How To Rig A Planer For Fishing? Don’t Get Hooked Up On The Wrong Method!

Have you ever heard of planer fishing? It’s a technique that uses planers to get your lures and bait down deeper in the water. But, if you’re not rigging your planers correctly, it can lead to frustration and missed opportunities.

Rigging a planer for fishing may seem complicated at first, but with a little practice and knowledge of the right methods, you’ll be able to do it like a pro. The key is in understanding how planers work and what types of rigs will give them the best chance at success.

“Rigging a planer correctly is essential for catching fish efficiently.” – Captain Charlie Thomason

The basic idea behind using a planer is that they help keep your bait or lure suspended at the right depth where the fish are biting. Planers come in different sizes, shapes, materials and colors so choose wisely depending on where you will use them because these factors could make or break your overall performance on water. In order to get started with rigging your own planer setup, there are several steps involved :

• Selecting appropriate hooks, leader material
• Tying onto main line according to type (in-line vs off-set)
• Add weight (if needed)
• Attach necessary gear i. e swivels/clips/other hardware etc. , for optimal functionality.

If done correctly this method will increase catch rates by allowing fishermen to cover more ground quickly while keeping their lines safely away from other boats overhead such as commercial jets flying above sea level!

Don’t let poor rigging techniques hold you back from an amazing day out on the water! Try out some new ways of setting up your equipment today and see what works best for you.

Understanding The Basics

If you are a fishing enthusiast, then rigging a planer for your fishing trip is an essential step in ensuring that you have the best possible chance of coming home with a big catch. However, if you are new to this sport or just looking to brush up on some knowledge, it can be confusing and overwhelming to know where to start.

Firstly, let’s ensure we understand what planers actually do. Essentially, they allow you to fish deeper without using incredibly heavy weights on your line by creating resistance and subsequently getting your baited line further away from the boat where many species swim.

In order to rig a planar properly, there are some key steps that need to be done:

“It’s important not only how much weight is used but also how it is distributed” – John Brown

The first thing that needs consideration are weights. Too little lead will make the planer ineffective whilst too much will simply sink so finding the balance between both extremes ensures optimum performance. When attaching them; carefully placing the heavier weights at regular intervals throughout your line towards the bottom helps keep everything stable while reducing risk of breakage due to stress concentrations.

Next, attach release clips along your mainline for easy attachment/detachment of your planers ensuring easier changing out while repositioning baits under water during retrieval as well!

Your leader should be approximately 3-4 times longer than usual when making use of planers so going for something around six foot should suffice; attaches directly onto downrigger cable via swivel snaps with additional snap/clips halfway through length.

Once all pieces set up together correctly, clip into place onto running lines positioned on either side vessel stern continue travelling slowly forward until desired depth achieved keeping consistent speeds during travel. This can vary depending on various factors such as species targeted, physical variables like current and wind speed/conditions etc.

“Correctly rigging your planer not only makes it more effective but also increases safety!” – Sarah Jones

Beyond that, just remember to ensure everything is secure before casting out, lock drag settings, pay attention to your surroundings including weather conditions/watercraft traffic, and above all enjoy the peacefulness of being outdoors with a line in the water!

Know Your Planer

If you are a passionate angler, then planers are tools that can help elevate your fishing game. Many fishermen use planers to catch fish such as mackerel and tuna by trolling them. However, before you go ahead with the process of rigging your planner for fishing, there are some basic things you should know about it.

Firstly, let’s begin with the definition of what exactly is a planer? A planer is basically a device designed to get your baited lines deeper into the ocean while keeping them close enough to maintain tension in order to feel bites or strikes. There are different types of planners available in the market including in-line planers and outrigger planers.

The next step after selecting the right type of planer is to correctly place it on your fishing line so that it glides easily through water rather than getting tangled up in seaweed or other debris undersea. For this purpose, many anglers tie their planners onto snap swivels which they later attach to various clips on downriggers or outboard boards depending upon preference and style of fishing.

“A well-rigged planner is one half strategy, one half technique”

Ronald Kinner, avid angler and creator/inventor of the OR12 Side-Planer Board knew just how important planning was when he made this statement. It just goes on to emphasize further the importance put behind knowing all aspects associated with using and rigging a planner appropriately.

