Quote Originally Posted by markedman1132 View Post
I have done some trolling pulling cranks and bottom bouncers for Walleyes, but never for Crappie. I assume that I should use something lighter than the MH Ugly Sticks and size 27 line counter reels I have. Since I live in PA I can only have 3 lines per angler in the water at a time. I usually fish alone but want to setup my boat for 2 anglers for pulling cranks.

I'm thinking of from starting from the stern to bow having a 6', then 10' and then 14' rod. One of each when I am alone and 2 of each when someone else is with me. I am also thinking of size 17 Daiwa Accudepth line counter reels with 10# mono. I do have a lifetime license for the precision trolling app and I also have Off Shore Tackle Snap weights if needed. The layout of the boat doesn't really support pulling from the back of the stern, it will have to be from the side (gunnels). I do have rod holders mounted in the Scotty mounts. I also usually do 2 piece rods since I don't have rod storage on the boat so about 5' is the longest rod section I want to have.

I'm looking for feedback on that setup along with Rod recommendations.
Sounds like you already have a big leg up as far as trolling crankbaits for Crappie. I have used 7 and 61/2 foot mh ugly sticks and 17 size daiwas, 10 and 12 lb line for years. My weapon of choice. My preference is rods up and down the gunnels too. I love using inline planer boards, and that just works best for me. Other advice, don’t be afraid to use walleye-sized baits that you probably already have.
My kind of rule of thumb, suitable sized crankbaits usually come equipped with #6 hooks, but some I love have #4. So 21/2 - 3 inch baits, and some minnow profile baits even longer. And the wild color schemes common on walleye cranks can be killer on crappie. My experience is with mostly southern open water white crappie, so it may be different in your home waters.


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