mr 580

IMO leadcore due to all the variables from speed, currents, different backing and lure choices is likely to run shallower than “advertised”. I use 5’ per color as a general rule and shade towards the shallow side. For example I figure my 10 colors run closer to 45’ than 50’. The bottom line is leadcore catches fish even though it likely is running shallower than one might think. Letting out more backing isn’t going to greatly effect depth either as other factors especially speed limit depth.

The camo cable was supposed to blend into the environment better than the flashy silver cable commonly used on riggers then. I don’t remember if the camo was coated to add life in saltwater. As far as dual rod holders I think you would have to find used ones. Current models mount differently.

Digitrol 2 which shared many parts (including motors) as Mag 10a. Both models from mid 1980’s and was common for the Digitrol 2 to be converted to Mag 10a when keypad failed. Parts availability limited. The “Marlin” versions that I had were a camo cable in lieu of a silver cable. Interesting with Cannon that the Mag 10a model was produced before the Mag 10. Were a solid rigger in their day- still common to see them-slow retrieve likely helped them last.

I have a LGC4000 puck which I believe is compatible as a replacement for a LGC3000. I have the puck along with a Global Map 5200C with a Nautipath Chip covering Lake Ontario and Erie. I’d sell for$55.00 including shipping. If interested I can provide pictures. I updated and puck was working when I removed. Have wiring, manual,cover and mount for puck. Thanks Frank

Chautauqua has good access with plenty of boat launch’s in both basins. Should be about a 3 hour drive from Canandaigua. Lots of options to troll and cast. Visitors Bureau has a good site for information www.tourchautauqua.com Besides musky the lake has walleye, bass and panfish. DEC has musky hatchery at Chautauqua too. Most first timers are surprised when they get on the lake.

The Bert’s rod holder is reversible- one side allows it to ratchet and the other you have to unlock to pull up. You pull the c clip to pull pin and the lock mechanism then flip the rod holder around. The teeth on the bottom are configured differently to allow for this. Designed that way.

I spend a fair amount of time on Chautauqua and to me a couple issues. Guys do target musky before season- Saturday 5/23 I saw a boat running down rods and trolling at high end of walleye speed. I’m likely to see more this week. Other issue IMO is DEC coverage on the lake is “spotty” at best. Traffic this year has been high and more boats means likelihood of more funny business. Not all of it is intentional with lots of out of state people where regulations might be different.

Traxstech offers several mounts for the S17’s - you can buy bare adapter to use your S17 or buy with an S17 already mounted.

I would suggest gaining access by taking off things like speaker, locker door, upholstery and perhaps even seat. Use care as you will put back on once you have gained access. Don’t give up on this as a DIY job as it is not technical just time consuming. Just slipping speaker out should tell you something about access. You are going in the right direction by realizing that using wellnuts to secure a downrigger is “risky”.

I tend to be reluctant to offer specific advice on mounting trolling gear as every boat is a bit different in construction especially aluminum ones- some gunnels are just aluminum sheet with little structural support. It is important to know you have solid support and I’ll share an actual situation of what consequences of improper mounting can be. Years ago I was trolling towards the Genny from I bay off VanLare when a boat came running up headed towards the river. I could see downrigger weights attached and swinging off the back in wild arcs. As the boat passed, the two downriggers, weights and the board they were mounted to somersaulted up in the air in slow motion before splashing down. The boat shut down and the 2 guys went to the back of the boat to look behind. After sitting there a few minutes they shook their heads and left. Gave us a good laugh. Moral of the story- use metal, wood backer or fender washers. Stainless steel fasteners with lock nuts or lock washers. Take your time do it right, do it once.

Probably an email with a description of issue along with pics to Traxstech likely best way to contact right now. Might get a response from someone working from home-Michigan has some strict policies likely shutting them down.