I started out using some bass rod with spinning reels that I already had. I would cast as far as I could out the back of the boat. After I knew that trolling Bandits was something that I liked I bought line counter reels and used some Wally Marshall Tightline Special rod that I had. After all my stuff was stolen at the Marina in April I bought BnM Trolling rods. I use a pontoon boat and troll of the back. I have a 20' a 14' and a 8' out each side of the boat and 2 8'er out the back. If I am fishing by myself I don't use the 8'er out the back. I have an engine mount trolling motor that I use so I can still steer with the steering wheel. I try to keep my speed between 1.5 and 2.0 mph. If where you are going to troll has any structure get a lure knocker. If you can get 3 bait back that are hung it has already paid for it's self. I run between 100' and 175' of line. Color can change several time a day just like when using jigs. Shad colors and chartreuse are colors that seem to work no matter what lake you are on. The best advice I can give you is just get out there and try it.