Northwest Fishing Reports

I've been experimenting with different ways of trolling from my kayak. Since I don't have downrigger's installed I was thinking of trying a deep-sixed deep diver. Has anyone had any experience or any luck with this type of tackle or set up? Will the deep diver add enough motion to my Hoochie or herring? Thank you in advance for your replies.

Hank wrote:I've been experimenting with different ways of trolling from my kayak. Since I don't have downrigger's installed I was thinking of trying a deep-sixed deep diver. Has anyone had any experience or any luck with this type of tackle or set up? Will the deep diver add enough motion to my Hoochie or herring? Thank you in advance for your replies.

I like the Deep 6 and run them any time I don't stack on a downrigger for salmon. The diver isn't meant to add action though. You still run a dodger or flasher about four feet back from the Deep 6, and then your terminal lure from the dodger/flasher. The Deep 6 is just used to get the gear down.

Thank you Mike. It's a true honer to receive advice from the head honcho.

Deep sixes aren't the only option. Dipsey Divers/trolling divers work on the same principal so if you have better access to those, you can give them a shot as well. The Dipsey Divers come in multiple finishes built into the design. With all the different trolling divers, you can run a lure that has it's own action, like a spoon or a cut plug, by itself.

G-man

Thanks for the advise. If I recall the dipsy divers are a little more compact. They may be a better option for the kayak. Thank you.

I run deep sixes alot as a center rod. the smaller size with a cookies and cream spoon is deadly on coho. Ive caught a few kings with it as well. Ive nailed big kings on a larger diver with an anchovy head behind. also you may want to consider the comet tail deep six as it adds alot of flash to the set up.

All of those divers are a tough call for a Yak. They work off of forward movement, so that means paddle hard and don't stop. If you work the tide and currents right it should be easier but still no rest for the wicked. Since you don't have a motor you could always rig a second short rod or a string with a big enough weight and roll.