Trolling Bags or Plates?

[Skunk'd Too]

Any thoughts on trolling bags vs. a trolling plate? I've got an 18' Starcraft Superfisherman with a 135 HP outboard.

Take look at this: http://www.lindylittlejoe.com/fishing_t ... bags.shtml

[Shellback]

Could be a good idea, but that rope going down the sides and under the boat is going to damage the paint on an aluminum boat in time. Plus when you want to come about and troll back with the wind, will the boat handle well running with the wind, or will you have to pull the bags or redeploy them in the regular manor?

[Persistence]

Skunked, they both have their +'s and -'s.

I have a 26' Penn Yan and use large bags. I have found that if set up right the bags will travel away from the boat and not cause ware. Speed is controlled by setting rpm's and then pulling one or both bags depending on wave action and direction of troll.

Most plates have the drawback to the effect that they allow for one position, raised or lowered, and must be raised before running at increased rpm's or take the chance of bending the plate.Most plates require drilling into a cavitation plate to be secured. Check outboard manufacturer's warranty.

One more thing with the plates, when in the down position be aware of ensuring that you have free flowing exhaust. If restricted you may cause higher operating temoerature in your drive unit. Some have a large hole in the center of the plate to eliminate this concern.

As in anything, it all comes down to personal preference. Both are good in controlling speed in combination with throttle adjustment.

Hope this is helpful to you.