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Lake Erie Charter Captain Dave Adams of D & D Charters answers questions and provides tips and insights into fishing the region.
If you would like to Ask the Captain a question, please click HERE.
September 4, 2001
Matt Asks:
Hey Dave,
I have heard from several people that the Dipsy Diver is the replacement for the planer board. What do you think about this? My father and I are thinking of outfitting our boat next year to run planer boards. We currently use dipsys (what is the plural for dipsy -- dipsi?....geez) as well downriggers. The only difference that I can see is that the planer boards seem to let you get the line much further away from the boat.
Is there a good source for novice planer boarders to get some tips? I have been pricing the equipment such as a Big Jon planer mast and various planer boards. What do you recommend?
Thanks again!!
Matt
Captain Dave's Response:
Hello Matt,
Each fishing system has its advantages and disadvantages. Depending on fishing conditions, planer boards might out fish the Dipsy Diver one day, however the next day, every fish will be caught off of dipsies.
From personal experience, wood planer boards perform better than plastic. Plastic boards tend to ride behind the boat, while properly constructed (many anglers build their own) wood boards will cut through the water and ride next to the boat. The only disadvantage to wood over plastic is that wood boards can dive (actually go under water) if they hit a wave at the wrong angle. Modern plastic boards will not dive.
The difference between using a planer board and the dipsy is that the planer board allows the angler to present bait farther from the boat; thus a spoon, plug, or harness will appear near a walleye, not the boat. The dipsy, though very effective, is limited more to depth and color presentation than distance from the boat.
It's also important to note that even when the winds of Lake Erie create a moderate two to four foot chop - a planer board can be more of a bother than an asset. But the dipsy remains an effective tactic.
The certainty of fishing is that nothing is certain. Instead of choosing one system over the other - use both. With the clear waters of Lake Erie and lower walleye numbers, the correct presentation is a must. And by having a variety of options available, you will catch more fish.
Combining the Dipsy Diver with the planer board allows the angler to use the best of both - effective color presentation and a variety of depth coverage. The smaller size 0 dipsy is very effective when used off the planer boards.
I'm not aware of any book on planer board tactics. When you do decide to try the boards for the first time, pick a calm day - with a little practice you'll be catching fish.
My recommendation is the Big Jon planer system. Whether electric or manual they provide a high quality product that can be adapted for use on a mast, hard top, or side rails.
Good Fishing,
Capt. Dave Adams
Dave Adams is an author and professional charter captain who operates D & D Charters on the Pennsylvania waters of Lake Erie.
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