Too Much Tackle

In the previous article we covered lure speed as it relates to fish species.  Correct speed along with good presentation in the temp location the target prefers will put fish in the cooler. 

Let's talk about presentation.  My latest fish report talks about long leads on the downrigger.  How long is long enough?  Early in the morning or low light days 20 feet behind the ball is fine.  On clear blue skies late in the day cut down on the number of rods and run long.  Has this happen to you?  You start an afternoon trip clear skies lots of sun set the first line and you got a fish on before you can set the next line.  You boat that fish get all the lines in and no more action. 

I believe too much tackle turns the fish off.  Well what do you do no one wants to run one line?  Spread your presentation and go long.  If the temp break is at 60 feet and you run 4 downriggers run the outside or corner riggers at 60 and center riggers at 90 and 30 feet.  Experiment with the lead.  If you are marking fish and not getting hits lengthen the distance from the lure to the weight.  I run what some call a SWR.  This consists of a two to five color leadcore.  This presentation may be 250 feet back running 10 to 25 below the weight.  This is a killer stealth approach to for very difficult conditions.  For more information on set up of leadcore see my article #9 at http://www.wisconsinoutdoor.com/lmfishingtips.htm  

Fishing is a constant evaluation of variables.  No two days are the same.  Your ability to evaluate the changes will lead to your success.  To complete this article we must know what tool will give us the most reliable measurement of speed and temp.  A new product out in the market place for this purpose is the Depth Raider.  This unit offers a probe that you connects to a special downrigger cable they provide giving you speed and temp at the lure to depths of 200 feet.  This information is sent to an easy to read display.

Good Luck Captain Jim.  Let's go fishing!! Jim charters out of Milwaukee, WI. with Blue Max Charters.  He can be reached at 414-828-1094 or visit his web site at http://www.bluemaxcharters.com  Copyright© 2006, James J. Hirt, All Rights Reserved.