Umbrella rig set-up

[mofish]

Hey guys,
On the large 4 arm umbrella rigs (20" spread) you have the option to run 4 or 8 shad. Should you take advantage of running all 8 or stick with just 4. I imagine between 4 and 8, there is a difference in amount of weight needed to keep it at the depth that you want. Also, How much leader do you use between the umbrella and the center (hooked) bait.
Thanks for the help.

[uncljohn]

You'll get less drag w/ less shads, but then it looks like a smaller pod of bait and will be less enticing to a big rockfish! Rig them all. Capt Wayne sells some "eel tails" that have very little drag but have good action like a 6" shad.

As for the trailer, you want it to look like its lagging behind the school. I normally use 18-36" leader to my hooked lure. Depending on the size of my umbrella.

Also, consider running 2 trailers off opposite arm ends instead of a single trailer off the middle. Doubles the # of hooks you're dragging, and it works.

[Bunkerboz]

I run all 8 and use a 24" leader..you want it behind the 8 but not to far behind.

[tonyb]

Check this out......

http://www.srrkc.com/umbrella.html

[supergrouper]

I must be confused.......1 hooked bait?
I like to drag a fully rigged 6 arm umbrella, 13 baits. hella of a lot of drag but man there is nothing like catching mutiiple fish at one time.....

[D A Kahler]

Don't forget trailer hooks on your baits. I always run them on 9" or larger shad bodies.

[uncljohn]

Soupergrouper-

In the Chesapeake you can't have fully rigged umbrellas (like they pull off Jersey coast). You can only have a max of 2 hooked baits. I end up re-rigging most of mine b/c they are fully rigged for ocean trolling, but they are illegal in the Ches bay.

[supergrouper]

Yeah I guess I could re-rig....Or just keep a sharp eye out for the MAN and just cut the line....hehehehe....

[DaveOsh]

Supergrouper--
If you're serious, I hope the MAN finds you. There's a reason we're only allowed two hooked baits per line. I'm sure it's got to do with being better for the Rockfish and making it more sporting to catch them. You are just as likely to be caught running out to your favorite trolling spot and get stopped and your baits checked as you are getting stopped while trolling.

[supergrouper]

But if it is rigged and stowed away in it's tube and in a lazerette then what can the man really do to me. OR are you saying that it is illegal to have a rig with more than 2 hooks.???? and if so they why do I see them for sale in many tackle shops here in maryland. And what is to say that I am not headed to VA waters????????


Yeah I hope the man does pull me over on my way out of the harbor....

I am sure there is some reason for the law but personally I think that it is a dumb law.....
I'll take my chances......hehehehehehehe.....