THE RIGHT ROD FOR TROLLING FOR PIKE
For trolling behind a boat, a short and powerful rod is often the best choice. This ensures good control and the ability to place the lure exactly where the pike are. A rod with a length of about 1.80 to 2.00 metres and a casting weight that matches the weight of your favourite lure is ideal. Also pay attention to the rod's action; a rod that is too stiff may miss the finer bites, while a rod that is too supple may not have enough power to land a big pike.
THE IDEAL REEL FOR TROLLING
A Baitcasting reel should not only feel good in your hand but also feature a reliable slip. This is crucial to cope with the powerful bursts of a pike. For lighter lures a drop reel is often sufficient, while for heavier lures with more resistance a more robust reel is recommended. Think of models designed for both fine tuning and the power to deal with big fish.
IMPORTANCE OF FISHING LINE
The choice of line is just as important as the rod and Baitcasting reel. Braided line is popular for trolling because it has no stretch, resulting in instant bite registration. However, it is important to consider abrasion resistance, especially when fishing in waters with many obstacles. A good option is to use a nylon or fluorocarbon pre-string to take the biggest hits and avoid damaging the main line.