Lake Michigan Kayak Trolling: A Comprehensive Guide for Anglers

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Lake Michigan Kayak Trolling is a popular and effective method for targeting various species of salmon and trout in the vast waters of Lake Michigan. Whether you’re a seasoned kayak angler or new to the sport, this comprehensive guide will provide you with the essential information and strategies to make the most of your Lake Michigan kayak fishing adventures.

Best Lures for Lake Michigan Kayak Trolling

Lake Michigan Kayak Trolling
Image Credit: Wikimedia

When it comes to Lake Michigan kayak trolling, certain lures have proven to be more effective than others. Here are some of the top-performing lures to consider:

  1. Acme Spoons: These versatile spoons, such as the Kastmaster and Little Cleo, are excellent choices for targeting salmon in Lake Michigan.
  2. Echotail Blade Baits: These lures create a tight, intense wobble that can be irresistible to salmon and trout. They come in a variety of sizes and weights to reach different depths.
  3. Crankbaits: The #7 Flicker Shad and Brads Thin Fish are popular crankbait options for Lake Michigan kayak trolling.
  4. Orange Lures: When targeting spring cohos, orange flashers and flies can be particularly effective.

Reaching Deeper Depths in Lake Michigan

Lake Michigan Kayak Trolling

Accessing the deeper waters of Lake Michigan is crucial for successful kayak trolling. Here are some techniques and equipment to help you reach those productive depths:

  1. Planer Boards: Offshore Tackle mini planer boards can be clipped onto your fishing line, allowing your lure to dive to the desired depth and pull your line out away from your kayak.
  2. Rod Holders: Sturdy rod holders, such as Scotty Powerlocks with 8.5-inch extension arms, can be used to adjust your lines and angles for optimal depth coverage.
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Targeting Near-Shore Structures

While the open waters of Lake Michigan can be productive, focusing on near-shore structures can also yield excellent results. Some key areas to target include:

  1. Harbors: Fishing in harbors is a common and productive near-shore structure to target on Lake Michigan.
  2. Marinas: Marinas can be another fruitful near-shore area to consider for kayak fishing.
  3. Tributary Rivers: Fishing near tributary rivers and river mouths can be a productive strategy.
  4. Commercial Fishing Nets: Marking the leading edges and paths through commercial fishing nets can be beneficial, as they act as structure and hold scattered schools of baitfish.

Safety and Equipment Considerations

Kayak fishing on Lake Michigan requires a strong focus on safety. Here are some essential equipment and considerations:

  1. Personal Flotation Device (PFD): A properly fitted PFD is a mandatory piece of safety equipment for kayak anglers.
  2. Depth Finder with GPS: A depth finder with GPS capabilities is highly recommended to mark bait and track areas that produce well throughout the season.
  3. Landing Net: A large net, such as the Frabill Power Stow Net, is essential for safely landing your catch from a kayak.
  4. LED Lights: Using LED lights can aid in knot tying and other tasks, especially during low-light conditions.

Additional Tips for Successful Lake Michigan Kayak Trolling

To ensure a safe and enjoyable kayak fishing experience on Lake Michigan, consider the following additional tips:

  1. Keep it Simple: Pack light and bring only the essential gear to maintain a comfortable and maneuverable kayak.
  2. Plan Ahead: Spend time planning your trip and ensuring that your safety equipment is in working order.
  3. Stealth Mode: Approaching your fishing spots with a stealthy approach can be key to successfully landing fish, especially in clear water conditions.
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By following the strategies and recommendations outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying successful and rewarding Lake Michigan kayak trolling adventures. Remember to always prioritize safety, respect the environment, and have fun on the water!

References

  1. Hobie. (2016, July 22). Rigging a Kayak for Great Lakes King Salmon Trolling. Retrieved from https://www.hobie.com/blog/rigging-kayak-great-lakes-king-salmon-trolling,547/
  2. YouTube. (n.d.). Lake Michigan Kayak Fishing. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLS36zqUKMVwCF11NCXLE06fEN1r8Acask
  3. Lake Michigan Angler. (n.d.). Rigging a Kayak for fishing. Retrieved from https://lakemichiganangler.com/pages/rigging-a-kayak-for-fishing
  4. YouTube. (2023, February 24). Lake Michigan Salmon & Trout: Kayak Fishing Adventure. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jADjEMxOoSY
  5. MidWest Outdoors. (n.d.). Kayak Cohos: Reaching Past a Cast from Shore. Retrieved from https://midwestoutdoors.com/fishing/kayak-cohos-reaching-past-a-cast-from-shore/.

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