Helpful trout fishing gear recommendations and tips.
A size 3000/30 or 4000/40 spinning reel is ideal for steelhead fishing. You will want a durable reel with a strong and easily adjustable drag and enough line capacity to better control the fish during the fight. A steelhead reel should also be lightweight, as you often hold your rod and reel for many hours.
Because of their enormous size and raw strength, bringing a landing net with you is essential when fishing for lakers. Not only will it help you land your trophy catch, but it’s also beneficial for the fish, which is especially important if you want to release it.
Because steelhead are so strong and wild, landing them can sometimes be a real challenge. That’s why you should always have a net with you when fishing for steelies. It’s the best way to ensure you land your prized catch. And no one wants to lose a trophy fish.
When jigging for lake trout, you should use a 6 or 7′ medium-heavy rod with a strong backbone and fast action. A 7 to 9′ medium Great Lakes Trolling rod with moderate action is your best pick when trolling for lakers. Both rod types should also have increased sensitivity.
The best ice fishing rods for lake trout are somewhat longer, have a strong backbone, and provide excellent action for different presentations. They will give you enough force for a strong hookset and can even be used as a dead stick.
When jigging for lake trout through the ice, a braided mainline of 10-15lb is your best pick. The best ice fishing line for lakers on the tip-up would be a 25-30lb vinyl-coated polyester line.