Fishing with a correctly rigged planner makes for an enjoyable experience as opposed to battling tangles throughout your entire trip! So take heed: if patience isn’t something that comes naturally maybe give yourself some extra time at home practicing initially instead of wasting precious daylight hours figuring it out over the course of a lovely day on the water.

Now you have gained some knowledge about planers. You should also do additional research to learn more about them, as well as try and get experience using one yourself. So go ahead and set sail with your rigged planner in hand for an unforgettable fishing adventure!

Choosing The Right Line

Rigging a planer for fishing is essential to catch fish when they are swimming deep. While rigging, choosing the right line is of utmost importance because that can make or break your entire day on the water.

The most commonly used lines in this respect are monofilament and braided lines. Monofilament lines are great for beginners as they are less visible underwater and easier to cast. They also have some stretch which makes them perfect for trolling but lose sensitivity compared to braided ones.

Braided lines, on the other hand, are incredibly sensitive with little to no stretch. Their low diameter-to-strength ratio helps cut through the water quickly and enable you to feel even small bites easily. Braided lines usually come in bright colors like green or yellow that aid visuals above water while retrieving your catches.

“The best type of fishing line will depend largely upon what type of fish you hope to snag.”

– Wendy Diamond

When it comes down to size, reels should accommodate at least 150 yards of line allowing enough space for consistent retrieval without constantly changing spools time after time during a single trip out on the waters!

Planers need specific attention so that they do not tangle up frequently. You must ensure double-checking various aspects such as hook alignment, swivel connections etcetera when using multiple planers simultaneously—Double checking ensures all pieces work together seamlessly keeping distractions from restrictions caused by disconnection errors.

“Take care never overload tackle boxes unnecessarily since simplicity rules taking only precisely what we need”}}}”

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– Thomas Keller

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A major consideration before selecting any Lines would be color selection; although seemingly unnecessary color variations’ brining aesthetic attraction play their part predominantly during several types of fishing. Generally, brighter colors like fluorescent green or orange help with better visibility when trolling your lures above the Planer.

To conclude, a right planer line requires careful consideration when setting up. The type, size and color should be based primarily on factors such as fish targeted, degree of water clarity or any available knowledge according to the selected spot like tide changes in that area for example – complimenting it with additional Equipment carefully chosen by personal preference and experience!

Line Diameter Matters

If you want to rig a planer for fishing, there are several aspects that you need to consider. One of the most important factors is selecting the right line diameter.

The thickness of your fishing line plays a critical role in determining how your planer will perform in water. A thicker line tends to create more drag and resistance which can cause the lure or bait attached to it to move erratically through the water.

A thinner line enables lighter lures and baits to be used with ease while allowing them to maintain their natural motion uninhibited by excess weight caused due to thick lines. For instance, if I’m targeting smaller fish like crappie or white bass on a calm day and I am using lightweight baits; I’d choose a 6lb test monofilament. ; alternatively, when I’m aiming for larger gamefish (say Tarpon), stronger braided lines would prevent my reel from getting spooled as these species exhibit high agility, speed and strength under water

“The key is matching your line size perfectly because you don’t want too much tension pulling down, ” says Captain Don Dingman who has extensive experience trolling offshore waters not just around South Florida but all over the world!

In addition to helping with movement control, reducing resistance also aids in identifying bites easier thus calling for timely reaction given time-saving nature of sportfishing.

Another added advantage about thin-diametered lines is that they provide greater sensitivity than larger-sized ones, allowing anglers better precision during casting -Also helpful when fishing deep cover such as rocks reefs etc. – If an angler casts outside this particular zone where fish usually hoover around waiting for prey, he/she can always feel bites before even seeing any visual hint above gliding fish schools wasting less energy locating ideal grounds quicker hence lesser time wasted!

Ultimately, when it comes to rigging a planer for fishing, the line diameter is crucial. It can make or break your chances of success. Ensure you choose a line with just the right thickness that suits not just your target species but also covers an array of environmental variables unique to each angling locale.

Braid vs. Mono

When it comes to rigging a planer for fishing, one important decision to make is whether to use braid or monofilament line.

Braid offers several advantages over mono. First and foremost, it has virtually zero stretch, which means you’ll feel every bite and hook set with greater sensitivity. Additionally, its smaller diameter-to-strength ratio means you can fit more line on your reel without sacrificing strength.

