Enhancing Trolling Spread In Fishing With Planer Boards
If you’re seeking an effective way to expand your trolling spread in fishing, look no further than trolling with planer boards. Wondering how? Planer boards serve as a game-changing tool that enhances the reach and coverage of your trolling efforts. By attaching planer boards to your fishing line, you can effortlessly extend your spread by moving your lures away from the boat and covering a larger area of water. This simple yet powerful technique helps attract more fish and increases your chances of a successful catch. Ready to dive deeper into the world of trolling with planer boards? Let’s explore how this method can take your fishing experience to the next level.
How does trolling with planer boards enhance trolling spread in fishing?
Trolling with planer boards is a technique that has revolutionized the world of fishing. It offers anglers a variety of benefits, including the ability to cover more water, reach greater depths, and target specific areas with precision. By using planer boards, fishermen can spread out their lines, effectively increasing their chances of catching more fish. In this article, we will delve into the details of how trolling with planer boards enhances trolling spread in fishing, exploring the advantages, techniques, and best practices associated with this method.
1. Understanding Planer Boards
Before we dive into the benefits of trolling with planer boards, let’s first understand what they are. A planer board is a device that is attached to the fishing line and used to spread out multiple lines in the water. It works by creating lateral resistance, causing the board to travel out to the side of the boat, away from the main fishing line. This allows anglers to cover a wider area and avoid tangles.
1.1 Types of Planer Boards
There are various types of planer boards available on the market, each with its own advantages. Some common types include:
- Inline Planer Boards: These are the most basic type of planer boards and are attached directly to the fishing line.
- Planer Bobbers: These planer boards are buoyant and float on the water, providing increased visibility and reduced resistance.
- Planer Divers: These planer boards are weighted, allowing anglers to reach greater depths.
1.2 How Planer Boards Work
When a planer board is properly attached to the fishing line, it moves away from the boat, taking the fishing line with it. The board is designed to run perpendicular to the boat and can be adjusted to control the distance from the boat. By using multiple planer boards, anglers can spread out their lines and cover a wider area, increasing their chances of catching fish.
2. Advantages of Trolling with Planer Boards
Now that we understand the basics of planer boards, let’s explore the advantages of trolling with these devices:
2.1 Increased Coverage
One of the primary advantages of trolling with planer boards is the increased coverage it provides. By spreading out multiple lines with the help of planer boards, anglers can cover a larger area of water. This is especially beneficial when fishing in lakes, rivers, or other expansive bodies of water where fish may be scattered. The ability to efficiently cover a wider area increases the chances of encountering active fish and ultimately leads to more catches.
2.2 Depth Control
Planer boards give anglers the ability to control the depth at which their lines are presented. By adjusting the distance between the boat and the planer boards, anglers can target specific depths. This is particularly useful when fishing for species that prefer different temperature layers in the water column. Adjusting the depth allows fishermen to present their baits at the optimal level and entice more strikes.
2.3 Avoiding Tangles
When trolling with multiple lines, the risk of tangles and snags increases. However, planer boards greatly reduce this risk by spreading out the lines. The lateral resistance created by the boards prevents lines from crossing each other, minimizing tangles and ensuring a smooth trolling experience. This feature is especially valuable when fishing with a team or in crowded areas where other anglers are also trolling.
2.4 Precision and Stealth
Another advantage of trolling with planer boards is the ability to precisely target certain areas without spooking the fish. By positioning the planer boards at specific distances from the boat, anglers can present their baits in desired locations, such as along weed lines, drop-offs, or structure. This targeted approach increases the chances of attracting fish and reduces the disturbance caused by the boat itself, resulting in more successful fishing trips.
3. Techniques for Trolling with Planer Boards
While planer boards offer many advantages, using them effectively requires some techniques and know-how. Let’s explore a few key techniques for trolling with planer boards:
3.1 Setting Up the Planer Boards
Properly setting up the planer boards is crucial for achieving the desired trolling spread. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to set up planer boards:
- Attach the planer boards to the main fishing line using release clips or line releases.
- Let out enough line so that the planer boards are positioned at the desired distance from the boat.
- Clip or attach the fishing lines to the planer boards, ensuring they are securely attached.
- Repeat the process for each planer board, spacing them out evenly along the side of the boat.
- Ensure the planer boards are running smoothly and not experiencing any excessive drag or resistance.
3.2 Choosing the Right Baits
When trolling with planer boards, it’s important to select the right baits to attract the target species. Consider factors such as water temperature, time of year, and the preferences of the fish you are targeting. Experiment with different bait sizes, colors, and patterns to determine what works best for the specific fishing conditions. Always have a variety of baits at your disposal to increase your chances of success.
3.3 Speed and Direction
The speed at which you troll and the direction in which you travel can greatly influence your trolling spread. Different fish species have different preferences when it comes to trolling speeds, so it’s important to research and understand the optimal speed for your target species. Additionally, consider the effects of wind, current, and water temperature on the direction and speed of your boat. Adjust your trolling technique accordingly to maximize your chances of catching fish.
