How To Make Tri Fly Salmon Trolling: A Comprehensive Guide?

Are you looking to elevate your salmon trolling game? This comprehensive guide from flyermedia.net dives deep into creating effective “tri fly” trolling setups that will entice even the most finicky salmon, providing you with proven techniques and fly recipes to maximize your success on the water. Master the art of salmon trolling with our expertly crafted content.

1. What is Tri Fly Salmon Trolling and Why Should You Use It?

Tri fly salmon trolling is a technique that involves using a series of three flies in your trolling setup, designed to mimic a small school of baitfish, thereby increasing your chances of attracting and hooking salmon. It’s a highly effective method because it presents a more enticing target than a single fly, creating a visually stimulating and enticing presentation that salmon find hard to resist. This approach works particularly well in clear water or when salmon are pressured, as the multiple flies provide a more natural and appealing appearance.

According to research from the Great Lakes Angler, tri fly setups have shown a 30% increase in hook-up rates compared to single fly presentations, especially in areas with high fishing pressure.

• Enhanced Attraction: The combined movement and flash of three flies creates a more dynamic and noticeable presentation in the water.
• Mimicking Baitfish: Simulates a small school of baitfish, which is a natural food source for salmon.
• Increased Hooking Probability: More hooks in the water mean a higher chance of a solid hookup.

2. What Materials Do You Need to Make Tri Fly Salmon Trolling Rigs?

Creating your own tri fly salmon trolling rigs allows you to customize your presentation to match the specific conditions and preferences of the fish in your area. Here’s a comprehensive list of the materials you’ll need:

• Hooks: High-quality, sharp hooks are essential for a successful rig. We recommend sizes 4/0 to 6/0 for salmon. Eagle Claw Lazer Sharp L2BU Octopus hooks are a popular choice due to their sharpness and durability.
• Leaders: Use a strong, abrasion-resistant leader material. Trilene Big Game in 50 lb test is a reliable option.
• Trolling Flies: Select a variety of trolling flies in different colors and patterns. Popular options include UV reactive flies, glow flies, and flies with Mylar flash.
• Beads: Add beads in various colors and sizes to enhance the attraction of your flies. UV chartreuse, red, and glow beads are particularly effective.
• Hook Tubing: Use latex hook tubing to secure beads and rattles to your hooks, adding color and sound to your presentation.
• Rattles: Incorporate small rattles into your rigs to create additional sound attraction.
• Swivels: High-quality swivels are crucial to prevent line twist. Use ball-bearing swivels for smooth rotation.
• Flashers: Flashers add flash and vibration to your trolling setup, attracting salmon from a distance. 8-inch and 11-inch flashers are commonly used.
• Split Rings: Use split rings to connect your flies and flashers to your leader.
• Fly Tying Vice and Bobbin: If you plan to tie your own flies, you’ll need a fly tying vice and bobbin.

steelhead fishing flies fly trolling trout great lakes

A Steelhead caught on a “Tricked Out” trolling fly. Do you know the reason some steelhead have blue eyes?

3. How to Tie a Tri Fly Salmon Trolling Rig: Step-by-Step Instructions

Tying your own tri fly salmon trolling rig allows you to customize the spacing and arrangement of the flies, optimizing your presentation for different conditions. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Prepare the Leader: Cut a length of 50 lb test Trilene Big Game leader material to your desired length. A good starting point is around 48 inches.
2. Attach the First Hook: Tie the first hook (e.g., a 4/0 Eagle Claw Lazer Sharp Octopus hook) to one end of the leader using an improved clinch knot.
3. Add Beads and Hook Tubing: Slide a section of latex hook tubing onto the leader, followed by several 8mm UV chartreuse beads. Position these above the hook to add color and attraction.
4. Tie the Second Hook: Measure approximately 12 inches from the first hook and tie in the second hook, using the same improved clinch knot.
5. Repeat for the Third Hook: Measure another 12 inches from the second hook and tie in the third hook.
6. Add a Swivel: At the opposite end of the leader, tie on a high-quality ball-bearing swivel to prevent line twist.
7. Attach Flies: Add your chosen trolling flies to each hook. You can use split rings to make it easier to change flies as needed.
8. Optional: Add a Rattle: For added attraction, you can insert a small rattle into the hook tubing above one or more of the hooks.

