Trolling and jigging are two of the most common techniques used in recreational sport fishing worldwide, and both are relevant to trips around Tenerife's Atlantic waters. Trolling means trailing lures or bait behind a moving boat to draw strikes from pelagic species such as tuna, while jigging involves working a weighted lure vertically through the water column, usually near structure or depth, to target bottom and mid-water species. Which technique a trip actually uses depends on the boat, the format, and conditions on the day, so it is always worth confirming details with the crew when booking.
This guide explains how each technique works, what a first-timer should realistically expect, and how technique generally relates to trip format, so you can ask better questions before choosing a charter.
What is trolling?
Trolling is a passive, boat-driven technique. Lures or baited rigs are let out on lines behind a moving vessel, and the boat's speed and course do the work of making the lure look alive. It is one of the standard methods used across the world's oceans to search for and target fast-moving pelagic fish, because it covers a wide area of water rather than fishing a single fixed spot.
Key characteristics of trolling:
- Movement-led: The boat is constantly moving, often scanning open water for signs of fish activity such as birds or surface disturbance.
- Multiple lines: Several rods are commonly set at once, spread at different distances behind the boat.
- Reactive fishing: Anglers typically wait for a strike rather than actively working the lure themselves, though technique and skill come into play once a fish is hooked.
- Species association: Trolling is widely used for pelagic species such as tuna and other open-water fish, though what is actually encountered on any given day depends on season, location, and sea conditions.
Because the boat does most of the work, trolling is generally considered a relatively accessible technique for people with limited fishing experience. It still requires patience, and hooking a strong pelagic fish can involve a genuine physical effort once it takes the lure.
What is jigging?
Jigging is a more active, angler-led technique. A weighted metal or soft-plastic lure is dropped to a chosen depth, often near reefs, drop-offs, or other underwater structure, and then worked up and down through the water in a repeated vertical motion to imitate injured baitfish.
Key characteristics of jigging:
- Angler-led: The angler actively works the rod and reel throughout, rather than waiting passively for a strike.
- Depth and structure focused: Jigging typically targets specific depths or features rather than covering open water.
- Physically engaging: The repeated lifting and dropping motion, especially in deeper water, is more physically demanding than trolling over a similar period.
- Species association: Jigging is a well-established method for bottom-dwelling and mid-water species in many fisheries, though exact species encountered will depend on location, depth, and season.
Jigging rewards technique and rhythm. Beginners can usually learn the basic motion quickly, but sustained jigging sessions ask more of the arms and core than trolling does.
Trolling vs jigging: quick comparison
| Trolling | Jigging | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Lures trailed behind a moving boat | Weighted lure worked vertically at depth |
| Angler involvement | Mostly passive; wait for a strike | Active; continuous rod and reel work |
| Typical target zone | Open water, moving with the boat | Fixed depth, often near structure |
| Physical demand | Lower during the wait, higher once hooked up | Sustained effort throughout |
| Good starting point for beginners | Generally more approachable for a first trip | Achievable, but more physically involved |
| Species commonly associated (general knowledge, not a guarantee) | Pelagic species such as tuna | Bottom and mid-water species |
These are general sport-fishing characteristics recognised across many fisheries, not a description of a specific catch outcome. What is actually targeted or caught on a Tenerife trip depends on the boat, the day's conditions, and the captain's judgement, so always confirm what a particular trip focuses on when you enquire or book.
What should a beginner expect trying either technique?
Neither technique requires prior fishing experience to take part, but a realistic idea of what happens on the water will help you enjoy the trip more.
Before you go:
- Ask the crew in advance which technique (or combination) a trip is likely to use and whether it can change depending on conditions.
- Expect some motion on the water; if you are prone to seasickness, general preparation such as resting well, eating lightly beforehand, and staying hydrated can help. For anything beyond general tips, speak with a pharmacist or doctor about seasickness medication ahead of your trip.
- Wear sun protection, a hat, and non-slip footwear, and bring a light layer for wind on the water.
During the trip:
- With trolling, expect periods of watching and waiting between strikes, punctuated by a sudden, often exciting hook-up.
- With jigging, expect more continuous involvement, so pace yourself and take breaks if your arms tire.
- Crew members typically assist beginners with rod handling, safety, and technique, but always confirm the level of hands-on support included in your specific trip.
Outcomes:
- No technique guarantees a catch. Weather, sea state, season, and the fish themselves all play a role on any given day.
- A trip's value includes time on the water, the experience of the technique, and the chance of a catch, not a promised result.
How technique relates to trip format
In general sport-fishing practice, trolling is often paired with trips that cover more open water searching for pelagic species, while jigging is often paired with trips fishing specific marks or depths. Shared and family-friendly outings will often lean toward the more passive, group-friendly rhythm of trolling, while dedicated offshore or big-game-focused trips may involve trolling, jigging, or a mix, depending on the target and the day.
This is a general pattern from the wider world of sport fishing, not a fixed rule for every Tenerife charter. The exact techniques used on any given boat and trip format should always be confirmed directly with Tenerife Fishing Experts when you enquire or book, since this can vary by vessel, season, and conditions.
If you are still deciding what kind of trip fits you best, our Fishing Tours hub outlines the range of formats available, and the Big Game Fishing page covers offshore trips aimed at larger pelagic species in more detail. For a broader look at species you may encounter, see our Fish Species Guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is trolling or jigging better for a first-time angler? Trolling is generally considered the more approachable starting point, since the boat does most of the work and anglers mainly wait for a strike. Jigging is still achievable for beginners but asks for more continuous physical effort. Either can be enjoyable on a first trip, so it often comes down to how active you want to be.
Will I know in advance which technique my trip will use? Not always, and conditions on the day can influence the approach. The best way to find out is to ask the crew directly when you enquire or book, so you understand what to expect before you head out.
Do I need my own gear to try trolling or jigging? Requirements vary by trip and provider. Confirm what is included, and whether any specialist gear is needed, when you book. Our equipment guide will cover general gear considerations for South Tenerife fishing in more detail.
Does jigging or trolling guarantee I'll catch a particular species? No. Both are established techniques associated with certain types of fish in general sport-fishing knowledge, but no technique guarantees a specific catch. Season, sea conditions, location, and chance all play a part.
Ready to choose your trip?
Understanding trolling and jigging is a useful first step, but the right trip for you also depends on group size, trip length, and how far offshore you want to go. Visit our Fishing Tours hub to compare formats, or explore Big Game Fishing if you're drawn to offshore pelagic species. For a side-by-side comparison of fishing grounds, see our Offshore vs Coastal Fishing guide . If you have questions before booking, get in touch with Tenerife Fishing Experts and ask the crew which techniques suit your chosen trip.