Downrigger questions

I've used braid and cable both and have no problems with either. The hawk always works for me. Maybe rob has a defective one?

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I can get this 3lb for about $27 including shipping. Any suggestions on better weights or better deals?

If your close to bass pro they have coated cast iron 4# for $15.

If your close to bass pro they have coated cast iron 4# for $15.

Do I want to go that heavy? I've been reading 21/2 to 3 pounds.

Heavier you go, the less drag you will encounter with the downrigger line thus better depth accuracy.  Don't want to go overly heavy, however.  On a Scotty Laketroller, for example, 3-5# is ideal depending on depth, DR line type & lure your are towing. 

A lot of guys are fine with 2 1/2-3#s. 4# is all I've ever run on mine. I'm not sure if I would get away with a lighter weight as I'm down 90-100' by late summer.

Here's a helpful chart to illustrate what I am refering to.  I believe this only takes into account the downrigger line & not the lure size.  Some of the factors include, but not limited to, line type/diameter, boat speed, weight size/shape, lure size/shape & depth.  Lot's of variables.  I would guess that water type/salinity might play a factor as well.

I usually run a 4# finned weight and have used a 6# for fast deep trolling, if you plan on trolling a significant depth 50-60ft or more, 2 1/2-3 may get tricky, unless you have a way to measure cable angle and calculate where your weight sits. 4# seems to be what freshwater guys mostly use.