Trolling Fishing Gear
Choose trolling gear by rod position, lure spread and compatibility with downriggers or outriggers so multiple lines can be run cleanly while underway.
Choosing gear for trolling
Trolling gear is built around running one or more lines behind a moving boat, so equipment choice depends on how many lines you want to run, the target species and depth, and how the boat's cockpit layout supports multiple rods. Rod holder angle and spacing affect how lines spread without tangling.
Depth control is often the deciding factor some trolling setups rely on lure weight and line angle alone, while others use downriggers or planer boards to run lines at a controlled depth or spread further from the boat's wake.
Building a complete trolling setup
Check downriggers if precise depth control matters for your target species, and outriggers for spreading lines wider off the sides of the boat. Rod holders need to suit the angle and spacing required for the number of lines being trolled.
- Match rod holder spacing and angle to the number of lines being trolled.
- Choose downriggers for controlled depth or outriggers for wider line spread.
- Check lure and line compatibility with trolling speed for your target species.
- Keep trolling-specific gear separate from general tackle storage for faster setup.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need downriggers to start trolling?
Not necessarily many trolling setups work with lure weight and line angle alone, with downriggers added later for more precise depth control.
What is the difference between downriggers and outriggers?
Downriggers control how deep a lure runs below the surface, while outriggers spread lines out to the sides of the boat rather than controlling depth.
How many rods can I troll at once?
This depends on cockpit space, rod holder spacing and local fishing regulations, so check holder layout and any applicable rules before adding more lines.