Glossary

Demersal – The area nearest the sea bed.

Downrigger – A mechanical device that uses large weights to get fishing lures or bait down to a specific depth. The line to the lure or baited hook is attached…

Double hook – Two single hooks joined along the length of the shank.

Dorsal fin – The fin located on the back of fish.

Drag – The mechanical system in a reel that applies friction to the spool allowing the fish to take line from the reel before the breaking strain of the line…

Draft – determines the minimum depth of water a boat can safely navigate.

Downtide – A style of fishing at anchor where the boat angler allows his rig to run with the tide.

Drag setting – A drag should be set around 25 to 30% of the breaking strain of the main line. So if using 20lb breaking strain line the drag should…

Drogue – A cone-shaped bag, usually made of plastic or canvas, which can be trailed from a drifting boat to slow it. Also known as a sea anchor.

Drag washer – a leather or man made disc which applies the drag pressure.