Trolling for a variety of game fish is an incredibly effective technique, but getting your lures to the right depth and spread can be a challenge. That’s where planer boards come in. These ingenious devices pull your fishing line away from the boat, allowing you to cover more water and present your bait or lure to fish that might otherwise be spooked by your vessel. Choosing the right planer board can significantly boost your success on the water, and in this roundup, we’re diving into some of the best planer boards for trolling available today.
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Our Top 5 Best Planer Boards For Trolling Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Multi-Species Planer Boards for Walleye, Striper, Trout, Catfish Trolling
The Multi-Species Planer Boards for Walleye, Striper, Trout, Catfish Trolling are designed for serious anglers. Made in the USA, this set of two boards is built to perform, offering smooth pulling and water cutting thanks to its high-density EVA foam construction. It’s a favorite among tournament winners and everyday anglers alike, promising outstanding durability and reliability for all your trolling adventures.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ High-density EVA foam for smooth performance
✓ Multi-position arm for versatile rigging
✓ Durable construction for long-lasting use
✓ Designed to handle a variety of target species
Why We Recommend It
These planer boards are a fantastic choice for their versatility and robust build. They are trusted by professionals, meaning you can expect consistent results whether you’re targeting walleye, striper, or catfish. If you’re looking for a reliable and effective way to expand your trolling spread, this set is a winner.
Best For
Anglers who target a wide variety of species and demand dependable performance from their trolling gear.
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Compare Hotel PricesPros:
- Excellent for multi-species trolling
- Durable and high-quality construction
- Trusted by experienced anglers
- Easy to adjust for different trolling conditions
Cons:
- May be more expensive than basic models
- Initial setup might require some adjustment
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Slow trolling is fine but I didn’t care for them”
Customer Review: “Slow trolling is fine but I didn’t care for them”
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2. BLUEWING Heavy-Duty Trolling Planer
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Check Available RoomsThe BLUEWING Heavy-Duty Trolling Planer is a beast when it comes to offshore trolling. Crafted with a 316 stainless steel blade and robust brass connecting rings, this planer is built to endure harsh marine conditions. It efficiently pulls your lure down into deeper water, making it ideal for targeting wahoo, kingfish, and tuna. With versatile weight options, you can customize it to your fishing needs.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Stainless steel blade and brass rings for durability
✓ Efficiently gets lures deeper
✓ Available in a wide range of weights
✓ Robust design for demanding conditions
Why We Recommend It
For anglers serious about offshore trolling, the BLUEWING planer is a top-tier choice. Its heavy-duty construction means it can handle the stress of big game fish and rough seas. The ability to reach those deep-water strikes is invaluable, making it an editor’s pick for its sheer capability.
Best For
Offshore anglers targeting large, deep-dwelling species like wahoo, tuna, and kingfish.
Pros:
- Extremely durable and corrosion-resistant
- Effectively reaches deep water
- Wide range of weight options available
- Reliable for targeting aggressive offshore species
Cons:
- Can be heavy and may require stronger tackle
- Might be overkill for smaller freshwater applications
Customer Reviews
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3. 2 Pack Fishing Planer Boards for Trolling, Crappie, Inshore & Offshore – Includes Flags
The 2 Pack Fishing Planer Boards offers a fantastic value for anglers on a budget. This set includes two planer boards and flags, making them ready for immediate use on crappie, inshore, or offshore trolling trips. Constructed from ABS and EVA foam, they are built to withstand the marine environment while offering adjustable buoyancy for controlling your lure’s depth.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Comes as a convenient 2-pack with flags
✓ Adjustable weight for buoyancy control
✓ Made from durable ABS and EVA foam
✓ Suitable for various trolling applications
Why We Recommend It
For its price point, this set delivers excellent functionality. It’s a great way to get started with planer boards or to add more spread to your trolling setup without breaking the bank. They provide a noticeable improvement in covering water and presenting lures effectively.
Best For
Beginner and intermediate anglers looking for an affordable way to improve their trolling spread for inshore and nearshore fishing.
Pros:
- Excellent value for money
- Includes flags for added visibility
- Adjustable weight is a useful feature
- Good for crappie and other smaller game fish
Cons:
- Instructions are not always clear
- Snapper clips can be tricky for some users
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “There amazing! The round wire thing is a pain but 10/10 would recommend idk why they have such bad reviews.”
Customer Review: “No instructions come with it. The OR19 snapper that came with them were labeled backwards.”
4. Edge 2 Planer Boards
The Edge 2 Planer Boards are engineered for heavy-duty performance, specifically designed for catfish and striper trolling. These 10-inch boards are constructed from powder-coated aluminum for excellent corrosion resistance. The upgraded curved front nose design helps them track smoothly with reduced drag, and the improved line separation makes for easier rigging and better hook-ups.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 10″ heavy-duty aluminum construction
✓ Curved front nose for low-drag tracking
✓ Promotes greater spread and coverage
✓ Ideal for catfish and striper
Why We Recommend It
These planer boards are a solid choice for anglers targeting bottom-dwellers and aggressive mid-water predators. Their design focuses on efficiency and performance, helping you cover more water and find those fish that are hesitant to come near the boat. It’s a great upgrade for any trolling setup.