4. Best Practices for Trolling with Planer Boards
To ensure successful trolling with planer boards, there are some best practices that anglers should follow:
4.1 Safety First
Always prioritize safety when trolling with planer boards. Make sure all planer boards are securely attached to the fishing line to avoid losing them in the water. Keep an eye on other boats and obstacles in the area to prevent accidents. Additionally, ensure that all anglers onboard are aware of the planer boards and understand how to safely navigate around them.
4.2 Regularly Check Lines
It’s essential to regularly check the fishing lines attached to the planer boards. Inspect them for tangles, debris, or any signs of wear and tear. This will help prevent line breakages and ensure that your baits are presented properly in the water.
4.3 Be Mindful of Other Anglers
If you are trolling in an area with other anglers, it’s important to be respectful and mindful of their presence. Avoid crossing their lines or interfering with their fishing activities. Maintain a safe distance and communicate with other anglers to avoid any conflicts or disruptions.
5. Conclusion
Trolling with planer boards is a game-changer for anglers looking to enhance their fishing spread. The ability to cover a larger area, control fishing depths, avoid tangles, and target specific areas with precision makes it an invaluable technique. By following the techniques and best practices outlined in this article, you’ll be well-equipped to harness the benefits of trolling with planer boards and increase your chances of a successful fishing expedition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can planer boards be used in saltwater fishing?
Yes, planer boards can be used in both freshwater and saltwater fishing. However, it’s important to choose planer boards made from materials suitable for saltwater conditions to ensure durability and longevity.
2. How many planer boards should I use?
The number of planer boards you use depends on your fishing preferences and the size of your boat. Anglers typically use two to four planer boards per side, but it’s not uncommon to see more on larger boats.
3. Can I use planer boards for ice fishing?
While planer boards are primarily used in open water fishing, they can also be adapted for ice fishing. Ice fishing-specific planer boards are available, allowing anglers to spread out multiple lines through the ice holes.
4. Are planer boards suitable for trolling at high speeds?
Planer boards are designed to work effectively at a range of trolling speeds. However, it’s important to consider the specific design and capabilities of the planer boards you are using, as some may have speed limitations. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for optimal performance.
5. Can I use planer boards with live bait?
Absolutely! Planer boards are compatible with various fishing techniques, including using live bait. Simply attach the appropriate rig or hook to the planer board and adjust the distance from the boat accordingly.
Remember, practice makes perfect when it comes to trolling with planer boards. Experiment with different setups, techniques, and baits to find what works best for you. Enjoy the process and the excitement of reeling in your catch with the help of planer boards!
Frequently Asked Questions
How does trolling with planer boards enhance trolling spread in fishing?
When trolling with planer boards, the spread of your fishing lines can be significantly increased. Here are some frequently asked questions regarding this technique:
What are planer boards in fishing?
Planer boards are devices used in trolling that allow anglers to spread out multiple fishing lines away from the boat. They are attached to the fishing lines and, once deployed, they move the lines away from the boat, effectively widening the fishing area.
How do planer boards increase trolling spread?
Planer boards create a wider spread by moving fishing lines away from the boat. By positioning lines at different distances and angles, planer boards help cover more water and increase the chances of catching fish. This technique also helps avoid tangles that can occur when multiple lines are closely grouped together.
What are the benefits of trolling with planer boards?
Trolling with planer boards offers several advantages. It allows anglers to cover a larger area, explore different depths simultaneously, and target fish that may be wary of the boat. Additionally, planer boards help distribute the fishing lines more evenly, preventing them from getting tangled and increasing the chances of hooking multiple fish at once.
Can planer boards be used in any type of water?
Yes, planer boards can be used in various water conditions, including lakes, rivers, and saltwater environments. Regardless of the type of water, planer boards help extend the fishing spread and improve the chances of catching fish.
Do planer boards require any special techniques or skills?
While using planer boards does require some practice and understanding of how they work, they are relatively easy to use. Anglers need to familiarize themselves with attaching the boards to the fishing lines, deploying them correctly, and adjusting for different fishing conditions. With experience, anglers can efficiently troll with planer boards and enhance their fishing success.
Are there different types of planer boards available in the market?
Yes, there are various types of planer boards available, including inline planer boards, planer boards with flags, and planer boards with adjustable keels. Each type has its own advantages and may be suitable for different fishing situations. It’s important to choose the right planer board based on your specific needs and fishing conditions.
Final Thoughts
Trolling with planer boards significantly enhances trolling spread in fishing. By utilizing planer boards, anglers can cover a wider area of the water and target fish that may be spread out. The use of planer boards allows for multiple lines to be deployed simultaneously, increasing the chances of attracting fish and maximizing catch efficiency. This technique is especially effective in open water or in situations where fish are scattered, resulting in a higher likelihood of success. Incorporating planer boards into trolling strategies can greatly enhance the overall fishing experience and improve the chances of a successful catch.