What Should I Troll for Salmon?

When it comes to fishing for salmon, one of the most common questions that anglers ask is, “What should I troll for salmon?” Trolling is a popular technique used by anglers to catch salmon and other game fish. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of bait and lures that are effective for trolling for salmon.

Type of Bait

When it comes to bait, there are a few options that work well for trolling:

Herring: Herring is one of the most popular baits used for trolling salmon. It’s a natural food source for salmon and can be purchased at most tackle shops. When using herring, it’s important to brine them beforehand to make them more attractive to fish.

Anchovy: Anchovy is another popular bait used for trolling. They come in a variety of colors and can be rigged with a variety of different setups. Like herring, anchovy should also be brined before use.

Squid: Squid can also be effective when trolling for salmon. They come in a variety of colors and sizes and can be rigged in different ways. They’re also easy to find at most tackle shops.

Type of Lures

In addition to bait, there are also several types of lures that can be effective when trolling for salmon:

Flashers: Flashers are one of the most popular lures used when trolling for salmon. They’re designed to mimic the flash of light that occurs when fish scales catch the light. Flashers come in a variety of colors and sizes and can be rigged with different baits.

Spoons: Spoons are another popular lure used when trolling for salmon. When using spoons, it’s important to match the color of the spoon to the color of the water.

Plugs: Plugs are another effective lure when trolling for salmon. They come in a variety of colors and sizes and can be rigged with different baits. When using plugs, it’s important to vary the speed of your retrieve to mimic the movement of live bait.

  • Flashers
  • Spoons
  • Plugs

Trolling Techniques

Now that you know what types of bait and lures to use when trolling for salmon, it’s important to understand some basic trolling techniques:

Trolling Speed: The speed at which you troll can have a big impact on your success. In general, a speed of 2-3 miles per hour is ideal when trolling for salmon.

Trolling Depth: The depth at which you troll can also have an impact on your success. In general, salmon are found at depths between 20-60 feet.

Trolling Pattern: The pattern in which you troll can also be important. A common pattern is to troll in a “S” shape pattern, as this mimics the movement of live bait.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, there are several types of bait and lures that are effective when trolling for salmon. Herring, anchovy, squid, flashers, spoons, and plugs are all great options.

It’s also important to understand some basic trolling techniques such as speed, depth, and pattern. By following these tips and using the right gear, you’ll increase your chances of catching more salmon while trolling.

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Daniel Bennet