Trolling on Lake Superior is among one of the most rewarding ways to hook into lake trout and salmon. This technique involves dragging lures or bait behind a slowly moving boat to mimic swimming prey — perfect for targeting surface feeding and deep-water species in this vast, cold lake.
At Sand Point Charters, we’ve refined our trolling techniques to match the unique conditions of Lake Superior. On the Fishin’ Mission we use downriggers, divers and planer boards to get lures to precise depths where trout and salmon are feeding. Depending on the season, we troll anywhere from 2 to 2.75 mph, adjusting speed to mimic the natural movement of bait fish.
Notice the trolling speed of 2.6 mph and the arcs showing fish
The gear setup is key. We typically run spoons, flashers, or dodgers paired with flies, spin-n-glows or artificial lures. Color choice matters — bright colors for sunny days, darker patterns for overcast conditions. Our rods and drag settings are rigged to see and/or hear the bite and pay close attention to them at all times.
One of the secrets to our success is covering multiple depths and distances at once using side planer boards and varying line lengths. This wide spread increases your chance of encountering active fish.
Trolling is not only effective but also a relaxed, scenic way to experience fishing Lake Superior. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first-timer, trolling for trout with Sand Point Charters includes expert guidance, top-tier equipment, and a shot at landing the catch of a lifetime.
Want to learn more about how to catch fish on Lake Superior? Let’s get you on the water!
Brian Helminen
