Which type of bait is commonly used when trolling for landlocked Atlantic salmon?

Using smelt-imitating stickbaits is effective when trolling for landlocked Atlantic salmon due to their tendency to prey on small fish, especially smelts, in their natural habitat. Stickbaits that mimic the appearance and movement of smelt can provoke a predatory response from salmon, making them an appealing choice for anglers targeting this species. The design and action of these lures are typically crafted to resemble injured or distressed baitfish, increasing the likelihood of attracting salmon.

Live minnows, while often effective for other fish species, are not the primary choice in this trolling context for salmon. Worms generally appeal to freshwater species but do not mimic the natural prey of salmon as effectively. Crankbaits can work but may not be as specifically tailored to match the natural diet of landlocked Atlantic salmon as smelt-imitating designs are. Therefore, the choice of smelt-imitating stickbaits stands out for successfully attracting landlocked Atlantic salmon while trolling.