Rookie to trolling and big water looking for any info and advice

[angler1234]

Hey guys Joined the forum in hopes any info on what I need, what to look out for what to make sure I have on board etc for lake O Boating trolling.

Trying to learn what I can for big water trolling and boating obviously time on big water helps but I would like to have some knowledge before voyaging out so me and my passengers are safe I know big water is another ballgame.

Boat I have in mind for future is a starcraft islander 19' with a 3.0 IS THIS BOAT ENOUGH FOR LAKE O?

Would mainly be for lake O trout and salmon and quinte walleye etc.

I have owned a smaller 16' boat before and have done all types of fishing bass river floatfishig ice fish quinte alot a lil dipsy trolling but never rigger fished or board fishing trolling and big water will be new territory to me if I pull trigger on a rig.

What do you like to have on board obviously the legal stuff and a vhf radio or marine radio good finder gps etc..

What website or station do you watch the lake o weather/wave reports for and how big of waves is too big for trolling the great lakes?

Not looking for any info on your spots or anything mainly safety info, gear to have and what ya think of that rig for lake O and quinte use maybe occasional up north laker trolling.

 

[angler1234]

Maybe I should have post this in different section of forum.

 

[tombo]

The bigger you go, the more days you can get out there! I used to do alot of lake o and erie trolling, and I would say a 21ft is prob a good choice. You can get out most of the time, and its still small enough to handle alone! I had a 21crestliner aluminum with i/o and it was perfect. The boat you are considering, comes in a 21ft model with a 3.0 i/o. I would go that route. I can assure you, you wont mind the extra 2 ft!! Happy shopping!!

 

[tombo]

I should prob add, a fiberglass boat is heavier so it also takes rough water a little better. However with more weight comes more fuel consumption, and more fuel consumption in tow vehicle. Not to mention you may need a more powerful tow vehicle! All things to consider. Watever you do get, dont rely on your main motor for trolling, should have a kicker so that you have an emergency motor if needed! Bad to be 20 miles out without power!