trolling rod/reel/line setup

[bkft]

I'm debating whether or not to pick up a trolling rod/reel combo from Cabelas. They have one of those Diawa line-counter reels for trolling crankbaits. I'm curious what kind of line would you folks recommend a guy should put on that? Fireline with a mono leader? Flourocarbon only? Braid? Also, what pound test? Thanks a lot!

John

[Northlander]

This has been talked about numerous times in here. Do a search and you will find a lot of info.

For eyes I use 10-12# Trilene XT or Big Game when I want mono and 10# Power Pro when I want a "Super" line. No need for flouracarbon anything when trolling in my eyes. Your usually moving fast enough the fish arent getting a great look at your line. I often tie the Power Pro right to the lure or snap swivel. If your worried about line visabilty then go ahead and put a 3'-6' leader on.

[Corey Bechtold]

There are a lot of good options for Trolling rods and reels. The .reel I have been using the most is the new Abu Garcia Line counter reel. That reel allows you to cast the bait which gets you out quicker and down to the fish. For a rod look for lengths around 7' or longer. I have a 6'9" Lightning rod that has been my go-to stick for shorter trolling runs. Some other rods I like re the 8'6" Telescopic Lightning rod. It breaks down nice for smaller boats and the action is good as well. There's no doubt you'll know when a fish is on because the rod will have plenty of bend. Just be sure that the rod has a parabolic tip so you can tell when the crankbait is running true.

As for line I like to stick with Fireline. Start with mono backing on the reel before or else the tape the line on the spool or else the drag system will appear to not be functioning. I don't usually run with a mono leader and now that Fireline came out with Crystal we're good to go. I love the Fireline for feel and visual detection of weeds or bouncing bottom.

If you have any more questions feel free to ask.

Good luck,

Corey Bechtold

[bkft]

Thanks for the feedback, guys. I just put some Fireline Crystal on my regular casting setup and I like the idea, so I think I might pick up that rod/reel combo I saw and rig it with Crystal.

Thanks again!

John

[Jim Hudson]

The cabelas rod/reel combos, specifically the Gold Series are a good bang for their buck... Especially for 'eyes or smaller species.. Rigging for bigger and harder pulling species, such as kings or big steelies... I personally would upgrade the reels to Daiwa Sealines or the Abu LC's... Better drag components and will last a lot longer from drag burning fish...

For the most part, Trilene XT is the way to go.. Cheap and is a very good line for most all applications...

[SUNNYD]

Rod: Something with a Medium or Medium Heavey Action with a Medium to Fast Tip. The softer the tip the better hooking results will be. I use a couple extendable 7'6" Rods that are made for trolling. The rod collape down to about 6'. Shimano makes a very nice trolling rod made for use with holders.

Reels: I really was looking hard at getting the Sealines last year but decided to spend the money on and get Shimano Tekota 300LC's. Drag can't be beat!

Line: As mentioned previously Fireline and Power Pro are good candidates with a mono backing.

Last thing. Remember to fill those LC reels up to capacity or else your line out readings are inaccurate!

Take care and Enjoy. Should hopefully be able to put these to use for the first time this year next weekend in South Dakota.

Take care!