Bottom-bouncing need reel advise…

Just taking a quick survey to find out what everyone is using in terms of equipment for bottom bouncing. This is probably my favorite walleye presentation and have used it for years.

My question for my fellow IDA’ers is what equipment are you using in your bottom bouncer presentations? I am a baitcaster guy by trade using C3’s or C4’s with 7 foot MH rods. I can also whip out the Tekota 300LC’s to perform the same task. What I am trying to figure out is what baitcasting reel is the absolute best for this presentation…My reason for using a baitcaster for this presentation is that I find it easiest for ‘feeding’ line after the initial bite.

Thanks to all responders.

I like using the low profile bass style reels with the flippin switch. That way I can just push the button to release a little line to stay in contact with the bottom and when I let go it locks the spool again….no need to turn the handle to lock the spool.

I won’t buy another reel for bottom bouncing that doesn’t have that feature. Beyond that I am not too concerned with brand or bearings it just sits in the rod holder.

I’m running the sealineLC 17’s, paired with the 8′ cabelas downrigger rods. It’s nice to duplicate the exact depth your BB is running. Sometimes 5’+/- is what triggers the bites. It also makes it easier for new comers to BBing, just have to tell them to let out 40′ or whatever depth. The LC is also nice when pulling 4+ lines, when some are set 40′ and others 70′, I find a little tough to set those 70′ lines without the counter.

BIRDDOG

I like a reel I can “palm” and has a low profile. Further, I think a flipping switch is a must, especially when fishing any type of break. It’s a long day without a flipping switch.

Recognize I’m sponsored by Bass Pro but I think their Extreme Series reels do a great job. There aren’t many flipping switch reels left.

I also like to use Shimano Castaics with the internal push/pull thumb button. But they are much pricier.

Some people use one left and one right handed reel if you can use two at once.

Todd

I agree with the LC reels and Cabelas downrigger rods or Planer board rods….Nice that those rods have double use to them…Also for newbies its great to just tell them to put out 40′ of line and this gets them in the zone!!!

I agree with Buckshot. The flippin feature is really nice especially if your driving. They are kinda tough to find, but I know Diawa still makes a few models with the flippin feature.

LH casting reel with a flippin switch if you’re right handed.

Quantum bass reel or a C3. 7’3 MH St.Croix Avid with a rod balancer.

A great reel for bottom bouncing is the Abu Garcia 2005LP. Low Profile, flippn’ switch and less than $65 at most retailers. If you also cast with the reel, the 4007LP is the same reel with more bearings and a magnetic brake.

I see reels with flippin’ switches making a comeback for walleye fishing. I like them for fishing wingies with Willow cats.

Nice to see you here on IDA Johnnie!
I’ll hit Jim Peters upside the noggin for ya when I see him here in town.

Welcome Johnnie!

I’m with most here. The perfect reel is a low profile with a flippin switch. Grew up pulling bouncers all over the huge points that run out into Oahe. I really like 7’6″ med heav action rod also. Of course out there we could use two rods, so I had one “right handed” and one “left”. That way anytime I set the rod in the holder, I simply started reeling with the free hand. No switching the rod around etc…

Thanks. Make it a good smack too, would ya?

He needs someone to keep him in line.