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OFFSHORE TROLLING ยท TECHNIQUE GUIDE
The offshore trolling lure setups, knots, offshore fishing rigs, and boat-side technique that separate a boat ride from a full fish box.
9 MIN READ ยท TROLLTRUE STAFF ยท OFFSHORE TECHNIQUE
Are you ready to take your offshore trolling to the next level? If you're looking to pack the fish box, then mastering offshore fishing techniques is a must. In this article, we'll dive into everything you need to know to become a true angling expert in offshore waters.
Offshore fishing presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. From battling powerful fish to navigating oceanic expanses, there's nothing quite like the thrill of offshore fishing. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a weekend warrior looking to expand your horizons, we've got you covered.
We'll explore essential equipment, such as rods, reels, and tackle, that you'll need to land those trophy fish. You'll also learn about bait and tackle selection, trolling techniques, and how to effectively locate and target different species.
So get ready to embark on an exciting adventure and master the art of offshore fishing. Follow our expert tips and techniques, and soon you'll be reeling in those trophy catches with confidence and skill. Get ready to become the envy of all your fishing buddies!
GEARING UP
Selecting the right equipment is crucial for offshore fishing. The type of rod, reel, and tackle you choose can greatly impact your success on the water. When it comes to rods, look for a sturdy and durable option that can handle the weight and power of offshore game fish. A medium-heavy to heavy rod with a fast action is generally recommended for offshore fishing.
In terms of reels, a spinning reel or a conventional reel are the most common choices for offshore fishing. Spinning reels are easier to use and are suitable for beginners and casual anglers, while conventional reels offer more control and power, making them ideal for experienced anglers targeting larger fish.
Tackle selection also plays a crucial role in offshore fishing. Depending on the species you're targeting, you'll need a variety of lures, hooks, and weights โ the right offshore trolling lure paired with the right offshore fishing rigs matters as much as the rod and reel you fish it on. Research the specific fish you want to catch and consult with local experts or experienced anglers to determine the best tackle options for your target species.
Refer to our article on offshore lure rigging for more specifics on equipment.
The right offshore trolling lure and rig, matched to the right rod and reel, is where trophy fish start.
TIE IT RIGHT
Properly tying knots and rigs is essential in offshore fishing to ensure that your tackle is secure and won't fail when it counts the most. There are several knots and rigs that are commonly used in offshore fishing, and mastering them will greatly enhance your fishing success.
Two knots that I use most often in my own fishing are the FG knot and the uni-knot. Additionally, I use the double uni-knot especially if the lines being joined are of similar diameter. Both of these knots have worked well for me, but there are also a lot other good knots out there if there is one you already prefer.
1
Joins two lines together โ main braided line to a monofilament top-shot. Works well for lines of dissimilar diameter. Not as hard to tie as it looks once you've practiced it a few times.
2
A versatile go-to when joining two similar-diameter lines โ easier to tie than the FG knot. Also works to tie monofilament to fluorocarbon. A single uni knot ties leader to hooks.
3
Ballyhoo is the most commonly used natural offshore trolling bait. Pin-rigging is the standard technique; pre-rigged ballyhoo is a second option.
A third option
TrollTrue offers a third alternative to optimize ballyhoo rigging โ a fast, easy way to rig ballyhoo without pin rigs, bait springs, copper wire, or rubber bands.
SKIP THE PIN-RIG
TrollTrue offshore trolling lures replace pin-rigging, bait springs, copper wire, and rubber bands โ hook the bait, slide the lure on, and you're back in the spread.
FIND THE FISH
Locating the best fishing spots in the open water is crucial for offshore fishing success. While it may seem like finding fish in vast oceanic expanses is challenging, there are several techniques and tools that can help you pinpoint the best fishing locations.
There are three primary techniques I use for locating fish offshore:
1
Use available technology to find areas likely to congregate both bait and game fish based on favorable ocean conditions.
2
Seabirds like gulls and pelicans often indicate baitfish activity. Where there's bait, larger predators aren't far behind โ follow diving birds to potential fishing areas.
3
Invest in a quality chart plotter, and just as important, invest the time to learn its most useful features for your boat.
Refer to our article onhow to find fish offshore for a more detailed discussion.
THE FIGHT
Once you've hooked a trophy fish, the battle is far from over. Some common mistakes can end up contributing to "the big one that got away." Reeling in these powerful fish requires skill, technique, and a little patience. Here are some tips to help you put him in the fish box:
Keep the boat moving forward
There are a lot of reasons for this. First, it helps the angler keep pressure on the fish and not allow slack in the line. Second, fish tend to travel in schools, and where there's one, there's often more โ keeping the boat moving forward improves the chances of multiple hook-ups. Lastly, it helps lines stay clear as they're reeled in. After the initial excitement and preparation, the boat can be stopped as needed.
Be patient. Time is on your side. I assure you the fish is getting more tired than you are.
Slow and steady wins the race. Maintain a steady and consistent pressure on the fish to tire it out gradually.
Keep your rod tip up. Use your rod to absorb the fish's powerful runs and prevent undue pressure on the line.
Keep the line tight. As the fight continues, the hook can enlarge the hole in the fish's jaw. Slack in the line offers an opportunity for the hook to fall out.
Drag is your friend
Use the reel's drag system to your advantage. Adjust your drag before you head out, based on your target species, and make sure the strength of your main line and leader is matched to it โ a good rule of thumb is line lb test at 4x the drag. A braided main line with a monofilament top shot gives you plenty of line to work with; as the fish takes line, the shrinking spool diameter effectively increases the drag on its own.
Follow the fish. This isn't contrary to the advice above โ but occasionally you'll tie into a bigger fish than you anticipated. Following the fish with the boat adds to the time it spends fighting the drag. Large charter boats "back down" on a fish; for most recreational anglers, it's more effective to move the angler to the front of the boat and follow the fish while keeping the line tight.
Incorporating some of these techniques into your offshore fishing will make you more successful. You can read more for additional information.
BUILT FOR EVERY SPECIES
TrollTrue offshore trolling lures pair with the equipment and technique above โ king mackerel, mahi, wahoo, tuna, or dorado, rigged the same fast way every time.
Ease
Two steps: hook the bait, slide the lure on. No pin-rigging, wire, or bands.
Performance
An integrated keel weight keeps every bait swimming true โ it never spins.
Trust
Four patented design elements, built on 40 years of fishing. Made in the USA.
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