Fishing QuestionsCategory: Downrigger FAQWhat size downrigger weight should I use?
Eynnel R asked 1 year ago
What is the sinker to use for the downrigger?

How To Get Baits Deep?

6 Answers
Carlos answered 1 year ago
The sinker to use for the downrigger depends on the weight of the fish you are targeting and the depth of the water. Heavier sinkers are necessary for deep water, while lighter sinkers work better in shallow water. Talk to your local bait and tackle shop for more specific recommendations.

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David answered 1 year ago

There are many sinkers to choose from when using a downrigger. The most popular type of sinker is the torpedo sinker, which is shaped like a torpedo and has a flat bottom so it will stand up on the ocean floor.

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Other types of sinkers include the bank sinker, which is weighted on one end and has a clip so it can be attached to the line; the cannonball sinker, which is a round, lead weight that is used in deep water; and the egg sinker, which is a small, round weight with a hole in the middle. Choose the type of sinker that will best suit your fishing needs.

Bernard answered 1 year ago
The sinkers used in downriggers vary in weight and shape. Some anglers prefer a cone-shaped sinker because it tracks well in the water and has less drag on the line than a spherical sinker. Other anglers prefer a bullet-shaped sinker because it is easier to cast.

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When selecting a sinker weight, choose one that is heavy enough to pull the bait through the water but not so heavy that it causes the line to sag or prevents the bait from reaching its target depth. In general, use a heavier sinker for deeper water and a lighter sinker for shallower water.

Martin Staff answered 1 year ago
There’s no easy answer to this question because it depends on a lot of factors, including the weight of your boat, the depth of the water, and the size and strength of your downrigger. A good starting point is to use a weight that’s about 1/10th the weight of your boat. So if you have a 10,000-pound boat, you would start with a 1,000-pound downrigger weight.

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Of course, you’ll also want to take into account the conditions of the water. If you’re in shallow water (under 30 feet), you can probably get away with using a smaller weight. And if you’re in deep water (over 100 feet), you’ll need a heavier weight.

Finally, you’ll need to consider the strength of your downrigger. If you have a weak or old downrigger, you won’t be able to handle as much weight as if you had a newer, stronger model.

So there’s no definitive answer to the question of what size sinker to use for the downrigger. Just keep all of these factors in mind and experiment until you find the right combination for your boat and the conditions you’re fishing in. Good luck!

Wilson answered 1 year ago
It depends on the weight of the fish you are targeting and the depth of water you are fishing in. Heavier downrigger weights are needed in deeper water, while lighter weights work well in shallower water.

If you’re not sure which weight to use, it’s best to start with a heavier weight and then adjust as needed.

Alex – ProFisherman Staff answered 1 year ago
The size of downrigger weight you should use depends on a few factors, including the depth of water you’re fishing in, the speed and strength of the currents, and the type and size of fish you’re targeting. In general, heavier weights are needed in deeper water and when fish are larger and more aggressive.

If you’re not sure what size weight to use, it’s best to start with a smaller one and then increase the size if needed. It’s also a good idea to talk to your local bait shop or tackle store, as they will likely have experience with downriggers in your area and can give you specific recommendations.