TOPIC:

What size weights do you guys run?

I used to run 10's - ball with fin. Now I run 12's torpedo style. Heavy mothers but alot less blowback.

Thats what I am going to pick up I think. 1 12 lb for the coated cable rigger for the prode ( creates a lot more blowback than normal cable). What do yours look like?

See this thread for a pic tim.

www.thesouthend.org/index.php/forum/tackle/36-let-s-talk-balls

I know both shape and weight all play a part in how the downrigger weight works through the water. I have heard some fishermen are using the fish shaped weights instead of finned balls with better results. Seems the fish shape acts as a attractor . Some even say color is a consideration when choosing your weights. Any thoughts?

I once ran fish shaped weights and still have the mold to make them. But when dropping them down or pulling them up, they would rotate and cause problems. Round balls work just fine. I actually use empty aluminum cans for weights. Been using them for years. 12 ounce can weighs 10 pounds a 16 ouncer weighs 12.5 pounds. Send me a PM if you want to learn how to make them without burning the paint off the can.

I have seen the pictures - BN has great cans

LOL

14 lb on my deep riggers

12 lb on my high riggers....

Until you start running your downriggers 75 feet or more deep, I doubt there's much difference between running an 8, 10 or 12 pound weight. I don't go heavier than 12 because my 20+ year old Walkers don't like them. Even with 12s they are slow, but I cope. Rainmaker (Rich Pegau) is one of the best laker-takers on Lake Michigan fishing out to 130 feet at times right on the bottom and he only uses 12 pounders.

Until I start going out past 90 feet or so, I stick with 10 pound weights.

DirtyX - I'm glad you said "cans" not "balls." My cans are attractive and I get complements on them regularly. My balls? Not so much. (Actually never).