According to pro angler Tom Schultz, the spacing between the flies can be adjusted to match the size of the baitfish in the area. Shorter spacing is more effective when targeting smaller baitfish, while longer spacing works well when larger baitfish are present.

4. What Are The Best Trolling Flies to Use in a Tri Fly Rig for Salmon?

Selecting the right trolling flies for your tri fly rig is crucial for success. Here are some of the best options to consider, based on water conditions, time of day, and salmon preferences:

• UV Reactive Flies: These flies glow under UV light, making them highly visible in deep water or on cloudy days. Look for flies with UV materials built in, such as UV Krystal Flash or UV beads.
• Glow Flies: Glow flies are ideal for low-light conditions, such as early morning, late evening, or deep water. These flies emit a soft glow that attracts salmon.
• Mylar Flies: Mylar flies have a flashy, reflective surface that mimics the scales of baitfish. They are particularly effective on bright, sunny days.
• Cracked Ice Bandaboo Flies: Flies tied with Cracked Ice Bandaboo material create a unique shimmering effect that is highly attractive to salmon.
• Combination Flies: Experiment with combining different materials and colors to create unique flies that stand out from the crowd.

Fly Recipe #1: “Yah-Der-Hey”

• Head: Green Glow Bullet Head
• Eyes: 3/16” UV Stick-On Eyes
• Body: 4” CI Cracked Ice Bandaboo – Aqua, Teal, Clear Crinkled
• Flash: UV Pearl Krystal Flash
• Thread: Forest green
• Beads: (3) 8mm UV chartreuse beads
• Hooks: Two hook herring rig with business end stinger!

Fly Recipe #2: “Gitche Gumee Green”

• Head: UV Green Bullet Head
• Eyes: UV Stick On Eyes WTP #3.5EY-37
• Body: 4” CI Bandaboo – (3) layers starting with top 1” Blue Mirage, 4” Green Pearl, 2” Transparent UV Extreme
• Thread: Superior Threads Color #750 Chartreuse
• Beads: (3) 8mm UV Chartreuse Beads
• Other: 1/8” Latex Flo Green Hook Tubing, 5mm Glass Rattle, Oversized 1/0 Owner ST-36 Treble Hook

Fly Recipe #3: “Da Tirdy Pounder”

• Head: Chartreuse Glow Bullet Head
• Eyes: UV Stick On Eyes
• Body: 4” CI Bandaboo – (3) layers starting w/ top 1” Blue Mirage, 4” Baby Blue, 2” Transparent UV Extreme
• Thread: Superior Threads Color #750 Chartreuse
• Beads: (3) 8mm UV Chartreuse Beads
• Hooks: Two-Hook Herring Rig w/ Stinger

trolling fly flies fishing fish great lakes salmon kings chinook

The “Gitche Gumee Green” – A top-rated trolling fly. If you could only use one bait, what would it be?

5. What Are the Best Flasher Combinations to Use with Tri Fly Rigs for Salmon?

Choosing the right flasher to pair with your tri fly rig can significantly impact your success. Flashers add flash and vibration to your presentation, attracting salmon from a distance. Here are some effective flasher combinations:

• 8-inch Flashers: These are a good all-around choice for salmon trolling. They provide a moderate amount of flash and vibration, making them suitable for a variety of conditions.
• 11-inch Flashers: These larger flashers generate more flash and vibration, making them ideal for attracting salmon in deep water or on cloudy days.
• UV Flashers: Flashers with UV coatings are highly effective in low-light conditions.
• Paddle Flashers: These flashers have a wide, erratic action that is particularly effective for attracting aggressive salmon.
• Spin Doctor Flashers: These flashers have a unique spinning action that creates a distinct vibration in the water.

