correct lb test for trolling walleye

[t]

My trolling rods all have 20lb test on them,,would it be a wise choice to change test? if not Ill just leave them that way,,,Ive hooked up with lots of fish but was wondering if I might hook up more? Thanks

[Airwave(OH)]

How are you trolling? Dipseys,? Boards ? Riggers? 20# will work for either but alot of guys like to go alittle lighter if pulling cranks. or they 'll use a no stretch line. (Strength/small diameter)

[Hawgeye]

You may want to consider going down to a braided line with a monofilament leader. The heavier the line, the shallower the lure will travel. I use as small of a diameter as possible to allow the lure to achieve the desired depth. I would suggest to consider purchasing the "Precision Trolling Guide" found in your local sporting goods stores. It is a comprehensive look at trolling cranks in addition to giving different lure depths for different brands of cranks. I has most of the cranks sold today.

It is a great tool for learning the fine arts of trolling cranks.

[tom]

Im using all of the above methods,,and I realize I have to put out more line with 20lb test,,I was hoping that Id not have to re spool all of them ,,I would guess that down riggers and dipsys would be ok,, but does the line ever scare the fish?

[Airwave(OH)]

No I don't believe in a trolling situation your line size will scare the fish. Only affect the presentation. 20# test will work just fine. I've run 17# for years and I manage to cacth a few..:)

[Bob Z]

I have settled, after some experimenting, with the following line and methods. Most of my trolling is done on western Erie with some on northern Ontario lakes.

For trolling cranks or spinners I use 10 lb. Fireline. I like two things about braided line. It is thin and allows my cranks to get down deeper than monofilament line will allow (20 - 30% more). Second, it is very sensitive for detecting small fish or weeds.

The 10 lb Fireline is tough enough for the big fish if you keep the drag loose and are careful. Some guys report losing fish with the braided line. Don't set the hook. The no-stretch braided line did it for you. I double wrap the Fireline around the in-line planer board clips - which is not a problem for me.

On my Dipsey rods I use 20 lb. braided line because of the increased tension from the Dipseys and the occasional crashing into the bottom. I run about 7 - 8 feet of 15 lb. flurocarbor from the dipsey to the spoon or shallow diving crankbait. I also use the small rubber snubber between the Dipsey and the flurocarbon.

Since last year I have been doing most of my trolling with the Dipseys and spoons. I probably increased my catch rate per hour by twice with the spoons and Dipseys. I think there are two reasons, first is depth control with the Dipsey and the walleye love the small spoons.

There is a lot to learn about trolling, and it takes patience and persistence. Good fishing to you.

[tom]

what kind of spoons are you talking about,,and do you ever try for the smallies? if you do ,,what technics do you try thanks