What is a Trotline, and can it Save Your Life?

A trotline consists of a long sturdy line with multiple drops of lighter line containing a hook. The hooks of the trotline are baited and the trotline is strung across a slow moving body of water. The ends of the line are tied to trees, low lying branches or stakes along the banks. The fisherman allows the line to remain in the water for 24-hours before pulling it. A properly constructed trotline will be long-lasting and productive.

Difficulty:
Moderate

Instructions
Things You'll Need

100-yard spool of 250-pound test braided fishing line
Box of lead split shot
Pliers
Box of swivels
50-yard spool of 50-pound test braided fishing line
Scissors
Fishing hooks
14-inch square cardboard bow
Utility knife

1

Pull 10- to 15-feet of line from the 100-yard spool of 250-pound braided fishing line and secure a split shot onto the line with the pliers.
2

Slide a swivel onto the line and down to the clamped split shot. Secure a second split on the other side of the swivel.
3

Move two feet down the line and secure another split shot, swivel and split shot. Repeat the process until you have the desired length and number of drops for your trotline.
4

Pull two feet of 50-pound test braided fishing line from the spool. Cut the spool with a pair of scissors.
5

Make a loop with the 50-pound test line. Tie an overhand knot to hold the loop.
6

Slide one end of the loop through the eye of the hook and push the other end of the loop through itself to secure the hook to the drop line. Slide the end of the loop through the swivel and swing the secured hook through the loop. Pull the hook to tighten the loop, securing the drop line to the trotline. Repeat the process for each swivel you placed on the trotline.
7

Cut slits into the top of a 14-inch square cardboard box with the utility knife. You need to have one slit for each drop line you placed on the trotline.
8

Coil the trotline into the 14-inch square. Push a drop line into each slit as it is about to enter the cardboard box to complete the construction and storage of your trotline.


Read more: How to Make a Trotline | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/how_6578777_make-trotline.html#ixzz1VVeqa3ve