TLDR;
This video provides a comprehensive guide to salmon fishing, covering essential steps from preparing the boat and gear to landing and processing the catch. It emphasizes safety, efficiency, and proper techniques for setting up downriggers, managing lines, and handling fish once they're on board.
- Preparing the boat and gear efficiently.
- Setting up downriggers safely and effectively.
- Managing lines and adjusting drag for optimal fishing.
- Handling and processing fish to preserve meat quality.
Introduction [0:04]
The video introduces the topic of salmon fishing and highlights the importance of preparation and understanding the equipment. The host shares a personal anecdote about a disastrous first solo fishing trip, emphasizing the need for proper knowledge and setup to avoid common pitfalls like equipment breakage and lost gear. The video aims to equip viewers with the necessary information to have a successful and enjoyable salmon fishing experience.
Preparing the Boat and Kicker Motor [1:13]
The initial steps involve preparing the boat by starting the kicker motor, which serves as a trolling motor. A crucial safety tip is to ensure one engine is always running before turning off another. The presenter checks the tie bar connecting the kicker to the main engine, ensuring its components are secure.
Setting Up the Downrigger [1:56]
The process of setting up the downrigger is described, emphasizing the importance of gently lowering the downrigger ball into the water to prevent damage to the equipment. With the boat moving at a speed between 1.5 and 2 knots, the flasher is let out about one and a half boat lengths. The presenter demonstrates a technique for controlling the descent of the 12-pound ball using a Scotty downrigger, which involves tilting the downrigger up, unhooking the ball, and carefully lowering it while managing the swivel block.
Managing the Fishing Line and Drag [3:29]
The presenter discusses setting the fishing line to a length of 15 to 20 feet and securing it in the clip. The boat is trolling at a speed of 1.8 knots in water that is 119 feet deep. Each downrigger operates differently, and the presenter controls the release of the line with a thumb or by setting the drag on the reel. Upon reaching the desired depth, the brake is applied, the reel is wound down, and the rod is placed in the holder with a slight arch to help set the hook when a fish strikes.
Adjusting Drag and Downrigger Settings [5:18]
After placing the rod in the clip, the lever drag is engaged. It's important to release the drag before touching the downrigger to prevent the rod from being pulled out of the holder. The presenter prefers to set the drag loose when letting the downrigger go, using lever drags (specifically TR 2000 charter specials) to maintain tension on the line. The presenter advises operating the downrigger slowly to prevent equipment breakage.
Operating the Downrigger and Adjusting for Depth [6:15]
The presenter explains how to use the button on the Scotty downrigger to raise and lower the ball, noting that the brake is released by pulling towards you and engaged by pushing away. The presenter keeps a thumb on the reel as the line goes into the water and monitors the depth, adjusting the downrigger ball accordingly. The presenter notes that during the summer, salmon can be caught suspended or near the bottom, depending on preference.
Final Adjustments and Preventing Tangling [7:01]
The drag is adjusted once the line is at the desired depth, and the presenter emphasizes the importance of not free-spooling the downrigger, especially with a flasher attached, to avoid tangling. Maintaining a consistent speed while lowering the line ensures everything is set up correctly.
Landing and Processing the Fish [7:56]
Once a fish is on board, the presenter emphasizes the importance of checking whether the fish has a fin, indicating it can be kept. The fish is then dispatched with a blow to the head, and bled out immediately to preserve the quality of the meat.