Outfitting Your Boat

19990245-1630473283676889-6748218717443694717-n.jpgWhen you rig a boat for trolling, you will want it to provide you and your buddies with the most enjoyable fishing trips you could ask for. Here are some time proven trolling boat layouts. If you fish alone in a small tiller boat, then mounting the downriggers at the transom is the most practical choice. You can keep everything in easy reach, eliminating the need to get up and move around the boat. (See illustration 1)

 

If two or more people are fishing in a small boat, try mounting the downriggers midship. Everybody can reach the downriggers and rods from either end of the boat. Pedestal mounts may be needed for the downriggers to clear the gunwales of the boat, while swivel mounting bases will make for easier docking of the boat. (See illustration 2)

 

On larger console style boats, a pair of Captain's Paks® on swivel mounting bases are a popular arrangment.  The swivel mounting bases allow you to spread your lines wider when fishing and can be turned inline with the gunwales when the boat comes to the dock. (See illustration 3)

 

 

If your boat is large enough for a fishing party, mount a pair of Pro Sportsman at the transom and a pair of Captain's Paks® on swivel mounting bases further forward on the gunwales.  With this many lines in the water, your lure presentation will resemble a school of bait fish. (See illustration 4)

 

The same kind of presentation can be achieved by installing four Captain's Paks® on a removable transom bar.  The whole downrigging system can be removed as one unit when using your boat for other purposes. (See illustration 5)

 

 

When installing a planer rigger system, there are two important facts to remember.  First, the taller your mast is, the greater distance your planers will travel from the sides of your boat.  Second, the futher forward you mount your mast, the less distance your planers will travel behind your transom.  Both points will effect navagation and line control. (See illustration 6)

 

A popular method of mounting a planer mast is to use a pedestal seat mount (contact our Service Department for this custom order).  They can be made to fit most seat bases that are found on most boats.  The seat mount makes the mast easily removable for storage.
(See illustration 7)

 

 

Two single reel planer mast mounted on the gunwales just behind the cabin or canopy top are popular for larger boats where the bow is not as easily accessable. (See illustration 8)

 

 

 

You can upgrade your mast with a pair of electric planer reels.  Big Jon® electric reels come complete with remote switches and circuit breakers, so you can operate them from the boat's cabin. (See illustration 9)

 
 
 
Plan your boat for comfort and safety. Having too much equipment, or having it located in the wrong place can hamper your ability to move around freely.  Before mounting any equipment, get in your boat with your fishing buddies and discuss the best location for each piece of equipment.  All equipment should be easily accessible to all fishermen.