New to Downriggers. Release Question.

[capnlee]

I just bought a Walker electric downrigger. I have very little experience with DRs and I am going to have a few questions. First, the DR came with a combination terminator/release that I'm not sure about. I was looking for info and came across the attached picture. It shows the fishing line wrapping around itself a few times after passing through the release. That seems like an odd way to do it, but I was wondering if anyone had tried this method with success or if you might have other suggestions. I have used pad releases with my planer boards and like how simple they are. There appear to be many different options for releases and I'm just wondering what other people prefer. Thanks in advance!

[Shellback]

That's a standard way to put your line in a Black release. Twist the line around your finger a few times, then put the loop in the clip. I imagine twisting it keeps your set back distance uniform.

[REW]

For walleyes, you might check out the Chamberline release.
This is an excellent product that many folks use every day.

http://downriggerrelease.com/

[Papascott]

The most easy to use and easy to read release I have found is the offshore tackle rigger releases. I modify them by replacing the short wire with a tail of heavy 30-50 mono 2-3 ft long. The long till allows easy movement of the release which in turn makes your rod tip move with any tension added to the release, fish or weeds.

This also makes it very easy to put your line in the release. No bending over or reaching out over the side.

[Jeepman]

I have found the Chamberline release to be the most sensitive and adjustable downrigger line release, and it is especially suited for walleye downrigger fishing.

However, when fishing for salmon on Lake Michigan, I use a "clip" release and a "rubber band" and make sure I have no line twists. The depth of the cannon ball (up to 100+ feet) means there is a lot of slack line when the fish releases; the double release (clip and rubber band) ensure a hook set. And the salmon hit so hard that line twists can result in line kinks and weakened line. I know, that is not a problem with downrigging for walleye.

Tight lines and screaming reels. Jeepman

[mudpuppy]

I use one similar to the one pictured. Works fine for salmon but I always use 20# to 30# mono for my DR's.

[capnlee]

I guess I should mention that I will be salmon fishing, but NM salmon are kokanee--average size isn't much more than 1 lb.

[Rough House]

I agree with above. The chamberlain releases are the best Ive ever used. They work flawless everytime!!!

[trackerbruce]

Chamberline is the only way to go with smaller fish.

[cliftp]

Originally Posted by REW

For walleyes, you might check out the Chamberline release.
This is an excellent product that many folks use every day.

http://downriggerrelease.com/

I've been using this one for a couple years now. Works great plus easy to use. I'm happy and would buy again, in fact, I did. Lost the downrigger ball and one of my releases earlier this year. Immediately ordered a new one plus a spare. Great release.

Paul C.