I know there are some guys out here that fish the big lake, Lake Superior. I have a boat with downriggers, no balls for it, no clips. And a planer mast that does not have boards or clips either. I know that Marine General is the place to go. But what all do I need to get it ready for fishing Lake Superior for lake trout and salmon?
I need at least two downrigger weights, what sizes? Do I need a spare?
What kinds of clips do I need?
What kinds of boards are best? Is it the twin boards? I have inline ones for walleyes but don't think they will do for some days on the lake.
I am sure I will need line counters too, what are the most durable and last?
What pound test and how many yards do I need?
Is there anything else? I think I want to try this more this year, but want to be prepared and learn all I can first, before hitting that big and dangerous lake.
How about dipsy divers, flashers, spoons, tackle boxes, squids, etc. What works on the big puddle?
Thanks for the help, in advance...
Generally Doug, anything you need for big water the best bet is to go to MG. They can answer pretty much any question you may have.
I will answer your questions with what I know from what I have done on LS.
Downrigger weights: I run 8lb weights, generally they come with a bit of blow back but I believe that is ideal for the spread that I run with when you start getting into wire line, lead core, etc..... The weights are relatively cheap, but if you think you may need a spare then you may need a terminal kit. If you lose a ball then it more then likely will be a lot of work to get your cable back together again so I would wait till the time comes along. As far as clips go, everyone has there favorites. I use blacks releases for my main line and Scotty releases for my stackers.
Trolling boards: I have had good luck with the plain white Marine General single boards. I believe they are made locally and am unsure of the actual name but they have done well in big rollers and some really rough water.
Line Counters: For some line counters are a must, but you can get by with counting passes and knowing how much each pass on a level wind reel is. I have never used line counters on my reels with the exception of Dipsies (for accuracy)
Line: For LS I use Berkley Big Game, personal and monetary choice (spooling up 16 reels gets expensive) 12lb has generally been enough.
Boat: Make sure you go through the Coast Guards list of must have's. Lake Superior requires special equipment to be on. You can find this info here- http://files.dnr.state.mn.us/rlp/regulations/boatwater/boatingguide.pdf
Dipseys/Flashers/all the rest-all depends on the day, what works and what doesn't. Check your local takle/bait store for current info.
Otherwise, get out there with someone who is already set up and ask the questions.
Best of luck
Thanks guys, those are all good starts. I will have to get out but first see if I can get what fishing gear I do not have and need.
I noticed the single boards, now I have helped make a pair before and think I could do that, but I always thought the twin boards were preferred, is there a time for each or is it just one of these things where people like one or the other and either works fine?
I can do the rod sweeps, and do on pike bites, but think when I can afford it that line counters are the thing. So I will do rod sweeps for now. The countying the passes on the level winds only work if you have the same models and brands and the same amount of backing. At least to be very accurate and I want to try it by doing the right amounts and be able to reproduce anything that works. A rod sweep with the same rod length and paying attention can be pretty accurate and faster. I like fast and accurate.
I have a few flashers, is there a favorite color on Lake Superior? I do assume it changes day to day, so I understand that, but is there a set of colors that a good angler should not be without?
Thanks again for the help..