Trolling from a boat is not just wiring bait behind the engine, but a complex tactic that requires specific equipment. The key element And not only is it spinning, but it's also a coil that has to withstand tremendous static and dynamic loads, and unlike the classic spinning, where throw and weight are important, trolling is very important. wood-intensityFriction reliability and durability of the mechanism at constant operation under tension.
Many novice anglers make the mistake of trying to use conventional non-inertial meat grinders for serious fishing at great depths. pulp Or worse, when a trophy pike or pike descends at a critical moment, a properly matched coil ensures that the cord is evenly stacked, that resistance is fine-tuned, and that heavy downriggers or slugs can be used.
In this article, we will look at all the nuances of choice, from the type of mechanism to specific models that have proven themselves in harsh conditions. multiplet Often, it is preferable to de-inertia, how to calculate the desired size and what technical parameters to pay attention to first, a competent approach to choosing a winch will save you money and nerves during fishing.
Types of trolling coils: Multipliers vs. non-inertia
The main choice is between two designs: multiplier and non-inertial coils. Multipliers (Kegs) have historically been considered the standard for trolling because of their power and ability to work with thick cords, they have a direct drive, which gives an advantage in the strength of the drag, and often equipped with a line counter, which is critical for accurate slogging of Wobbles.
The naturalertial coils are also used, but mainly in light trolling or in shallow water with thin cords, and their main advantage is the ease of throwing, if you want to change points often, and the absence of the need to adjust to the rotation of the handle. gear-rate Often does not allow you to quickly exhaust large volumes of fishing line, and the mechanism is less resistant to constant high tension.
⚠️ Note: The use of light spinning non-inertional coils (size 1000-2500 according to Shimano classification) for trolling at depths of more than 3-4 meters is strictly not recommended. The mechanism of such coils is not designed for long-term operation under load and can collapse.
When choosing a type, it's important to consider ergonomics, too: Multipliers require getting used to the thumb when braking the spools, but provide better control. Non-essential fishers are more common than most anglers, but they lose in reliability when dealing with a large predator. Transfer ratio In trolling, you usually choose medium or low (from 4.0:1 to 5.5:1) to increase traction.
Critical parameters: forest intensity and number of bearings
The first parameter to look at is wood-intensityRiver trolling usually requires a winding of 150 to 200 meters of cord diameter 0.25-0.30 mm. If you plan to catch at great depths or use downriggers, this figure should be much higher - 300-400 meters. Incomplete winding of the spoole leads to improper fishing line descent and reduced wiring range.
The number of bearings is a parameter that's been around a lot of myths, and it's not the number that matters, it's the quality and the location. timber-roller bearing (in multiples) or shaft-bearer A good trolling coil must have a minimum of 4-6 quality stainless steel bearings to resist corrosion and sand.
- 🎣 Shell material: Aviation aluminum or graphite with reinforcement is preferred, plastic is permissible only in budget models for small pikes.
- 🎣 Moisture protection: The presence of sealing gaskets (O-rings) at all joints of the body is necessary to protect the lubricant.
- 🎣 Weight: For trolling, the weight of the coil is secondary, a heavy metal body is even preferable, since it better removes heat and extinguishes vibrations.
Don't chase a record number of bearings in cheap models. Often manufacturers put a lot of cheap bushings that rust quickly. ball-bearingTwelve people who will start to crunch after the first trip to the water.
Make sure you check for a spare set of pads and washers in the kit. In trolling, trifles decide everything, and you can't find a specific puck for a particular model in a fishing store on the shore.
Friction tormon: the importance of smoothness and adjustment
The friction mechanism is the heart of any trolling coil, and it takes the predator's first push and extinguishes its energy. front-friction (in animators, a stellar or a trigger), because it provides a more accurate and fine-tuning, the rear friction in non-inertials is less reliable at long loads.
A high-quality friction should work perfectly smoothly, without jerks and dips. When you fish a large fish in the course, the load on the tackle changes every second. If the friction sticks or, on the contrary, it is too easy to give the fishing line, this will lead to the fact that the strain will "stick" or, on the contrary, too easy to give the fishing line, it will lead to the development of the fish. fish-fish Modern models are equipped with instantaneous back-rotation stopper systems, which eliminates the backhand.
Many professional trollers use two-friction coils, the primary and the secondary (Levers Drag) as in marine models, which allows you to quickly switch between wiring and catching mode. disk-friction with a wide range of adjustment.
⚠️ Warning: Never tighten the friction "to the point" during wiring. Schnor must begin to draw at a load of about 70-80% of the breaking load of the cord used to cushion the fish's jerks.
The counter line: necessity or marketing?
