Autopilots can become great electronic tools for trolling anglers. They simulate another pair of hands on the water that can free up a captain to make changes to a spread, build a new rig or even just watch the water. Many feature intricate, pre-programmed trolling patterns for set-and-forget steering. (Note: For safety, always maintain a lookout.) I asked four captains, sponsored by top electronics companies, to share some tips on how they use their autopilots for trolling. Here are their suggestions, which also include a few generic tips. Capt. Terry Nugent, Riptide Charters Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts riptidecharters.com Autopilot: Raymarine Smart Pilot for Mercury Verado Species: Bluefin and yellowfin tuna Tip 1: I always troll using my autopilot. I steer with the +/- buttons rather than the steering wheel. That ...![Sport Fishing Mag]()
