What # test for spoons behind Dipseys?

[John in MN]

I have never tried this presentation before. What # test line should I use for pulling spoons behind Dipseys? What length of leaders?

[Bob Z]

John,

The length of the lead should be about the same as your pole is long. Any longer than your pole and you will have trouble getting the fish close enough to net him.

I use 15 lb test for my leads. Some guys go up to 20 lb.

[FreeByrd]

On Erie many trollers are using one of the superlines as their main line for dipseys- something from 30-50# test depending on the brand. We use Pure Florocarbon leader material for our leaders. Minimum 15# and on up to 25# if we are expecting Steelhead mixed in with the eyes. We use either P-Line or Seaguar. This is the stuff sold in small 25-30 yard spools designated as leader material, not the stuff marketed as florocarbon line for filling a reel - there is a difference.

Good tip from Bob about keeping leader no longer than the pole. I've fished leaders as short as 4' and as long as 8'. 6' is a good starting point.

You may also want to run the rubber snubbers (surgical tubing shock cord) in between your dipsey and the leader - especially if you are using a superline.
Good Luck,
Steve

[Mable Eyes]

Great stuff guys. I have a question along the same lines. What kind of pull value do you adjust your release on the Dipsy Diver for.

[FreeByrd]

Marble Eyes,
Some may get more technical than this, but basically I try and set it as light as I can to account for the speed I'm running and lake conditions. I want them just tight enough so that they don't trip on their own. You just have to experiment with it. A small amount of turn on the screw makes a big difference.

I also use this same rule when setting drags - just keep them tight enough so that they don't slip. Keep the clicker on and you can hear a fish if you happen to be looking the other direction. Tighten down some on the drag to get the fish in, but loose drags are important with superlines.
Good Luck,
Steve

[Marble Eyes]

Thanks Steve. I appreciate the Info. If the waves permit I am going to give my new Diawa 27LC Reels, Heartland Rods and the Dipsys a try on Saginaw Bay this Weekend.

-Rod-

[ETT]

calm conditions 2-1/2 pounds for the trip, up to as much as 5 pounds for big waves or fast speeds. Us your fish scale to determine. Thumb the spool when you want to trip the Dipsy, so the drag doesn't slip. Should not require a jerk, just a nice gradual increasing pull, so you have little danger of ripping the fish off. You'll soon get the hang of it.

[wetdream]

I am using a 9ft trolling rod on my dipsy and i have not found a light enough setting on my dipsy to get it to release but if i put it on a 8ft pole it releases without a problem.I have actually taken the screw out and plan on trying that this weekend.Idea release for me would be when i get a bite it will release or one good pull without a bite.went out last week caught three nice eyes on it ,it did not release once for me that is a ##### of a way to bring one in ,talk about some sore arms...