Fishing Term: Trolling Sinker
Definition
A Trolling Sinker is a type of fishing weight specifically designed for trolling, which is a fishing method where lures or baited lines are drawn through the water as a boat moves.
Trolling sinkers serve several purposes in this fishing technique:
- Depth Control: Trolling sinkers are used to control the depth at which the fishing lure or bait is presented in the water. The size and weight of the trolling sinker determine how deep the line and lure will go.
- Stability: The design of trolling sinkers often includes features that enhance stability during trolling. This helps maintain a consistent depth and prevents the fishing line from tangling.
- Speed Control: Trolling sinkers can influence the speed at which the lure or bait moves through the water. Adjusting the size and shape of the trolling sinker allows anglers to control the trolling speed.
- Versatility: Trolling sinkers come in various shapes and sizes, offering versatility for different trolling conditions, water depths, and target species.
- Avoiding Snags: Trolling sinkers are designed to minimize the risk of snagging on underwater structures. Their streamlined shapes help them move through the water smoothly.
Common types of trolling sinkers include:
- Downrigger Balls: Heavy weights attached to a downrigger cable to take the fishing line to a desired depth.
- Keel Sinkers: Long, keel-shaped sinkers that provide stability and control depth during trolling.
- Planer Boards: Although not traditional sinkers, planer boards are used in trolling to spread out multiple lines and cover a larger area.
When trolling, anglers often experiment with different trolling sinker sizes and shapes to optimize their setup based on factors such as water depth, target species, and trolling speed. The goal is to create an effective presentation that attracts fish while maintaining control over the fishing gear.