trolling rods?

[Ryan Berger]

am looking into getting a trolling rod, one to put a line counter on,, what are some suggestions,, only gonna be useing it to troll cranks with

thanks ldb

[HOGEYE]

It would depend on two factors in my opinion:

The first would be are you going to be using it with a super no-stretch line or mono. I use fireline which doesn't stretch. This allows one to easily snap the rod to remove weeds. For this application I would use a long limber rod in the 7-8' range made of either fiberglass or E-glass. This will compensate for the stretch/shock that mono would normally provide. Get something with a strong but and a soft tip. I just bought a Gander Mt. Guide Series rod that is made for planer boards. It has a telescoping butt section for easier storage and can even be handy when landing fish while fishing solo. I also have a G-Loomis Walleye series that is designed for mono. They also make one for superlines. With something shorter I would def use a mono leader for extra shock absorption.

Second, is how much do you want to spend? One can get a good trolling rod from 30-200$. I don't think that an expensive rod is that important while trolling. Jigging is a different story IMHO. I just got mine from a friend for a good price. St. Croix makes a good trolling rod for around 80$. Gander also has some good E-glass rods for bass fishing that I have heard work great for 40$. I believe that an E-glass is a combination of glass and graphite. Someone may correct me on this though.

Keep in mind that many dive charts are made for using mono line. Using dive charts and knowing lure depth is one of the main advantages of using a line counter. I haven't had much experiences with line counters yet, but will be jumping that hurdle this summer.

I have also heard that a line counter's accurate reading depends on line width and the amount of line on the spool. I have heard of ways to calibrate line counters, but don't know how or even if is true. Anyone else?

I am new to line counter and am curious to hear what others have to say.

[Rip_Some_Lip]

What is a good cranking depth chart to use? I have heard about one that costs $30. Are there any that are less expensive and still good? Are there any websites that may have them on that a guy could print or download?

[walleyejon]

Hogeye, It is important when using super lines that you fill the spool completely. If you are using multiple line counters, they should be the same brand/model, have the exact same amount of line, be teamed with the same type of rod, and same planer boards regardless of super or mono line. Tenths on MPH of trolling speed can make a big difference between a good day and a great day. The most aggressive fish will be at the faster speeds, so if you catch a couple at say 1.5 mph, bump up a little. If you can get several lines out at the same time, varying the depths and distance to your boards will help you zoom in on the pattern quickly. There is so much information on trolling/line counters, its almost like trying to perfect your golf swing. IMHO, by changing speed, lure depth, water depth/structure, and lure size/color it doesn't take all that long to find the most active fish. This is assuming the fish aren't in a slow live bait presentation mood. God I love walleye fishing, such a simple sport, lol.

As far as guides go, the 30 bucks for the Presision Trolling book is worth every nickel. I don't have the info right in front of me, but there is an equation for figuring depths with Fireline etc. I want to say it's like 25% less line in most cases, but don't take that to the bank. Good luck

[widetrack]

Calibrating a line counter reel is a real joy. I spent about 3 hours the other night getting mine dialed in. I have one dead on at 150' the other is off by 2 feet. Not bad. Filling the spool is a good start. How tight you pack it on there is another variable. I've noted the exact amount of fireline over the backing I need for when I replace my fireline the next time. You would be amazed how far off they can be if not done right.

[abens1078]

I wanted to 2nd everything Walleyejon said and especially cast a vote for the Precision Trolling book. More than once I've marked fish, adjusted the depth of the lure to run above the marks and WAMMO. I have the 7th edition. You might be able to save yourself a couple bucks by trying amazon.

I have one plug box that mainly has all Reef Runners in it for when I go to Lake Erie. I just coppied the Reef Runner chart on a machine and taped it to the inside of the lid so I can see it everytime I grab a plug from the box and not have to flip through pages. I also put page markers on the Rapala pages to save time there as well.