What Are Outriggers, and Does Your Fishing Boat Need One?

If you’re an avid fisherman, chances are you’ve seen sleek, long poles extending from the sides of fishing boats. These are outriggers, an essential tool for many anglers looking to improve their fishing experience. But what exactly are outriggers, how do they work, and do you need one for your boat? This article will dive into the mechanics of outriggers, explore their benefits, and help you decide if they are a must-have for your fishing setup.

What Are Outriggers?

Outriggers are long poles, typically made of materials like aluminum or fiberglass, that are mounted to the sides or the top of a fishing boat. They serve a very specific purpose: to spread out fishing lines away from the boat, allowing anglers to troll multiple lines at once without them tangling.

Trolling is a fishing technique where bait or lures are pulled behind a boat to mimic the movement of swimming prey. By deploying outriggers, fishermen can increase their chances of catching fish by covering a wider area of water with multiple lines. Outriggers are particularly useful when fishing for pelagic species like tuna, marlin, and mahi-mahi, which are known to swim in deeper, open waters.

How Do Outriggers Work?

Outriggers are mounted on the boat’s deck or hardtop and can usually be extended or retracted. When fully extended, they angle outward and upward from the sides of the boat. Fishing lines are then attached to the outrigger’s release clips. As the boat moves forward, the outriggers spread the lines out, keeping them separated.

The release clips are spring-loaded, so when a fish strikes the bait, the line is released from the clip, and the fisherman can reel in the fish without the line being attached to the outrigger. This system allows you to troll multiple lines without getting tangled, providing more opportunities to catch fish.

Some outriggers also have telescopic designs, which means they can be adjusted to different lengths depending on the size of your boat or your fishing needs.

Types of Outriggers

There are several different types of outriggers available, and the best option for you depends on your boat type and fishing style. Here are some of the most common types:

  1. Fixed Outriggers: These outriggers are permanently mounted to the boat. They are sturdy and reliable, making them ideal for larger vessels that are frequently used for offshore fishing.
  2. Telescoping Outriggers: These outriggers can be extended or retracted, making them more versatile and easier to store. They are a popular option for boats with limited space.
  3. Portable Outriggers: These are removable and can be mounted to rod holders. They are less permanent and ideal for boaters who only occasionally fish offshore.

Do You Need an Outrigger for Your Fishing Boat?

Whether or not you need an outrigger depends on several factors, including the type of fish you’re targeting, how often you troll, and your boat size. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Target Species: If you’re targeting offshore gamefish like marlin, sailfish, tuna, or mahi-mahi, outriggers are a game-changer. These species tend to swim in open water, and spreading your lines across a wider area improves your chances of attracting them. However, if you’re primarily fishing inshore for species like bass or trout, outriggers may not be necessary.
  • Trolling: If trolling is a core part of your fishing strategy, outriggers will enhance your setup by allowing you to run multiple lines simultaneously without them tangling. This gives you more opportunities to catch fish at different depths and distances.
  • Boat Size: Outriggers are more beneficial for larger boats (20 feet or more) that can handle offshore waters. Smaller boats may not have the space or stability to support full-sized outriggers, but there are still compact or telescopic options available for smaller vessels.

Specifications to Consider

When shopping for outriggers, consider the following specs:

  • Material: Aluminum is lightweight, durable, and resistant to corrosion, making it a popular choice. Fiberglass is also durable but can be heavier.
  • Length: Outrigger lengths vary, typically between 12 and 35 feet. Longer outriggers cover a wider spread, but they can also add weight to your boat. The best length depends on the size of your boat.
  • Mounting Style: Outriggers can be mounted in different ways depending on your boat’s design. Some are fixed, while others are mounted to rod holders or via a track system. Choose a mounting style that’s compatible with your boat’s layout and your fishing habits.
  • Ease of Use: Features like telescoping poles, rotating bases, and quick-release clips can make your outriggers more user-friendly. If you plan to frequently adjust or retract them, these features are worth considering.

Price Range

Outriggers can range significantly in price based on material, brand, and type. Here’s a general idea of what you can expect:

  • Basic portable or telescoping outriggers: $200 to $500
  • High-end aluminum or fiberglass outriggers: $500 to $2,000
  • Complete outrigger systems with mounts, bases, and rigging kits: $1,000 to $5,000 or more

If you’re just getting into offshore fishing and aren’t sure if outriggers are for you, starting with a more affordable, portable set might be a good idea. However, if you’re a seasoned offshore angler, investing in a higher-end system will provide durability and performance in the long run.

Conclusion

Outriggers are an essential piece of equipment for anglers who frequently troll for offshore species. They help maximize the number of lines you can troll and minimize the risk of tangling, giving you a better chance of landing big game fish. Whether your fishing boat needs one depends on your target species, how often you troll, and your boat’s size.

If you’re serious about offshore fishing and are ready to increase your chances of success, investing in a set of outriggers could be a game-changer for your fishing adventures.

Happy Boating!

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Read Capsize Recovery: How to Recover a Capsized Sailboat until we meet in the next article. 

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