Using Downriggers to Target Trout and Kokanee

Tried out my new Scotty Laketroller last weekend targeting trout on lake Cabot and quickly realized I didn't know what I was doing. I am interested in some guidance and tips regarding:

1. Terminal Gear: lures, flashers, dodgers, snubbers
2. Rigging: leaders (how long and weight)
3. Bait: worms, corn, powerbait

Thanks! Scott 

Try this site:

http://www.fishsniffer.com/

Tons of info here...

http://www.protroll.com/

I start out with a small rainbow dodger with a worm.  I like to get the line way out before putting it on the release.  Also, use a snubber and a few swivels above the dodger.  No weight.  But like to use 4 to 6 lb test for the leader.  Fluorocarbon leader.  Some times I just tie the lure to my 4 to 6 lb. test.

If your use your fishfinder you can see the fish and try to get your rig above the fish.  Trout are always looking up.

The big ones are below the bait and waiting for anything that is easy to eat.  Check out the bait fish and try to troll the same size lure.

Chabot, you can't go wrong with a firetiger, green & silver kastmaster or dodger & worm.

Just. my 2 cents.

Ken kickfish

what about using a grub? Seems like a grub is a good lure to use with the downrigger, it is kind of neutral
buoyancy, if you stop it won't sink to the bottom and snag.

it won't float up to the surface and get run over by a boat.

you could put a little worm length or power egg ahead of the grub or use scented grubs.

you could put a tiny spinner ahead of the grub, or bright beads.

you can put them behind dodgers if you like, or behind flashers, yet they have their own
action too.

grubs are cheap and you can have a variety of sizes and colors to match the hatch.

all you need is a baitholder hook to thread them on.

here's the bassdozer's comments on grubs (for bass fishing, but it still applies somewhat)

http://www.bassdozer.com/articles/grub-fishing.shtml

If I do the downrigger thing, I think I will try fishing more grubs.

ah, but one question: how slow to troll them? the coastside guy that caught all those trout
and crappie at del valle was using a grub on a downrigger, but later posted that he trolls
them slower than he trolls a plug.