Hand-Lining is a method of trolling that usually involves placing a one to two pound weight on a length of wire, then letting it out behind the boat until it contacts the bottom. The wire is then held in one's hand and the length out is adjusted to just maintain contact with the bottom. As the wire length is shortened by pulling it in, the specialty hand-lining reel automatically picks up the slack on a spring loaded spool.

We also need to insert what we call a shank between the main wire and the weight. The shank is another section of wire with clevises installed at fixed intervals along its length. We are then able to attach our chosen baits to the shank using varying length leads - usually made from 20# test or heavier monofilament line. Our custom clevises are positioned 8, 24 and 36 inches above the weight to be effectively used with 8, 24 and 36 foot long leads respectively.

This presentation is usually deployed from the back of the boat, one rig on each side. It is extremely effective at presenting a variety of baits to bottom hugging walleyes in strong currents such as we have on the Detroit and Saint Clair Rivers. For a much more detailed description, check our our article on "Fishing The Detroit River" on our Angler's Digest page.

To really get started on the right foot, or to refine your technique, contact Captain Dan about a guided hand-lining trip with Tight Line Charters and skip the pain and frustration of figuring it all out on your own!

Hand Lining Reels & Equipment

Hand Lining is a unique and extremely effective method of presenting lures to bottom hugging walleyes in strong currents like we have here on the Detroit River. In fact, hand lining was invented right here on the Detroit River.

If you are considering adding this presentation to your repertoire, Tight Line Tackle offers one stop shopping for all the unique gear you'll need to get started. You may also want to consider contacting Captain Dan at (Tight Line Charters) to discuss a guided trip to get you started on the right foot!

Click HERE for more information on How To?

How To - Information

Complete Hand-Lining Kit

Tight Line Tackle - Custom Shanks

A&S Hand-Lining Reels

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KIT CONTENTS

1 A&S Reel

2 Custom Shanks

1 Weight (1-1/4#)

1 Weight (1-3/4#)

$170.00

Hand-Lining Kit

 

Reel Color

 

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Even the most experienced Hand-Liner is going to catch bottom once in a while. That's why we have engineered these shanks to fail at the sinker snap so only the weight is lost on a hard snag.

The clevises have been positioned to optimize the use of 8', 24' and 36' leads. (If you prefer different lead lengths, contact us directly about building to your requirements.)

Our shanks are built using 60# coated cable, stainless steel clevises and quality Mason crimp sleeves.

Only $5.00 Each

Hand-Lining Shank
 

 

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We've come a long way since the use of the old modified Victrola boxes common in the 1930's and 40's. These reels from A&S are built to provide many years of trouble free service!

* Spooled with 60# Coated/Stranded wire!
* Enclosed spool prevents "line jump"
* Anodized casing for appearance and durability.
* Versatile and reversible clamp mount.
* Clamp mount is removable for permanent
  installations.
* Terminated with a high quality snap swivel.

$158.00

REELS

 

Color