Jeffmac85

I just checked, it is 15 hook points per line, even with a 3 treble hook stick bait and (2) 3 hook worm harnesses I would still be under by 3 hook points

I think the hook point rule is only in effect in NY for ice fishing.  I could be totally wrong though, its happened before 

I'm honestly not sure of the legality.  I don't think the downrigger assembly counts as a rod and reel, if this were the case guys out trolling would be forced to count them in the rod limit, this has never been the case as far as I know.   Technically this method doesn't seem any different to me than running a fixed cheater on a rigger line.  I'm just trying to maximize baits in the water without going over the rod limit thats all.  Again, I know it's a risk of a tangled mess but I would never know without trying.  Was just interested if anyone may have done this successfully to guide me what's the best way to do it.   If it tangles then I know it's an idea for the "not feasible" pile hahaha.

I have an extension net that goes to 10-12'   I don't think a 3 ft lead will be a problem.   Unless it's a 5+ lbr ill grab the leader and flip them in the boat.   I'm more worried about tangles than anything.   Steelies I'd be concerned if it was up higher but a laker or big sheephead may cause a problem.  What can it hurt to try.   I made a nice long snubber to use as a shock absorber so they don't crack off on the initial strike.  I think of I can keep if untangled I can get them in without a problem 

I know some will think this is crazy.  Let me start by saying I will only do this walleye trolling, definitely not trout and salmon.   And also, I run fixed cheaters also for those who are going to say just do that, I do.   I run chamberlain releases on my riggers so my release is above the ball.  This leaves the eyelet on the tail of my ball open.  I was thinking about running a worm harness directly off of this with a 1-2ft piece of 25-30lb fluorocarbon with a snubber between it and the ball.  On my fish hawk rigger I have a good 8-10 inches between the release and ball, I think this will help prevent tangles.  My hopes is to possibly pick up a couple hitch hikers maybe every time I bring the ball up.   I see them come to the ball on my lowrance, so I figured what could it hurt, as long as I can keep it from tangling on the way down of course.  What are people's thoughts, anyone ever tried this?  I talked to one older guy on Erie that says he's done it and it works so I figured what the heck might be worth a try.

Added a 112# ulterra to the front also