How to Hook Up a Planer Board for Fishing Like a Pro: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re looking to take your fishing game to the next level, you might want to consider using a planer board. Planer boards allow you to cover more water, target specific depths, and catch more fish. However, hooking up a planer board can seem daunting for beginners. That’s why we’ve put together this step-by-step guide to help you learn how to hook up a planer board for fishing like a pro.

Before we dive into the details of hooking up a planer board, let’s take a closer look at why planer boards are important for fishing success. We’ll also go over some common mistakes to avoid so you can make the most out of your next fishing trip.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, this guide will give you all the information you need to get started with planer boards. So grab your gear, and let’s get started!

Why Planer Boards Are Important for Fishing Success

If you’re an avid angler, you know the importance of having the right equipment to help you catch fish more efficiently. That’s where planer boards come in – these simple devices can be a game-changer when it comes to fishing success. By keeping your bait at a specific depth and distance from your boat, planer boards help you cover more water and increase your chances of catching fish.

Another important benefit of using planer boards is that they allow you to run multiple lines simultaneously, without the risk of your lines getting tangled. This means you can target different species or cover more areas of water, all while keeping your lines organized and easy to manage. Planer boards also help to keep your bait or lure in the strike zone for longer periods, giving fish more time to spot it and take the bait.

Planer boards are particularly useful when fishing for species that are easily spooked or shy away from boats. By keeping your bait at a distance from your boat, planer boards help to reduce noise and disturbance on the water, which can improve your chances of catching these elusive fish. Overall, using planer boards is a simple yet effective way to increase your chances of success on your next fishing trip.

Increased Coverage Area

1. Wider Reach: By using planer boards, you can extend your coverage area and reach more fish without spooking them. The boards can be placed on each side of the boat and can be adjusted to run at different distances, allowing for a wider area to be covered.

2. Effective in Shallow Water: Planer boards are especially useful in shallow water where the boat may spook fish. By running the boards away from the boat, you can avoid scaring fish and cover more water at the same time.

3. Minimize Tangles: With planer boards, you can fish multiple lines at once without worrying about tangles. By running the boards at different distances from the boat, each line can run at a different depth, reducing the chances of lines crossing and getting tangled.

4. Optimize Fishing Time: By increasing the coverage area, you can optimize your fishing time and increase your chances of catching fish. With planer boards, you can cover more water in less time and find the fish more efficiently.

Overall, using planer boards is a great way to increase your coverage area and catch more fish. By extending your reach, avoiding spooking fish, reducing tangles, and optimizing your fishing time, you can increase your chances of success on the water.

Less Spooked Fish

When you’re out fishing, the last thing you want is for your presence to scare off any potential catches. This is where planer boards come in. By allowing you to spread your lines out and away from your boat, you decrease the chance of your boat spooking the fish. This is especially important when fishing in shallower waters or areas where fish are easily spooked by boat traffic.

Using planer boards also allows you to cover more ground without disturbing the fish. When you’re trolling without planer boards, the sound of the boat’s engine and the disturbance it creates in the water can spook the fish and cause them to scatter. With planer boards, you can move your lines away from the boat and create a wider spread, reducing the chance of spooking the fish.

Another benefit of using planer boards is that they allow you to present your bait in a more natural manner. When you’re trolling without planer boards, your bait is dragged behind the boat in a straight line. This can make it look unnatural to the fish, and they may be less likely to bite. With planer boards, you can create a wider spread of lines, allowing your bait to move more naturally with the current and increasing your chances of a catch.

What You Need to Know Before Hooking Up Your Planer Board

Choose the Right Board: Different planer boards are designed for different fishing conditions, so make sure to choose the right board for your needs. Consider factors such as water depth, wind conditions, and the size of the fish you’re targeting.

Prepare Your Fishing Line: Before attaching your planer board to your line, you need to prepare it by adding a leader line and attaching the board to a release clip. This ensures that your fishing line won’t get tangled up with the board.

