Sir Walleye Charters Logo
07 November 2024

Choosing the Right Trolling Rod for Walleye on Lake Erie

multiple fishing rods trolling for walleye on lake erie, crystal clear blue water and sailboats in the distance

If you want to catch walleye on Lake Erie, trolling is one of the best ways to go. But not every rod is the same, and picking the right one can totally change your fishing game. So how do you choose the right trolling rod? Based on my years of experience with Sir Walleye Charters and helping anglers reel in some big walleye, here’s what I recommend.

 

Why Picking the Right Rod is Key

Trolling isn’t just about throwing your line in the water. It’s all about finding the right balance of strength, sensitivity, and control. The right rod should help you feel those gentle “tap-taps” when a walleye bites, and it should be strong enough to handle the weight of your gear and the crazy waves that Lake Erie is known for. With the right rod, you'll get more bites and have a better chance of bringing in those tricky fish.

 

What to Look for in a Trolling Rod

Here are some important things to think about when picking a trolling rod for walleye on Lake Erie:

  • Rod LengthThe length of your rod matters a lot. For walleye, a rod that’s between 7 and 10 feet is best. Longer rods help keep the lures spread out and reduce tangling when you're running multiple lines. They also give you a bit more leverage for reeling in fish, especially those last-minute runs when they’re close to the boat.

  • Power and ActionPower and action might sound similar but they’re both important. For walleye trolling, a medium power rod is ideal. It gives you enough strength to handle everything without being too stiff, so you can still feel when a fish is nibbling. For action, a moderate action rod is great since it allows some flex in the upper part of the rod, helping you feel the lightest bites and keep tension while fighting the fish.

  • Material: Fiberglass or GraphiteThere’s always a debate about fiberglass versus graphite rods. Fiberglass rods are usually more flexible and forgiving, making them better for trolling where you feel constant pull. Graphite rods tend to be more sensitive, letting you pick up every little bump. For walleye, many anglers lean towards fiberglass or a mix of both for a bit of strength and sensitivity.

  • Handle Comfort and GripTrolling often means holding onto your rod for a long time, so comfort is super important. Look for handles with a good grip. Cork handles are popular because they’re comfy and durable, while EVA foam is lightweight and good for wet conditions. A comfy grip can make a huge difference when you’re out there for hours.

  • Quality of Line GuidesDon’t skip over the line guides on your rod. Big walleye can really test these guides, especially if you're using braided line. Aim for high-quality ceramic or stainless-steel guides that can handle friction and resist corrosion from the water. Good guides make sure your line stays smooth, which cuts down on tangles and breaks.

 

My Favorite Trolling Rods for Lake Erie

  • Ugly Stik GX2 Casting Rod: This rod is a classic choice. It’s affordable and super tough. Its fiberglass body makes it nearly indestructible which is great for beginners or as a reliable backup.

  • Okuma Great Lakes Trolling Rod: Designed specifically for Great Lakes fishing, these rods can handle rough waters and big fish. They come in different lengths and have solid fiberglass construction, making them great for the demands of Lake Erie.

  • St. Croix Eyecon Trolling Rod: This one's on the pricier side but totally worth it for serious anglers. Its composite build and sensitive tip help you feel every bite while still being strong enough to pull in big walleye.

 

Tips for Trolling Success

Choosing the right rod is just one part of the puzzle. Here are some more tips:

  • Balance Your Setup: Make sure your rod pairs well with a good reel and line. I suggest using a line-counter reel, which helps you keep track of your lure depth—a big help when fishing in Lake Erie’s variable depths.

  • Try Different Depths and Speeds: Walleye can behave differently with the seasons and even during the day. Don’t hesitate to adjust your trolling speed and lure depth until you find where the fish are.

  • Be Patient and Stay Observant: Trolling takes patience, but the rewards are worth it. Pay attention to every little tug on the line—it just might be your next big catch.

Remember, a great trolling rod is an investment that pays off every time you're out there. Choose wisely, hone your technique, and get ready for some awesome fishing on Lake Erie. And as always…

Fish ON 🎣 Get the Net‼️

574-253-8314

574-253-8314

Sirwalleyefishingcharters@gmail.com

6282 N Harris Harbor Drive 
Oak Harbor, OH 43449 

Serving Ashtabula, Port Of Lorain, Port Clinton, Oak Harbor and Lake Erie’s Western Basin.

Sir Walleye Charters Fish Logo

Our Charter

Locations

Resources

Questions? Give us a call!

©️ 2024 Sir Walleye Charters All Rights Reserved.

Powered by HY Design