The i-pilot trolling motor was what I was talking about. Now crankbait fishing... phew. This will be long so bare with me. I think water quality is #1. The fish have to be able to see the bait. I'd say at least 8-12 in. More would be better. #2 is water temp. Above 70 is where you want to be. I have caught some as cold as 60-62. They kinda go hand in hand. What I mean is the fish have to be active enough and to be able to see the bait coming to go get it. Otherwise, you would have to hit them on the nose everytime to get a bite. You can troll crankbaits from Apr-May all the way to Oct-Nov. depending on how cold it gets. I mainly fish 4 types of baits; Bandit 200 & 300's, Arkie 350's and C-55. The 55's I buy from Scott Vance over on the MS board. Bait colors are divided in to 3 categories; chart patterns, natural shad patterns and pink patterns. I use all line counter reels with 10# hi-vis yellow mono with a 3' 20# braid leader. This helps with the gar and catfish. A snap swivel on the end makes bait changes easier and helps with clearing tangles. Line counters help keep the bait in the strike zone. I have one 12', one 10' and 2-6.5" poles on each side of the boat. Longest pole to the front and work to the shortest pole in the back. You need to have them spaced at least 2' vert. and horz. This helps when turning. Speed, color and depth you'll have to let the fish tell you that. I usually start at 1.5 mph and adjust from there. Use your electronics to determine depth from where you mark fish. I look for balls of shad and the fish usually aren't far behind. Hope this helps.

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