Guides Open App

Summer Trolling – Depth, Speed and Lure Strategy

Summer fishing can be tough—fish move deeper and become more selective as surface temperatures rise.

Where fish go in summer

Move deeper due to warm surface water
Often follow baitfish and thermoclines

Best trolling depths

Early morning: shallow (2–5 m)
Midday: deeper (5–15 m)

Speed strategy

Slightly faster presentations work well
Cover more water to find active fish

Best lures

Crankbaits for depth control
Spoons for aggressive, fast-moving fish

Pro tips

Focus on thermocline zones
Adjust constantly throughout the day
Don’t stay at one depth too long

Find the exact depth instantly

Related guides

5 min read

Trolling Depth Calculator – How Deep Does Your Lure Really Run?

Learn how trolling depth works and how to calculate exactly how deep your lure runs based on speed, lure type and setup.

4 min read

How to Build the Perfect Trolling Setup

Build a better trolling setup, balance your spread and fish at the right depths with more confidence.

Try the app

Try Trolling Depth — know your lure depth instantly

Calculate exact lure depth, plan your spread and log every catch.