When it comes to offshore tuna trolling, few setups are as effective at generating strikes as the side tracking squid bar. These unique trolling rigs, designed to run wide and create a commotion far from the wake, are a deadly addition to any tuna spread. Whether you're targeting bluefin on Cape Cod or yellowfin in the Mid-Atlantic, understanding how and when to deploy side tracking squid bars can give you a serious edge.
What Is a Side Tracking Squid Bar?
A side tracking squid bar is a variation of a standard spreader bar, typically featuring a fixed or articulating keel weight and angled wings that cause the rig to track outward from the boat's path. This gives anglers the ability to widen their trolling spread without outriggers, reducing tangles and covering more water.
These bars are usually rigged with 8–12 soft plastic squids (like the popular 9" or 12" Bulb Squids) arranged on titanium or heavy monofilament arms, with a stinger or chase bait rigged in the middle or rear of the pattern.
Why Use Side Trackers?
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Increased Spread Coverage-Side tracking bars can run up to 30 feet out from the boat, mimicking a fleeing bait school off the main wake. This increases your chances of crossing a tuna's path—especially spooky fish that avoid the center of the spread.
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Attracts Curious Tuna-The splashing, darting motion created by the angled bar design imitates fleeing baitfish and often draws fish into the spread. It creates both a visual and surface disturbance that’s hard to ignore.
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Reduces Spread Congestion-By running outside the boat's wake, side tracking bars allow you to position other lures (like daisy chains, cedar plugs, or deep divers) closer to the center without crowding.
How to Deploy Side Tracking Bars
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Positioning:Run one or two side trackers on your furthest port and starboard lines. Let them out 100–150 feet behind the boat. The angle of the bar and line tension will dictate how far they plane outward.
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Speed:Ideal trolling speeds range between 5.5–7.5 knots. Side tracking bars are most effective when they maintain a consistent surface skip. If it starts diving or tumbling, slow down slightly or check the rig.
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Teaser vs. Hooked:Some anglers rig side trackers as teasers (no hook), relying on a centerline lure to get the bite. Others prefer rigging the trailing squid with a stinger hook to capitalize on aggressive strikes directly on the bar. Both are valid; it depends on your style and confidence.
Best Conditions for Side Trackers
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Flat to Moderate Seas:These bars shine in 1–3 ft seas, where the tracking fins can work without interference. In rough water, they may lose effectiveness or submarine.
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Clear, Calm Mornings:When tuna are boat shy and sitting high in the water column, getting baits outside the wake can make all the difference.
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Fish Near the Surface:When sonar marks indicate fish holding in the top 50 feet, the commotion of a side tracker can be a game-changer.
Tackle and Recommendations
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Reels/Rods:Use 30–50 class conventional setups or bent-butt trolling rods spooled with 80 lb braid and a long 100–150 lb top shot.
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Brands to Try:
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Storage Tip:Use mesh trolling lure bags to prevent bent arms or kinked squids during transport.
Side tracking squid bars are not just a gimmick—they’re a deadly addition to any offshore tuna trolling arsenal. By widening your spread, mimicking fleeing bait, and enticing wary tuna away from the boat’s wake, they can turn a slow day into a multiple-hookup frenzy.
Whether you’re fishing the Canyons, Stellwagen Bank, or the Dump, consider adding a pair of side trackers to your spread. Once you see that first tuna explode on a squid bar 30 feet out to the side, you’ll wonder why you didn’t use them sooner.