Trolling is one of the most popular fishing methods for boat fishermen. It allows you to cover a massive amount of water without ever removing your rod from the water, and it’s one of the easiest ways to nab fish that like to hunt on the move.
However, if you’re fishing from a SUP, it might seem as if that’s not an option. You might think that it’s not possible because of your rod placement options, the fact that you don’t have a motor or one of the other small differences between SUP fishing and boat fishing.
Luckily, that’s not the case. While it is true that it can be tricky to troll on a SUP, it is not impossible. However, it might not be suitable for first-time fishing enthusiasts. When you’re fishing, you have a lot going on. You will likely be wearing more clothing, including shoes or boots, and you might have some equipment on your body. This makes it a lot harder for you to swim if you do end up falling off your SUP, and that can be disastrous. Hence, for fishing beginners, it might be safer to explore the waters in a Fishing Charter in Crystal River or elsewhere, instead of directly jumping onto a SUP for their first go. Once they are comfortable with the waters and have practiced being on SUPs, then that option can be enjoyed. However, it might be overwhelming for a first-time fishing experience.
More experienced people can go trolling with a fishing SUP, and we’re going to highlight the gear you need and the steps you need to take to do it.With a SUP and a bit of ingenuity, you can go trolling without spending $30,000 on a fishing boat.
Let’s get started.
Gear You Need:
First, you’re going to need a few pieces of gear. Don’t worry; outside of your normal fishing gear and a SUP, nothing is too expensive or difficult to get a hold of. In fact, it’s mostly just one new piece of equipment.
- Fishing SUP: This one is obvious. You can’t go SUP fishing if you don’t have one. Specifically, make sure your board has attachment points at the rear. Even if the attachment point isn’t centered, it’ll work.
- Rod, Lures, Etc: Again, this one’s obvious. You need your normal fishing gear. Since you’re trolling, try to pick a lure designed for fast retrievals such as a spinner or crankbait.
- Rod Holder: This is the special piece of gear you need. You can find these online, and some stores might sell them. Just make sure the rod holder you get is made to be attacked to a SUP, and that it fits your SUP. Wobbly, loose-fitting rod holders can fall off, your rod can get jostled out, and they just won’t work well.
Finally, make sure you bring along the stuff you normally would. Safety equipment, a way to call for help, and other basics are still necessary.
Step 1: Setup
This is all very easy. First, attach your rod holder to your SUP. Different brands will require different steps, but it shouldn’t require more than snapping it into place or maybe tightening a couple of bolts.
This needs to be attached at the rear of your SUP. Since you have to paddle the SUP, you can’t have a rod and tons of line dangling off the side, or you’ll spend more time wrestling to move around than you do actually moving the board.
Once it’s attached, get your board in the water, and hop on.
Step 2: Getting Started
Once you’re on the water, and you paddle out to your starting position, cast your rod a short distance from the board’s rear, and snugly fit the rod into your rod holder.
All you have to do from here is paddle. Make sure your lure isn’t skimming the bottom or too far out. The line needs to be taught as you paddle, and the lure shouldn’t be snagging on things.
Step 3: Let the Board Do the Work
Finally, since you’re moving forward, you don’t need to panic and set the hook when something bites. Peak back every few strokes to see if your rod is moving. If you hooked a fish, remove your rod, lift it up without yanking it, and wrestle your fish in. Setting the hook like you would normally rip the hook out of the fish’s lip.
Other than that, just remember that you’re controlling the speed of your board and the lure. If you want a slower presentation, adjust your line and paddle slower.