How to Use Planer Boards
If you’re looking to maximize your time out on the open water this season, try adding planer boards to your fishing set up. Our Fishing Experts share the basics of planer boards as well as how to use one when trolling for your targeted species.
What Is a Planer Board?
When trolling for your next catch, it’s common to see anglers using planer boards. Similar to tip-ups for ice fishing, a planer board is a device that allows you to run multiple lines without them getting tangled. Typically made from durable plastic, planer boards attach to your line and float on the top of the water. When the flag starts to tip down, that indicates a bite and it’s time to reel in your catch!
Anglers use planer boards to cover larger areas in order to increase their opportunities for catching fish. Planer boards are also helpful to get your presentation away from the loud motor or boat’s shadow as this may spook away your next catch.
Sizing a Planer Board
There are a few different sizes of planer boards available depending on the species you're targeting.
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- Mini: Ideal for trolling crappie using small crankbaits
- Standard: Most versatile option for different trolling presentations, commonly used for walleye
- Magnum: Built for anglers trolling for large species like musky, salmon, or catfish
Aside from the size of the planer board, you want to be sure you get the right orientation too. Planer boards are designed for both the port and starboard sides of the boats. Depending on which side of the boat you plan on running your lines, you’ll want to make sure to get the proper orientation.
How Do Planer Boards Work
- First, you’ll want to set up your bait presentation for your targeted species. It’s best to use a quality trolling rod that’s between 8 to 10 feet. One go-to lure option when using planer boards is the Berkley Flicker Shad.
- Next, attach the planer board to your line by using both clips. Be sure to leave a bit of slack between the two clips.
- Then, you want to let out your line and place your trolling rod in the rod holder or trolling tree.
- Allow the line to be let out to your desired length and engage the bail. For help on how far to let out your line, our Fishing Experts suggest using the Precision Trolling App to give you good benchmarks based on the type of lure and your desired depth.
- When the flag dips, grab your trolling rod and start reeling in. If you’re running multiple lines, you’ll want to do a planer board shuffle to prevent lines from tangling.
Fishing with planer boards is a great strategy to try no matter the time of the season. We recommend planer fishing on a quiet lake without much boat traffic so you don’t have to worry about lines getting tangled. If you’re wanting more information about planer boards or guidance in how to use them, stop into your local ERLEBNISWELT-FLIEGENFISCHEN Weight Lifting Accessories!