Yes, You Can Troll for Stripers in Freshwater

Trolling for striped bass in freshwater involves slowly dragging lures or bait behind a moving boat. Effective depths are typically 10-30 feet. Use inline weights to reach desired depths. Common lures include deep-diving crankbaits and swimbaits. Patience and covering water are key to success.

Essential Equipment

• Rod: Medium-heavy to heavy action casting or trolling rod (6.5-8 feet).
• Reel: Level-wind or conventional reel with a line capacity of 200-300 yards.
• Line: 20-50 lb test braided or monofilament line.
• Lures: Deep-diving crankbaits, swimbaits, bucktails.
• Weights: Inline weights, downriggers (optional).
• Fish Finder: To locate fish and structure.

Trolling Techniques

1. Speed: Maintain a slow trolling speed of 1.5-3 mph.
2. Depth: Adjust lure depth based on fish location. Use inline weights or downriggers.
3. Line Counter: Use a line counter reel to maintain consistent lure presentation.
4. Rod Holders: Utilize rod holders to manage multiple lines.
5. Cover Water: Continuously move the boat to locate active fish.

Bait Trolling

Live or cut bait can also be trolled. Use a Carolina rig or a planer to get the bait down to the desired depth. Circle hooks are recommended for better hooksets.

Trolling Method Comparison

Locating Stripers

Stripers often relate to structure such as river channels, submerged humps, and points. Use a fish finder to identify these areas. Look for baitfish schools, as stripers will often be nearby.