How to Flatline a Kwikfish From a Boat

Crankbaits create a wobble motion in the water.

The Kwikfish is a crankbait manufactured by Luhr Jensen. Flatline trolling the lure from a boat is effective in lakes and rivers. The flatline technique does not require a downrigger. Simple trolling motor and rod holder are sufficient. Flatline trolling is a feeling technique. Adjustments are determined by your personal observations and perception of the underwater environment. Flatline trolling is popular among budget-minded anglers and anglers who prefer to limit technology on the boat.

Things You'll Need

• Rod
• Reel
• Line
• Kwikfish lure
• Trolling motor
• Rod holder

Instructions

1. Drive the boat to your trolling destination and kill the gas-powered motor. Set the trolling motor to the slowest speed. Cast the Kwikfish off the back of the boat.

2. Let out 30 ft. of line. Place the rod in the rod holder. Troll for 100 ft. and monitor the lure. If the lure is too shallow, release an additional 20 ft. of line. Continue releasing line until the lure is swimming near the bottom.

3. Increase the trolling speed by one mile an hour until the lure raises slightly higher than the bottom. Continue trolling near the bottom for 30 minutes.

4. Reel in 10 ft. of line if you are not catching fish. Repeat the trolling route. Reeling up the line raises the lure to a lesser depth.

5. Reel in an additional 10 feet. Repeat the route until you are catching fish on a consistent basis. You must constantly make adjustments to the flatline until you find the correct speed and depth.

Tips & Warnings

• Hold the speed of the current to flatline the lure in fast water. The current will prevent the lure from dropping to the bottom of the river.

References

• Luhr Jensen: Kwikfish for Chinook
• Walleye Central: Trolling, Trolling, Trolling on the River; Ted Takasaki et al

Resources

• Luhr Jensen: Kwikfish