Best Planer Boards for Walleye: Top Picks for Offshore and Inshore Trolling
The best planer boards for walleye filming a successful trolling run help you extend your fishing spread, control depth, and keep lines clear for more bites. This guide highlights five strong options, suited to different boat sizes and fishing styles. It’s ideal for anglers targeting walleye, crappie, and similar species who want reliable side-tow boards with clear visibility and simple setups.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Rotatingpals Left Planer Board (8″ x 3″, Green) | Inshore/Offshore trolling | Adjustable buoyancy, durable ABS/EVA |
| Krazywolf Planer Board P007 | Freshwater lakes | Spring flag system, left/right pair |
| Rotatingpals Right Planer Board (8″ x 3″, Yellow) | Right-side trolling | Two-pack, buoyant and visible |
| My PB Series Edge 2 Planer Boards | Catfish, striper and general trolling | Low-drag, aluminum build |
| The Walleye Board Pro-Pack by Church Tackle | Walleye-focused setups | Two boards with double flag systems |
Rotatingpals Left Planer Board – 8″ X 3″ Green
Best for beginners and casual trolling, this two-pack features an adjustable flag extension and a customizable sliding weight. The 8″ x 3″ size is suitable for small to mid-sized boats, offering straightforward depth control and easy side-tow setup. The ABS and EVA foam construction helps withstand marine conditions, making it a practical choice for weekend anglers targeting walleye and similar species. A potential limitation is that the smaller size may yield less stability in rough water.
Krazywolf Planer Board P007 – Left & Right
Best for freshwater trolling with high visibility, this left/right pair uses a spring-loaded flag to alert anglers to bites. The included dual boards are sized for versatile rigs and can be used on lakes with clear, bright conditions. Choose this if you need quick strike alerts and a simple two-board setup. A limitation is that it may require more space on crowded rigs.
Rotatingpals Right Planer Board – 8″ X 3″ Yellow
Best for right-side trolling with high visibility, this two-pack complements the left version for symmetrical spreads. The compact 8″ x 3″ design keeps lines clear and reduces steering interference. It’s a solid pick for boats running multiple lines or exploring varied depths. A caveat is that shorter boards can be more sensitive to strong tides or choppy water.
My PB Series Edge 2 Planer Boards
Best for heavy-duty trolling with durable construction, these 10″ aluminum boards offer a low-drag curved front for smoother tracking. They are lightweight at about 8 ounces and can handle larger baits while maintaining stable spread. Choose these if you frequently fish larger species or in conditions where durability and efficiency matter. Limitation: heavier boards may require larger reels and stronger line for optimal performance.
Off Shore Planer Combo Kit
Best for anglers building a complete trolling setup, this kit includes multiple side planers and a heavy tension release. The combination supports broader spreads and more precise line management across different depths. Use this if you want a ready-to-roll package with flexible side-tow options. A potential limitation is that it is more complex than single-board kits and requires planning for optimal placement.
The Walleye Board Pro-Pack by Church Tackle Co
Best for dedicated walleye trolling, this pack contains two boards with double action flag systems to maximize bite alerts. The setup aims for effective line separation and extended reach from the boat. It’s suited for anglers who want a proven walleye-focused configuration. A limitation is that the pack is tailored to walleye workflows, which may be less ideal for mixed-species trolling.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Planer Boards
- Board Size and Buoyancy: Larger boards carry heavier baits at greater depths; smaller boards are easier to manage in tight spaces or rough water.
- Material And Durability: ABS and EVA foam resist saltwater wear; aluminum boards offer extra strength for heavy setups.
- Flag System: Visible flags help identify strikes; some boards use spring flags or dual-action flags for quick responses.
- Left/Right Availability: Some models come in pairs; plan your spread by ensuring you have both sides covered for even line distribution.
- Ease Of Use: Sliding weights and simple depth adjustments reduce rigging time and improve action in changing conditions.
- Compatibility: Check whether boards support your line type (mono, braid) and preferred towing depth.
Quick Comparison At A Glance
- Best for beginners: Rotatingpals Left (8″ x 3″), simple setup, visible flags.
- Best for freshwater: Krazywolf P007 pair, versatile left/right use, easy alerts.
- Best for heavy baits: My PB Series Edge 2, low drag and strong build.
- Best for dedicated walleye setups: The Walleye Board Pro-Pack, purpose-built flags and spacing.
- Best for complete kits: Off Shore Planer Combo Kit, multiple side boards and releases.
FAQ
- What is the main purpose of a planer board for walleye? It helps you spread lines away from the boat, reaching more water and reducing tangles.
- Do I need different boards for left and right sides? Yes, having both sides avoids crossing lines and maintains even depth distribution.
- Are plastic boards less durable than aluminum ones? Plastic boards (ABS/EVA) are durable for most conditions, but aluminum boards excel in heavy-duty setups.
- Can I use these boards for species other than walleye? Yes, many are suitable for crappie, catfish, salmon, and trout depending on setup.
- Which feature should I prioritize for visibility? High-visibility flags and bright colors help detect bites in choppy or low-light conditions.
- Is a complete kit better than individual boards? A kit simplifies setup and ensures compatibility, but individual boards can be mixed to tailor a spread.