Ever feel like you’re leaving walleye on the table? You’ve got your gear dialed in, you’re in a prime spot, but the fish just aren’t biting. What if there was a secret weapon to help you spread out your lures and cover more water, reaching those shy walleye that are finicky about what’s directly behind your boat? That’s where planer boards come in, and choosing the right ones for walleye can feel like navigating a maze.
There are so many types of planer boards out there – big ones, small ones, ones that pull to the side, ones that dip down. It’s tough to know which ones will actually help you catch more fish and which ones will just add frustration to your fishing trip. Are they too big and hard to handle? Will they get tangled? These are the questions that can keep a walleye angler up at night.
But don’t worry! By the end of this post, you’ll understand exactly what makes a good planer board for walleye. We’ll break down the different styles, explain how they work, and give you the knowledge to pick the perfect set for your next adventure. Get ready to unlock a new level of walleye fishing success and start bringing home bigger catches!
Our Top 5 Planer Boards For Walleye Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Planer Boards For Walleye Detailed Reviews
1. Off Shore Planer Combo Kit
Rating: 8.8/10
Get ready to expand your fishing game with the Off Shore Planer Combo Kit! This all-in-one package gives you the tools to spread out your fishing lines and reach more fish. It includes everything you need to start trolling effectively, helping you cover more water and present your lures in a more natural way. You’ll be able to target a wider variety of fish with this setup.
What We Like:
- The kit comes with two side planers, one for the left side and one for the right. This helps you spread your lines out nicely.
- You get two heavy tension release clips. These are strong and reliable for holding your fishing line.
- Two pro snap weight clips are included. These are great for adding extra weight to get your lures down deep.
- Each planer board has its own tattle flag kit. This lets you know when a fish strikes your line.
- The components are built to last and are easy to set up.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the kit is great, some anglers might want more options for different fishing conditions.
- The instructions could be a little clearer for absolute beginners.
This Off Shore Planer Combo Kit is a solid investment for any angler looking to improve their trolling success. It’s a comprehensive package that gets you out on the water and fishing effectively.
2. B-Kat Boards Multi-Species Planer Boards
Rating: 8.8/10
Get ready to catch more fish with the B-Kat Boards Multi-Species Planer Boards! This set of two bright orange boards is designed for all kinds of trolling and dragging. Whether you’re chasing walleye, striper, trout, catfish, or skipjack, these boards help you cover more water and present your bait or lure in a way that fish can’t resist. They are proudly made in the USA and built to last.
What We Like:
- These boards are made with super strong EVA foam that won’t soak up water and sink like cheaper ones.
- You can adjust them for fast trolling with walleye and trout, or slow trolling for catfish.
- They stay upright even when you’re pulling light lures, thanks to their smart design.
- Tournament winners and guides trust B-Kat Boards, which says a lot about their quality.
- The aluminum parts are carefully smoothed so they won’t damage your fishing line.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the bright orange is easy to see, some anglers might prefer a wider color selection.
- The set comes with everything you need to get started, but additional accessories might require separate purchases.
These B-Kat Boards are a fantastic investment for any angler looking to improve their trolling game. They are built tough and designed to help you bring in more fish.
3. (2-Pro-Pak) Planer Boards (1) right & (1) left – Includes Tattle Flag kit
Rating: 8.6/10
Get ready to expand your fishing reach with the Yellow Bird (2-Pro-Pak) Planer Boards! This set includes one right and one left planer board, along with a Tattle Flag kit. Yellow Bird invented planer boards over 30 years ago, and they’ve kept making them better. These boards help you spread out your lines, catching more fish by reaching areas other anglers miss. They work for many types of fishing, from boats in lakes and oceans to even fishing from shore with a current.
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What We Like:
- The Tattle Flag kit is included, which is a $14.99 value. It alerts you when a fish strikes.
- New “QUICK” release snap clips make it super fast and easy to attach and remove your fishing line.
- These clips work with all types of fishing line, like mono, braid, and even lead or copper core lines.
