Length. You’ll want to select a downrigger rod that is at least 8’6″ in length. Longer rods allow faster line pick-up when the clip releases, aiding hookset. Anywhere in the 8’6″ to 10’6″ seems to be a pretty popular sweet spot for downrigger trolling for salmon.
What is the difference between a trolling rod and a downrigger rod?
Normally downrigger rods have more eyelets, and their action allows more of a “bend” so when you set them up, after you reach your depth you can get crank down on your reel to get a good arch in your rod before it puts too much tension on the release causing your line to pop out.
How long should downrigger rods be?
15-20# line, moderate-fast action. I agree w/ SM- my preference is a 9′ to 9.5 rod. You can load up the downrigger better, and if the rod has some good backbone in the middle, the extra length of the rod can help to lead a deep diving fish away from the lower unit/kicker/side of the boat.
What is a downrigger fishing rod?
A downrigger is a device used while fishing using the trolling method, which places a lure at the desired depth. A downrigger consists of a three to six-foot horizontal pole which supports a cannonball, generally 10 to 15 pounds, by a steel cable (generally stainless steel or wire).
What to look for in a trolling rod?
Trolling Rods
For the majority of species, you want a fairly stiff rod that will withstand the impact of a big fish hitting and heading in the other direction, while the rod is locked in its holder. For species that have delicate mouths, a longer, more limber rod is preferred.
Can you use any rod with downrigger?
Fast action graphite rods, like the type you would use for casting, do not belong loaded onto a downrigger. So again, select an all-fiberglass or graphite-fiberglass blend construction fishing rod.
What weight downrigger should I use?
Six to eight pounds is typical for most moderate depth freshwater applications and ten pounds is typical for saltwater. (see Weight Table). The amount of weight needed on a downrigger is a function of the speed you are trolling and the depth you are fishing.
How fast can you troll with a downrigger?
Most people troll at 1.5 to 3.5 mph. How do you know if you are at the right speed? Sure, you can look at your GPS speed over ground readings, but you see your downrigger lines are almost straight at 2 mph.
How long should a trolling rod be?
Fishing rod size chart
| Fishing rod type | Length range | Most commonly used length |
|---|---|---|
| Surf casting rod | 9′ to 14′ | 10′ to 12′ |
| Boat rod | 5′ to 7′ | 6′ to 6’6″ |
| Trolling rod | 8′ to 14′ | 9′ to 11′ |
| Ice fishing rod | 20″ to 48″ | 28″ to 36″ |
How far behind the boat should I troll?
Every boat is different and you should make your boat your own study. Proper distance for most boats will be anywhere from 20 feet to 150 feet behind your boat. Whether you have inboard diesel or outboard gas engines, your power dictates the distance you troll your baits and lures.
How much line should you let out when trolling?
Downriggers. Downriggers allow for extra long length between the downrigger ball and the lure. Let out 50 feet of line and clip into the release. If that’s not enough distance to prevent your lake’s wary walleyes from seeing the ball…then let out 150 feet of line!
Can you cast a trolling rod?
I’m sure most trolling reels are able to cast. And all the trolling reels I’ve used have clickers. I cast some times with a garcia Ambassadeur 5600 line counter.It has the same 6 pin centrifugal brake that all Ambassadeur reels have. Absolutely.
What is a Dipsy Diver rod?
Posted August 4, 2016 (edited) Dipsey Rods are setup to run a dipsey diver which is a a weighted directional disc which is attached to the line/braid /wire on the reel.
Can you use a downrigger rod for Dipsy Divers?
I prefer to fish with a dipsy diver rod, which is made specifically for dipsy divers.Using a downrigger rod will also work but sometimes they are a little too stiff, the rod should have flexibility to it. Your favorite open-faced spinning reel will have to go also.
Can you use a spinning rod on a downrigger?
Spinning reels tend to twist your line when used for a trolling reel. Which is why a person uses a quality ball bearing swivel. And Yes spinning gear is fine and the baitrunner feature makes using it on the downrigger very easy.
Where are Cannon downriggers made?
MINNESOTA
MADE IN MINNESOTA. TRUSTED EVERYWHERE. CANNON IS THE LEADER IN DOWNRIGGERS AND CONTROLLED DEPTH FISHING.
What is downrigger blowback?
Blowback is the angle or horizontal distance between your downrigger weight and your downrigger. It is created by the resistance of the water to the downrigger weight and line as you pull it through the water behind your boat.
How much line do you need behind a downrigger ball?
For trout, you’ll want to run your offering from 50 to 200 feet behind the downrigger weight depending on the depth you are fishing. The deeper you fish the shorter your line can be. When kokanee and kings are the target you can shorten your lines considerably.
What should I look for when buying a downrigger?
Length and ability to mount.
When looking at downriggers, make sure the boom is long enough to clear the back of your boat and the gunnels, wherever you plan to mount it. Also, make sure that the downrigger comes with a base or that one is available to meet your needs as far as fixed base, tab lock or swivel base.
Can you troll without a downrigger?
The secret to trolling without a downrigger is being able to replicate success. That is why I highly recommend a level-wind reel with a built-in line counter.When trolling without a downrigger, you need to let out more line to get down to the fish.
What’s a good trolling speed?
So, what is the best trolling speed? The best trolling speed depends on several factors including the type of fish, water conditions and lure choice. 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.
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