How To Use Dipsy Divers For Spoonbill

Understanding Dipsy Divers and Spoonbill Fishing

Dipsy Divers are a tool utilized to present lures, including spoons, at specific depths and distances from the boat. They function by planing to the side when trolled, offering greater coverage and targeting fish that might be holding away from the boat's direct path.

Spoonbill (Polyodon spathula), also known as paddlefish, are filter feeders. Effective techniques involve presenting lures, often bright colored spoons, in their feeding zone. Dipsy Divers can aid in achieving this.

Selecting the Right Dipsy Diver

Size and Weight

Dipsy Divers come in various sizes. Smaller divers are suitable for shallower depths and lighter line, while larger divers are needed for greater depths and heavier line. The size is typically indicated on the diver itself, and manufacturers provide guidelines based on trolling speed and target depth.

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Consider the trolling speed and desired depth. A larger diver creates more drag, allowing it to reach greater depths at slower speeds. Consult depth charts or sonar readings to determine the prevalent depth where spoonbill are holding. Generally, a #0 or #1 Dipsy Diver is suitable for most spoonbill applications in freshwater.

Directional Settings

Dipsy Divers are designed to plane to either the port (left) or starboard (right) side of the boat. This is achieved through an adjustable trip mechanism on the diver's face. Angling the diver more aggressively will result in a wider spread from the boat.

Experiment with directional settings to maximize coverage. Running one diver off each side of the boat will cover a wider area than running both divers straight back. Consistent adjustment and observation of lure presentation in relation to fish markings on sonar will improve efficiency.

Color Considerations

Dipsy Divers are available in a range of colors. While the diver itself isn’t intended as a primary attractant, color can influence visibility in different water conditions. Brighter colors, such as chartreuse or orange, are effective in stained water. Natural or darker colors might be preferable in clearer water.

Color is less critical than size and directional setting, but consider water clarity when making a selection. Focus primarily on the color and action of the spoon being presented behind the diver.

Choosing Spoons for Spoonbill with Dipsy Divers

Spoon Size and Weight

Spoon size should be matched to the size of the forage fish, if any, and the spoonbill's preference. Spoons in the 2-4 inch range are commonly used. Weight should be sufficient to maintain action at trolling speed and to complement the Dipsy Diver's depth capabilities.

Experiment with different sizes and weights. Observation of fish strikes and underwater cameras (if available) can provide valuable feedback on optimal spoon size and weight. Heavier spoons can reach greater depths and offer more aggressive action.

Spoon Color and Finish

Bright colors and reflective finishes are generally effective for spoonbill. Chartreuse, orange, pink, and silver are popular choices. UV-reactive finishes can also enhance visibility in low-light conditions or stained water.

Vary colors and finishes to determine what triggers strikes on a given day. Start with brighter colors and switch to more subdued patterns if the bite slows down. Consider the prevailing light conditions and water clarity.

Spoon Action

Spoon action refers to the lure's movement in the water. Wobbling and fluttering actions are common and effective. The type of action is determined by the spoon's shape and curvature.

Test different spoon actions to see what provokes the most strikes. Some days, spoonbill might prefer a wide, erratic wobble, while on other days, a tighter, more subtle flutter might be more effective. Vary trolling speed to adjust spoon action.

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Setting Up the Dipsy Diver and Spoon Combination

Line Selection

Use a strong, abrasion-resistant line suitable for trolling. Braided line is often preferred due to its low stretch and high strength. Monofilament or fluorocarbon lines can also be used, but consider their stretch characteristics and abrasion resistance.

Choose a line with a breaking strength appropriate for the size of spoonbill you are targeting. 20-30 lb test line is generally sufficient. Consider using a short fluorocarbon leader to reduce line visibility near the lure.

Leader Length

The leader connects the Dipsy Diver to the spoon. Leader length can impact lure action and presentation. A longer leader allows the spoon to move more freely, while a shorter leader provides more direct control.

Start with a leader length of approximately 6-10 feet. Adjust the leader length based on the spoon's action and the spoonbill's behavior. If fish are striking short, try shortening the leader. If they are shying away, try lengthening it.

Attaching the Spoon

Use a high-quality snap swivel to attach the spoon to the leader. A swivel prevents line twist, which can be a significant issue when trolling with spoons. Ensure the snap is strong enough to handle the force of a striking spoonbill.

Avoid using cheap or weak snaps. A broken snap can result in the loss of the lure and a missed opportunity.

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Trolling Techniques

Trolling Speed

Trolling speed is critical for achieving the desired depth and action of the spoon. A slower trolling speed will allow the Dipsy Diver to dive deeper, while a faster speed will keep it higher in the water column. Adjust speed to achieve the optimal spoon action.

Start with a trolling speed of around 1.5-2.5 mph and adjust as needed. Use a GPS or speedometer to maintain a consistent speed. Observe the spoon's action behind the boat to ensure it is swimming correctly.

Boat Control

Maintain a steady course and avoid sudden turns, as this can cause the Dipsy Diver to trip or alter its depth. Use a trolling motor or drift sock to control boat speed and direction.

Consider using GPS-based autopilot systems to maintain a precise course and speed. This can free up your attention to focus on monitoring the Dipsy Divers and detecting strikes.

Strike Detection

Spoonbill strikes can range from subtle taps to aggressive pulls. Watch the rod tip carefully for any indication of a strike. When a strike is detected, set the hook firmly.

Braided line's low stretch provides improved strike detection compared to monofilament. Consider using rod holders with sensitive strike indicators.

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Releasing the Dipsy Diver

When a spoonbill strikes, the Dipsy Diver should release, allowing you to fight the fish directly. The release mechanism is usually adjustable, allowing you to customize the tripping force.

Ensure the release mechanism is properly adjusted to avoid premature or delayed releases. Test the release mechanism periodically to ensure it is functioning correctly.