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The Basics: Why Trolling with Lures Works

Trolling works because it simulates a baitfish or squid swimming through the water. Predator fish, always on the lookout for easy prey, can’t resist the movement and flash of a well-trolled lure. Unlike stationary fishing, trolling keeps you moving, so you can cover more ground, follow bait balls, and find feeding fish.

Types of Trolling Lures

The variety of trolling lures available today is staggering. Each is designed to mimic a different kind of prey or provoke a strike using color, motion, and vibration. Here are the main types used in Costa Rica:

1. Skirted Lures

Skirted lures, often called trolling skirts, are a staple in offshore fishing. They consist of a shaped resin or metal head and a long, colorful skirt made from synthetic material. These skirts flow naturally in the water and attract species like marlin, sailfish, and wahoo.

2. Soft Plastic Lures

These lures resemble baitfish, squid, or eels, and their soft body allows for realistic movement. Often paired with jig heads or run behind skirted heads, soft plastics can be deadly inshore or offshore.

3. Diving Plugs (Crankbaits)

These are hard-bodied lures with a plastic lip that causes them to dive and wobble as they move. They mimic wounded baitfish and can be set at specific depths.

4. Surface Lures (Poppers & Stickbaits)

Designed to create surface commotion, these lures are great for enticing fish feeding near the top.

Trolling Setups: Gear That Gets It Done

Rod and Reel

Use a trolling rod with enough backbone to handle big fish. A 30-50 lb class rod paired with a two-speed reel like a Penn International or Shimano Tiagra is ideal. The reel should have a smooth drag system and plenty of line capacity.

Line and Leader

Use longer leaders (6-10 feet) for clear water and wary fish. For toothy species like wahoo, a wire trace may be necessary.

Outriggers, Downriggers & Planers

To avoid tangles and cover more horizontal space, use outriggers to spread lures wide. Downriggers or planers can be used to troll lures at deeper depths, ideal for targeting tuna or bottom-feeding pelagics.

Spreader Bars and Teasers

These tools mimic bait balls. Spreader bars feature multiple lures strung across a frame, while teasers are large, flashy attractors that draw attention to your spread.

Trolling Techniques

Trolling Speed

Speed affects how your lure behaves. Some lures, like deep-diving plugs, need slower speeds to work properly. Others, like skirted lures, handle higher speeds well.

Trolling Patterns

Trolling isn’t just straight lines. Try patterns like:

Depth Control

To fish multiple layers of the water column:

Tips for Trolling Success

1. Observe Your Surroundings

Watch for birds, bait balls, and color changes in the water. These are all signs of fish activity. Fish often follow temperature breaks or current edges.

2. Maintain Lure Action

Check your lures regularly to ensure they’re swimming properly. A tangle or fouled lure can waste your whole spread. Replace damaged skirts and dull hooks.

3. Use Fresh, Sharp Hooks

Even the best lure won’t work if your hooks are dull or rusty. Always start with sharp hooks, and replace them as needed.

4. Match the Hatch

If you see flying fish, sardines, or squid in the area, match your lure size and color to them. Fish are more likely to strike something familiar.

5. Don’t Be Afraid to Change It Up

Sometimes, all it takes is swapping out one lure color or adjusting your trolling speed to start getting bites. Don’t get stuck in one pattern.

Trolling in Costa Rica: What to Expect

Costa Rica is one of the world’s top trolling destinations. On any given day, you can hook into:

Local captains use years of knowledge to adjust spreads, switch lures, and follow the bite. Many use live bait teasers and run 5-9 lines in a well-managed spread.

Safety Considerations

Final Thoughts: Why Trolling with Lures is a Game-Changer

Trolling with lures is more than a fishing method—it’s a high-speed chess match between angler and predator. It gives you the flexibility to adapt, move, and strike when the opportunity presents itself. With the right knowledge, gear, and strategy, your chances of landing a trophy fish go up dramatically.

Whether you’re heading offshore from Jaco, Herradura, or Quepos, trolling with lures can unlock some of the most exciting and rewarding fishing Costa Rica has to offer. So gear up, fine-tune your spread, and get ready to experience the thrill of trolling at its finest.

Need help choosing the right setup or booking a trip? Contact Costa Rica Fishing Experts, and we’ll connect you with top-rated captains and customized charters tailored to your target species and fishing style.