Saltwater trolling can be an incredibly effective way to target a variety of fish, from tuna and marlin to wahoo and king mackerel. But with so many lures on the market, figuring out which ones are worth your time and money can feel overwhelming. You want lures that can withstand the harsh saltwater environment, attract fish, and hold up during the fight. I’ve spent years testing different lures in various conditions, and I’m here to share my top picks for saltwater trolling.
Here’s a quick look at my favorite saltwater trolling lures:
- Yo-Zuri Bonita: Best all-around trolling lure.
- Rapala X-Rap Magnum: Great for deep-diving action.
- MirrOlure Top Dog Jr.: Perfect for surface action and drawing strikes.
- Cedar Plug: Simple, classic, and incredibly effective.
- Williamson Sailfish Catcher: Ideal for targeting billfish.
Top 5 Best Trolling Lures for Saltwater
1. Yo-Zuri Bonita
The Yo-Zuri Bonita is a versatile trolling lure known for its durability and realistic swimming action. It’s designed to mimic a fleeing baitfish, making it irresistible to predatory species. This lure has become a staple in my tackle box because it consistently produces results.
Pros:
- ✅ Durable construction holds up well against toothy fish.
- ✅ Realistic swimming action attracts a wide range of species.
- ✅ Available in a variety of colors to match different conditions.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit pricey compared to other options.
- ❌ Some anglers find the hooks need upgrading for larger fish.
- ❌ The finish can wear down after heavy use.
Verdict: This is a top-notch all-around trolling lure that’s well worth the investment if you’re serious about saltwater fishing. It’s great for both beginners and experienced anglers.
2. Rapala X-Rap Magnum
The Rapala X-Rap Magnum is designed for deep-diving action, allowing you to target fish holding at various depths. Its aggressive swimming action and internal rattles create a lot of attention, making it a great choice for murky water or low-light conditions. I’ve had great success with this lure when targeting wahoo and king mackerel.
Pros:
- ✅ Dives deep quickly, reaching the strike zone effectively.
- ✅ Durable construction withstands high-speed trolling.
- ✅ Internal rattles enhance its attractiveness to predatory fish.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be difficult to troll in areas with heavy structure due to its deep-diving nature.
- ❌ The larger sizes can create significant drag.
- ❌ Some color patterns are more effective than others, requiring experimentation.
Verdict: If you’re looking for a reliable deep-diving lure, the Rapala X-Rap Magnum is an excellent choice. It’s particularly effective for targeting fast-moving pelagic species.
3. MirrOlure Top Dog Jr.
The MirrOlure Top Dog Jr. is a topwater lure designed to create exciting surface strikes. Its walk-the-dog action is highly effective at attracting fish, especially in calm conditions. I’ve used this lure extensively in shallow bays and nearshore waters with great success on speckled trout and redfish.
Pros:
- ✅ Creates a lot of surface commotion, attracting fish from a distance.
- ✅ Easy to work with a consistent walk-the-dog action.
- ✅ Durable construction holds up well to repeated strikes.
Cons:
- ❌ Not as effective in rough or choppy water.
- ❌ Requires some practice to master the walk-the-dog technique.
- ❌ Can be prone to fouling with the leader line if not rigged properly.
Verdict: For anglers who enjoy the thrill of topwater fishing, the MirrOlure Top Dog Jr. is a must-have. It’s best suited for calm conditions and shallow water environments.
4. Cedar Plug
The Cedar Plug is a simple, classic lure that has been used for decades to catch a wide variety of saltwater species. Its natural wood construction and subtle swimming action make it incredibly effective, especially when trolled at higher speeds. I always keep a few of these in my spread when targeting tuna.
Pros:
- ✅ Simple and effective design.
- ✅ Can be trolled at high speeds.
- ✅ Catches a wide range of species.
Cons:
- ❌ Lacks the visual flash of some other lures.
- ❌ Requires occasional sanding and refinishing to maintain its appearance.
- ❌ Can be inconsistent in quality depending on the manufacturer.
Verdict: Don’t let its simplicity fool you; the Cedar Plug is a highly effective trolling lure that should be part of every saltwater angler’s arsenal. It’s a classic for a reason.
5. Williamson Sailfish Catcher
The Williamson Sailfish Catcher is specifically designed for targeting billfish, but it also works well for other pelagic species like tuna and dorado. Its streamlined shape and vibrant colors make it highly visible in the water, even at high trolling speeds. I’ve personally witnessed this lure entice many sailfish to strike.
Pros:
- ✅ Specifically designed for attracting billfish.
- ✅ Can be trolled at high speeds.
- ✅ Durable construction holds up well to aggressive strikes.
Cons:
- ❌ May not be as effective for smaller species.
- ❌ Requires a bit of tuning to achieve optimal performance.
- ❌ Some anglers find the skirts need occasional replacement.
Verdict: If you’re serious about targeting sailfish or other billfish species, the Williamson Sailfish Catcher is an excellent choice. It’s built to withstand the rigors of offshore trolling and attract these prized game fish.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right saltwater trolling lure can significantly improve your fishing success. Here are some factors to consider:
- Target Species: Different lures are designed for different species. Research which lures are most effective for the fish you’re targeting. For example, lures designed for billfish are often larger and more durable than those used for smaller species like mackerel.
- Water Conditions: Consider the water clarity, depth, and current. Deep-diving lures are best for reaching fish holding in deeper water, while topwater lures are more effective in calm, shallow conditions. Lures with bright colors and rattles can be beneficial in murky water.
- Trolling Speed: Different lures perform best at different trolling speeds. Make sure the lure you choose is designed to handle the speeds you’ll be using. Cedar plugs, for example, are known for their effectiveness at higher trolling speeds.
- Durability: Saltwater fishing can be tough on lures. Choose lures made from high-quality materials that can withstand the harsh marine environment and repeated strikes from fish.
- Color: Color can play a significant role in attracting fish. Experiment with different colors to see what works best in your area. Generally, brighter colors are more effective in murky water, while more natural colors work well in clear water.
- Action: The action of the lure, or how it moves through the water, is another important factor. Some lures have a tight wiggle, while others have a wider, more erratic action. Choose a lure with an action that matches the behavior of the baitfish in your area.
FAQs
Q: What is the best trolling speed for saltwater lures?
A: The ideal trolling speed depends on the lure and the target species, but generally, speeds between 2 and 8 knots are effective. Experiment to see what works best in your area.
Q: How do I choose the right size lure for saltwater trolling?
A: Consider the size of the baitfish in your area and match your lure accordingly. Larger lures are typically used for larger species, while smaller lures are better for smaller fish.
Q: What is the best way to rig a trolling lure?
A: Use a strong leader line and a quality snap swivel to connect your lure to your main line. Adjust the leader length based on the target species and water conditions.
Q: How often should I change my trolling lures?
A: Change your lures when they become damaged or lose their effectiveness. Inspect your lures regularly for signs of wear and tear.
Q: Can I use freshwater lures for saltwater trolling?
A: While some freshwater lures can be used in saltwater, they may not be as durable or effective. Saltwater-specific lures are designed to withstand the harsh marine environment and attract saltwater species.
Conclusion
Choosing the right saltwater trolling lures can make a huge difference in your fishing success. By considering the factors outlined in this guide and experimenting with different lures, you can create a trolling spread that attracts a wide range of species and helps you land more fish. My top picks, like the Yo-Zuri Bonita and Rapala X-Rap Magnum, are proven performers that have consistently produced results for me. Tight lines!
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