When it comes to utilizing a boat within Butler County, Pennsylvania, trolling is one of the best ways to cover extended areas of water in the pursuit of game fish. Since fish congregate in schools, you can generally catch large groups of fish in the same area once you have located them. In Butler County, using a fish finder and can increase an angler's chances of catching fish.
Trolling
Trolling involves the use of artificial lures or live bait, cast behind a watercraft, to attract fish. According to Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, trolling is an effective way to catch fish in lakes and reservoirs throughout Butler County. When trolling, an operator can choose how fast he wants to propel the watercraft. As a vessel travels forward, an angler's fishing bait or lure trails behind the watercraft, enticing hungry fish to strike. A bright red, metal jig is a favorite during early spring. This type of lure works well when fishing in deepwater lakes, rivers and reservoirs.
Use of Fish Finders
If you choose a motor boat, kayak or canoe for trolling, ensure that the vessel is equipped with a fish finder. A fish finder provides a considerable advantage, as this device enables an angler to locate where pockets of fish are gathering and avoid wasting time fishing in spots where fish are not present. In addition, fish finders provide anglers knowledge of the proper depths where fish are, which allows fishermen to fashion their lines to reach them.
Rapala Lures
Most Butler County anglers use Rapala lures to troll for large game fish. According to Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, anglers cast the lure into slow currents and allow it to float on top of the water. Rapla lures come in various sizes and colors; look for silver or a mix of colors. Normally, anglers deploy Rapala lures by jerking the line while reeling; this action imitates an injured fish, which can entice a fish into biting. In addition, adding a swivel and one or two small, split-shot weights to a Rapala lure allows for effortless casting.
Fishing Locations in Butler County
The best trolling fishing spots in Butler County are in Lake Arthur and Glade Dam Reservoir. Lake Arthur is a 3,200-acre lake that provides many feisty game fish such as largemouth bass, channel catfish, muskies and walleyes. Anglers can gain access to Lake Arthur through Moraine State Park, which has roughly 10 boat launch sites. State regulations prevent motorboats over 20 horsepower to enter the lake. Glade Dam is a 52-acre reservoir that holds northern pike, largemouth bass and is stocked with several species of trout.
When it comes to trolling both Lake Arthur and Glade Dam Lake, you may have to fish several locations before you find fish. With the use of a fish finder, hone in on submerged structures and look for grassy flats adjacent to deep water.
Fishing License
A fishing license is required within Butler County, Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission sets license requirements and makes it easy to pay for and download a license online. A resident fishing license costs around $20.
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