Drift Socks

[stlouisloui]

Hi Folks:
Thanks for all of your help in the past! My walleye and perch fishing success on Lake Erie is, in large part, due to the input from this board.
I recently purchased a Sportcraft 270 C Eagle boat, and would like to get your opinions about drift sock size. Bass Pro has a 48" and a 54". (I get a big employee discount there, so those are the only ones i'm considering)
When spring jigging and summer casting will I sometimes need two bags out? I've always used 2 smaller bags with my Starcraft, and always off the stern. Is there a time when you would drag a bag from the bow? Thanks for your help.
Marty

[Drifter]

I have never needed two bags for drifting.

But, if you plan to troll, you likely will need two of the same kind to get your speed where you want it.

[Drifter]

Same kind and size I meant to say.

[dayze_awayze]

If you are fishing in bigger waves or a big blow, you may want to throw the bag off the bow. Personal preference, but it keeps the bow in the waves. Lessens the chance of someone catching your drift line - or the bag or line getting in the way when you are trying to net a fish. I actually prefer putting the bag off the bow when jigging in the spring, so I can cast out further behind the boat, and work the bottom longer as we drift over the jig. (as opposed to casting toward the bow). Personal preference.

[karloutdoors]

If you find yourself dead in the water in an emergency situation, a drift bag deployed at the bow will keep your bow pointed into the wind/waves. Keeping you in the safest posture as possible to avoid getting swamped by a wave across the stern.