There are plenty of fishing techniques, strategies, and tools that can help put walleye in the boat on your next fishing trip. From trolling crankbaits to casting jigs, finding what works best can take some trial and error. Among the many secret weapons in the walleye angler’s arsenal is a humble yet highly effective lure known as the dipsy diver. This unique spinnerbait-like offering has helped put countless fish in the cooler over the years with its subtle swimming action and irresistible flashy presentation.
In this post on how to use a dipsy diver for walleye, I’ll share everything you need to know about selecting the right dipsy diver model, matching it with just the right line and retrieve, and putting it to work so you can start catching slab crappies of your own this spring. Buckle up—it’s time to get schooled on one of walleye fishing’s best-kept secrets.
Needed Materials
- A Dipsy Diver
- Fishing Line (braid or mono)
- Rod and Reel Setup
- Lures/Bait
11 Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Use a Dipsy Diver for Walleye
Step 1: Selecting the Right Dipsy Diver Model
There are a few different models of dipsy divers available on the market, each with its own unique strengths and features. The most popular models include directional and non-directional divers, which vary in terms of depth control, action, and visibility. When selecting your dipsy diver model, consider factors like water depth, current conditions, and personal preference.
Step 2: Matching the Right Line
One of the key components to effectively using a dipsy diver is having the right line. Because these lures require some weight to reach their desired depth, braided lines are highly recommended for use with dipsy divers. You’ll also want to match the line weight to your rod and reel setup, keeping in mind that dipsy divers require a bit more muscle when fighting a fish.
Step 3: Setting Up Your Rod and Reel
Using a spinning or casting reel with medium to heavy action, spool on enough line to reach your desired depth plus about 30 feet. Attach your dipsy diver using a snap swivel for easy lure changes and tie on your leader line with a double uni-knot or similar knot. It’s important to note that the length of your leader line will vary depending on water conditions, but a good starting point is between 10-12 feet.
Step 4: Understanding the Directional Feature
Directional dipsy divers can be set to run either left or right, making them ideal for controlling depth in strong currents. To set the direction, simply rotate the diver so that the fin face is pointing in the desired direction. This feature can be especially helpful when fishing in rivers, where you may need to adjust your depth and direction frequently.
Step 5: Setting Depth and Distance
To set your dipsy diver’s depth, simply clip on a weight or fish scale at the desired distance from the lure. A good rule of thumb is about 1 foot for every 10 feet of depth. For example, if you want to fish at a depth of 20 feet, clip on your weight or scale at about 2 feet from the lure. This will help keep your dipsy diver in the strike zone and prevent it from getting snagged on the bottom.
Step 6: Reeling in Properly
Once your dipsy diver is set up and in the water, it’s important to reel in at a steady pace. Unlike other lures that require more erratic movement, dipsy divers rely on their swimming action to attract fish. Keep your rod tip pointed towards the water, and use a moderate retrieve speed to give your lure the best chance of catching walleye. But if you find that the fish are more active and aggressive, don’t be afraid to experiment with a faster retrieve.
Step 7: Paying Attention to Strikes
When a walleye bites, you’ll feel the dipsy diver stop swimming and your rod tip will start to bend. Don’t set the hook right away—instead, give the fish a few seconds to fully take the lure before giving it a solid pull. This will help ensure a more secure hookset and prevent losing your catch. You’ll also want to pay attention to the direction of the diver after a strike, as this can give you clues on where the fish is heading.
Step 8: Going Solo with Dipsy Divers
While using dipsy divers in combination with other lines and lures can be effective, sometimes it’s best to go solo. This involves running only one dipsy diver on your boat and making adjustments to the depth and direction as needed. This can be especially helpful when fishing in deeper waters or areas with lots of structure, where multiple lines can easily get tangled.
Step 9: Experimenting with Colors
Like many other lures, dipsy divers come in a variety of colors and patterns that can help attract different fish species. When fishing for walleye, try experimenting with different colors and patterns to see what works best in your particular body of water. Some anglers swear by brighter, more flashy colors while others prefer more natural tones—so it’s always worth trying a few options to see what the fish prefer.
Step 10: Being Mindful of Water Temperature
Water temperature can greatly affect fish behavior, and the same goes for how they react to different lures. In general, walleye tend to be more active in warmer water temperatures, so try to use dipsy divers during times of the day when the water is a bit warmer. Additionally, if you notice that your lure isn’t attracting any bites, try adjusting its depth or switching up the color to see if that makes a difference.
Step 11: Practicing Patience and Persistence
Like any other fishing technique, using dipsy divers for walleye will require some patience and persistence. It may take you a few tries to get the hang of setting the right depth or direction, and it’s important to stay calm and focused when a fish takes your lure. With practice and a bit of trial and error, you’ll soon become a pro at using dipsy divers for walleye fishing. So get out there and give it a try! Keep in mind that these steps on how to use a dipsy diver for walleye are guidelines and may vary depending on personal preference and water conditions.
Additional Tips
- When Setting Up Your Rod and Reel, Make Sure to Use a Leader Line and Tie it with a Double Uni-Knot for Optimal Strength
- Experiment with Different Depths and Retrieve Speeds to See What Works Best in Your Body of Water
- Don’t be Afraid to Ask Other Anglers or Do Some Research to Find Out What Dipsy Diver Models or Colors Have Worked Well in the Past
- Always Be Mindful of Your Surroundings and Follow Local Fishing Regulations
- Stay Patient and Persistent, as it May Take Some Time to Get the Hang of Using Dipsy Divers Effectively
- Have Fun and Enjoy the Unique Experience of Using a Dipsy Diver for Walleye Fishing!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can You Use a Dipsy Diver for Other Fish Species Besides Walleye?
A: Yes, dipsy divers can be effective for catching a variety of fish species such as salmon, trout, and bass. Just make sure to adjust your setup and techniques accordingly. It’s always a good idea to do some research on the fish species you are targeting and see if others have had success using dipsy divers for them.
Q: Do I Have to Use a Leader Line When Fishing with Dipsy Divers?
A: While it is not required, using a leader line can help prevent your main fishing line from getting damaged or tangled by the dipsy diver. It also allows you to easily switch out lures without having to re-tie your entire setup.
Q: How Do I Know if I Need a Right or Left Directional Dipsy Diver?
A: The directional feature is helpful for controlling depth in strong currents, so it ultimately depends on your fishing location and preferences. Try experimenting with both types to see which works best for you. Additionally, some anglers use a combination of both right and left-directional dipsy divers on their boats for added versatility.
Conclusion
In conclusion on how to use a dipsy diver for walleye, the Dipsy Diver is a versatile and effective tool for catching walleye. With its unique design and adjustable settings, it allows anglers to target specific depths and cover more water in search of these elusive fish. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro, adding the Dipsy Diver to your fishing arsenal can greatly improve your chances of success on the water. But remember, success also depends on proper technique and understanding the behavior of walleye.
So next time you hit the lake, don’t forget to pack your Dipsy Divers and give them a try! And if you found this post helpful, be sure to share it with your fishing buddies so they too can reap the benefits of using a Dipsy Diver. Happy fishing!