Long Lining For Speckled Trout

Trout fishing is fantastic here in South Louisiana, especially during the fall and spring, but the winds can be crazy! Fronts cause winds either blowing strong from the South before, or strong from the North after. But you can take advantage of this, especially on the lakes. So, what technique works best in these conditions? Long lining; Depending on wind speed, I typically troll two, one eighth ounce jig heads with a tout or swim bait. At times, you may need a lighter jig, in lighter winds or heavier jig, in stronger winds. It all depends on dragging speed. This can also be done under a popping cork. The good thing about this is that you can still cast your lure of choice while dragging the baits behind the boat. The second choice, and at times the best choice, is to troll suspending lures, such as the Paul Brown Suspending twitch bait, Mirror Dine M17 or Mirror Lure Catch, Jr. But, there are a number of suspending baits that work well. I start with different colors, typically a chartreuse and a gold or even black/chrome. The good thing about dragging is that you can feel the bite, because you always maintain a tight line, which is difficult in windy conditions. Putting the rods in a rod holder is recommended, because a big trout or redfish will quickly pull the pole out of the boat. It is also great if you have newbies or kids on board. When a fish hits, it usually hooks itself and then you just reel it in. This works perfect for that reason. So next time the winds are up try long lining, you just might fill the ice chest. Good luck fishing! I'll see ya on the water.

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