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Principles and benefits of light coastal trolling
The aim is to simulate a fleeing fish or prey in order to attract predators such as sea bass, mackerel, bonito, jacks, or even barracuda and tuna in certain regions. Light trolling is characterized by finer, lighter tackle, which gives a better feel for the bite and a more technical fight, with catches that are often moderate in size but combative. It is accessible to beginners, while offering a level of technical skill to be refined for enthusiasts.âeuros
The equipment used
A rod between 1.8 and 2.5 m long, light but strong, with a moderate to lively action, is ideal for bite detection and fast striking.
A medium-sized spinning reel (3000-5000) with a sufficiently gentle adjustable brake is sufficient for many species of fish.
The line is often made of nylon or fine braid, from 10 to 30 lb in strength, depending on the size of the fish you're after.
As for the leader, a fluorocarbon or thicker nylon, highly resistant to abrasion, is suitable with solid swivels to avoid twisting.
Various lures and baits can be used, such as soft lures, wobbling spoons, swimming fish, as well as natural baits such as sardines or squid for live-bait trolling.âeuros
Techniques specific to light trolling
Trolling speed is essential to optimize the lure's swimming action, varying from 1.5 knots (for soft lures/imitations of wounded prey) to 4 knots (for faster lures or spoons).
Trolling depth is also important. Depth can be adjusted with weights, boards or sliding float versions, as predators hunt at different depths.
The multiplication of lines with the simultaneous use of several rods (2 to 4) at different depths and distances makes it possible to cover as much ground as possible.
As far as animations are concerned, trolling with the hand (held line) allows you to feel the touch with precision, while trolling with the rod (free line in the rod holder) makes it easier to manage several lines.
Reading the environment is essential, you need to know the bottom, the currents, the fish feeding points (rocks, sea grass, drop-offs) to best position your line and find the species you want.âeuros
Target areas and species
In temperate waters (Atlantic, Channel, Mediterranean), we mainly target sea bass, mackerel, bonito, cuttlefish and amberjack.
In tropical waters, the technique can also be used to target trevally, tuna, barracuda and other large species.âeuros
Benefits and practical advice
- Light trolling allows versatile fishing along the coast, from small boats or RIBs.
- It's a dynamic technique, offering consistent strokes and a fighting feel.
- It is advisable to regularly vary lure types and sizes, speeds and depths to adapt to conditions and fish behaviour.
- The choice of trolling zones should favour natural and artificial structures attractive to predators.
- In rough seas, adapt lures and reduce speed to maximize the lure's natural swimming action.âeuros
CÃ'tière légégère trolling is an accessible, highly effective and fun method for catching a wide variety of fish in coastal environments. It does, however, require a certain knowledge of the equipment, target species and marine conditions to get the most out of it.âeuros
