Wahoo fishing is an exciting and rewarding experience, but setting up trolling weights can be a bit tricky. That’s why we’ve created the ultimate guide to help you catch more fish today! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, these tips and tricks will help you set up your trolling weights like a pro.
First and foremost, it’s important to understand why trolling weights are essential for Wahoo fishing. By using the right type of weight, you can keep your bait at the right depth, increase your chances of getting a strike, and prevent your line from tangling. We’ll go over the top types of trolling weights to use for Wahoo fishing, as well as step-by-step instructions on how to set them up.
Our expert tips will help you refine your technique, and we’ll also cover common mistakes to avoid when setting up trolling weights for Wahoo fishing. By the end of this guide, you’ll have everything you need to know to catch more fish and have a successful day out on the water. So, let’s get started!
Ready to take your Wahoo fishing game to the next level? Keep reading for our top tips and tricks on how to set up trolling weights like a pro!
Table of Contents
Why Using Trolling Weights is Essential for Wahoo Fishing Success
If you want to increase your chances of success when fishing for Wahoo, using trolling weights is essential. Trolling weights can be used to help you get your bait to the right depth and keep it there, which is crucial for catching Wahoo.
Without trolling weights, you may find it difficult to keep your bait at the right depth, and you could miss out on catching the fish that you’re after. Additionally, trolling weights can help you cover more ground and reach areas that you wouldn’t be able to otherwise.
Benefits of Using Trolling Weights for Wahoo Fishing
- Increased Depth Control: With trolling weights, you can easily adjust the depth of your bait to match where the Wahoo are biting.
- Better Lure Action: Trolling weights can help your lure maintain its intended action, even at high speeds, which is crucial for catching Wahoo.
- Increased Coverage: By using trolling weights, you can cover more ground and increase your chances of finding Wahoo.
Types of Trolling Weights
When it comes to selecting trolling weights for Wahoo fishing, there are several options to choose from. Some of the most popular types of trolling weights include:
- Cigar Weights: These weights are designed to be used with natural bait and can help you reach depths of up to 60 feet.
- Bullet Weights: Bullet weights are designed to be used with artificial lures and can help you reach depths of up to 20 feet.
- Downrigger Weights: Downriggers are a type of trolling weight that can be used to reach depths of up to 200 feet.
Tips for Using Trolling Weights for Wahoo Fishing
If you’re new to using trolling weights for Wahoo fishing, there are a few tips that can help you get started:
- Experiment with Different Depths: Wahoo can be found at a variety of depths, so it’s important to experiment with different depths until you find what works best.
- Keep Your Lures Clean: Wahoo are attracted to shiny lures, so it’s important to keep your lures clean and free of debris.
- Use High-Quality Tackle: When fishing for Wahoo, it’s important to use high-quality tackle that can withstand the fight of these powerful fish.
Using trolling weights can be the difference between a successful day on the water and going home empty-handed. With the right trolling weights and techniques, you can increase your chances of catching Wahoo and have a great day on the water.
The Top Types of Trolling Weights to Use for Wahoo Fishing
When it comes to catching Wahoo, using the right trolling weights is crucial. Here are two types of trolling weights that are highly effective:
Barrel Weights: These weights are shaped like a barrel and are great for trolling at high speeds. They offer less drag in the water which makes it easier to fish at higher speeds.
Fish Shaped Weights: These weights are designed to look like a fish and are effective in attracting Wahoo. They create more drag than barrel weights and are great for trolling at slower speeds.
Bullet Head Trolling Weights
Bullet head trolling weights are great for trolling at high speeds. They are designed to cut through the water and offer less resistance which makes it easier to fish at high speeds.
Keel Weights
Keel weights are designed to create more drag in the water which makes them great for trolling at slower speeds. They are typically used in combination with a fish-shaped lure to attract Wahoo.
Tear Drop Trolling Weights
Tear drop trolling weights are designed to be highly versatile. They work well at both slow and high speeds, making them a great all-around option for Wahoo fishing.
- Barrel Weights are perfect for trolling at high speeds.
- Fish Shaped Weights are great for trolling at slower speeds and attracting Wahoo.
- Bullet Head Trolling Weights are designed to cut through the water, making them perfect for high-speed trolling.
- Keel Weights create more drag in the water, making them ideal for trolling at slower speeds.
- Tear Drop Trolling Weights are a versatile option that works well at both slow and high speeds.
Using the right type of trolling weight for the situation is important to maximize your chances of catching Wahoo. Experiment with different weights and find the ones that work best for you. Keep reading for more tips on how to set up your trolling weight for Wahoo fishing success!
Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Set Up Trolling Weights for Wahoo Fishing
Wahoo is a prized game fish, and trolling with weights is one of the most effective ways to catch them. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to set up trolling weights for wahoo fishing.
First, choose the right trolling weight. Lead, steel, and keel weights are the most commonly used weights for trolling, and they come in a variety of sizes. The weight you choose will depend on the size of your lure and the speed at which you’re trolling.
Step 1: Attach the Weight to the Line
- Take your trolling weight and slide it onto your main fishing line.
- Attach a swivel to the end of the line to prevent the weight from sliding off.
- Use a snap swivel for easy weight changes.
