Bottom bouncers

[ebijack]

Over the past few years I have went away from using actual bottom bouncers and inline weights for trolling.
Basically for easier/smaller required storage space, easier to store rod for another run or heading back in. Faster set up when getting out. I have 2 small boxes that cover the 50+ weights verses a large storage box ( and less tangles). Much easier/faster to change weights as required.
You leave the 5"-7" dropper line (just like a wolf river rig, except I use #30 coated cable instead of mono). Attached to each rod, just clip the dropper line clip to the closest eyelet foot. No bouncer wire flopping around. The dropper line catches weeds just like a bouncer, a plus when floating weeds are a problem.
Easier/faster to change weights than an inline weight. Again one less box of weights to buy and to store.
One of my friends switched to doing this a couple years ago( after I showed him). He typically runs 20+ rods (Michigan, we get 3 rods per). The time, storage and cost savings are a major plus for him. He'll never go back to using inlines or bouncers if you ask him. He can get set up around 15 to 20 minutes depending faster with this set up. Every time out, and when getting to make another run or head back in. Big time saving. And we are lazy
Anyway, hope this helps.
2 Small boxes containing weights from 1/4oz to 4oz. all 6oz and 8oz go in a small HD bag. The plastic boxes I tried broke due to the weight.


Originally I started with 15" dropper line, eventually switched that down to only require a 5"-7" with no difference in catch rate. Simpler, cheaper, easier.


At the top there is a barrel swivel with a quality snap swivel (the snap swivel is for attaching your harness, or 6 ft leader for spoons or cranks) in a small loop/crimp.


At the bottom is a cheap snap swivel (if you did ever snag, the cheap swivel should break)


I spray painted the weights for easy color identification. I can look at what folks put on and know if they picked the right weight.
I use these in place of bottom bouncers and inline weights.
If you have rod storage lockers, the dropper stay attached to each rod. And go right into each tube. For roof storage, again the dropper/leader/harness stay attached to your rods. You only remove the weights and any crawler and you are done. Fast and easy.
This is just the way I do it.