Downrigger question....

[Pauper Piscator]

Is there a formula for determining "actual" depth on a downrigger. For example, 6 lb ball, 3 mph, rigger gauge says 50'. How deep really?

Is it simple? For each mph subtract x number of feet?

[Mark Cahill]

Here's a couple ways I do it...

1. I test it at a certain speed along a sandy beach and wait for it to bump bottom. When it hits, I know what it will be running at when I troll at, say 3 mph with 30' out.

2. Lower the downrigger about 1/4 more than the depth I want to fish at.

One method I don't use, but should is actually doing the math, but through a little creative math you should be able to figure it out.


Good downrigger resource here.... (http://www.queenscreek.com/downriggerfishing.html)

[Pauper Piscator]

A little Triangle geometry...

Downrigger line enters the water about 8' from the stern. Down rigger arm is about 4' above the water. Hypoteneus is sqrt of 80. or about 8.9. Call it 9. Ration is therefor 4:9?

Drop the rig 50' on the meter. x 4/9 = 22'

That seems like a big differential.

High school math. Who says you don't use it!