what # fireline

[Mobydick]

When trolling crankbaits(shallow & deep) and bottom bouncer/spinner, what # test are you running? How about with your planers? Thanks!!!

[Gilligan]

I've done all my trolling/bottom bouncing/boards with 14# but just switched my Erie rods to 20#. The 14# that has been on them for 4 years showed very little wear but I wanted to go a little heavier for times when I'll pull dipsies.

[ETT]

Dick,
If I need extra depth or want more action I use 10/4 fireline, but I only use it when I need it. The lack of stretch is going to cost you fish from rip-offs, even with my 8-1/2' soft rods. There are times when fireline will get you twice as many hook-ups, and then who cares if you lose 1/3rd of them.

I don't run the same rods for Dipsys, they are much heavier, and I have either 35# or 50# (Power Pro) spectra fiber line on them. That means I have 3 sets of rods; 1 for mono, 1 for fireline and 1 for Dipsys. I don't know how else to do it correctly.

Hope this helps. Good luck.

[SUPERTROLLER]

What? No lead core rod/reel set-ups? Thought you came prepared for ALL situations. (just kidding ya)

[ETT]

On Erie, if I want to go deep, I'll go to a Dipsy set up. Lead core loses its effectivness (if there is such a word... LOL) around 1.5 mph and we always troll faster than that after the water gets above 50 degrees. I have lead core, but I use it so seldom that I do not have dedicated rods for it.

It can be used at higher speeds to track the boat when running shallow break lines, but in open water situations, I really do not use it much.

Lead core and Little Rippers have won more Mosquito, and Pymituning tournaments than any other presentation, but I'm not sure that anyone has ever won on Erie with it.

I know you were just kiddin, but versatility is so key, I thought I'd explain anyway. Go get em.

[Stormsearch]

14/6 for pulling cranks and bottom bouncers/crawler harnesses. I use the same setup either on planar boards or in-lines. For dipsies, I have a dipsie rod with 30# power pro.

I do add a mono leader to help take up some of the shock while battling fish behind the boat that I believe really helps.

[Mobydick]

Thank you all, you've been a big help. Have an enjoyable season!!