After rigging the ballyhoo, the final step is to drop the bait back into the spread. A couple of points help to ensure offshore success.
Observe the bait
Troll the bait beside the boat and watch it for a minute. Look for some clean water beside the boat so you can see.
Is the bait trolling like the video? The ballyhoo should be swimming with a natural action on the tail. It shouldn't be "dead sticking" through the water and certainly not spinning.
Adjust if necessary
Adjust the boat speed to maximize the action of the bait. Optimal boat speed can vary from 4-8 knots.
Verify the ballyhoo is well thawed and limber it up if necessary
Ensure the lure is well seated on the ballyhoo's head. Pin the lure in place if necessary especially as you are getting used to TrollTrue.
Drop the bait into the spread
When you are satisfied with the action of the ballyhoo, drop the bait back.
Keep tension on the line as you drop it back. Don't let it free spool as this can unseat the lure.
The value of TrollTrue lures is as a swimming bait. The ballyhoo should typically run about 1-2' deep.
Adjust the position of the bait
Adjust the presentation of the bait to minimize skipping. Skipping the bait provides an opportunity to unseat the lure from the ballyhoo. Consider the following options:
Drop the bait further back.
Lower the angle of entry into the water by clipping the line to the gunnel with a release or moving it out of the outrigger position.
Slow the trolling speed.
If sea conditions make it hard to keep the bait from skipping, pin the lure to the ballyhoo.