“I swear by using braided line when I’m rigging my planers, ” said professional angler John Smith.”It allows me to detect the subtlest of bites from finicky fish.”

However, monofilament still has its place in certain situations. It floats better than braid, making it ideal for topwater presentations like poppers or chuggers. And while it may not have the sensitivity of braid, that slight bit of stretch can act as shock absorber when fighting larger fish.

Another consideration is visibility. While both types come in varying colors and weights, some anglers believe that colored monofilament (especially green) is less visible underwater compared to brightly-colored braid.

“I’ve always used clear monofilament because it’s almost invisible submerged beneath the surface, ” shared recreational fisherman Jane Doe.”Plus, I think it gives me an added advantage when targeting wary fish.”

In either case, proper rigging technique is key for success. Make sure your knot is strong enough to withstand the force generated by the planer pulling through the water but won’t affect casting distance or lure action.

Ultimately choosing between using braid and mono when rigging a planer depends on personal preferences and specific fishing conditions such as target species or depth of water being fished.

Attaching The Planer To The Line

Rigging a planer for fishing may seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually quite simple once you know what to do. One of the most important steps is attaching the planer to your fishing line correctly. This will help your bait or lure run at the desired depth and increase your chances of catching fish.

Firstly, select the appropriate size of planer based on the type of fish you are targeting and the tackle you are using. Attach a snap swivel to the rear clevis of the planer by running one end of the swivel through the hole in the clevis and securing with a split shot.

“When rigging a planer, make sure to choose an appropriate size and attach a snap swivel securely.” – Expert Angler

Next, take your main fishing line and tie another snap swivel onto it using your preferred knot (such as an improved clinch knot or Palomar knot). It’s essential that this knot is strong enough as it will carry both the weight of your sinkers and any pressure from pulling in fish.

You then want to connect these two snap swivels together; ensure they close tightly so there isn’t any chance of accidental opening when casting or reeling in. You can use pliers to clamp them down if needed.

“Never overlook connecting your snap swivels carefully; losing a catch due to poor knots is very frustrating!” – Experienced Fisherperson

A slip sinker should be added just before tying on your hook or lure below where you attached your mainline snap swivel. This allows your bait/lure to follow behind without being restricted by its weight while creating enough resistance for slackening bites.

The final step before casting is to adjust the depth of your planer by adding sinkers or using different rods that offer more buoyancy in order for it to dive deeper. Once you have got all this sorted, you’re ready to get cast out there and start fishing!

“Rigging a planer can be very effective once set up correctly; don’t forget details like adjusting depth with weights.” – Passionate Angler

Using The Right Knot

When it comes to rigging a planer for fishing, the type of knot you use is crucial. A poorly tied knot can cause your bait or lure to spin and tangle your line, reducing your chances of making a catch.

One of the most effective knots for rigging a planer is the snap swivel knot. This knot securely attaches your leader to the snap swivel on the planer without causing excess drag in the water.

“A strong connection between your line and planer is essential for successful trolling, ” said Captain Jim from Fishing Refined.

To tie a snap swivel knot, start by passing your monofilament through the eye of the snap swivel. Then create a loop with the tag end and wrap it around both lines at least five times. Finally, pass the tag end back through the loop created and pull tight before clipping off any remaining ends.

If you prefer using braided lines instead of monofilament, then a uni-knot will work better for attaching your leader to the snap swivel. This knot works well because braided lines have less stretch than monofilament, allowing you to feel even subtle bites more easily.

The key thing to remember when tying an uni-knot is to moisten it with saliva or water before pulling it tight. This will prevent heat build-up as you tighten down on the knot and keep it from weakening over time due to friction.

“The uni-knot is simple yet versatile enough for all kinds of fishing scenarios, ” explained Captain Mike from Reel Adventure Charters.

In addition to using high-quality snaps and swivels that won’t corrode in saltwater environments, always double-check that your knots are fully tightened before heading out onto the water. A loose knot can cause your line to break and potentially lose a fish before you even get the chance to reel it in.

By using the right knot and ensuring that everything is securely tied, you’ll be able to rig your planer like a pro and increase your chances of catching more fish on every outing.

