Trolling speed is the ideal speed a boat should go to attract the most fish when trolling for fish. The optimum trolling speed varies with different species of fish and lures, with weather and water conditions, and the time of year. For these reasons fishermen use devices that accurately track speed. Trolling motors calibrate speed more accurately than large outboard motors. Trolling plates are also used with larger motors to slow the boat to the desired speed. In general, trolling speeds between 1.5 and 2.5 mph, as measured by GPS, are a good starting place for most species like walleye, trout and salmon.
Some anglers have suggested the following trolling speeds, but successful trolling may involve more art than science.
| Species | Best Trolling Speed |
| Walleye | 2.0 mph |
| Lake Trout | 1.7 mph |
| Brown Trout | 2.2 mph |
| Rainbow Trout | 1.5 mph |
| Tiger Trout | 1.2 mph |
| Kokanee | 1.8 mph |
| Coho Salmon | 3.3 mph |
| Chinook Salmon | 2.5 mph |
| Northern Pike | 2.4 mph |
| Muskie | 3.0 mph |
| Crappie | 0.7 mph |