Improving catch to hit ratio on wedding rings

[troutking]

Hi,

I use the wedding rings extensively when trolling for trout (usually behind a flasher) and have had wonderful success with them. I'm typically using a single hook model and putting a small piece of worm on the hook when trolled.

The problem I run into is that while I get a LOT of trout hitting this lure, it's a relatively small percentage that actually get hooked and are landed. I've tried this setup with and without a trolling snubber and I can't see much difference.

I'm looking for any tips or ideas on how to hook and land more of these fish. What's the best way to rig the worm? Will a double hook rig work better? If so, what's the best way to hook a worm there. Is it best to set the hook immediately on feeling a bite or go the other extreme and don't set the hook at all?

Thanks!
Mike

[Critter]

Mike, I need more info about how you are fishing and are you using one or two hooks in your setup. I will try to help you get the problem solved. you can call me 503--257-0553

[troutking]

Hi,

Sorry for the delay, for some reason I missed your reply to this message.

My trolling setup is as follows:

1) Monofilament line
2) Flashers
3) Trolling Snubber
4) Wedding Ring (1 or 2 hook model) with 12-18" of leader

From there it's pretty standard trolling.

Thanks
Mike

[Critter]

When trolling in a lake or reservoir I like using a 4 foot leader. I use 14 pound test fireline for my main line and the cleader can be anywhere from 6 to 17 pound test and I like Stren clear blue. It hold knots well. Depending on the species of trout you are fishing for depends on the line strength. I do not typically use a snubber but will use a soft drag and a soft tip rod. This allows me to let the fish basically hook itself. I like 2 hook harnesses and short fat crawlers. When too long of crawlers are used the fish may get filled up before it gets to the hooks. On short fat ones I have a lot better chance to hook him up. When I feel the bite I like to let the fish take the bait and give him some slack to turn and try to run then I set the hook and the fish is usually stuck in the corner of the mouth. When I use flashers with my wedding ring I like either the Flash Lites by Mack's Lure or my real preference are the Hot Wings as they work extremely well for all species. I catch a lot of walleye and bass on them as well. When using them you will want to use a 6 bead chain swivel, the #6, that Mack's has to keep your leaders from snarling. Hope this helps.

[troutking]

Thanks, I'll give those ideas a try. Hopefully I'll land a few more of the hits.

Thanks,
Mike