Mike's (TOTE) kayak trolling rig....

Mike - thanks for sharing your ideas!

Looks cool Joel.

How well does it work?  Doesn't the downrigger line or the line from your rod get in the way when you are paddling?

Stuart

I don't know Stu......it's Mike's rig not mine....hopefully he can chime in and tell us how it's been working for him. Mike....hello....you there?

Looks sweet.  I think it would work better behind the seat instead of in front.  
When I troll, my rod has to be in the pole holder behind the seat or else I hit the line when I paddle.

Stu

How do you reach the pole

How do you reach the pole

look's like you'll have to scoot up to reach for the poles - shouldn't be a big deal to do.....unless you have REALY short arms  

Looks awesome.

MolBasser

Very cool.  I think he should try to mount it in the tank well facing straight back.  No side drag when trolling...

I will try to answer some of the questions about the trolling rig.
I put this on to troll for macks in Tahoe. I haven't used it in the ocean. There are a lot of variables involved when using it on a yak. Getting snagged is my 1st and foremost concern. Wire cutters are kept right next to the downrigger at all times. I feel safe in a lake, a little worried about having 150 lb cable getting snagged in the ocean with current and swell to deal with. I am sure in DEEP water it wouldn't be a problem, just wouldn't get it TOO close to the bottom.
Because you have to maintain some forward speed while lowering the ball, I have the rig mounted in the front. I can get going a good speed, scoot forward and let some cable out, then paddle a little more, let more out, until I am at my desired depth. If you don't keep up a decent speed, your line and the cable will get tangled.
I also want to maintain a constant visual on the whole thing. It is easier for me to lean forward  to handle anything immediately that might occur with the downrigger, i.e., hook-up, snag, sudden change in depth. I can keep an eye on my fish finder and downrigger at the same time too.
I like the fact I can have it on either side of me. A rudder would help a lot, but I don't really use it enough to warrant one.
It is far enough forward so it does not impede my paddle stroke at all.
It is not permanently mounted either. the straps keep it in place just fine, and if I want I can easily remove it and stow it below.
I always get my feet in the water when I fish one way or another. I like the comfort of the position, so I have no problem straddling the yak to reach the pole. It is 2nd nature to me.
Hope this helps.
I will be glad to answer any other questions should they arise.
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