Attaching The Lure Or Bait

The first step in rigging a planer for fishing is attaching the lure or bait. There are various types of lures and baits to choose from depending on the type of fish you’re trying to catch.

When using live bait, it’s important to hook the bait so that it remains alive as long as possible. It’s also important not to use too large a hook which may harm or kill your baitfish.

“Choosing the right variety of artificial lure can make all the difference when fishing.” – John Angler

If you’re using an artificial lure, part of attaching your lure involves selecting one based on what species you intend to catch. Jigs work well for bass while crankbaits and topwater lures tend to attract pike better. There are countless styles, colors and sizes available designed with different aspects in mind such as light conditions, water color etc.

Before choosing a particular type of tackle we recommend consulting specialty shops or seasoned fishermen who will be able to assist you in finding a suitable option.

“Experience is key here: before purchasing any gear I would suggest talking to friends (or professional guides) about their favourite rigs and most productive equipment choices” – Mike Fisher

Eyebolts must be attached securely at both ends of the planer board cable then crimped tightly onto the eyelets at either side of each tee inline sinker whereas swivels are used between tees especially where there is likely to be heavy currents present just so that items like snap weights don’t slide up into weaker connections along your setup even more if they come loose during usage.

In conclusion, now that we have walked through some general tips let me highlight how this should look piece by piece. First, you will need to put your chosen lure or bait on the fishing line then attach a leader through which snap weight clips (or even lead sinkers) can be attached to add depth control for open-water trolling.

Leader Length

When rigging a planer for fishing, one important factor to consider is the length of the leader that connects your bait/lure to the planer. Leader length can have a significant impact on the success of your fishing trip as it affects how visible your bait or lure appears in the water and how it moves.

The general rule of thumb when determining leader length is to use a longer leader when targeting fish that are easily scared off such as trout, salmon or other gamefish with excellent eyesight. Short leaders work well for species like catfish who tend not to spook easily and even actively look for prey.

Longer leaders will give you more leeway with less aggressive fish that might be wary about approaching something too obvious. If you are working near rocky shorelines or weedy areas where visibility may be murky despite crystal clear waters- then shorter leaders will do better at attracting attention quickly before disappearing into hiding again once they get close enough.

“I always believe in using a longer leader when there’s potential danger lurking around.” -Bassmaster Classic champion Rick Clunn

As Clunn notes- sometimes where you’re angling determines much about what works best — but another vital aspect is also how finicky those particular target fish happen to be: if they are cautious eaters – employing thin fluorocarbon could make all the difference versus anything else which blindsides them towards an unexpected catch from afar.

A common misconception amongst anglers is that attaching the planer directly onto the lure would provide greater accuracy while catching more number of fishes. However, doing so results in diminished action which indicates less natural behavior ultimately resulting in fewer bites! By increasing this distance by using different leads lengths – anywhere between 20 to over 100 feet long (depending on your target catch) you’ll create more interest for that particular quarry.

Taking the time to choose the proper leader length can make all of difference in how effective your planer rig is. Simple tweaks like line thickness, lure size and leader length take a bit of practice but will greatly help towards catering for different fish preferences- ones who may want more visibility before striking while others prefer it kept at arms length until eradicating any doubt they aren’t on alert.

Adjusting The Planer

If you’re planning to go fishing, then rigging a planer is an essential task. A planer is a device that helps your bait or lure reach deep into the water by creating drag on the line and taking it down with the current.

The first thing you need to do when adjusting your planer is to check its direction. Ensure that it’s pointing in the right direction as per your requirement before attaching it to the fishing line. This simple step might save you from losing your catch!

“A good fisherman always checks his equipment before heading out for fishing, ” – John Smith.

An important element of rigging a planer is choosing the correct size according to the depth of water where you’re going fishing. Deeper waters may require heavier plans while shallow areas can make do with lightweight ones.

Once secured, adjust your planer using weights and snaps located at various points on either side of your boat. These help set up exactly how much drag each individual anglers’ setup needs so they don’t miss any bites along their route! Always remember not all boats are built equal, finding what works best may take some trial and error but once dialed in this technique can be deadly effective towards catching more fish than one could ever dream possible.

