Striper Bass Downrigger Trolling
The conventional rod and reel combo we recommend for striped bass downrigger trolling features a conventional star drag reel with a levelwind on a 7′ medium-fast to fast rod. The levelwind is optional, but is a big advantage when making fine depth adjustments while the rod is in the rod holder. This is a very versatile conventional outfit and is perfect for nearly all downrigger fishing applications.
We recommend loading the reel with 30-50lb mono which is attached to a 5ft length of 50-80lb fluorocarbon leader using a 100lb barrel swivel. The rig is completed with either custom Santini Tube lure or a 3-4oz bucktail tipped with an imitation sandworm soft bait. Both presentations are effective for taking big stripers in nearly any depth.
Striped Bass Tackle Checklist – Downrigger Trolling
- 7′ rod rated for 30-50lb mono
- Conventional reel with levelwind rated for 30-50lb mono
- 30-50lb mono
- 50-80lb fluorocarbon leader
- Santini tube lure
- 3oz to 4oz bucktail
- 100lb barrel swivel
Please contact us if you have questions about our recommendations!