Sk8man

Fishy is definitely your best bet as he can answer any of your questions as he is a good rig fisherman himself. It could greatly shorten your learning curve.

Just practice up on linking a bunch of swear words together it helps

We try to release them unharmed and the needle prick of the air bladder on lakers has been around since at least the early 70's and probably before. The thing I have always wondered about catch and release methods regardless of type is if they actually do work (e.g. long term). A fish swimming away from the scene does not truly answer the question either. The assumption is made that if they don't float back to the surface they probably made it but it is just that an assumption too. We try to do what we can but after seeing fish laying on bottom including lakers and especially bass after tournaments where they are released afterward places this as a long term question mark in my mind. For years I used the bladder perforation and burp method but always wondered whether the bladder seals properly afterward soon enough to maintain its function. I don't think anyone really has the actual answer but again we do our best with limited knowledge and data about the results.

Ah OK good luck with it

You may also want to check the power cable itself if you have the older type cable as they were notorious for the outer covering cracking and then shorting out. If you have the new er cable disregard.

I wouldn't make that assumption just yet (especially if long drive to get there) as they have been launching small boats there for months without the docks

He also is VERY knowledgeable about running rigs so he can answer about any questions you may have and is a great guy.

Not sure where you are located but Fishy Business in Branchport may be able to hook you up with everything you may need. He is on here ("Fishy"). He is located at 3737 Pepper Road Bluff Point NY (607) 368-2306 or (315) 719-3673 (closed Tuesdays)