Yesterday, Shane and I took Catch Happy HQ on Lake Berryessa, armed with a brand-new Minn Kota Terrova trolling motor and a boatload of gear to test. Launching before sunrise at 6:20 am allowed us to beat the crowds and get a jumpstart on a full day of fishing and experimentation. From the Terrova's performance to leadcore line and planer boards, we put a variety of techniques and equipment to the test. Here are our findings.
Minn Kota Terrova Test Run
I've been dreaming about upgrading my boat with a Minn Kota Terrova self-deploying trolling motor for months, and I finally made it happen! My brother, Paul, helped me with the installation, and we were eager to put this new setup to the test on Lake Berryessa. I couldn't wait to experience the seamless integration of the Terrova with my existing kicker motor and explore the potential of its advanced features, particularly the i-Pilot system, which I planned to tackle in the near future.
Effortless Control and Precision
Despite having read the entire operation manual, I was still a bit apprehensive about how the Terrova would perform in real-world conditions. However, my fears were quickly dispelled. The basic operation of using the bow-mount motor for steering while the kicker motor propelled the boat was surprisingly intuitive and easy to master. Within 15 minutes, I felt completely comfortable with the setup.
The Terrova offered two significant advantages that immediately elevated my fishing game. First, the ability to dial in precise trolling speeds down to 0.1 mph was a game-changer. Maintaining a consistent speed is crucial for enticing fish, and the Terrova's precise control made it effortless. Second, I no longer had to rush back to the helm every time I needed to adjust my trolling direction, compensate for wind gusts, or execute a turn or zig-zag maneuver. The Terrova's remote control put all these functions at my fingertips, allowing me to focus on fishing and react quickly to changing conditions.
Leadcore Line Experiment
In addition to the Terrova, we also experimented with leadcore line as a method for fishing deep without downriggers. We spooled two rods with multicolored leadcore, where each color represented a specific depth, allowing us to easily gauge our fishing depth based on the amount of line released.
While the leadcore setup was fairly straightforward, tying a monofilament leader to the leadcore proved to be a bit tricky. We opted for a 14-foot fluorocarbon leader with an 8-pound test, terminating it with a small swivel for attaching our lures.
After a day of fishing with leadcore, we concluded that it's a valuable technique, especially during the spring and late fall when water temperatures are cooler and fish are holding at shallower depths. Leadcore effectively allows you to target depths up to 40 feet, making it an excellent option for anglers without downriggers or those fishing from kayaks. While there's a slight learning curve, leadcore is a user-friendly and versatile tool that any angler can master with a bit of practice.
Expanding Horizons with Planer Boards
We were particularly excited to test out planer boards on Lake Berryessa. Planer boards are ingenious devices that significantly increase the width of your trolling spread, allowing you to cover more water and increase your chances of encountering fish. They function like large fins attached to your main line, catching the water's current and pulling your trolling lines outward, away from the boat.
Setting up planer boards may seem a bit daunting at first, but the process is actually quite simple. After letting out your desired amount of line, you run it through the snap on the planer board. Then, about 6 to 10 inches up the line, you secure it in the clip, and you're ready to deploy the board. The more line you release, the wider your trolling path will become.
Overall, our Lake Berryessa trip was a resounding success. We gained valuable insights into the capabilities of the Minn Kota Terrova, explored the potential of leadcore line, and expanded our trolling arsenal with planer boards. These experiences not only enhanced our fishing skills but also deepened our appreciation for the endless possibilities that the world of fishing has to offer. Remember, whether you're a seasoned pro or a novice angler, there's always something new to learn and discover on the water. So, get out there, experiment, and embrace the adventure!
Catch Happy!
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