Walleye fishing can be a blast, but getting your bait away from the boat is key, especially on pressured waters. That’s where planer boards come in. These handy tools let you spread out your lines, covering more water and increasing your chances of hooking into those tasty fish. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the right ones? I’ve spent countless hours on the water experimenting with different planer boards, and I’m here to share my top picks to help you land more walleye.
Product Overview / Quick Summary:
- Off Shore OR12 Side-Planer: Industry standard, durable, reliable.
- Church Tackle TX-22 Special: Great for heavier lures and rougher conditions.
- Yellow Bird Planer Boards: Affordable option, good for beginners.
- Walleye Mafia Super Pro Planer Boards: High visibility, snag-resistant design.
- সামিট Tackle Mini Planer Boards: Compact and easy to store, ideal for smaller boats.
Top 5 Best Planer Boards for Walleye
1. Off Shore OR12 Side-Planer
The Off Shore OR12 is arguably the most popular planer board in the walleye world, and for good reason. It’s tough, dependable, and easy to use. I’ve had mine for years, and they’ve held up through all kinds of conditions.
Pros:
- ✅ Extremely durable construction.
- ✅ Patented Tattle Flag system clearly indicates strikes.
- ✅ Adjustable tension release clip for various line types.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be slightly more expensive than other options.
- ❌ The Tattle Flag can sometimes be a bit too sensitive.
- ❌ Replacement parts may be needed after extended heavy use.
Verdict: A solid all-around choice, especially if you want a dependable, long-lasting planer board. Ideal for both beginners and experienced walleye anglers.
2. Church Tackle TX-22 Special
If you’re pulling heavier lures or fishing in choppier water, the Church Tackle TX-22 Special is a great option. These boards are designed to handle more weight and stay stable in rough conditions. I’ve used these on Lake Erie in some pretty gnarly weather, and they’ve never let me down.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent stability in rough water.
- ✅ Designed for larger lures and heavier weights.
- ✅ Easy to adjust line release.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit bulky compared to other boards.
- ❌ Might be overkill for calm water and lighter lures.
- ❌ More expensive than some other basic models.
Verdict: Best for anglers who frequently use heavy lures or fish in rough water. Offers superior stability and pulling power.
3. Yellow Bird Planer Boards
For anglers on a budget or just starting out, Yellow Bird Planer Boards are a good choice. They are affordable, simple to use, and get the job done. I remember using these when I first started walleye fishing. They’re straightforward and effective.
Pros:
- ✅ Very affordable.
- ✅ Simple and easy to use.
- ✅ Good for beginners.
Cons:
- ❌ Not as durable as some of the higher-end options.
- ❌ May not handle heavy lures as well.
- ❌ Lacks some of the advanced features of other boards.
Verdict: A great entry-level option for anglers who want to try planer board fishing without breaking the bank.
4. Walleye Mafia Super Pro Planer Boards
The Walleye Mafia Super Pro Planer Boards are designed with high visibility and snag resistance in mind. Their bright colors make them easy to spot on the water, and the unique shape helps them glide through weeds and debris. I’ve found these particularly useful on waters with a lot of vegetation.
Pros:
- ✅ High visibility for easy tracking.
- ✅ Snag-resistant design.
- ✅ Durable construction.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be slightly more expensive than standard boards.
- ❌ The unique shape may take some getting used to.
- ❌ Color options might not appeal to everyone.
Verdict: Excellent choice for anglers who fish in weedy areas or need high-visibility boards. Worth the investment for improved performance in challenging conditions.
5. সামিট Tackle Mini Planer Boards
If you have a smaller boat or prefer a more compact setup, the সামিট Tackle Mini Planer Boards are worth considering. These boards are lightweight, easy to store, and still effective at spreading out your lines. I keep a set of these on my kayak for when I want to troll for walleye on smaller lakes.
Pros:
- ✅ Compact and easy to store.
- ✅ Lightweight design.
- ✅ Good for smaller boats and kayaks.
Cons:
- ❌ Not ideal for heavy lures or rough water.
- ❌ Smaller size may be harder to see at long distances.
- ❌ May not track as straight as larger boards.
Verdict: Best for anglers with limited space or who prefer a lightweight, minimalist setup. Perfect for kayaks, canoes, and small fishing boats.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right planer boards can seem daunting, but here’s what to consider:
- Size and Weight: Larger boards are better for heavier lures and rougher water, while smaller boards are more manageable for smaller boats and lighter lures.
- Durability: Look for boards made from high-quality materials that can withstand the elements and repeated use.
- Visibility: Brightly colored boards are easier to see, especially in low-light conditions or when fishing at a distance.
- Line Release: Choose a line release that is easy to adjust and holds the line securely without causing damage.
- Tattle Flag: A tattle flag system can help you detect strikes, especially when trolling at slow speeds.
- Price: Planer boards range in price from affordable to premium. Consider your budget and how often you plan to use them.
Also consider what type of fishing you will be doing. Will you be using lead core line? Will you be fishing in rough water? Answering these questions will help you narrow your search.
FAQs
Q: How do planer boards work?
A: Planer boards attach to your fishing line and are designed to run parallel to your boat. As you troll, they pull your line away from the boat, allowing you to cover more water and avoid spooking fish.
Q: How far should I run my planer boards from the boat?
A: The distance depends on the conditions and the fish you’re targeting. Start with 20-30 feet and adjust as needed. In clear water, you may want to run them further out.
Q: Can I use planer boards with any type of fishing line?
A: Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the line release tension accordingly. Use a lighter tension for lighter lines and a heavier tension for heavier lines.
Q: How do I set the hook when a fish strikes on a planer board?
A: When you see the tattle flag drop or the board pull back, reel in the slack and give a firm hook set. The planer board will usually detach from the line once the fish is hooked.
Q: How many planer boards can I run at once?
A: This depends on local regulations and your comfort level. Start with two boards (one on each side of the boat) and gradually increase as you gain experience.
Conclusion
Choosing the right planer boards can significantly improve your walleye fishing success. Whether you’re looking for a durable, all-around option like the Off Shore OR12, a heavy-duty board for rough water like the Church Tackle TX-22 Special, or an affordable option like the Yellow Bird Planer Boards, there’s a planer board out there for you. Consider your budget, fishing style, and the conditions you typically fish in, and you’ll be well on your way to landing more walleye.
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