NYC Reservior trolling ,Downrigger or leadcore?

[bigfish33]

I am considering a new method for fishing the reservoirs and I need some help. I here that leadcore trolling for trout works really well, but I also here downrigging is good too. Does anyone have any recommendations?thanks

[Tom]

On water bodies where you are allowed a motor, leadcore and downrigging work equally well in getting the line down deep. On NYC reservoirs, with rowing the only option, you should focus your attention on leadcore. A downrigger is a very difficult technique to use when you have to simultaneously row the boat forward and also lower the downrigger.
Good luck,
Tom

[VinnyH]

Welcome BigFish,
Rowing the reservoirs does limit some techniques. Guys like Tom and Phishahn have taught me a lot about trout techniques. Tom uses planers at times and Phishahn uses oversized bobbers in a slip float setup. Luckily they haven't quizzed me on this since I couldn't give you exact details. The guys here are very generous so stick around.

Best Always,
Vinny

[KenH]

A Downrigger is more accurate in terms of putting your presentation at a precise depth and keeping it there. Leadcore is speed specific meaning depending on your speed the leadcore depth will vary. Some
hardcore trollers feel that this gives leadcore an advantage especially when rowing where the boat speed may have pauses between strokes. However with a little experimenting you can put leadcore smack at the level you want with repeatable consistency. As Tom pointed out, if you're rowing, managing one or two downriggers could be a chore whereas two leadcore lines can be handled quite easily. This is probably the biggest determining factor and explains why leadcore is more popular on the reservoirs.   

Ken

[bigfish33]

Thanks for the great info,keep it coming.Leadcore sounds like the way to go. I will be looking into a good setup (rod & reel leadcore).  Cant wait to get out.

[arkpov56]

Bigfish,

There were a couple of interesting and productive discussions on leadcore settings and techniques.  Take a look at the topic "Trolling lead core vs using live bait" in this forum  as well as "Trolling reels" topic in the General Fishing Stuff.  There are many useful tips from good guys there.

Good luck!