John,

Here is a great web site for Popular lures and rigs used on the Chesapeake,
they not only discuss Rockfish, but all other popular fish in the
Chesapeake.

http://www.vaboatandbeach.com/tacktech.asp

Bottom Trolling Rig - Used primarily by Chesapeake Bay anglers targeting
rockfish during their fall migration. The rig is also effective for deep
running bluefish. Locals prefer a long monofilament, 25 foot leader that
can be utilized with or without a 12 inch wire leader. The leader and a 3
to 4 foot section of monofilament holding the sinker are attached to
separate rings of a 3 way swivel. When a fish is brought to the boat,
anglers must hand wind the leader to land the fish. This can be tough on
the fingers. Work gloves can help. The leader must be 60 to 75lb. test to
withstand the resistance of a heavy, thrashing fish and the resistance of
the heavy sinker. Let out a sufficient amount of line until you feel the
sinker hit the bottom. Sinkers should be 16 to 20oz. if you are using
monofilament line. Wire line can be an advantage with this rig as a lighter
sinker can be used to reach the bottom. Tie a loop knot or simple half
hitch to attach the sinker. This will allow you to change sinker sizes
quickly with a minimum of aggravation. Run the doubled line through the eye
of the ring at the top of the sinker, then pass the sinker through the loop
back to the ring and tighten the line. Reverse the process to change
sinkers. Anglers will need a revolving spool reel, minimum of 40lb. test
line and a stiff boat rod to handle this rig.



It seems like you are in good company using the long leader.








"John H" wrote in message
...
Many of the folks who troll for striped bass (rockfish or stripers)
use a leader which totals about 30' in length. Is that much leader
necessary? I use braided line, so I need *some* leader to allow for
pulling a 40" fish from the water without cutting my fingers off. I'm
wondering why I couldn't get by with about 8' or so.

Ideas?

John H

On the 'Poco Loco' out of Deale, MD
on the beautiful Chesapeake Bay!