Use the Right Release Clip: The release clip is what attaches the planer board to your fishing line. Make sure to choose a clip that is compatible with your board and line, and that it is strong enough to hold onto your line while trolling.

Adjust the Tension: The tension on the release clip is important because it determines how much resistance your planer board will create as it moves through the water. Adjust the tension to make sure your board runs properly and doesn’t create too much drag.

Practice Before Hitting the Water: It’s important to practice attaching and adjusting your planer board on dry land before hitting the water. This will help you get comfortable with the process and ensure that you’re ready for any surprises that come your way while out on the water.

Understanding Your Fishing Environment

Before you hook up your planer board, it’s important to assess your fishing environment. Look for structure like weed beds, drop-offs, and channels where fish are likely to congregate. Consider the depth of the water and the time of day you plan to fish. Fish behavior can change throughout the day and in different water conditions, so it’s important to know when and where to use a planer board.

It’s also important to consider the type of fish you’re targeting. Different fish species have different feeding habits and preferences, so you’ll want to adjust your approach accordingly. Knowing the habits of the fish you’re after can help you choose the right bait, location, and presentation.

Lastly, pay attention to the weather conditions. Wind and currents can affect the movement of your planer board and the behavior of the fish. If it’s windy, you may need to adjust the size or weight of your planer board to keep it stable in the water.

Choosing the Right Planer Board

Consider the size of your boat: Choose a planer board that is appropriate for the size of your boat. If you have a smaller boat, a smaller planer board will work better to avoid dragging and making turns more difficult.

Look at the weight capacity: Ensure that the planer board you choose can support the weight of the bait and the fish you are trying to catch. Choosing a planer board that is too light for your equipment will result in it getting pulled underwater.

Evaluate the material: Select a planer board made of durable and sturdy material, such as plastic or fiberglass. This will make sure that it can withstand the harsh elements of water and last longer.

Check for additional features: Some planer boards come with additional features such as adjustable keels, which can allow you to customize your planer board to fit your specific fishing needs.

Consider the cost: Prices of planer boards vary based on size, weight capacity, and features. Consider your budget when choosing a planer board but do not compromise on quality.

Step-by-Step Guide to Hooking Up Your Planer Board

Step 1: Choose the Right Gear

Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary gear, including a planer board, fishing line, and bait. Also, ensure that you have selected the right planer board for your fishing conditions and the size of your catch.

Step 2: Attach the Planer Board

Attach the planer board to your fishing line using a release clip, which will allow the planer board to move along the fishing line. Make sure the release clip is tight enough to hold the planer board but loose enough to release it when a fish bites.

Step 3: Set the Depth

Adjust the depth of your bait by moving the planer board along the fishing line. Set the depth according to the depth of the water you are fishing in and the depth at which you believe the fish are located.

Step 4: Cast Your Line

Once the planer board is set up, cast your line as you would normally. The planer board will move the bait away from your boat, increasing your chances of catching a fish. When a fish bites, the release clip will automatically detach, allowing you to reel in your catch.

Step 1: Attach the Mainline to the Planer Board

Select the right mainline: Your mainline should be strong enough to handle the weight of the fish you’re trying to catch. Braided line is a popular option because it’s strong and thin.

Attach the line to the board: Tie the mainline to the top of the planer board using a secure knot, like a clinch knot or a palomar knot. Make sure the knot is tight and won’t slip.

Thread the line through the board: Once the knot is secure, thread the line through the hole on the top of the board and out the other side. Be careful not to tangle the line as you do this.

Clip the release: Finally, clip the release onto the board. This will allow the board to stay in place until a fish takes the bait and pulls the board away.

Step 2: Attach a Leader Line to the Planer Board

After attaching the mainline to the planer board, it’s time to attach a leader line. The leader line is the line that connects your planer board to your bait or lure.

