Sk8man

As long as they actually release it doesn't really make much of a difference. If the rubber band stays intact you know exactly where to set back...but it is no big deal either way. The tension setting just needs to be adjusted to whatever you are running (spoon, stick. attractor combo etc.). I usually set most of my stuff so a 3 lb fish will release it.....but like I said you will have to adjust according to what you are running too to avoid false releases.

I know this comment is not directly related to your question but in looking at the pic above it looks as though your gas line (and primer bulb) is located very close to the wiring connections in the back and if it ever sprung a leak and gas sprayed on those connectors if the ground was faulty.....possibly "kaboom" or a fire. I think I'd be trying to relocate them or the gas line a little further away. Just a suggestion...

A lot of guys run #19 rubber bands from Staples. As noted above I use much smaller ones without a specific number I just "feel out" the breaking strength as they are very inexpensive.

I know I risk you guys laughing,,,,but here is another option that works..... the sleeve is hard plastic and good sized diameter so various lines slip through easily yet don't abrade the line. I use them both with and without the rubber bands (the bands are the type girls use in their hair (can be purchased in various department stores). If pulling heavier stuff I use them without the bands and set the line further back in the release....the sleeves can also be used with other releases. The sinker provides the weight to get them going down the line until the release nests in the bow in the line. I'm not sure what the sleeves are called (i.e. brand name) but they are used as slip sinkers for salt water fishing (I purchased them on Cape Cod but I have seen them online someplace too). Here is what they look like when you buy them: (and no I haven't had problems with the sinker tangling the line)

Nice going....the little guy looks pretty proud too

WTG Marty! Sure looks like "Lakerville" over there nice pics and report... Les

Dave, really sorry to hear about the loss of your buddy.....been there before too... makes you really take stock of your own life and what's important in life. Nice going on the fishing! Nice coloration on Sheila's fish too. Too bad the eye didn't come a few weeks from now....WTG!

Once again Sean came up with another real kernal of wisdom for "newbies" and "experts" alike: "If you are fishing for big Lakers less is better" Fishing the derby is very different than usual fishing where you are looking to catch a lot of fish. You are looking only for the BIGGEST fish and the numbers of smaller fish just get in the way and you lose time messing with them when your "big fish" equipment should be in the water. Big fish didn't become big fish by being stupid....they behave differently than smaller fish and have different eating habits and requirements and the objective is to quickly figure out what those differences are, what the current conditions have to do with the situation, and how you can exploit it to your benefit. Good luckto all who give it a shot I guess if I was in a smack talking mood I'd probably say something like " If you are fishing for big lakers LES is better"

http://www.laketroutderby.org/

Nice going Jeff. Lot better than a day at work eh?

Sometimes "accidents" happen Nick and coincidence plays a role .....maybe it would have been my fish if it wasn't for the motor problem too we're going to have fun this time anyway right?

Nice smallie Jeff....time to get the other species dialed in Good luck bud.

Rumor has it (from reliable sources) that the guys at the south end NEED 20 lines out to stay up with the northenders using 3 lines Still trying to verify the sources

.....just waiting for the clapping to die down Ray Time to kick butt in those salt water big money tourneys Ray....

WTG John. Your report also reminds me why we Finger Lakes/Lake O fishermen need to be reminded of how good we really have it here being able to just drive a few minutes or an hour or so for outstanding fishing. It hasn't always been that way so we can't a take it for granted. Nice report John and great fishing. Best of luck to ya. Les