Trolling rods for trout

backlash442 · 12-18-2003, 06:34 AM

Can anyone recommend a good trolling rod for trout? Strictly lake fishing. With and w/out using a downrigger. Thanks.

trollin4trout · 12-18-2003, 07:13 AM

Depends on what you are fishing with. If you use those giant lake trolling fender gizmos, you'll need a pretty stout rod to handle all that pull from those blades. If you use small lures and/or bait then a microlight is my choice.

I don't have a specific brand that I'm loyal to. I look for the lightest rod, 5-6 ft with the lightest tip action I can find. That leaves out most of the graphite rods because they tend to be very stiff. I also have broken them very easily with one stiff pull on a snag or just a quick jerk to get off the downrigger release. Not buying anymore of those $40 -$60 toothpicks.

I have a couple of Quantum Micro's, a 5ft. and a 6ft. which I think are fiberglass, very limber, and reasonably light(the 5 ft. is the best). They will take fisherman abuse and boat abuse(and have for at least 3 years) and work well trolling and with the downriggers. You have to look hard to find a semi-light fiberglass rod but I think it's the only way to go, unless money is no object!

greenbuttskunk · 12-18-2003, 08:46 AM

fishermans had a 6' trolling rod, light action, perfect for trout and kokannee. It's made by shakespeare. about 40 bucks. I love the action of it.
GBS

FallRiverGuy · 12-18-2003, 08:53 AM

For use with a downrigger I really like the Daiwa Spinmatic-x Kokanee ultralight trolling rod. I have used these with Baby Cowbells, but don't think I would drag Ford Fenders or Beercan flashers using this rod. A very nice rod for the price and a blast to catch fish with.

[ 12-18-2003, 09:59 AM: Message edited by: FallRiverGuy ]

rola76 · 12-18-2003, 08:54 AM

As mentioned, it all depends on if you're going for 14" trout or kokanee or if you're going for 10lb. triploids or rainbows. I'd say anywhere from 6'6" to 7'6" would be great.

When not steelie or salmon fishing, I use an Loomis SR782...great fight even with a 14" fish on!! If you want a little more length and backbone, go with an SR843 (7').

Of course these are spendy choices, but good alternatives would be any 4-12lb. spinning or casting rod from 6'6" to 7'6" such as a Fenwick or other "quality" brand.

Troller · 12-18-2003, 10:15 AM

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