Most anglersthink a
line-counter reel
is the most accurate way of monitoring trolling lead lengths. Actually, line counters are inherently inaccurate ; they’re factory calibrated with only one line diameter and type. Anglers using different line diameters will see false data.
How much line should I put on my counter reel?
Line counter reads more than the actual measurement add line to the reel. Line counter reads less than the actual measurement remove line from the reel. Use a
bulk spool
of line such as Berkley 10# Trilene XT Bulk Spool, don’t cut it off until the reel is calibrated correctly. This allows you to remove or add line.
How is
fishing line depth
measured?
At a 45 degree angle, your depth is approximately 7 times the length of line you have out, measured from the tip of the rod, not the
water surface
For example, with 30 feet of line out, and your rod tip 3 feet above the water, your depth is 30 * 7 = 21 feet from the rod tip – 3 feet = 18 feet down in the water.
Can you cast with a trolling rod?
You can also cast with a trolling rod, but you lose accuracy.
What is a trolling reel?
Trolling reels are a heavier version of a baitcasting reel with greater line capacity and higher drag pressure Trolling reels use either a star drag or lever drag. A star drag can be set at a specific drag pressure for the duration of the fight.
What does a line counter do?
Just as a fish finder tells you exactly how deep either the water or the fish are, a line counter reel tells you exactly how much line is dragging behind the boat.
What is the best line for trolling?
Monofilament is the best line choice for trolling in most situations , but there are times when low stretch lines have the edge. Because low stretch lines are super thin, they enable trolling lures like crankbaits to pick up significantly more depth compared to monofilament lines of the same break strength.
Should you soak braid before spooling?
Braid does not need soaking like you do with mono prior to spooling up Thread your braid through the eye on the but section of the rod. Double check that your spool is as far forward as possible. Tie a slip loop knot in your braid.
Can you use
electrical tape
as backing for braided line?
Step 1. Again, grab some electrical tape and cut about a 4” piece and then cut it again length wise about ¾ of the width of the tape. Steps 2 and 3 are the same as a baitcasting reel. Even with a spool for braided line, I still use this method.
Should I use a swivel with braided line?
The core benefit of a swivel is to prevent your line from twisting, so situations in which line twists are a risk is when swivels should be used Note: Line twists are bad for anglers because twists can weaken the line and they also can cause the line to get itself into knots when casting (ex: those pesky wind knots).
How far behind a boat should you troll?
At least 50 yds out to 100 yds for the main lines and a couple of shorter sets closer to the boat.
How fast should you go when trolling?
The best trolling speed depends on several factors including the type of fish, water conditions and lure choice. In general, trolling speeds between 1.5 and 2.5 mph , as measured by GPS, are a good starting place for most species like walleye, trout and salmon.
Can you troll with baitcasting reel?
One of the benifits of a bait cast for trolling is you won’t get the line twist you’d get with a spinning reel Also, some bait cast reels have a line counter.
Can you troll with a jig?
Jigs can be long-line trolled directly behind the boat , but these lures are also ideally suited to trolling in combination with in-line boards.
Can you cast for walleye?
Casting crankbaits for walleyes is a great way to not only catch fish, but the action is tough to beat for a walleye It’s also one of my kid’s favorite ways to fish. It keeps them engaged and active, not like bottom bouncer fishing or trolling cranks where it can get slow.
What is a LevelWind reel?
Level wind reels feature a moving line guide that sports a pawl which runs back and forth across the front of the reel upon a worm shaft.
What type of reel is best for trolling?
- Okuma Magda Pro Line Counter Levelwind Trolling Reel. Best Trolling Reel For Budget Option
- Penn Fathom Lever Drag
- Burning Shark Trolling Reel
- Okuma Cold Water Linecounter Trolling Reel
- Penn Squall LevelWind
- One Bass Fishing Reels
- Okuma Classic CLX Right-Handed Level Wind Star Drag Reels.
How much line should you let out when trolling?
Let out 50 feet of line and clip into the release. If that’s not enough distance to prevent your lake’s wary walleyes from seeing the ball.then let out 150 feet of line! Just remember, the flat-line diving depth of your crankbait still applies behind the ball!.
References
https://fishfield.com/products/okuma-cold-water-low-profile-line-counter-reels
https://doctorsonar.com/blogs/educational-articles/117433732-how-to-calibrate-your-line-counter-reels