Fishing for lake trout is an exciting and rewarding experience for anglers. These fish are known for their size, strength, and challenging nature.
One of the most popular techniques used to catch lake trout is trolling. However, trolling for lake trout requires a specific approach and equipment. In this tutorial, we will discuss how to catch a lake trout troll.
Understanding Lake Trout
Before you start trolling for lake trout, it’s important to understand their behavior. Lake trout are typically found in deep water, so you’ll need to use specialized trolling gear that can reach those depths. They also prefer colder water temperatures, so fishing early in the morning or later in the day when the water is cooler can increase your chances of success.
Choosing Your Trolling Gear
When it comes to trolling for lake trout, you’ll need specialized gear that can handle the depth and weight of these fish. A medium-heavy rod with a fast action tip and a sturdy reel with a high line capacity is recommended. You’ll also need downriggers or lead core line to get your bait down deep.
Selecting Your Bait
Lake trout are predatory fish that feed on smaller fish like smelt and herring. So when selecting your bait, you want to choose something that mimics these prey species. Popular choices include spoons, plugs, and soft plastics in silver or white colors.
Setting Up Your Trolling Rig
To set up your trolling rig for lake trout, attach your bait to your line using a snap swivel or loop knot. Then attach your downrigger or lead core line to your mainline using a line release clip. Adjust the depth of your bait based on where you think the fish are located in the water column.
Trolling Techniques
When trolling for lake trout, it’s important to maintain a consistent speed and depth. A good rule of thumb is to troll at a speed of 2-3 miles per hour while keeping your bait within 10 feet of the bottom. You can also vary your trolling pattern by zig-zagging or figure-8ing to cover more water.
Conclusion
Trolling for lake trout can be a challenging and rewarding experience, but it requires specialized gear, bait, and techniques. By understanding the behavior of these fish and using the right equipment, you can increase your chances of success on the water. So grab your trolling gear and hit the lake for an unforgettable fishing experience!
