Gear Checklist Series - Wahoo Trolling
By TackleDirect
Sep 18th 2024
Gear up for Wahoo trolling with our expert-recommended checklist of must-have tackle and gear. Be ready to catch more Wahoo with confidence!
Welcome to the third installment of our Gear Checklist Series, where we explore the essential fishing gear you need for successful fishing adventures. Each blog focuses on a specific fish species and a technique to catch them, providing you with a comprehensive checklist of tackle and gear recommended by the experienced staff at TackleDirect. Whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned angler, our goal is to ensure you have the confidence and the right gear to maximize your success. With over 80,000 items available in our online store and retail location, we’ve got everything you need to gear up for your next fishing trip.
About the Species: WAHOO
Wahoo are among the fastest fish in the ocean, capable of reaching speeds up to 60 mph. These sleek, torpedo-shaped predators are known for their razor-sharp teeth and their powerful, high-speed runs, making them one of the most exciting species to target in offshore fishing. Found in tropical and subtropical waters around the world, Wahoo are most commonly caught in the deep waters of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Anglers prize them not only for their thrilling fight but also for their delicious, firm flesh, which makes them a popular target for sport and food fishing alike.
The Technique: TROLLING
When it comes to catching Wahoo, trolling is one of the most effective methods. This involves pulling lures or natural baits at high speeds, typically between 10 to 18 knots, to provoke these speedsters into striking. Wahoo are attracted to fast-moving baits, so maintaining the right trolling speed and selecting the correct tackle are crucial. With their razor-sharp teeth, you’ll also need to ensure that your leaders and hooks are up to the challenge. The right setup and a bit of patience can result in heart-pounding action when Wahoo hit the lines, turning your day on the water into an adrenaline-filled adventure.
Wahoo Trolling Gear Checklist
RIGGING
- ◻ Line:
- ◻ 50 - 100 lb Monofilament
- ◻ 80 - 200 lb Braid
- ◻ Leader:
- ◻ 275 - 400 lb 49 Strand Cable
- ◻ #9 - #12 Single Strand Wire
- ◻ 200 - 300 lb Shock Leader
- ◻ Hooks: 8/0 - 10/0 J-Hooks
- ◻ Swivels: 200 - 300 lb Snap Swivels
- ◻ Weights:
- ◻ 24 - 48 oz Drails / Trolling Weights
- ◻ 1/2 - 1 oz Egg Sinkers
- ◻ Tools:
- ◻ Pliers
- ◻ Crimper
- ◻ Wire / Cable Cutters
- ◻ Gaff
- ◻ Downriggers
- ◻ Accessories:
- ◻ Gear Bag
- ◻ Planers
- ◻ Z Wing
- ◻ Apparel: Polarized Sunglasses
FISHING
- ◻ Rod: 30 - 100 lb Line 5'6"- 7' Length
- ◻ Reel: 30 - 80 Size Big Game Lever Drag Conventional
- ◻ Bait:
- ◻ Ballyhoo
- ◻ Bontia Strips
- ◻ Lures:
- ◻ Sea Witches & Heavy Ballyhoo Skirts
- ◻ Bonita Style Plugs
- ◻ High Speed Style Trolling Lures
- ◻ Lipped Heavy Duty Diving Plugs
- ◻ Drone Spoons
- ◻ Accessories:
- ◻ Gaff: 6'-8' Length with a 3" or 4" Hook
- ◻ Wire Gloves
- ◻ GoPro Waterproof Camera
END GAME
- ◻ Filet Knife: 8" Blade
- ◻ Cooler:
- ◻ 120 - 350 qt
- ◻ Insulated Fish Bag
- ◻ Accessories:
- ◻ Wiring Gloves
- ◻ Cleaning Supplies
- ◻ Footwear: Deck Shoes or Boots
- ◻ Apparel:
- ◻ Buff
- ◻ Board Shorts
- ◻ Technical Long Sleeve Shirt
- ◻ Hat or Visor
If you have any questions or need help selecting the right products, our Tackle Experts are here to assist you:
• In-Store
• Over The Phone
• Online via Live Chat
Wahoo Image provided by user @slickerbeaut
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