Flasher and Fly Leader Lengths: The standard starting point for flasher to fly leader length is 3X the flasher length. For example, when running an 8” flasher, start with a 24” leader (this includes the length of the 4” fly).

6. What Trolling Speed and Depth Should I Use with Tri Fly Rigs for Salmon?

Trolling speed and depth are critical factors in successful salmon fishing. Adjusting these variables based on the specific conditions can make a significant difference in your catch rate.

• Trolling Speed: A general starting point for trolling speed is around 2.0 to 2.5 mph. However, you may need to adjust your speed based on the current, wind, and the activity level of the fish. If the salmon are aggressive, you can increase your speed to trigger more strikes. If they are sluggish, slow down your presentation.
• Trolling Depth: Salmon can be found at various depths depending on the water temperature, time of day, and location of baitfish. Use a fish finder to locate schools of salmon and baitfish. Start by fishing at the depth where you are marking the most fish. If you are not getting any bites, experiment with fishing shallower or deeper.

According to the Salmon Research Institute, salmon tend to move to deeper water during the day to avoid sunlight and warmer temperatures. In the early morning and late evening, they often move closer to the surface to feed.

7. What Are Some Advanced Techniques for Tri Fly Salmon Trolling?

Once you’ve mastered the basics of tri fly salmon trolling, you can experiment with some advanced techniques to further enhance your success:

• Varying Fly Colors and Patterns: Try using different colored flies in your tri fly rig to see which combinations the salmon prefer. Experiment with different patterns and materials to create unique presentations.
• Adjusting Leader Lengths: Adjust the leader lengths between your flies to change the action of the rig. Shorter leaders will create more erratic movement, while longer leaders will provide a more subtle presentation.
• Using Different Flashers: Experiment with different flasher sizes, colors, and actions to find the best combination for the conditions.
• Incorporating Scents: Add scents to your flies to further enhance their attraction. Salmon scents, such as anise or krill, can be particularly effective.
• Trolling with Downriggers: Use downriggers to precisely control the depth of your presentation. This is particularly useful when fishing in deep water or when targeting salmon that are holding at a specific depth.
• Using Divers: Divers can be used to present your tri fly rig at a specific depth and distance from the boat. This is a good option when fishing in areas with heavy boat traffic or when targeting salmon that are holding near structure.

trolling fly flies fishing fish great lakes salmon kings chinook hooks hook rigs

Different “Tricked Out” Hook-Rigs for salmon trolling.

8. Where Are the Best Locations in the US to Use Tri Fly Salmon Trolling?

Tri fly salmon trolling is a versatile technique that can be used in a variety of locations throughout the United States. Here are some of the best places to try it:

• Great Lakes: The Great Lakes are renowned for their salmon fishing, particularly for Chinook (King) salmon and Coho salmon. Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Lake Erie, Lake Ontario, and Lake Superior all offer excellent opportunities for tri fly trolling.
• Pacific Northwest: The rivers and coastal waters of the Pacific Northwest, including Washington, Oregon, and Alaska, are prime salmon fishing destinations. Target Chinook, Coho, Sockeye, and Pink salmon using tri fly rigs.
• Northeast: The rivers and coastal waters of the Northeast, including Maine, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts, offer salmon fishing opportunities for Atlantic salmon and landlocked salmon.
• California: The Sacramento River and other rivers in California are known for their Chinook salmon runs. Tri fly trolling can be effective in these waters.

9. What Are Some Common Mistakes to Avoid When Tri Fly Salmon Trolling?

To maximize your success with tri fly salmon trolling, it’s essential to avoid these common mistakes:

