and slide the fishing line into the clip groove. Close the clip and make sure it securely holds the fishing line. Attach the planer board to the release clip, making sure it is properly secured. Repeat the process for each planer board you want to use.
What is the best way to use planer boards for walleye fishing?
The best way to use planer boards for walleye fishing is to spread them out evenly on both sides of the boat. Attach the planer boards to the fishing lines and extend them out into the water. Adjust the distance between the planer boards based on the fishing conditions and the area you want to cover. Keep an eye on the planer boards for any signs of walleye bites and act accordingly.
Can planer boards be used in any type of water?
Yes, planer boards can be used in any type of water, including lakes, rivers, and even in saltwater. They are versatile tools that can be adapted to different fishing conditions and can be used to target a variety of fish species, including walleye.
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