What lb test are you running?I only use the Tuff Line Downrigger braid. 1/2 the diameter of any of the brands mentioned, costs less and same breaking strength. Sorry but the Scotty stuff looks like rope and almost same as wire diameter. I have used for last 8 years and will continue until a stronger, thinner and cheaper braid is invented. Tuff Line diameter is VERY noticeable when deep trolling, blowback is half other braids for same depth. I also use cord and snubber, easier to grab and holds release better.
HM
I’d like to see pictures as well, if possible.I'm interested in seeing this paracord setup. I like my swivel set up but I like having options. If you happen to post a photo I would definitely appreciate it.
Thanks
This is the palomar knot that connects the braid to the small loop in the paracord. I finished the knot off with a couple half-hitches just to keep the tag end organized. The palomar knot by itself will hold just fine.
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This pic shows the loop that connects the cannonball. This loop is a bit longer than I normally use, but its because I shortened up the length of paracord on the fly and never readjusted the loop size. You only need a loop thats about 8-12" long so the cannonball can fit through it. Feed the big loop through the eye of the cannonball and then open the loop and wrap it around the cannonball. No knots and disconnects easily if thats whats required.
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Thats all there is to it. No swivels or clips or anything sharp to cut your hands on. If you guys need a more detailed breakdown I can do a step-by-step guide or something
I tried that and it didn't work at all.Good info on this post
I still use braid today but when I first switch over I lost more cannonballls that season then I did the previous 5 seasons . Now I really pay attention to my line and look frayed sections or Knicks in the line. It doesn't take much to damage braid if rubbed against your boat, trim tab or prop guard on a tight turn. With cable you can see and hear the broken strands when passing through the pulley indicating a weak spot. Now I lightly put my finger on the braid to feel for weak spots when bring up on the rigger.
I use the Scotty snubbers they help bounce the ball out off rock gardens if fishing tight to rock piles and bottom.
Also I put a thin piece of surgical tubing on the DR clip that attaches to the braid this will stop the clip from sliding up the braid especially if your stacking riggers
I tried that and it didn't work at all.
Surgical tubing! Nice. I will give this a try.Good info on this post
I still use braid today but when I first switch over I lost more cannonballls that season then I did the previous 5 seasons . Now I really pay attention to my line and look frayed sections or Knicks in the line. It doesn't take much to damage braid if rubbed against your boat, trim tab or prop guard on a tight turn. With cable you can see and hear the broken strands when passing through the pulley indicating a weak spot. Now I lightly put my finger on the braid to feel for weak spots when bring up on the rigger.
I use the Scotty snubbers they help bounce the ball out off rock gardens if fishing tight to rock piles and bottom.
Also I put a thin piece of surgical tubing on the DR clip that attaches to the braid this will stop the clip from sliding up the braid especially if your stacking riggers
Wire for me all day longHmmm. Bummer I guess it's SS cable for you than.
Love the hum the wire makes on the troll brings the fish in from a long distanceSame.
Another vote for simpler is better...
Downrigger Braid of choice tied to a quality barrel swivel (change this out if it even starts to look a bit funky but at least once a year)
Run a length of tuna cord (approx 10 feet) through swivel... tie two ends cord together with granny knot... end to end... makes a total length of "doubled" line about 5 feet. [note: adjust this total length to your boat/liking]
When fishing take knot of tuna cord and run it through eye of cannonball about a foot or so, then open the "doubled' line , pass ball through, pull cord snug... ready to fish
Use clip to attach offshore release... goes on the tuna cord.... hook up trolling line and you're fishin'