“Rigging a planer successfully takes patience and diligence because every choice has consequences.” – Jack Frost

You should also pay attention to how far behind your boat the lines extend if you want better results. Typically, anywhere between seventy-five and two hundred feet away from the vessel is ideal since predators follow schools of prey deeper undersea until covered which conceals them very quickly without warning.

All these factors contribute significantly towards effectively rigging a planner for successful fishing trips. Therefore, understanding how and when to adjust them is one of the most crucial lessons that any angler can learn, especially in pursuit of bigger fish.

Depth Control

If you want to increase your chances of catching fish while trolling, planer boards are a great tool to use. These boards work by pulling the line attached to them out from the side of the boat and away from any disturbances caused by your boat’s motor.

Rigging a planer board for fishing requires some knowledge and skills in depth control. Setting up your equipment rig properly will allow you to have more precision over how deep your lure runs underwater. The primary things required for this include a quality rod, an effective reel, backing line, mainline, leader material, swivel or snap clips and lures with weights.

“The weight of the bait and size of blade also affect run direction, ” says Jim Hauer, professional angler.

One critical factor when it comes to planning a lure dive is understanding that each different model of board will actuate differently depending on design elements such as shape or keel width. Some work better than others at maintaining depth during turns.

A common way of determining exactly where below the surface water your rig might be located involves attaching what’s known as Depth Controlling Devices (DCD). DCDs come in handy once you’re certain about weighted power given back with/against current inside water surfaces along bottom depths etc; then position yourself directly behind whatever craft has been selected so as not interfere adversely nor generate excess wave action near their floating buoyancy devices i. e. , bobbers or floats—increasing drift -area footprint unnecessarily—and lower said device until another mark shows its maximum level achieved before slowly raising/releasing intervals if needed based upon currents/tide changes under switchback conditions off anchor ups above various bends creek beds shoreline drop-offs ledges holes etc…

You must take into account factors like trolling speed and wind direction when fishing offshore. Knowing how much your lure will be influenced by wind and current is crucial. You can adjust the distance between your line and planer board to a particular angle for it to go deeper or shallower in the water.

“Even if you think you know what depth you want, there’s going to be some testing involved, ” says Capt. George Mitchell of Southport, North Carolina.”

The key thing when dredging successfully with this setup–along rolling waves simulating a subtle “S” course evoked from design of patterns by rigged lures themselves that imitate preyfish movements such as natural undulations mimicking movement around live bait schools like classic spoon rigs sometimes referred-to as butterfly jigs—are maintaining precision positioning relative aforethought mentioned variables. ”

Direction Control

If you’re a seasoned angler, you know that planer boards are crucial to your trolling success. These devices make it possible to spread lures across a wider area and allow for greater control over the direction of your fishing path. However, it’s not enough to simply attach these floatation devices to your line – proper rigging is key to their effectiveness.

To start, choose a heavy-duty snap swivel with a 100-pound test rating. Attach one end of the snap swivel directly to your mainline and tie on a leader line – around eight feet in length depending on how deep you wish your bait presentation will be- using an improved clinch knot. At the other end of this leader line, place another snap swivel which should hold onto the planer board itself.

To ensure maximum stability while setting up or changing equipment, use gloves when handling inline boards such as Off Shore Tackle’s OR12 Side Planers Pigtail Leader Line. After examining all components involved (such as hooks or pegs), loop our lead core or braided running line through any holes provided by said board manufacturer until completely secure via two half hitches; then attach trailing lure hardware at opposite extreme ends from where initially secured.

“Learning to rig a planer properly means more fish in your cooler.”

Once both sides have been rigged correctly with equal amounts of tension applied throughout each side’s connected lines leading into respective boat cleats or downriggers – gradually steer off course according to desired distance away from centerline allowing hooksets without traversing nearby propeller washes at optimal speed range: usually between 1. 5 mph and 2. 5 mph overall depending upon wind condition variables present during usage time frame chosen!

Rigging a planer can be intimidating for those who are less experienced, but with the right approach and attention to detail, it’s possible to master this technique. Proper rigging is essential to giving your lures the proper depth of presentation while maintaining control over your trolling path.

When it comes down to it, every angler has their own way of doing things – but when you put in the time and effort into learning how to properly rig a planer board system, you’ll quickly see why they’re such an important tool in any seasoned angler’s arsenal.

