Kayak Trolling and Lead core

[dannyplug1]

I am in the process of changing over from a paddle kayak to a hobie outback. Now that I can control my line while I free spool I would like to try trolling with lead line. I have a bait caster with a level wind but I know it cant take more than two or three colors and some backing. First question how much backing do you think I need? 100 200 yards etc.? secondly if I have to go with only two or three colors how deep can I reasonably troll (is their a rough formula for depth to amt of colors out?) I know that with the kayak I have greater control of the speed of the lure as opposed to a conventional boat. Lastly if I decide to really get into lead trolling could some one recommend a reel and is it worth it to get a reel that has a line counter thanks Charlie

[BigBo]

In my opinion, lead core is not required when trolling from a kayak. When I had my kayak I trolled tube and worm with 40lb braid, but if i needed more depth I would clip on a keel weight ahead of the tube and adjust the weight accordingly. The keel weight and a quality swivel will also control line twist.

[BigBo]

I'll snap a pic of the rig I use.

[BigBo]

I like about an 18" tube like T-Man or Santini's, 3 ft of fluorocarbon, and the keel weight in front. As you can see, the keel weight unclips so you can change the size of the weight.

[FishermanTim]

I like that, it is simple and quite effective.

Good looking setup!

[BigBo]

Originally Posted by FishermanTim

I like that, it is simple and quite effective.

Good looking setup!

It really is quite simple and I believe you can get them pre-rigged like this right from T-Man.

[jonserfish]

Originally Posted by BigBo

I like about an 18" tube like T-Man or Santini's, 3 ft of fluorocarbon, and the keel weight in front. As you can see, the keel weight unclips so you can change the size of the weight.

ALL THAT'S MISSING IS A SMALL WAD OF COTTON IN THE HOOK END TO HOLD IN THE COUPLE OF SAND WORMS YOU STUFF INSIDE FOR SCENT. I'VE HEARD A FEW DROPS OF POGIE OIL WORKS AS WELL.

[BigBo]

Originally Posted by jonserfish

ALL THAT'S MISSING IS A SMALL WAD OF COTTON IN THE HOOK END TO HOLD IN THE COUPLE OF SAND WORMS YOU STUFF INSIDE FOR SCENT. I'VE HEARD A FEW DROPS OF POGIE OIL WORKS AS WELL.

Funny you mention that. The Santini tubes come with a cutout, but I do the same to other tubes as well.
And, no seaworms? Stuff a piece of sponge or cotton in there and give it a shot of seaworm potion or pogie oil as you mentioned. Killer!!!!!

[Rockport24]

Agree that you don't need leadcore, BUT if you want to fish deep (say over 30 feet) it may be useful. Almost all of my trolling is done in 8-15 feet of water and I use a tube with a weight built into it on the front.

[blondterror]

If you opt for leadcore.... get it spooled at Santinis shop. They load your reels for short money. The leadcore line can be used for 2 seasons if you rinse it with FW every till you use it.

[Raven]

nice rig Bo - shorter and sweeter

[The Dad Fisherman]

If I'm not mistaken the cut out is for creating a trail of bubbles while you troll....
Posted from my iPhone/Mobile device

[BigBo]

No you're not mistaken Kevin, but I use it for the scent trail too.

[l.i.fish.in.vt]

personally i prefer leadcore,it is easy to controll how deep you are fishing.one of the most important pieces of equipment is a gps that has a speed function,you want to stay within 1.8 and 2.0 mph.at this speed leadcore sinks app.5 ft per color.if you want to use braid i would go with one that is color coded so you know how much line you have out.i was never a fan of the keel type weights they are a weed catcher,a simple inline weight would be my choice. as far a reels go,aline counter is just another thing to brake,i use a penn 2/0 senator it will hold 10 colors and about 20 yds of backing.i stay away from levelwinds,another feature that is prone to failure.a jigmaster is also a reel i would trust.as far as tubes go i make my own.i get the tubing and wire from Redtop