Has any of the spider trollers out there look at the use of planer boards as a way to cover more area?

I'd just use longer rods to cover more of a span. Now if you are trolling with a crankbait spread this will work.

I am researching this topic for a differant way to troll for next year. I have been looking at the Mr. Crappie cranks and thought it might be a nice match up to try. I will have my hands full this year learning my new toys.

There is another method you can use also with crankbaits. Its like a down rigger type. Using a 7ft rod with a baitcasting reel, rig it up with at least 20lb braided line. Then tie on a 3-way swivel. Then take a 2-3ft piece of braided and tie to the swivel and to a 6oz bank sinker. Then make a 3ft leader out of 10-20lb mono, tie on to third spot on the 3-way swivel. With the other end tie on a swivel snap, and a 100 series bandit crankbait. This rig will allow you to use depth control and you will be able to make S turns as you troll. I only use two of these rigs out the side, and 4 rods with just cranks out the back. This year I'm trying to experiment a little more with crankbait fishing too!