Trolling (fishing)

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Trolling is a method of fishing where one or more fishing lines are drawn through the water. This technique is commonly used to catch pelagic fish such as mackerel, tuna, and marlin. Trolling can be done using a variety of vessels, from small boats to large fishing ships, and can also be performed from a stationary position using a trolling motor.

Techniques

Trolling involves dragging baited lines or lures behind a moving boat. The speed of the boat and the depth at which the bait is presented can be adjusted to target specific species of fish. Common trolling speeds range from 2 to 9 knots, depending on the type of fish being targeted.

Equipment

The equipment used in trolling includes:

• Fishing rods and reels designed for trolling
• Downriggers to control the depth of the bait
• Outriggers to spread the lines and prevent tangling
• Planer boards to keep the lines at a desired depth
• Various types of lures and baits

Types of Trolling

There are several types of trolling, each suited to different environments and target species:

• Surface Trolling: This involves dragging lures or bait across the surface of the water. It is effective for species like mackerel and tuna.
• Deep Trolling: This method uses downriggers or heavy weights to get the bait to deeper water, targeting species like grouper and snapper.
• Slow Trolling: This technique is used for species that are less aggressive and involves moving the boat at a slower speed.

Target Species

Trolling is effective for a variety of fish species, including:

• Mackerel
• Tuna
• Marlin
• Wahoo
• Sailfish
• Kingfish

Advantages

Trolling allows anglers to cover a large area of water, increasing the chances of encountering fish. It is also effective in both saltwater and freshwater environments.

Disadvantages

The main disadvantage of trolling is the potential for high fuel consumption due to the constant movement of the boat. Additionally, trolling can be less effective in areas with heavy vegetation or debris that can snag the lines.

Safety Considerations

When trolling, it is important to follow safety guidelines, including wearing a life jacket, maintaining a proper lookout, and being aware of weather conditions.

See Also

• Fishing techniques
• Fishing tackle
• Sport fishing
• Commercial fishing