Trolling the Drop Off on Torch Lake for Atlantic Salmon
By Captain Jim Chamberlin of Fish With Jim Outfitters
Few fisheries in Michigan offer the unique beauty and exciting spring trolling opportunities found on Torch Lake. Known for its crystal-clear water and growing Atlantic Salmon fishery, Torch Lake has become a favorite destination for anglers looking to combine scenery with fast-paced action.
One of the most productive spring patterns for targeting Atlantic Salmon is trolling the drop offs using planer boards, shallow diving crankbaits, and precise boat control.
At 131 Custom Lures,we spend countless hours dialing in trolling spreads specifically designed for these aggressive cold-water fish.
Why the Drop Off Matters
In the spring, Atlantic Salmon often cruise along Torch Lake’s drop offs searching for baitfish suspended near breaks and contour changes.
These transition zones allow salmon to move easily between shallow and deeper water while taking advantage of changing water temperatures and feeding opportunities.
Targeting the top edge of the drop off and the water just off the break can be extremely effective, especially during low-light periods and overcast conditions.
This spring trolling pattern is not limited to Atlantic Salmon either. While salmon are often the primary target, anglers regularly encounter Lake Trout, Brown Trout, and even Smallmouth Bass while working these productive contour lines.
Planer Boards and Shallow Diving Crankbaits
One of the most productive ways to cover water is by running planer boards with flat lines and short lead core setups.
Using shallow diving crankbaits allows anglers to target fish cruising near the surface while spreading lines away from the boat to avoid spooking fish in Torch Lake’s ultra-clear water.
Some of the most effective presentations include:
- Thin Fins
- Berkley Flicker Minnows
- Rapala Shadow Raps
- Custom-painted 131 Custom Lures crankbaits
Short lead core lines can help achieve slightly deeper presentations while still maintaining excellent lure action at slower spring trolling speeds.
Incorporating Downriggers and Slide Divers
When fishing with a full crew, adding downriggers and Slide Divers can dramatically increase the effectiveness of the trolling spread.
These presentations allow anglers to target multiple depth zones simultaneously and cover more of the water column as fish move throughout the day.
However, precision becomes extremely important when fishing near steep breaks.
Making sure your lures running near the drop off are set at the proper depths is critical to avoid fouling baits on bottom structure or underwater debris.
Careful attention to electronics, lure depth, and boat positioning can make the difference between a clean productive spread and constantly tangled or fouled lines.
Spring Trolling Speeds Are Critical
One of the biggest mistakes anglers make when targeting Atlantic Salmon in the spring is trolling too fast.
Torch Lake water temperatures remain very cold early in the season, and salmon often respond best to slower, controlled presentations.
A trolling speed between 1.9 and 2.2 mph is commonly effective for presenting shallow diving crankbaits naturally while still creating enough action to trigger strikes.
Subtle speed adjustments throughout the day can also help dial in the most productive presentation.
A Unique Michigan Fishing Experience
Spring trolling on Torch Lake offers a combination of technical fishing, beautiful scenery, and explosive strikes that keeps anglers coming back every year.
By focusing on productive drop offs, dialing in trolling speeds, and using effective Great Lakes trolling tactics with custom crankbaits, anglers can consistently put themselves in position for unforgettable days on the water.
Whether you are targeting Atlantic Salmon specifically or simply looking for mixed-bag spring action featuring Lake Trout, Brown Trout, and Smallmouth Bass, Torch Lake continues to prove itself as one of Michigan’s hidden gems for trolling anglers.