Trolling is a common fishing method used to trap a variety of fish species. To entice the fish to strike, it involves dragging a lure or bait through the water. Trolling can be a very cost-effective way to fish, but it does need knowledge and experience to be successful. Here is a guide to finding the most effective trolling techniques for maximum profit for anglers.
Selecting the correct lure or bait is the first step in successful trolling. Depending on the species of fish you’re after, you’ll need to choose either live bait or artificial lure, or a combination of both. Live bait can be anything from spiders, leeches, or minnows to live shrimp. Artificial lures come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, and they can be used to imitate a variety of prey species. Once the lure or bait is selected, the next step is to find the trolling pattern.
The most popular trolling pattern is the “crankbait pattern.” This involves trolling a crankbait (a form of artificial lure) at a slow, steady rate. The crankbait is designed to imitate a small baitfish and is often used to trap smallmouth bass, walleye, and other fish species. Keep the speed slow and steady, so the lure will remain in the strike zone for a lengthy time.
The “spinner pattern” is yet another common trolling pattern. This involves trolling a spinnerbait (a form of artificial lure). The spinnerbait is designed to resemble a stranded baitfish and is often used to capture largemouth bass, pike, and other species. The key to success with this pattern is to change the speed so that the lure remains in the strike zone at all times.
Lastly, the “jigging pattern” is a great way to kill bottom-dwelling animals, such as catfish and crappie frogs. This pattern requires trolling a jig (an artificial lure) at a very slow speed. The jig is designed to imitate a small baitfish and is often used to catch catfish, crappie, or other fish species. The key to success with this pattern is to keep the speed low enough so that the jig is always in the strike zone.
Trolling can be a very efficient way to catch a variety of fish species, but it does need knowledge and experience to be successful. Increase your catch and have a happy day on the sea by following the best trolling techniques for maximum success.