What's the proper trolling speed range?

goof

Cadet
Joined
Aug 11, 2001
Messages
17
I now have a 21' Bayliner openbow, with a 5.0lt V-8 w/ volvo penta drive. And I want to start doing some trolling on Lake Erie and Ontario. What is the speed range I should be running for trolling?? I will be using flys, plugs, spoons, spinners, ect. I will be fishing for trout and salmon or walleye and what ever wants to bite. I haven't been trolling since I was a kid, so I have no idea how fast I should be running. Please help.<br />Thanks,<br />goof
 

Intruder

Recruit
Joined
Jun 7, 2001
Messages
5
Re: What's the proper trolling speed range?

Trolling speed depends a lot on what you are fishing for. Here, in the Pacific Northwest I troll for several types of salmon. If I'm trolling for kings, I'll troll about 1 to 1.5 mph relative to current. If I'm fishing for silvers I like to troll about 2 to 2.5 mph. I'd suggest you consider a trolling motor ... your big one won't like extended time at low rpm.
 

goof

Cadet
Joined
Aug 11, 2001
Messages
17
Re: What's the proper trolling speed range?

What should I look for, for a trolling motor? Would one of the electric ones work on a boat 21', on a rough lake (2-3' waves are normal)? <br />Thanks,<br />goof
 

goof

Cadet
Joined
Aug 11, 2001
Messages
17
Re: What's the proper trolling speed range?

Ok, I just found out that most guys here on the great lakes troll at 2-4mph. Does that make any more of a difference on my motor? Or do I still need a trolling motor?<br />Thanks,<br />goof
 

philtheskipper

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Jul 5, 2001
Messages
224
Re: What's the proper trolling speed range?

I boat on Lake Erie. I have a 120 mercruiser on a 17'boat. I have the same problem as you. My engine at idle pushes the boat too fast for trolling(5-6mph). If I were you I would get a trolling motor. Gas would be better but a high thrust electric might do the trick. You could also try the old 5 gallon bucket trick. Drag two 5 gallon buckets with rope, this might slow you down a little. Good luck!
 

goof

Cadet
Joined
Aug 11, 2001
Messages
17
Re: What's the proper trolling speed range?

Thanks Phil,<br />Thats a great idea, I might have ta giver a try.<br />later,<br />Rob
 
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