Step 2: Add a Leader
Attach a leader to the end of the main line using a swivel. Fluorocarbon leaders are the best option for wahoo fishing as they are abrasion-resistant and invisible in the water.
Step 3: Attach the Lure
- Tie your favorite wahoo lure to the end of the leader using a loop knot or a double line knot.
- Make sure the lure is centered and balanced to prevent it from spinning or twisting in the water.
- Set your trolling speed and let out enough line so that the weight is at the desired depth.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to set up trolling weights for wahoo fishing like a pro. Remember to always check your gear before heading out on the water and adjust your trolling speed and depth as needed to find the fish.
Expert Tips and Tricks for Using Trolling Weights to Catch More Wahoo
If you want to improve your chances of catching Wahoo while trolling, it’s important to use the right trolling weights and techniques. Here are some expert tips and tricks to help you catch more Wahoo:
Use Heavy Trolling Weights
Wahoo are known for their speed and strength, so it’s important to use heavy trolling weights to keep your bait at the right depth. Experts recommend using weights that are at least 3 pounds or more. This will help you get your bait down to the Wahoo’s preferred depth quickly and keep it there.
Adjust the Depth of Your Trolling Weights
The depth at which you set your trolling weights is crucial when fishing for Wahoo. You’ll need to experiment to find the right depth, but a good rule of thumb is to set your weights between 20 and 50 feet below the surface. This will help you target Wahoo in their preferred depth range.
Use a Teaser Lure
- Using a teaser lure in front of your bait can be a great way to attract Wahoo and increase your chances of a bite. Teasers come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but experts recommend using large, brightly colored lures to mimic the appearance of a fleeing baitfish.
- When using a teaser, it’s important to keep it moving at a steady pace to create a lifelike action that will attract Wahoo. You can use a downrigger to keep your teaser at the right depth and distance from your bait.
Match Your Trolling Speed to the Conditions
- Wahoo are known for their speed, so it’s important to troll at the right speed to entice a bite. In general, experts recommend trolling at speeds between 6 and 12 knots. However, the optimal trolling speed will depend on the conditions and the type of bait you’re using.
- When trolling for Wahoo, it’s important to pay attention to your boat’s wake. A good rule of thumb is to adjust your trolling speed so that the baitfish you’re using are swimming just ahead of the wake.
By following these expert tips and tricks for using trolling weights, you can improve your chances of catching more Wahoo. Remember to experiment with different weights, depths, and trolling speeds to find the right combination for your fishing conditions.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Setting Up Trolling Weights for Wahoo Fishing
Setting up trolling weights can be a tricky process, especially when targeting wahoo. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
Using Too Much Weight
It’s easy to assume that more weight equals better results when fishing for wahoo, but this is not always the case. Using too much weight can actually cause your lure to move unnaturally, scaring away potential catches. Make sure to use the appropriate weight for the depth you’re fishing in and adjust as needed.
Other mistakes to avoid include:
- Not using a swivel to prevent line twists
- Using the wrong type of trolling weight for the lure being used
- Not adjusting the weight based on water temperature and currents
Improperly Rigging the Weight
Rigging your trolling weight correctly is just as important as choosing the right weight. One common mistake is rigging the weight too close to the lure, which can cause the lure to dive too deep or spin unnaturally. Make sure to rig the weight a sufficient distance from the lure and use a release clip to prevent the weight from interfering with the lure’s action.
Other rigging mistakes to avoid include:
- Not using a leader between the lure and the weight
- Not using a heavy enough leader for wahoo
- Using a release clip that is too weak or not adjusted properly
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can increase your chances of success when fishing for wahoo with trolling weights. Remember to always adjust your setup based on the conditions and pay close attention to how your lure is moving in the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a trolling weight?
A trolling weight is a weighted device used by anglers for trolling at various depths in the water column. The weight helps to keep the bait or lure at the desired depth while trolling. For Wahoo fishing, it’s important to choose the right weight to reach the desired depth where Wahoo typically feed.
How do I choose the right trolling weight for Wahoo fishing?
Choosing the right trolling weight for Wahoo fishing depends on the depth you plan to fish and the type of bait or lure you are using. A general rule of thumb is to use one pound of weight for every ten feet of depth. However, this can vary depending on the current and wind conditions.
How do I set up the trolling weight for Wahoo fishing?
Attach the trolling weight to the mainline using a snap swivel or loop knot. Then attach a leader to the other end of the trolling weight and attach the lure or bait to the leader. Make sure to adjust the leader length based on the depth you want to fish at.
Should I use a downrigger or planer with a trolling weight for Wahoo fishing?
Using a downrigger or planer with a trolling weight can help to get your bait or lure deeper in the water column, which can increase your chances of catching Wahoo. However, it’s not necessary to use them if you are fishing at shallower depths.
What type of line should I use with a trolling weight for Wahoo fishing?
When using a trolling weight for Wahoo fishing, it’s recommended to use a braided line with a high tensile strength. This type of line will help you to feel the bites better and also give you the strength needed to reel in a big Wahoo.
Can I use multiple trolling weights when Wahoo fishing?
Yes, using multiple trolling weights can be effective when Wahoo fishing. You can use different weights at different depths to cover more water and increase your chances of catching a Wahoo. Just make sure to use a swivel to attach each weight to prevent tangling.