Master Bottom-Bouncing for Walleye in Ontario
Bottom-Bouncing for Walleye: A Complete Guide to This Classic Technique
Introduction
New to bottom-bouncing for walleye or aiming to up your game? This guide will help you understand and master this effective fishing method, especially useful in the rich waters of Ontario.
The Technical Aspect of Bottom Bouncing
Bottom bouncing is a vertical trolling technique using a specialized sinker rig known as a bottom bouncer. This rig keeps your bait near the bottom, where walleye often feed. The most common bouncer is a rigid wire shaped like a 7, with a lead weight attached midway up the vertical part. You tie your fishing line to the bend of the 7 and attach the bait, typically a spinner rig, to the horizontal part using a long leader. When trolling, the main line stays almost vertical, while the bait trails behind just above the bottom. Since only the tip of the wire touches the bottom, these rigs are highly snag-resistant.
Choosing a Bouncer
In tackle shops, you’ll find bottom bouncers weighing from a quarter ounce to three ounces. The 7-style bouncer is a reliable choice. The rule of thumb for selecting the weight is one ounce for every 10 feet of depth. Adjust this rule for strong currents, choppy waves, or different trolling speeds. Using various weights on the same boat can help. Heavier weights give beginners and youngsters a better feel for the rig. To avoid tangles, use lighter weights at the back of the boat and heavier ones towards the front.
Using the Right Tackle
A six- to seven-foot medium or medium-heavy action rod works best for bottom bouncing. The rod should be strong enough to handle the bouncer but sensitive enough to detect bites. For fewer tangles, use shorter rods at the back and longer rods up front. While spinning reels can work, baitcasters are preferred for their precise control. Baitcasters allow you to maintain contact with the bottom and adjust to depth changes easily. Braided line is more sensitive than mono, and some anglers prefer super-lines. Ensure your line is at least 20-pound-test.
Fishing the Bouncer
Your bottom bouncer should skim the bottom as you troll. Achieve this with a two-stage line release. First, reach your desired trolling speed. Lower your bouncer just below the surface to check the bait’s action, then release the line. When you feel the weight hit bottom, stop letting out line and let the boat straighten the rig. Then, release more line until the bouncer hits bottom again. Keep your main line as vertical as possible.
Choosing a Speed
Your trolling speed depends on the bait you’re using. Here are some recommendations:
- Slow death rigs: 1.3 to 1.9 km/h
- Floating jigs: 0.8 to 2.4 km/h
- Lindy rigs: 0.8 to 1.3 km/h
- Crankbaits: 1.6 to 4.8 km/h
- Propeller blades: 0.8 to 2.4 km/h
- Traditional blades: 1.6 to 4 km/h
Setting the Hook
When walleye are aggressive, they’ll often set the hook themselves. You can hold the rod or set it in a holder and watch for hits. When walleye are less aggressive, keep the rod in your hands and focus on the bait. If you feel a walleye biting, resist setting the hook immediately. Instead, maintain pressure on the line and slowly move your rod tip back towards the fish. Then, set the hook with a strong sweep of the rod tip.
If you aren’t getting bites, periodically lift and drop your rod tip to move the bouncer and bait. Walleye often strike as the bait settles back down. Be ready for a bite when you do this.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering bottom-bouncing for walleye in Ontario! Enjoy your fishing adventure and happy catching!