Saltwater trolling lures are essential to any angler's arsenal for targeting big game fish in the ocean. Trolling lures are designed to mimic the movement and appearance of baitfish, which is a primary food source for many predatory fish species. There is a wide range of saltwater trolling lures available on the market, and knowing how to choose the right one based on the species you want to target.
Types of Saltwater Trolling Lures
The market offers a variety of saltwater trolling lures, each intended to attract specific fish species. Here are some of the most commonly used types:
Skirted Lures
Skirted lures are a classic type of trolling lure used for decades. They are made up of a plastic or rubber skirt covering the hook and a head, usually made of metal, plastic, or resin. The skirted lure's design creates a swimming action in the water that mimics the movement of a baitfish. Skirted lures come in various sizes and colors, making them versatile for targeting different fish species.
Jet Head Fishing Lures
Jet head lures are similar to skirted lures, but they have a more pronounced head that is designed to create a bubble trail in the water. The bubble trail attracts fish to the lure, making it a practical choice for targeting pelagic species like Wahoo and Tuna.
Cedar Plugs Fishing
Cedar plugs are a type of trolling lure that is made up of a wooden body and a single hook. They are designed to mimic the movement of a small baitfish, making them a compelling choice for targeting Tuna.
Deep Diving Saltwater Trolling Lures
Diving lures are a type of trolling lure that is designed to dive deep into the water column. They have a lip that creates a swimming action and causes the lure to dive when pulled through the water. Diving lures are effective for targeting fish that feed at deeper depths, such as Grouper and Snapper.
Choosing the Right Saltwater Trolling Lure
Choosing the right saltwater trolling lure can be daunting, given the variety of options available. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a trolling lure:
- Target Species - The first thing to consider when choosing a trolling lure is the species of fish you want to target. Different lures are designed to mimic the movement and appearance of different baitfish, so choosing one that is most likely to attract your target species is essential.
- Water Conditions - The water conditions also play a significant role in selecting a trolling lure. For example, if the water is choppy, it's best to choose a lure that creates a lot of commotion, such as a skirted lure or jet head lure. In contrast, a diving lure or cedar plug might be a better choice if the water is calm.
- Color - The color of the trolling lure is also an essential factor to consider. Different fish species are attracted to different colors, so it's necessary to choose a lure that matches the color of the baitfish in the area you're fishing.
Tips for Using Saltwater Trolling Lures
Once you've selected the suitable saltwater trolling lure, it's essential to use it effectively to increase your chances of catching fish. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Vary the Speed - Fish are likelier to strike a lure that mimics the movement of a live baitfish. Varying the lure's speed can help create a more natural swimming action and make it more attractive to fish.
- Use Teasers - Teasers are small lures or pieces of reflective material attached to the mainline ahead of the trolling lure. They create a commotion in the water and attract fish, increasing the strike chances.
- Change the Lure - If you're not getting any bites, you must change the trolling lure regularly. Fish can become wary of the same lure, so switching it up can help increase your chances of success.
- Use Downriggers - Downriggers allow you to troll your lure at a specific depth. They are beneficial for targeting fish that feed at deeper depths, like Grouper and Snapper.
Various types of trolling lures are available, each designed to target different species of fish. When selecting a trolling lure, it's essential to consider the target species, water conditions, and color. Using the trolling lure effectively, such as varying the speed, using teasers, and changing the lure, increases your chances of catching fish. So, add a few trolling lures to your tackle box, and start catching some big ones!