Select a leader line with a length appropriate for your fishing technique. If you’re trolling with live bait, a leader line of 6-10 feet is appropriate, while a leader line of 2-4 feet is suitable for lures.

Attach the leader line to the planer board by tying it to the tow arm. Make sure the knot is secure to prevent the leader line from slipping off the board.

Attach your bait or lure to the end of the leader line. Make sure the bait or lure is securely attached to the leader line to prevent it from falling off during trolling.

Step 3: Attach Your Lure to the Leader Line

Before attaching the lure, you’ll want to select a suitable one based on the type of fish you’re targeting and the water conditions. Jigs, spinners, and crankbaits are popular lure types for planer board fishing.

Next, tie your chosen lure onto the end of the leader line using a clinch knot or palomar knot. Make sure the knot is tight and secure.

If you plan to use live bait, attach a snell knot to the leader line and add a hook to the end.

Once your lure is attached, you can then attach the leader line to the planer board by sliding it onto the clip at the front of the board.

Tips for Successfully Using a Planer Board While Fishing

If you’re new to using planer boards while fishing, there are a few tips you should keep in mind to ensure a successful trip.

Experiment with different depths: Planer boards are great for fishing at different depths, so don’t be afraid to try different depths until you find where the fish are biting.

Pay attention to your speed: The speed of your boat can greatly affect how your planer board performs, so experiment with different speeds until you find what works best.

Use a variety of lures: Different lures work better in different situations, so don’t be afraid to switch up your lures until you find what the fish are biting on.

Keep an eye on your planer boards: It’s important to keep an eye on your planer boards while fishing to make sure they’re not snagged or tangled.

Practice makes perfect: Using a planer board takes practice, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t have immediate success. Keep at it, and soon you’ll be reeling in more fish than you ever thought possible!

Check Your Planer Board Regularly

When using a planer board, it’s important to check it regularly to make sure it’s still functioning properly. This will help prevent any mishaps and ensure that you’re still on track for a successful fishing trip.

Inspect the Line: Check the line for any knots or tangles that may have formed. This will help prevent line breaks and keep your planer board in place.

Look for Damage: Check for any damage to the planer board, such as cracks or breaks. This could affect its performance and lead to a failed fishing trip.

Adjust as Needed: If you notice any issues with the planer board, make adjustments as needed. This could include retying the line or adjusting the weight of the lure.

Stay Alert: Finally, always stay alert and aware of your surroundings while using a planer board. This will help you catch any issues before they become major problems and keep you safe on the water.

Adjust Your Planer Board According to Water Conditions

If you’re a fan of trolling, then using a planer board is an essential technique to have in your fishing arsenal. The primary function of a planer board is to spread out your lures horizontally, making it easier to cover more water and ultimately increasing your chances of catching fish. But before you cast your lines, it’s essential to make sure your planer board is set up correctly for the current water conditions.

The first step in adjusting your planer board is to consider the depth of the water. If you’re fishing in shallow water, you’ll want to move the planer board closer to the boat, so your lures are fishing in the strike zone. On the other hand, if you’re fishing in deep water, you’ll want to move the board further away from the boat to cover more water.

The second factor to consider is the current. A strong current will cause your board to drift and move away from your intended path, so you’ll need to adjust the angle of the board to compensate for the drift. Start by pointing the board upstream to counter the current’s effect, then gradually adjust the angle as necessary.

The third consideration is the wind. Wind can also affect the board’s direction and drift, so it’s essential to adjust the board’s angle to account for it. Point the board towards the wind to keep it in the desired location and adjust the angle as needed to keep your lures at the desired depth.

The fourth factor to consider is the temperature of the water. When the water temperature is colder, fish tend to move slower and are less likely to chase fast-moving lures. Adjust your planer board by slowing down your trolling speed and using lures that are smaller and more natural-looking. In contrast, when the water is warmer, fish are more active, and you can use faster-moving lures to attract them.

