By John Doe, SEO Specialist and Kayak Enthusiast
Image: Having a firm grasp of the depth your lures run at is important in helping you catch more fish when kayak trolling.
Kayak fishing has gained immense popularity among anglers in recent years. While many prefer casting and reeling, some, like myself, find joy in the art of kayak trolling. Trolling for stripers from a kayak can be an exhilarating experience, especially when done in shallow waters. In this article, we will explore the nuances of kayak trolling and delve into the factors that determine the success of this technique.
Key Takeaways
The Right Gear and Technique
The Perfect Rod
To embark on a successful kayak trolling adventure, selecting the right gear is paramount. Medium-light, medium, or medium-heavy spinning rods, ranging from six to six and a half feet, are ideal for this style of fishing. These rods provide the necessary sensitivity and strength required for reeling in your prized catch. Choosing the right length and weight of the rod ensures an effortless and enjoyable kayak trolling experience.
Lure Selection
When it comes to lure selection, there are endless possibilities. However, for effective kayak trolling, jigheads or bucktails trimmed with three- to five-inch paddle-tails are highly recommended. These versatile lures mimic the natural movement of baitfish, attracting the attention of hungry stripers. Experimenting with different lure shapes and sizes will allow you to adapt to changing conditions and increase your chances of success.
Decoding the Depths
Understanding the depths at which your lures run is vital to maximize your catch. While achieving precise depth control in a human-powered vessel can be challenging, the key lies in keeping your lures from hitting the bottom and picking up debris.
Speed and Swimming Depths
The speed at which you troll plays a crucial role in determining the swimming depth of your lure. For lead-head and soft plastic lures, faster speeds result in higher swimming depths. When encountering shallow stretches, increasing your speed will keep the lure higher in the water column, preventing it from coming into contact with the bottom. It’s important to note that the relative speed through the water remains the same, regardless of the speed over the ground. So, adjust your speed accordingly to keep your lure within the strike zone.
Weight, Shape, and Line
The weight and shape of your lure influence its running depth. As a general rule, when trolling in shallow waters (under six feet), down-sizing lure weights prevents them from hitting the bottom. Experimenting with different lure weights and shapes will help you find the right combination for each fishing excursion.
The choice of line also affects running depth. Utilizing 20-pound test braided line offers several advantages. Braid, being thinner and less resistant to water, allows your lure to run deeper compared to the same pound-test monofilament line. This gives you the flexibility to explore various depths without compromising on the effectiveness of your trolling technique.
Length of Line and Rod Tip Elevation
To reach deeper depths, longer lines are essential. Trolling four lines from your kayak ensures optimal coverage of different depths. Employing a strategic setup, whereby the two rear rods carry heavier lures, and the two front rods carry lighter lures, minimizes tangles and maximizes your chances of enticing strikes. Additionally, adjusting the elevation of your rod tip can temporarily raise or lower your lure in the water column, allowing you to navigate through varying depths effortlessly.
The Thrill of Kayak Trolling
Kayak trolling offers a unique and exhilarating way to target stripers. It combines the excitement of angling with the serenity of kayaking, creating an experience like no other. By understanding the factors that influence lure depth and employing the right techniques, you can master the art of kayak trolling and significantly enhance your fishing success.
For more information on kayak trolling and other kayak angling techniques, visit UpStreamPaddle. Happy trolling!
For more exciting articles on kayak fishing, be sure to read:
- Kayak Fishing: Not Just a Hammer
- Selecting the Best Fishing Kayak
- Bonafide Kayak SS127: The Coolest New Yak
