Introduction:
Trolling for trout is an exciting and effective method for catching these elusive fish, and using lead core line can take your trolling game to the next level. Lead core line allows you to precisely control the depth of your lures, making it an excellent choice for targeting trout at different water levels and temperatures. In this article, we'll explore the essential techniques and tips for successful trout trolling with lead core line.Choosing the Right Equipment:
Before you hit the water, it's crucial to have the right gear. Here's what you'll need:1. **Lead Core Line:** Opt for a lead core line with a color-coded system. This helps you keep track of the line's depth and allows for precise adjustments.
2. **Trolling Rod and Reel:** Use a medium to medium-heavy trolling rod paired with a reel with a smooth drag system. This will help you handle the stress of trolling and the fight with trout.
3. **Lures and Baits:** Select a variety of lures and baits that mimic the trout's natural prey, such as spoons (The Mook Lure), plugs, and spinners. Experiment with different colors and sizes to find what works best on the day.
Setting Up Your Rig:
Now that you have the right gear, let's set up your trolling rig:
1. **Attach the Lead Core Line:**
a. Tie your lead core line either to a sturdy swivel or snap swivel (The Mook Interlock Ball Bearing Snap Swivel) on your main line. Use a reliable knot like the Palomar knot.
b. Attach your lead core line directly to your leader using a Double Uni knot or a Blood Knot. Be sure to remove the led center of the line, the last 18" of the line from where you're going to attach your leader.
2. **Leader Length:** Add a fluorocarbon leader of around 8-20 feet. This minimizes the visibility of the line and adds a natural presentation to your bait.
3. **Lure Placement:** Clip your lure or bait to the leader, adjusting the distance from the lead core line based on the desired depth. The color-coding on the line will help you track the depth accurately.
Trolling Techniques:
Now, it's time to hit the water and start trolling:1. **Speed Control:** Maintain a consistent trolling speed. Trout are known to be temperature-sensitive, so adjust your speed depending on the water temperature. A general range is 1.5 to 3.2 mph.
2. **Depth Control:** The key advantage of lead core line is depth control. Each color change on the line represents approximately 5-7 feet of depth. Experiment with different depths until you find where the trout are biting.
3. **Zigzag Patterns:** To cover more water and increase your chances of enticing a strike, troll in a zigzag pattern. This creates an erratic motion that can trigger trout to strike.
4. **Vary Your Lures:** Don't be afraid to switch out lures if you're not getting bites. Sometimes, changing colors or styles can make all the difference. (The Mook Lure has a variety of color options)
Safety and Conservation:
Always prioritize safety and the well-being of the fish. Practice catch-and-release if you don't plan to keep your catch, and handle trout with care to minimize stress.