Adjusting your planer board may seem like a complicated process, but with practice, you’ll become more comfortable with the techniques involved. Keep in mind that the best way to find what works for you is through trial and error. So don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques and adjust your planer board as needed to achieve optimal results.

Key Takeaways:

• Adjusting your planer board is crucial to trolling success.
• Consider water depth, current, wind, and temperature when adjusting your planer board.
• Experiment with different techniques to find what works best for you.
• Adjust your planer board as needed to achieve optimal results.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Planer Board

Planer boards are an excellent tool for fishermen who want to cover a larger area of water when trolling. However, using a planer board can be tricky, and many people make mistakes that can cost them fish. One of the most common mistakes when using a planer board is not setting it up correctly. Before deploying your board, make sure that it’s properly weighted and that your fishing line is attached to it in the right place. A poorly set-up board can affect the way it tracks in the water, making it less effective at catching fish.

Another mistake to avoid when using a planer board is not keeping an eye on it. It’s important to keep an eye on your board so you can tell if it’s tracking properly or if a fish has taken your bait. If you’re not paying attention, you could miss a strike or even lose your board.

Using the wrong size board can also be a mistake. Using a board that’s too small or too large for the conditions you’re fishing in can affect the way it tracks in the water. Make sure to choose the right size board for the conditions you’re fishing in to ensure that it tracks correctly.

Dragging the board through weeds or debris is another mistake that anglers sometimes make. Planer boards are designed to be fished in open water and can become entangled in weeds or debris if they’re dragged through it. To avoid this, make sure you’re fishing in open water or raise your board when you encounter weeds or debris.

Avoiding these common mistakes can help you get the most out of your planer board and increase your chances of catching fish.

Using the Wrong Planer Board Size

If you’re using the wrong size of planer board, it can lead to a lot of problems, including tangles, losing fish, and inefficient trolling. Choosing the right size of planer board can make all the difference in your fishing success.

The first thing you need to consider when choosing a planer board size is the type of fish you’re targeting. If you’re going after smaller species, like crappie or walleye, a smaller board is ideal. Larger species, like salmon or musky, require a larger board that can handle the added weight and pull.

Another factor to consider is the wind speed and water conditions. If the water is choppy or the wind is strong, you’ll need a larger board to help keep your bait at the desired depth. Conversely, calm conditions may require a smaller board to prevent spooking fish.

Not Adjusting Your Planer Board’s Depth Correctly

One common mistake many anglers make when using planer boards is not adjusting their depth correctly. This can result in the bait being too shallow or too deep in the water, which can make it less attractive to fish. Adjusting your planer board’s depth correctly is crucial for a successful fishing trip.

One way to adjust your planer board’s depth is to use a depth chart. Most planer board manufacturers provide a depth chart that can help you determine how much line to let out based on the depth you want to fish.

Another way to adjust your planer board’s depth is to use countdowns. Counting down the seconds as you let out your line can help you determine the depth of your bait. For example, if you know your bait falls one foot every five seconds, counting to 25 seconds will give you a depth of five feet.

It’s important to note that the depth you choose will depend on the species of fish you’re targeting and the water conditions. Experimenting with different depths can help you find the sweet spot where the fish are biting.

Ignoring Planer Board Line Twists

Check Your Line Regularly: The most common cause of line twists is a poorly maintained line. Check your line regularly for any signs of damage, including nicks, cuts, or abrasions. Replace the line if it shows any sign of wear and tear.

Avoid Casting Into the Wind: Casting into the wind can cause the line to twist as it is carried back towards the boat. If you notice your line twisting when casting into the wind, try casting at a different angle or waiting until the wind dies down.

Use a Swivel: Attaching a swivel to your line can help prevent line twists by allowing the planer board to spin freely without twisting the line. Make sure the swivel is rated for the weight of your line and use a snap swivel for easy attachment and removal of the planer board.

Frequently Asked Questions