- The adjustable weight lets you control how the board floats. This helps you use different kinds of lures, from light ones to heavier ones.
- You can tow these boards up to 150 feet or more away from your boat at different depths.
- They are great for catching many kinds of fish like walleye, salmon, trout, pike, and panfish in various fishing spots.
- The Mini 5” boards do not come with the Tattle Flag kit, so you’d need to buy it separately if you choose that size.
- The mini boards use an older clip design made specifically for mono and smaller lines, which might not be ideal for all fishing situations.
What Could Be Improved:
These Yellow Bird planer boards are a smart addition to any angler’s gear, helping you cover more water and catch more fish. They offer great versatility for many fishing adventures.
4. The Walleye Board Pro-Pack by Church Tackle Co
Rating: 8.8/10
Get ready to reel in those big walleye with the Walleye Board Pro-Pack from Church Tackle Co! This kit gives you everything you need to get your lines out wide and attract more fish. It’s designed to make fishing easier and more successful for everyone. You get two amazing boards, one for each side of your boat, so you can cover more water. This means more chances to catch that trophy walleye you’ve been dreaming about. It’s a fantastic way to upgrade your fishing game.
What We Like:
- The Pro-Pack includes both a starboard and a port board, so you’re ready to go right out of the box.
- You get two double-action flag systems. These flags pop up to let you know when a fish bites, making it easy to react quickly.
- The spring-loaded retaining pin is super easy to use. It holds your fishing line securely but releases smoothly when a fish strikes.
- Everything is proudly Made in the USA, meaning good quality and support for local jobs.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the boards are generally robust, some users might wish for even more heavy-duty construction for extremely rough water conditions.
- The instructions for setting up the flag systems could be a little clearer for absolute beginners.
The Walleye Board Pro-Pack is a solid investment for any serious walleye angler. It’s built for performance and ease of use, helping you catch more fish.
5. Rotatingpals 2 Pack Planer Boards for Fishing Trolling 8 x 3 Inches Off Shore Crappie Planer Boards Kits with Flag Fishing Accessory for Inshore Offshore Trolling Dragging(Right
Rating: 8.6/10
The Rotatingpals 2 Pack Planer Boards are a fantastic addition for any angler looking to improve their trolling game. These bright yellow, 8×3 inch boards are designed to help you spread out your lines and reach fish that might otherwise be missed. They are built tough and made to last, even in salty water.
What We Like:
- These planer boards come in a convenient 2-pack.
- They feature an adjustable flag extension and a sliding weight for easy customization.
- The boards are made from strong ABS and EVA foam, so they can handle tough fishing conditions.
- The embedded side clip makes attaching and detaching your fishing line super quick and simple.
- They work well with different types of fishing line like mono and braid.
- Their bright yellow color makes them easy to spot in the water.
- These boards are versatile and work for many types of fish and fishing spots, from rivers to the ocean.
- They can help you catch fish like walleye, salmon, trout, and pike.
What Could Be Improved:
- Remember to check if you’re buying the left or right version before you purchase.
- The product description mentions a tutorial available through “A+”, which might be confusing to some users.
These Rotatingpals planer boards are a solid choice for anglers wanting to cover more water. They offer great features for a better fishing experience.
Choosing the Right Planer Boards for Walleye: Your Ultimate Guide
Catching walleye can be a thrilling experience. Planer boards help you spread out your fishing lines. This lets you cover more water and reach more fish. This guide will help you pick the best planer boards for your next walleye fishing trip.
1. Key Features to Look For
Size Matters
Planer boards come in different sizes. Smaller boards are good for calmer water and lighter lures. Bigger boards can handle rougher water and heavier trolling setups. Think about the size of the boat you’ll be using and the typical water conditions you fish in.
Directional Control
Some planer boards can be set to run straight out to the side. Others can be adjusted to run slightly back or even turn in. This lets you fine-tune how your lures are presented to the walleye. Look for boards with easy-to-adjust controls.
