How to Use a Planer Board for Walleye Fishing
Planer boards allow anglers to present lures away from the boat, covering more water and increasing their chances of catching walleye; using them effectively involves proper setup, lure selection, and understanding boat control to maintain consistent lure presentation at desired depths, ensuring the highest possible catch rates.
Introduction to Planer Board Fishing for Walleye
Planer boards are invaluable tools for walleye anglers seeking to maximize their spread and target fish holding in specific areas, especially in shallow water or near structure. By allowing you to present lures away from the boat’s wake and shadow, planer boards significantly expand your fishing zone, reducing spooking and increasing the likelihood of a strike. They can be deployed with a variety of techniques, including trolling crankbaits, spinners, and even live bait rigs, offering versatility for different fishing conditions.
Benefits of Using Planer Boards
Using planer boards offers several distinct advantages in walleye fishing:
- Increased Coverage: Cover more water with multiple lines spread wide.
- Reduced Spooking: Present lures away from the boat’s influence, especially important in clear water.
- Precise Depth Control: Combine with lead core line, downriggers, or diving crankbaits for targeted depth presentation.
- Versatility: Use with a variety of lure types and fishing techniques.
- Effective in Shallow Water: Allows for trolling in shallow areas without spooking fish.
Essential Components of a Planer Board Setup
A complete planer board setup requires several key components:
- Planer Boards: Choose the right size and type (inline or mast system) based on the size of your boat and the lures you plan to use. Inline boards are typically smaller and easier to manage for smaller boats, while mast systems allow for deploying multiple boards on each side.
- Line Release Clips: These clips attach the fishing line to the planer board. Adjustable tension is crucial for setting the release point when a fish strikes.
- Fishing Line: Use high-quality monofilament or braided line with sufficient strength for walleye fishing.
- Rod and Reel: Opt for medium-heavy rods with moderate action and reels with a smooth drag system.
- Lures: Select lures based on water depth, clarity, and the type of forage available. Crankbaits, spinners, and worm harnesses are all effective.
- Optional: Line Counter Reel: These reels accurately measure the amount of line out, enabling precise depth control.
- Optional: Lead Core Line or Snap Weights: These are used to get lures deeper when trolling.
Step-by-Step Guide to Planer Board Deployment
Follow these steps to properly deploy planer boards:
- Attach the Planer Board: Secure the line release clip to the fishing line, approximately 5-10 feet above the lure.
- Set the Lure: Let out the desired amount of line to achieve the target depth. Consider using a line counter reel for precise measurements.
- Deploy the Board: Carefully release the planer board into the water. The board should pull away from the boat at an angle.
- Adjust Tension: Adjust the tension on the line release clip to ensure it releases cleanly when a fish strikes.
- Monitor the Boards: Observe the planer boards for any changes in movement, which may indicate a strike or snag.
Boat Control and Trolling Strategies
Maintaining consistent boat speed and direction is crucial for successful planer board trolling:
- Maintain Speed: A consistent trolling speed is crucial for effective lure presentation. Adjust speed based on lure type and walleye behavior. Generally, 1.5 – 2.5 mph is a good starting point.
- Use a GPS: Utilize a GPS unit to monitor your speed and track your course.
- Avoid Sharp Turns: Make gradual turns to prevent tangling lines and maintain consistent lure presentation.
- Wind and Current: Factor in wind and current when setting your course. Trolling into the wind may require adjustments to speed and lure selection.
- Depth Finders/Fish Finders: Use your electronics to locate schools of walleye and understand structure, allowing you to target these areas with your planer boards.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common errors when using planer boards:
- Improper Line Tension: Setting the line release clip too tight or too loose can result in missed strikes or tangles.
- Incorrect Lure Selection: Choose lures that are appropriate for the water depth, clarity, and forage available.
- Trolling Too Fast or Too Slow: Adjust your trolling speed to match the lure type and walleye activity level.
- Ignoring Line Angle: Pay attention to the angle of the fishing line to ensure proper lure presentation and avoid tangles.
- Neglecting Boat Control: Maintain consistent speed and direction to avoid spooking fish and ensure effective lure presentation.
Troubleshooting Planer Board Problems
Here’s how to address common planer board issues:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Planer board not tracking | Incorrect line angle, board imbalance | Adjust line release clip position, balance the board with weights |
| False releases | Line release clip set too loose, line abrasion | Tighten clip, check for line damage and replace as needed |
| Tangles | Sharp turns, incorrect lure spacing | Avoid sharp turns, increase spacing between lures |
| Board diving | Excessive weight on the line, waterlogged board | Reduce weight, dry out the board thoroughly and re-seal it if needed |
| Missed strikes | Incorrect line tension, walleye short-striking | Adjust clip tension, try smaller lures or stinger hooks |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What size planer board should I use?
The size of the planer board depends on the size of your boat and the lures you plan to use. Smaller boats and lighter lures are best suited for smaller inline boards, while larger boats and heavier lures require larger boards or mast systems.
2. How far apart should I space my lines when using multiple planer boards?
The spacing between your lines depends on the depth you are fishing and the size of the lures. A general rule of thumb is to space them at least 20-30 feet apart to avoid tangles. Deeper presentations will necessitate wider spacing.
3. What type of fishing line is best for planer board trolling?
Both monofilament and braided lines can be used for planer board trolling. Monofilament is more forgiving and has better stretch, while braided line is stronger and has less stretch, offering better sensitivity and hook sets at longer distances. The right choice depends on personal preference and the specific fishing conditions.
4. How do I know if I have a fish on?
When a fish strikes, the planer board will usually stop pulling or even change direction significantly. You may also see the board dip or shake. Be prepared to reel in quickly to set the hook.
5. How do I set the hook when a fish strikes?
When a fish strikes, quickly reel in the slack line and give a firm, upward sweep of the rod to set the hook. Use a sweeping motion rather than a short, jerky one to avoid pulling the hook.
6. What is the best trolling speed for walleye with planer boards?
The best trolling speed depends on the lure type and walleye activity level. Generally, a speed of 1.5 to 2.5 mph is a good starting point. Adjust your speed based on the lure’s action and how the walleye are reacting.
7. Can I use planer boards with live bait?
Yes, planer boards can be used effectively with live bait rigs. Attach the line release clip to the line above the swivel and leader leading to the live bait rig. Trolling with a slow, controlled speed is crucial.
8. How do I use planer boards in windy conditions?
Wind can make planer board trolling more challenging. Try using heavier planer boards to help them track properly in the wind. Also, consider trolling with the wind or at an angle to the wind to maintain better boat control.
9. What are the advantages of using inline planer boards versus mast systems?
Inline planer boards are smaller and easier to manage, making them ideal for smaller boats and less experienced anglers. Mast systems allow for deploying multiple boards on each side of the boat, providing a wider spread and better coverage. Inline boards are more portable and versatile for varying conditions.
10. How do I store my planer boards when not in use?
Store your planer boards in a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent mold and mildew. Consider using a storage bag or container to protect them from damage. Also, ensure line clips are clean and free of corrosion.
11. How do I choose the right lure color for walleye fishing?
Lure color can be an important factor in walleye fishing. Consider water clarity, weather conditions, and the type of forage available. Brighter colors are often effective in murky water, while natural colors work well in clear water. Experiment to see what the walleye are responding to on a given day.
12. What maintenance do planer boards require?
Planer boards require minimal maintenance. Periodically check the line release clips for wear and tear and replace them as needed. Clean the boards with soap and water after each use to remove dirt and debris. Apply a sealant to wooden boards to protect them from water damage.