Even my long line trolling the electronics are the single most important item because you have to say around grass and the right depth. Some spots you have to get just in the right path and if you can't see the bottom and what is going on down there it's like being blind.

When I get use to a spot and am going down my path, soon you will even know your about to get bit before it happens.

To me the best part about trolling is when you hit a school and 4 of the 5 rods get hammered about the same time...it's hectic for a few minutes, but it sure gets the blood pumpin!!!

I troll only for sand bass and hybrids. I have caught a few crappie this way, but i would rather fish a brush pile for them. Heck, i even caught a nice cat once. Trolling is nice for novices, as i can always find some fish for them to catch.