Double stacking downriggers is a sophisticated technique for serious anglers aiming to expand water coverage and enhance catch rates. In this expanded guide, we’ll delve deeper into the fundamentals of double stacking and explore crucial steps, additional examples, and various aspects that make this method informative and comprehensive.
Prerequisites:
- Understanding Downriggers: Before mastering double stacking, it is essential to have a solid foundation in how a downrigger functions. Familiarize yourself with the mechanical components and basic operation of your downrigger (Bob’s Machine Shop, 2021).
- Maintaining Two Riggers: Keep both riggers in good condition by regularly maintaining them. This includes checking and tightening lines, greasing moving parts, and ensuring all hardware is securely fastened (FishingBooker, 2019).
Steps to Double Stack Downriggers:
- Attach weights or planers to the first rigger: Start by securing heavy weights or planers to the line attached to the first downrigger. This provides additional buoyancy, making it easier to manage multiple riggers at once (TrollingMate, 2018).
- Connect a snap swivel or release clip to the second rigger: Attach a snap swivel or release clip to the line of the second downrigger using an appropriate connector. This feature allows for easy adjustments and lure changes during your fishing trip (FishingBooker, 2019).
- Add a line with a lure and snap swivel/release clip: Attach a line with a lure and another snap swivel or release clip to the second rigger’s clip. This setup forms the top rig. Ensure that both lines are of equal length for even depth coverage (TrollingMate, 2018).
- Lower both riggers to desired depths: Lower each downrigger individually until you reach your target depths. Be sure to monitor both lines closely as they descend to avoid tangling (FAQs, 2020).
- Attach lines together using clips once at target depth: Once both riggers are at the desired depth, use a clip or connector to join the two lines together. This connection will ensure that your lures remain at equal depths for optimal coverage (TrollingMate, 2018).
Pro Tips:
- Ensuring Parity: Ensure both riggers are at the same depth before connecting. Monitor your fish finder to maintain an even spread between your baits.
- Release Clips or Snap Swivels: Use release clips or snap swivels for easy adjustments and lure changes during fishing. This can help you quickly respond to changing conditions on the water.
- Experimenting with Lures and Depths: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different colors, lures, and depths to optimize catch rates. Regularly assess your results and make adjustments as needed.
- Monitoring Lines: Keep a watchful eye on both lines for any signs of bites or tangles. Timely adjustments can help you maximize catch rates while minimizing potential complications.
Benefits: Double stacking downriggers provides expanded depth coverage, allowing anglers to target multiple species and adapt to varying water conditions effectively. The increased catch rates result from the enhanced presentation of lures at various depths. However, it is essential to remember that both downriggers must have similar capabilities in terms of line strength, weight capacity, and drag adjustments for optimal performance (FAQs, 2019).
