Ocean Fishing

Freshwater Lake Trout Fishing: How to Catch Stripers Using Planer Boards, Swimbaits and Umbrella Rigs

By David McKinney 12 April, 2023 3 mins read

You're fishing in a freshwater lake, but there are a few ways to catch these aggressive fish. A Planer board, swimbaits and umbrella rigs are all options. Bottom fishing is also possible. These techniques are more effective than any other type of fisherman's tactic. Find out the best methods to catch these tasty fish today and get started! Here are some examples of these techniques. You may also find it useful to learn more about popular techniques such as the umbrella rig.

Planer boards

Planer boards, if you enjoy fishing for stripers, are a great way cover water and run multiple types of baits at the time. Using water pressure and letting out more line will help you cover more water and extend your planer board further. Angler Bill Thompson likes to run three lines out on either side of the boat - a back rod about 65 to 70 feet off the water, a middle rod about 50 feet off the water and a bow line that is around 25 feet off the bottom. To avoid tangles, Thompson can run six baits at the same time by spacing his lines evenly.

Swimbaits

A swimbait is a bait that is designed to mimic the prey of stripers. These lures come in many colors and patterns and can be fished in many ways, whether you're fishing deep or shallow, on an A-rig, or with a trolled presentation. Swimbaits are effective in freshwater ecosystems and can be used to catch many species of fish. Listed below are tips on how to choose the best swimbait for fishing stripers.

Umbrella rigs

Fishing stripers with an umbrella-rigged rig takes patience and skill. However, fishing with an umbrella rig isn't always easy, because you will experience a lot of line tension. The strain on your arms from both the lure's weight and the line can also be increased by the extra weight. You can avoid this by using a rod holder. You will then need to cast slowly out towards the boat. Then slowly let go of your line while maintaining a 5 to 6 mph speed. An umbrella rig can be protected by a rod holder.

Bottom fishing

Bottom fishing might be the best way to catch stripers. Stripers eat from the bottom. In some cases, they may stage on sandbars, cut, or points in heavy current. These spots are ideal for stripers as they provide prime feeding conditions. These spots are the most profitable for stripers fishing at low tide. This technique is also known by jigging.

Baitfishing with Swimbaits

Topwater fishing may not be as effective when the water temperature rises. In these conditions, a swimbait with a length of 4.5 to 6 inches may be sufficient for a healthy sized Striper. The same goes for a 5-inch swimbait that can attract a striper eight inches and larger. You may have to make multiple versions of this bait in order to attract striped bass.

For stripers, trolling

You might be curious about the best troller to catch these fish from a boat if your goal is to catch stripers. In reality, you don't need expensive equipment, but it can make the difference between catching a few and many. You don't need the most expensive equipment to trot for stripers, but you should invest in a depth finder. Some structures that stripers frequent include river channels, dropsoffs, rivers edges, shorelines, and underwater islands and point.

FAQ

What happens if I am caught illegally fishing?

You may face fines, jail time, and even loss of your fishing license. Before you go out fishing, it's crucial that you understand the rules.

How often should my lures be changed?

Change your lures once a day. If left in the sun for too much time, lures can lose their effectiveness.

How far away from shore should I stand when fishing?

The closer you are to the shore, the greater your chances of catching fish. This also increases your chances of getting wet.

Are there many types of lures available?

There are many types of lures. Some lures have been specifically designed for certain fish species. Others mimic insects and frogs. There are many types of lures. Some lures are even shaped like real bugs.

Statistics

You likely have a fish hooked if the bobber moves erratically for over 5 seconds. (tailoredtackle.com)
For most freshwater species you are most likely to target when first starting out, a reel size of 20 to 30 should be more than enough! (strikeandcatch.com)
Orvis, Simms, and Fishpond have been making some of the best packs and vests for a long time, and it seems like 90% of the anglers around the area use these brands. (troutandsteelhead.net)
To substantiate this theory, Knight attempted a systematic inquiry by considering the timing of 200 'record' catches, more than 90 percent were made during a new moon (when no moon is visible). (myfwc.com)