Drifting

[secosman]

Is anyone drifting bottom bouncers at all? I have been off the lake for about 20 years and trolling is nothing like it used to be. I dont even understand most of the terminology anymore. I have a 28 Foot Sundancer and not really equipped for much other than drifting or casting. Any tips or advice would be appreciated. Thanks

[ebijack]

Quite a few charters besides regular boaters still drift using bouncers. Typically 1oz for every 10 feet of water, But if you want to stay more vertical with the bouncer, go heavier. While bouncers are being used, most also cast Erie Dearies or weapon type harnesses while the bouncer does it's thing in a rod holder.

[jonk]

If you're drifting and there is a good breeze, try using a dipsy diver instead of a bottom bouncer... I know at least for me, a 15-20 mph wind gets the boat moving at about 1.3-5 mph, and the diver does it's thing beautifully.

[secosman]

Thanks, I do have some Erie Dearies and will pick up some Weapons too.

[secosman]

Ill give that a try, Ive never used them but willing to give it all a try.

[limitlypps]

and with that comes great bottom bouncing fishing with meat and harnesses and don't forget a couple of inlines , tadpoles or dippsies to get those suspended fish.Copper and gold backed blades usually does the trick. Good luck.

[ebijack]

Thanks, I do have some Erie Dearies and will pick up some Weapons too.

Make your own weapons. Just like a regular harness, just shorter. Usually around 16" long. Tie a large loop at the top of your harness with a small bead in the loop. The bead stops your egg sinkers from sliding down the harness. Get a couple packs of egg sinkers, 1/2, 5/8, 3/4 typically.

[secosman]

Thank you all for the tips... I made some weapons, dipsys are on their way and Im going to try some trolling as well. 1 more stupid question, when I have a fish on do I maintain the trolling speed or shift into neutral ?

[ebijack]

when I have a fish on do I maintain the trolling speed or shift into neutral ?

If you shift into neutral, all your other rods/weighted baits will stop and sink. If you have a wall hanger on, it is your choice.