The Line Counter is what distinguishes a professional trolling coil from a normal spinning coil, and it allows you to know exactly how many meters of cords are worn, which is critical for repeating successful wiring. With the exact length of the vacation, you can lower the wobler into the same one each time. catch-pointWhere there was a bite.
Mechanical meters are more reliable, battery-free and visible in the bright sun, electronic meters, more precisely, can have backlighting and additional functions, but are afraid of moisture and battery discharge. The presence of a fishing line counter is a prerequisite for efficient fish search and retracting wobblers.
Using a counter, you can create a fan of baits at different depths and distances from the boat without fear of overlapping. You know for sure, if a Wobler goes at 5 meters of vacation, it goes at a depth of 2 meters, and at 15 meters it is already 4 meters, which makes chaotic fishing into a systemic process.
How do you calibrate the line counter?
The meter must be calibrated to a specific cord diameter, unwind exactly 10 meters of the line (measure with a roulette), then press the reset or calibration button on the coil (according to the instructions) so that the meter readings match reality. Without calibration, readings can lie up to 20%.
Comparison of popular models for trolling
The market offers many options, but the leadership is held by several proven brands. Below is a comparative table of popular models that have proven themselves in the conditions of Russian fishing.
| Model coil. | Type | Resistance to wood (m/mm) | Weight (g) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daiwa Sealine SL 20-30 | Multiplier | 360 / 0.30 | 460 | Classic, counter, reliability |
| Shimano Tekota 300-500 | Multiplier | 370 / 0.30 | 540 | Smooth stroke, high-quality metal |
| Ryobi Ecusima 6000 | Non-inertial | 200 / 0.30 | 620 | Budget option for light |
| Abu Garcia Ambassadeur 6500 | Multiplier | 270 / 0.30 | 540 | Legendary reliability, repairability |
| Salmo Diamond TROLL 5 | Multiplier | 300 / 0.30 | 480 | Affordable price, counter in the database |
When you choose a particular model, you should focus not only on price, but also on the availability of service. Daiwa and Shimano They often have a more complex design, but provide the highest comfort. Abu Garcia It's famous for its indestructibility and simplicity, which is important for long-distance expeditions, and budget options may require replacement lubrication and testing of bearings immediately after purchase.
The optimal choice for a novice trollingist will be a multiplier coil size of 20-30 according to the Daiwa / Shimano classification with a built-in fishing line counter and a forest capacity of at least 300 meters of a 0.30 mm cord.
Maintenance and care of the coil in trolling conditions
Trolling is extreme, and the constant tension, the water, the sand, the sun, and the impacts on the boat quickly disable even high-quality equipment. maintenance After each fishing, the coil should be wiped with a wet cloth and sprayed with a corrosion protection spray.
Once a season, and when fishing is active, more often, it requires a complete dismantling, cleaning of the old lubricant and applying a new one. wood-roller The sand that gets inside the mechanism works like an abrasive, destroying friction vapors, and using sea lubricant is a must if you fish in salt water or just want maximum protection.
- 🔧 Regularly check the tightening of the screws attaching the coil's paw to the rod.
- 🔧 Watch the condition of the handle: backlash at the connection point with the body is unacceptable.
- 🔧 Keep the coil in an untightened state (friction weakened) so that the springs do not lose elasticity.
Don't ignore the outside sounds. Screaming, crunching, or cranking are the first symptoms of a malfunction. friction You start to work in jerks, don't wait for the cord to break, you start servicing the mechanism immediately. In trolling, the reliability of the gear directly affects the result and the safety of expensive baits.
☑️ Seasonal T. O.s
Which cord is better to choose for a trolling coil?
A circular wicker cord is ideal for trolling, it doesn't stretch, which gives you better sensitivity, and it has a smaller diameter at the same strength, allowing you to fit more lines on the spoole. The cord color can be bright (to control the arc) or dark (to mask), but most importantly - resistance to abrasion.
Can a coil be used for trolling when catching a throw?
Technically, you can, especially if it's a multiplier with a throw braking system. But trolling coils are often heavier and have different gear ratios, which makes them less comfortable for frequent throws. Universal models exist, but they usually compromise in specialization.
How often should I change the cord on the trolling coil?
The wicker cord with active trolling is recommended to be changed once every 1-2 seasons. It loses strength due to ultraviolet light and abrasion against the shell or snag. If you notice the "shaky" cord or a change in color, it is better to replace it so as not to lose the trophy.
What to do if the coil falls into the water?
Remove it immediately, rinse it with fresh water (even if it falls into fresh water to wash off the silt) and disassemble it as soon as possible for drying and lubricating. Don't try to twist the handle while the water is inside - this will drive the abrasive deeper into the mechanism.