Deep water Walleyes?

[shae1986]

Ok walleye pros, this is a tactic i started using about 2 years ago, and the first year it produced some fish but last year i think i caught one or two doing this. I pull deep cranks with 200 ft of leadcore over anywhere from 50-70 ft deep water. I look for school of fish chasing tullibees and other baitfish around. I use my big optimax with out a planer board. Do you think this is hurting me? Should i be pulling a planer board or using my electric moter instead. I know this can be very productive and i know the walleyes are down there. Thanks everyone.

Andrew Shae

[Northlander]

Depending on how deep you are fishing I would go with a board system and a snap weight. I like the Offshore boards because they handle the snap weights real well. Im assuming these fish are suspended so that should work fine.

Another option is Dipsey Divers or Jet Divers.

With these methods you can get out away from the boat and catch the fish you may be spooking with the big motor.

[Boedigheimer]

Shae1986, if your baits are running deeper than 15ft. I don't think you need boards. Not much of a spook factor that deep. I commonly catch fish under the boat in water less then that, or alot less at night. Throw in s-curves, wave action, 200 ft. of line and I think your fine. If you could legally use two lines that might help spread out, but the spook factor should be minimal.

[Team Otter]

Water clarity can dictate whether or not to use boards. Predominantly I use boards just so I can rule out "the spook factor". Boards also serve as a nice way to spread out and cover more water.

[walleyewacker]

The first thing I learned when I started using them is to never use them unless you have to, I really hate to put anything else between a fish and the rod and have to fumble with a board with a good sized fish on, there is no reason to risk knocking one off and the hooksets are not the same. What you are talking going deep water I would really doubt there is a spook factor even in clear water. As far as the electic goes I have heard that an electic makes more sound under water than an outboard because the powerhead is under water. I dont know this personally but I have tried both even in real shallow water at night and havent notice a difference. I never leave home without them but with one line a piece I wouldnt bother unless you are running four or more, have a good wind and having trouble crossing lines, or figure out they are riding high.

[kdawg]

shae1986,

Is leadcore a specific type of line that's heavier? (I'm guessing it is). Thank you.

[Team Otter]

I think you'd be awfully surprised on how wary 'eyes are even in deep water. With practice and experimenting, planer boards can be effectively used to your advantage rather than something you're concerned about.

[harvey lee]

I have always figured im missing out not using planer boards at times.You can get your bait away from the boat and fish those spooky fish better in the shallow waters.This year im going to have to invest.One more needed toy for the arsenal.