Visibility
Brightly colored planer boards are easier to see. This helps you keep track of your lines. It also makes it easier to see them when you’re retrieving your catch. Bright orange, yellow, or red are popular choices.
Attachment System
How the planer board attaches to your fishing line is important. Most use a clip. Some clips are stronger and more secure than others. You want a clip that holds well but is also easy to attach and detach.
2. Important Materials
Planer boards are usually made from durable materials. They need to withstand water and the forces of trolling.
- Plastic: Many good planer boards are made of strong plastic. This plastic is often tough and can handle bumps and scrapes.
- Foam: Some boards have foam inserts. This foam helps them float if they accidentally come off your line.
- Metal: Clips and some hardware parts are often made of metal. This metal needs to be strong and rust-resistant, like stainless steel.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Durability
A good planer board will last for many fishing trips. Look for sturdy construction. Check that the clips are strong and don’t break easily. Poorly made boards can crack or lose their shape.
Ease of Use
You want planer boards that are easy to set up and use. This means simple adjustments and reliable clips. If a board is hard to manage, it can make your fishing trip frustrating.
Performance in Water
Well-designed planer boards will run smoothly. They shouldn’t wobble or spin uncontrollably. This stability helps your lures move naturally in the water. A board that doesn’t track well can tangle your lines.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Planer boards are used in many ways. They are great for trolling.
- Spreading Lines: The main use is to spread your fishing lines out. This prevents tangles. It also lets you cover more area.
- Reaching More Fish: By spreading lines, you can present lures at different depths and distances from the boat. This can attract more curious walleye.
- Fishing in Different Conditions: Planer boards are useful in lakes, rivers, and even some coastal areas. They work well when walleye are spread out or feeding near the bottom.
When choosing, think about how you like to fish. Do you usually fish in calm or choppy water? What kind of lures do you use? Answering these questions will help you find the perfect planer boards for your walleye adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Planer Boards for Walleye
Q: What is the main benefit of using planer boards for walleye?
A: The main benefit is spreading your fishing lines out. This helps you cover more water and avoid tangles. It also allows you to present lures to more fish.
Q: Are there different types of planer boards?
A: Yes, there are. The most common types are offshore planer boards (which run far out to the side) and inline planer boards (which attach directly to your fishing line and run slightly out).
Q: Which size planer board is best for walleye?
A: For walleye, medium-sized planer boards are often a good choice. They work well in most conditions and with a variety of lure weights. However, larger boards might be better for rougher water or heavier trolling setups.
Q: How do I attach a planer board to my fishing line?
A: You typically use a special clip that comes with the planer board. This clip attaches to your main fishing line. Then, you attach your fishing lure to the planer board using another clip or a leader line.
Q: What is “tracking” in relation to planer boards?
A: “Tracking” refers to how straight and stable the planer board runs in the water. Good tracking means the board stays on course without wobbling or spinning, which is important for consistent lure presentation.
Q: Can I use planer boards with braided line?
A: Yes, you can use planer boards with braided line. However, you might need to use a different type of clip or a leader made of monofilament or fluorocarbon to prevent the braided line from slipping.
Q: How far out to the side do planer boards typically run?
A: This can vary depending on the size of the board, the amount of line out, and the water conditions. Smaller boards might run 15-20 feet out, while larger offshore boards can run 50-100 feet or more from your boat.
Q: Do I need special rods for planer boards?
A: While not strictly necessary, trolling rods are often preferred. They are designed to handle the stress of trolling and provide good control when fighting a fish that is far off to the side.
Q: What are some common colors for planer boards?
A: Bright colors like orange, yellow, and red are very common. These colors make the boards more visible in the water, which is helpful for keeping track of your lines.
Q: How do I store my planer boards when I’m not using them?
A: It’s best to rinse them with fresh water after use to remove salt or dirt. Store them in a dry place, perhaps in a dedicated tackle box or bag, to prevent damage and keep them organized.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.