How much time do we have ?????

[butcherman]

Thanks Dr. Ed looks like I might have to invest in some dipsey's

[butcherman]

Hey DR. Ed was wondering if I can use the rods I have for running dipsy's, they are cabellas troll master with dm30a line counter reels. And what dipsey would u recommend getting. Thx for any help

[Dr.Ed]

For years I only ran "0" Dipseys with and without the O ring. Lately I have been mixing the "0" and the "1" with and without the O ring. I tell people to use which ever presentation will get the lure or bait to the suspended fish. With the big fish these days you need medium-heavy rods with 20# mono or braided line. You'll be glad you have heavy tackle when a 12 lb steelhead hits. Early on I lost plenty of tackle and dipseys to steelhead by using 17 lb line and thinking it was strong enough. We all use trial and error every day to find what the fish want for breakfast. Good luck out there. I'll be on Ch. 68 the next three days. I'll be listening.....

[skinny5382]

With the big fish these days you need medium-heavy rods with 20# mono or braided line. ...

Yes, thanks you very much Doc, we haven't lost fish since making the change a few weeks ago.

BTW - How many Dipsey's do you run (or can be run) per side? Our setup is 1 downrigger and 2 Dispey's per side. I would like to get a couple more lines in the water but we have the occasional tangle which holds us back. Crew and I just not ready yet. That being said we really don't have a standard fish landing practice either. Guy on the pole backs up alittle and the net man will land either from the back or the side. Depending on the fishes reaction.

[Dr.Ed]

You are right. Running more than 2 dipseys on a side can cause problems. I run 2 on each side, outside poles are 8 1/2 ft with longer lead and 2 or 3 setting. Inside poles are 7 ft with 1 1/2 or 2 setting and shorter leads. I will usually run two downrigger rods but will switch to 3-4 oz bottom bouncers with SS line if the riggers are not producing. We use long handled nets and try to net every fish from in head on which is going with the flow for ease of handling. This is especially true with steelhead. They have no lateral mobility and will swim directly into the net. I have found thru the years that you will lose fewer fish with short leads off the dipseys. They should be no longer than the pole or the net you are using. Right now all my leads are 5 feet of 20 lb mono from dipsey to harness and I don't lose fish at the boat.

[butcherman]

That's some good information, thanks

[Shedidntno]

First full year running my own boat. Usually just me and my son. Miserable year for us, no walleye at all. Not ready for boards so I use 6 rods, 4 dipsy and 2 flatline with 3oz weights- typicaly deep reef runners. Try everything - spoons, harnesses etc.

Heading up tonight, live in Harrisburg and while perching is fun, burning a lot of gas for no 'eyes.

Is it worth installing a downrigger for fishing this weekend? I use them in Olcott, but not Erie.

Not looking to limit, just put a few in the boat before my son (15) takes up knitting instead...

Thanks - I fish out of Walnut.