How do I catch trout and salmon on smaller inland lakes?

[Todd in NY]

You sure don't want to use the boards on Bonaparte with that traffic

 

Nope, that would create a hostile situation, not to mention complete frustration for all.

[Todd in NY]

Hit the water early before the pleasure boaters are out. I have done some trolling with my kayak and done well. I did one trip on Cayuga in the middle of the winter and had a blast with browns and landlocks. I used leadcore on one pole and 4lb mono flatline on the other. Both took fish but the ultralight was a blast when I got a brown around 7lbs. Not sure on the weight because I released them. The guides at the turn of the century used row boats and I am sure those methods would still work today. Stealth is key in shallow water.

 

It makes sense that the row boat concept would still work today, but it seems we have lost many of those rowing skills as we evolved with more modern boats. Kayaks are pretty amazing when it comes to versatility. I'll bet that trout was fun on 4lb test. I have a row boat, but it has a 3.3hp motor rather than oars