Trolling is a method of fishing where one or more fishing lines, baited with lures or bait fish, are drawn through the water at a consistent, low speed. This may be behind a moving boat, or by slowly winding the line in when fishing from a static position, or even sweeping the line from side-to-side, e.g. when fishing from a jetty. Trolling is used to catch pelagic fish such as salmon, mackerel and kingfish.
Artist's conception of tuna trolling operation, using outriggers to tow multiple trolling lines and give the appearance of schooling fish
"Trolling for blue fish" lithograph by Currier & Ives, 1866
Fishing lures are made in various creative designs like this top-water lure.
Aluminium bass boat with trolling motor
A fishing line is any flexible, high-tensile cord used in angling to tether and pull in fish, in conjunction with at least one hook. Fishing lines are usually pulled by and stored in a reel, but can also be retrieved by hand, with a fixed attachment to the end of a rod, or via a motorized trolling outrigger.
Fishing line with hooks attached
Fishing line