Best For
Anglers who frequently troll for catfish and striper and need a dependable board that tracks well.
Pros:
- Excellent for finding active fish
- Durable build
- Smooth tracking reduces line twist
- Improves lure presentation
Cons:
- Clips may not be the highest quality
- Yellow color might be less visible in some conditions
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Great item. Changed how I troll for catfish. I want to buy a few more.”
Customer Review: “Work great. Obviously a knockoff of a popular brand. Clips are poor quality but for half the price I can replace the clips”
5. Leinuosen Fishing Planer Boards
The Leinuosen Fishing Planer Boards come as a set of two, offering a heavy-duty solution for downrigger trolling, especially for species like wahoo and tuna. Made with 316 stainless steel blades and sturdy brass connecting rings, these planer boards are built to handle tough conditions. They are designed to reduce resistance and improve efficiency, helping you find the optimal fishing zone.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Set of 2 heavy-duty planer boards
✓ 316 stainless steel blades and brass rings
✓ Reduces resistance for better trolling
✓ Suitable for downrigger trolling
Why We Recommend It
These planer boards are a reliable option for anglers who need a robust tool for serious trolling. Their strong materials ensure they can withstand the pressures of offshore fishing, and the design aids in presenting your lures effectively away from the boat. They offer good performance for their category.
Best For
Anglers using downriggers or those who need dependable planer boards for offshore trolling.
Pros:
- Built with high-quality, durable materials
- Effective at reducing drag
- Easy to attach and use
- Good for targeting larger game fish
Cons:
- May be slightly heavier than some alternatives
- The specific design might require a learning curve for some users
Customer Reviews
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Complete Buying Guide for Best Planer Boards For Trolling
Essential Factors We Consider
When selecting the best planer boards for trolling, several key factors come into play. We look at the material construction for durability, especially in saltwater environments. The size and weight of the planer board are crucial, as they determine how much line spread you can achieve and what size lures they can handle. We also consider ease of use, including how simple they are to set up, adjust, and release. Lastly, the stability and tracking performance are paramount; a board that consistently pulls straight and doesn’t dive or jump is essential for effective trolling. For anyone planning an adventurous trip, understanding these aspects is as vital as knowing the best time for hiking and nature adventures in a particular region.
Budget Planning
Planer boards vary significantly in price. Basic models designed for freshwater may be quite affordable, while heavy-duty, offshore-ready boards can be a considerable investment. For beginners, starting with a budget-friendly set like the 2 Pack Fishing Planer Boards can be a smart way to test the waters. However, if you’re consistently targeting larger species or fishing in demanding conditions, investing in higher-quality boards like the BLUEWING or Edge 2 Planer Boards will likely pay off in the long run through durability and performance. Remember to factor in any necessary accessories, such as specialized releases or tow lines, which might add to the overall cost.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right planer boards can transform your trolling game. Whether you’re aiming for walleye on a calm lake or wahoo in the open ocean, there’s a planer board designed to meet your needs. By considering the factors outlined above and the detailed reviews of our top picks, you’ll be well-equipped to select the best planer boards for trolling that will help you cover more water and bring more fish to the boat. Happy fishing!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between inshore and offshore planer boards?
A: Offshore planer boards are generally larger, heavier, and built with more robust materials to handle rougher seas and larger lures. Inshore boards are typically smaller and designed for calmer waters and lighter tackle. The main goal of both is to spread your lines out from the boat.
Q: Do I need planer boards for all types of trolling?
A: Planer boards are most beneficial when you need to spread your lines out significantly to avoid spooking fish or to cover a wider area. For some types of trolling, like downrigging or lead core, they may be less critical or used in conjunction with other methods.
Q: How do I attach a planer board to my fishing line?
A: Planer boards typically use a specialized release clip that attaches to your fishing line. A tow line connects the planer board to your rod or boat, and when a fish strikes, it trips the release, allowing you to reel in your catch directly.
Q: Can I use planer boards in rivers?
A: Yes, you can use planer boards in rivers, especially in wider sections or areas where you need to get your bait away from the boat’s wake or engine noise. Smaller, lighter planer boards are usually sufficient for river trolling.
Q: What size planer board should I choose?
A: The size depends on your target species and the type of lures you’re using. Smaller boards are good for light tackle and smaller fish, while larger boards can handle heavier lures and are better suited for big game fishing.
Investing in quality planer boards for trolling is a game-changer for any angler looking to maximize their success on the water. By expanding your lure spread, you present your bait to more fish and often entice strikes from those that might be wary of your boat. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, the options reviewed here offer excellent performance and durability. Consider your primary fishing targets and conditions, and choose the planer boards that best fit your needs. Happy trolling, and may your lines always be tight!