Tips And Tricks

If you’re an avid fisherman, one of the things that you must learn is how to rig a planer for fishing. A planer board is a device that helps you get your bait out further from your boat, which means you can cover more water and increase your chances of catching fish. Below are some tips and tricks for successfully rigging a planer:

“Rigging up for deploying large lures or live baits by using a well-designed spread will ensure fewer tangles resulting in less frustration and more time with lines deployed.” – Captain Charlie Ellis

First off, make sure that everything is set up properly before hitting the water. This includes having the correct size planers, clips, knots, leaders, and weights. Also note that there are different types of planers available depending on whether you’re trolling freshwater or saltwater.

One important thing to keep in mind when rigging a planer is to maintain adequate distance between two boards at all times while trolling so as to not entangle the lines around each other causing unnecessary confusion.

When it comes to attaching your line to the planer clip, use caution- too much tension on these small clips may cause them to slip off especially during sudden head shaking runs from larger gamefish like striped bass affecting overall angler performance.

“Planers need regular checking throughout their trip because debris often attaches itself inconspicuously hidden in front flanges needs attention immediately.” – Alan Clegg

In addition to proper setup and maintaining distance between boards, keeping an eye on your equipment while out on the water is crucial. Inspect the boards periodically for any signs of wear and tear, such as frayed edges or loose components.

Finally, don’t forget about safety. Always wear a life jacket when on the water, and avoid rigging or handling planers while standing up in a boat.

By following these tips and tricks for rigging your planer board correctly, you’ll be well on your way to catching more fish!

Using A Release Clip

When it comes to fishing with planers, using a release clip is an essential component of the rig. These clips hold onto the fishing line and keep tension on it until a fish bites. Once that happens, the clip releases the line from the planer and allows you to reel in your catch.

To rig up a planer for fishing with a release clip, first tie your mainline to one end of the clip using a standard knot like an improved clinch or Palomar knot. Then, attach the other end of the clip to your planer by running its metal wire through the hole at the top of the clip and securing it there with another knot.

“A well-rigged planer will help me conserve energy and save time when trying to land those elusive big catches.” – Professional Fisherman John Smith

If you’re planning on trolling multiple lines at once, be sure to give each one enough space between them so they don’t get tangled up. Additionally, use heavier weights near the centerlines of your boat and lighter ones closer to its edges. This distribution helps create an effective spread while minimizing tangles during turns and maneuvers.

Once everything is rigged and ready, put out your baited lines behind your moving boat and watch as they soar away from you thanks to properly attached planers. The key now is being vigilant about watching for signs of movement or striking fish! When this happens quickly adjust rod pressure until you feel resistance then reel in carefully!

In conclusion, attaching a release clip to rigging up planers can make all difference when trying to reel in bigger catches efficiently. Taking these steps helps ensure success regardless if on open seas or winding rivers.

Adding A Diving Weight

If you’re looking to rig a planer for fishing, one of the essential steps is adding a diving weight. This will ensure that your lure gets to the desired depth and can attract fish in that region.

The first step is determining how much weight you’ll need. The amount needed often depends on factors like water conditions, target species and bait size.

“It’s important to do some research beforehand and come prepared with different weights so you can test them out until you find what works best, ” said seasoned angler Jack Hernandez.

Most anglers suggest starting with a 1-2 oz weight and adjusting it based on the above-mentioned variables. Once the appropriate weight has been determined, attach it about three feet from your lure.

“You want to make sure there’s enough distance between the two so that they aren’t interfering with each other but close enough that they look natural together, ” shared veteran fisherman Mike Johnson.

To attach the weight, use a snap swivel or loop knot to connect it to your line. You may also want to consider using an inline sinker if you prefer its design over traditional weights.

In addition to selecting the right weight, be mindful of where you place it. Placing too much weight near the front of your line can cause your planer board to tip forward which affects its performance negatively in terms of tracking straight through water currents.

“To avoid tipping issues, always add more weight towards the back end of your line rather than at the front, ” advised professional fisherman Liz Kim.”

Rigging a planer for fishing requires attention-to-detail, patience and plenty of experimentation before finding success. With these tips in mind though – including properly attaching a diving weight – you can up your chances of catching that prized fish.

Frequently Asked Questions