Best reel for dock skipping

[CancerKiller]

Is it an SV or DC type reel or something with a more shallow spool?

I’m starting to try and learn to dock skip with a bait caster. I’m very proficient with a spinning reel but want to use a bait caster. I got a dobyns dock skipper & a Daiwa sv

[ColdSVT]

Your thumb...and a slightly softer rod than you think you need

[JustFishFor5]

DC and the things ColdSVT mentioned…

[CancerKiller]

But don’t the new reels and technology negate the need for feathering with thumbs? Isn’t that the point?

[Tone357]

You can do it with any reel, just don't fill the spool. But the Shimano DC reels take it to another level! I also highly recommend Fitzgerald Rods Bryan Thrift skipping rod. That is one sweet setup for skipping!

[1BADAIR]

Spinning

[catdude28]

Tatula SV

[Philly]

But don’t the new reels and technology negate the need for feathering with thumbs? Isn’t that the point?

The newer reels will definitely shorten the learning curve, but there is no substitute for an educated thumb. To answer the original question, the Tatula SV tw103 is my favorite skipping reel by far. You can use the magnetic brake to learn the technique and develope the muscle memory and after awhile you will be able to do it with very little brake and all thumb control. A great tip is to peel off enough line for an average skip cast plus 10 yards and then place a small piece of Gorilla Tape across the line remaining on the spool…now and backlash will only go as deep into the spool as the tape.

[BULLET7SST]

I tried skipping with a few different reels and I settled on the Daiwa Tatula SV. It was a game changer for me because I was able to spend more time practicing than picking out birds nests. Another big thing is to make sure you are using the correct length rod to skip. Andy Montgomery has a good video where he explains why.

[Bjxds]

My new setup is a Fitzgerald rod with Lews Pro SP Skiping reel. Time will tell how well it works for me.

[krindgen]

Your spinnerbait combo. Those Tatula's are pretty sweet and there's a model for all price points.

[Fishysam]

Diawa tatula sv t-wing in 8.0/1+. The spool is shallower and works great! If your looking for a rod to st croix mojo dock sniper 7' heavy fast really helps

[Arkyarcher]

[Delta Bass Fool]

3 good videos thanks for sharing. I’m still in the wanting to learn to skip boat ever since buying the Tatula SV. How big of a factor does the size and weight of the bait play a part in ease of successful skipping?

[krindgen]

3 good videos thanks for sharing. I’m still in the wanting to learn to skip boat ever since buying the Tatula SV. How big of a factor does the size and weight of the bait play a part in ease of successful skipping?

Probably easiest to start with a 1/2 oz. But IMO the bait you choose makes the biggest difference. Can also start with a chatterbait to get your confidence. As unskippable as that bait looks it skips really easily. I learned just last week that the Zoom Z-Craw skips really well even on a big wobble head.

[krindgen]

'nother good vid.

[old4runner]

Putting a lot less on the spool can help also (or use the tape trick 1/2 into a full spool). If you nest it then a lot less to cut out and respool. Less on the spool I think lets you dial the magnetic drag in a little better.

[WStorey]

Probably easiest to start with a 1/2 oz. But IMO the bait you choose makes the biggest difference. Can also start with a chatterbait to get your confidence. As unskippable as that bait looks it skips really easily. I learned just last week that the Zoom Z-Craw skips really well even on a big wobble head.

I can skip a chatterbait or a big swimbait like a 6th sense whale and megabass magdraft better than I can skip a jig.

[D_Wade85]

No substitute for a thumb and practice.

When I was in high school I would go down to the local restaurant we had on our home lake. After they closed I would walk out on the docks and stand on the slips and skip across the slip to the adjacent slip. I would fish under every float for practice. Did this for many years.

I learned on a 7’6 pro qualifier rod and the original green bps bait casting reels, using a half ounce jig and trailer.

Everybody wants a short cut to success. Time and practice will serve you well.

Best of luck.

[Iowabass3826]

I think a wide bodied trailer like half of a sweet beaver makes it pretty easy as well.