Regarding line size, I use 15 lb flouro on my trolling reels. One thing to keep in mind is that the Precision Trolling App that has dive-curves for just about anything you can imagine, is based on 10 lb test Trilene XT. They also have a curve for 30 lb braid. Therefore, if you want to be super precise, you should find a line that has a diameter that is the same as 10 lb XT.

That said, I think your first priority should be to get your boat set-up for trolling properly. Here's a list of items that you should ideally have for trolling on Erie:


  • Rod holders - If you can get 6 or more, do so. You don't need to go super expensive though. I have the Cabelas brand (aka Scotty's) and they work great. I think they are about $25 each and they come with the base. I have pulled magnum dipseys with those things @ 3.5 mph, so don't let anyone tell you they aren't durable enough. Your rod would break long before they will.
  • Kicker motor - You need a way to control your speed when trolling. Since you don't have a kicker, you can do that with multiple drift-socks. I would get two, one for each side. That said, I would never feel comfortable fishing on Erie or any large body of water without a kicker. There have been several times when I have needed it to get back home (over the course of my various boats) and I was happy to have it. It is obviously great to have for trolling as well.
  • Trolling motor - I would say this is more of a "nice to have", but boy are they nice to have. I use my electric to troll downwind when we can get away with speeds under 1.5 mph. When I have to go faster, I will start the kicker. I still use the electric for minor speed changes and for steering/auto-pilot. The Minn-kota line-up Terrova/Ulterra/Ultrex are all really nice. I have a used Terrova (24V, 80 lb thrust, iPilot) that I will be selling, so let me know if you are interested. I upgraded to the Ultrex this year.
  • Planer boards- If you are going to be trolling anywhere on big water, then planer boards are a must. Ideally, you would have as many boards as you have rod-holders, but get at least 2-4 to start with. I wrote an article about big boards vs in-line planers that may be helpful. Here's a link to it: https://slimshadycustoms.com/blogs/n...-planer-boards
  • Electronics- One of the most important pieces of equipment for most trollers is our graph/sonar unit. If you are going to be fishing big-water, then you will need one with GPS mapping too. Without good electronics you are fishing blind. Sure you can catch fish without them, but it would be so much harder.


I know this stuff is expensive, so you may have to pick a few things up here and there until you have it all.

For some pointers on methods to catch them depending on the season, etc. I will be posting another article in the next day or so that should be helpful.

Cheers and good luck!