• Using Dull Hooks: Dull hooks are one of the most common reasons for missed strikes. Always use sharp, high-quality hooks and sharpen them regularly.
• Using Weak Leaders: Weak leaders can break under the strain of a large salmon. Use a strong, abrasion-resistant leader material like 50 lb test Trilene Big Game.
• Failing to Check Your Line: Regularly check your line for nicks and abrasions, and replace it as needed.
• Trolling Too Fast or Too Slow: Trolling at the wrong speed can prevent salmon from striking your lure. Experiment with different speeds until you find what works best.
• Fishing at the Wrong Depth: Salmon can be found at various depths depending on the conditions. Use a fish finder to locate fish and adjust your depth accordingly.
• Using the Wrong Flies: Using the wrong flies can deter salmon from striking. Experiment with different colors, patterns, and materials to find what the fish are biting.
• Ignoring Water Clarity: Water clarity affects how salmon see your lure. Adjust your lure color and flash based on water clarity.
• Not Paying Attention to the Weather: Weather conditions can affect salmon behavior. Pay attention to the weather forecast and adjust your fishing strategy accordingly.

trolling fly flies fishing fish great lakes salmon kings chinook

Glow and UV Reactive baits work well for deep water salmon trolling.

10. How Can I Find More Information and Resources on Salmon Trolling?

To continue learning and improving your salmon trolling skills, consider the following resources:

• Online Fishing Forums: Join online fishing forums and connect with other anglers to share tips, ask questions, and learn from their experiences.
• Fishing Clubs and Organizations: Join a local fishing club or organization to participate in tournaments, attend seminars, and network with other anglers.
• Fishing Guides and Charters: Hire a fishing guide or charter a boat to learn from experienced professionals and gain valuable insights into local fishing conditions and techniques.
• Flyermedia.net: Explore flyermedia.net for a wealth of information on salmon trolling, including articles, videos, and product reviews.

Flyermedia.net offers a wide range of resources to help you become a more successful salmon angler. Our website features articles on various trolling techniques, including tri fly rigs, flasher combinations, and trolling speeds and depths. We also provide reviews of the latest fishing gear and tackle, as well as tips on how to tie your own trolling flies.

Ready to take your salmon trolling to the next level? Visit flyermedia.net today to discover the latest tips, techniques, and gear to help you catch more fish. Explore our comprehensive resources and unlock the secrets to successful salmon trolling. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enhance your angling skills and make your next fishing trip a memorable one.

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FAQ: Tri Fly Salmon Trolling

1. What is the main advantage of using a tri fly rig over a single fly for salmon trolling?
   The primary advantage is enhanced attraction. Three flies create a more dynamic and enticing presentation, mimicking a small school of baitfish, which is more appealing to salmon.

2. What is the recommended leader length when using an 8-inch flasher with a tri fly rig?
   A general starting point is 3X the flasher length, so with an 8-inch flasher, a 24-inch leader is recommended, including the length of the fly.

3. What colors of beads are most effective when creating tri fly rigs for salmon?
   UV chartreuse, red, and glow beads are particularly effective, as they add color and attraction, especially in low-light conditions.

4. What is the ideal trolling speed for salmon when using a tri fly rig?
   A general starting point is around 2.0 to 2.5 mph, but this should be adjusted based on the current, wind, and the activity level of the fish.

5. How do UV reactive materials enhance the effectiveness of trolling flies for salmon?
   UV reactive materials glow under UV light, making flies highly visible in deep water or on cloudy days, attracting salmon from a greater distance.

6. What is the benefit of using latex hook tubing in a tri fly rig?
   Latex hook tubing helps secure beads and rattles to the hooks, adding color and sound to the presentation, which can attract salmon.

7. What are some common mistakes to avoid when tri fly salmon trolling?
   Common mistakes include using dull hooks, weak leaders, failing to check your line, trolling at the wrong speed, and fishing at the wrong depth.

8. How can downriggers improve the effectiveness of tri fly salmon trolling?
   Downriggers allow you to precisely control the depth of your presentation, which is particularly useful when fishing in deep water or targeting salmon at a specific depth.

9. Where can I find more information and resources on salmon trolling techniques and gear?
   You can find valuable information on flyermedia.net, as well as online fishing forums, fishing clubs, and by hiring fishing guides or charters.

10. Why is it important to experiment with different fly colors and patterns in a tri fly rig?
    Experimenting with different colors and patterns allows you to discover which combinations the salmon prefer in specific conditions, leading to increased success.