[Barry]

I'm having trouble getting my leader to turn over consistantly when I'm throwing heavy sink tips. Before I go much farther I'll let you know what I'm using:

14' St. Croix with a straight windcutter 9/10/11(not a multi-tip). For tips I use either poly leaders or sections of LC-13. I'm not sure how many grains the LC-13 tips weigh. The problem tip is about 10 ft long and weighs just a bit less than your average compact car. I only use it in very fast-deep water during spring. Otherwise the poly's work just fine where I fish.

Now I don't have a problem with the poly leaders turning over. The LC-13 is another story. Most of the time it lands in a clump. I know my timing has to be PERFECT (problem #1). I also know that I have to get the tip up to the surface or at least really close.(problem #2) These things happen 4 out of 10 times. When it all comes together, the cast goes well and I'm happy. But that is the exception rather than the rule.

So here is my solution or question. I have a DT10F line that does not get much use. If I cut it back a few feet (maybe 3-5ft) and used it when I'm throwing tips would this be of some help??? I know I'll need to work on my technique as well. I only use these heavy tips once or twice in the spring. But when I do use them it gets frustrating.:eyecrazy:

Barry

 

[Nooksack Mac]

Barry, in my experience the 14' St Croix loads nicely with a DT10 or extended-belly 10. I'd cut that DT10F back to the fully belly diameter for that heavy tip (and consider rigging the remaining tapered end and backing so that you can reverse the line and fish with the floating tip, when you want).

 

[pescaphile]

I second Mac's recommendations. You really need to cut lines back to their belly (or close to) to get them to really turn over heavy tips.

The LC13 weighs in at 13 grains per foot. This is equivalent to a AFTMA #12 line (380 grain 30' head).

pescaphile

 

[JDJones]

LC13

I HATE LC13 I will do almost anything to avoid using that stuff! Although I have been told that LC13 today is a lot more flexible than it used to be, I still avoid it like the plague.

Tungten (particles) is/are heavier than lead so some of the newer shooting heads and poly leaders are able to get down just as well, if not better than, lead.

Try something like an Airflo Saltwater Super Extra Fast Sink leader in the 10ft length. Or the fastest sinking 15 ft head you can buy.

Still, grains are grains. And that's what it takes to get down. No getting around it. But tungsten granules over a flexible core is smaller diameter and handles better than plastic coated lead core.

 

[kush]

Barry,

How far back did you cut your WC? I am not a fan of the WC but they are somewhat renowned for their ability to turn over heads. The best I can figure is that you haven't cut it back to the main belly - that leaves the thin taper to turn over all the grains in your tips or LC-13 - which it will not do!

 

[Barry]

Thanks for the help all. I cut my DT10F back to the belly and put a braided loop on the end. Now if the weather would cooperate I'll give this new set-up a try.

Barry