Luhr Jensen 0 Dipsy Diver Review

First Impressions of Luhr Jensen 0 Dipsy Diver

The Luhr Jensen 0 Dipsy Diver is a name synonymous with controlled-depth trolling, a technique that has consistently put fish in the boat for anglers worldwide. This seemingly simple device has revolutionized how we target suspended fish, and Luhr Jensen has been at the forefront of this innovation for decades. The promise of being able to precisely target fish at specific depths, regardless of boat speed or current, is what initially drew me to this product.

I was tired of guessing where my lures were running and missing out on fish holding just below the surface or in deeper thermoclines. I needed a reliable and proven method to get my lures down, and the Luhr Jensen 0 Dipsy Diver, with its adjustable trip mechanism and left/right shift capability, seemed like the perfect solution. My first impression upon receiving the Luhr Jensen 0 Dipsy Diver was that it was smaller than I had imagined, but its solid construction gave me confidence in its ability to handle the rigors of trolling.

Compared to inline weights or planer boards, the Dipsy Diver offered a more streamlined approach with less drag and the ability to trip upon a strike, signaling a fish on. While I considered using diving crankbaits exclusively, they often limit the presentation options and aren’t as versatile as a diver paired with a spoon or flasher. Ultimately, the Luhr Jensen 0 Dipsy Diver won out due to its proven track record, adjustability, and the sheer number of successful anglers who swear by it. I was genuinely excited to finally put this trolling legend to the test and see if it lived up to the hype.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Luhr Jensen 0 Dipsy Diver to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Luhr Jensen 0 Dipsy Diver on Lake Michigan, targeting lake trout and salmon. The conditions were typical for the Great Lakes – moderate chop, a slight current, and a water temperature gradient that required precise depth control. I experimented with different lead lengths and trolling speeds to dial in the presentation.

The Dipsy Diver performed admirably, diving quickly and tracking true. It took some initial adjustments to get the trip mechanism set correctly, but once dialed in, it tripped reliably upon a strike. There were no immediate issues or surprises; it was a surprisingly intuitive piece of equipment to use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Luhr Jensen 0 Dipsy Diver has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my trolling arsenal. There are no significant signs of wear and tear despite being dragged through weeds, bumped against rocks, and exposed to saltwater. The plastic construction is surprisingly robust and resists cracking or fading.

Maintaining the Dipsy Diver is incredibly simple; a quick rinse with freshwater after each use is all it takes to keep it in top condition. Compared to some other trolling equipment I’ve used, the Luhr Jensen 0 Dipsy Diver requires minimal maintenance and has consistently delivered reliable performance. It has undoubtedly exceeded my initial expectations and become an essential tool for targeting fish at specific depths.

Breaking Down the Features of Luhr Jensen 0 Dipsy Diver

Specifications

• Product Name: Luhr Jensen 0 Dipsy Diver.
  This is the smallest size in the Dipsy Diver line, ideal for targeting depths of up to 20 feet, depending on trolling speed and line diameter.

• Manufacturer: Luhr Jensen.
  A renowned name in fishing tackle, known for its quality and innovation in trolling gear.

• Left and Right Shift Ports: Allows for adjustable tracking to either side of the boat.
  This feature is critical for covering a wider swath of water and avoiding tangles when running multiple lines.

• Adjustable Trip Mechanism: Can be set specifically for lure size and target fish.
  This key feature ensures the diver releases upon a strike, allowing for a direct fight with the fish.

• Suitable for Saltwater and Brackish Water: The design has been refined for use in various water conditions.
  This versatility makes it a great choice for anglers targeting a wide range of species.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the Dipsy Diver’s ability to accurately target fish at specific depths and to provide a snag-free and enjoyable trolling experience. The adjustability of the trip mechanism and the shift ports allows for a customized presentation that can be tailored to the specific conditions and fish being targeted. The durability of the materials ensures that the Dipsy Diver can withstand the rigors of trolling in a variety of environments.

Performance & Functionality

The Luhr Jensen 0 Dipsy Diver excels at its primary function: delivering lures to a precise depth while trolling. Its performance is consistent and reliable, allowing anglers to effectively target fish holding in specific water layers. The ability to adjust the shift ports allows for precise control over the diver’s tracking, making it easy to cover a wide area and avoid tangles.

One of the Dipsy Diver’s strengths is its ease of use; even novice anglers can quickly learn to set it up and deploy it effectively. However, it’s essential to use a good line counter reel to ensure accurate depth control. While the Dipsy Diver is highly effective, it may not be ideal for extremely deep water or very slow trolling speeds.

Design & Ergonomics

The Luhr Jensen 0 Dipsy Diver features a simple and functional design. The round shape allows it to dive quickly and track smoothly, while the durable plastic construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of trolling. The compact size of the “0” model makes it easy to handle and deploy, even in windy conditions.

There’s no real learning curve associated with using the Dipsy Diver. A quick read of the instructions, along with a few practice runs, is all it takes to become proficient.

Durability & Maintenance

The Luhr Jensen 0 Dipsy Diver is built to last. The durable plastic construction can withstand repeated use in a variety of conditions, and the simple design minimizes the risk of mechanical failure. With proper care, a Dipsy Diver can provide years of reliable service.

Maintaining the Dipsy Diver is a breeze. A simple rinse with freshwater after each use is all that’s required to prevent corrosion and ensure smooth operation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Luhr Jensen 0 Dipsy Diver doesn’t come with any specific accessories, but it’s highly compatible with a wide range of lures, flashers, and dodgers. The key to success is using a quality snap swivel to attach the lure to the diver, and a strong mainline that can handle the drag. Many anglers also use a snubber to help absorb the shock of a strike.

The Dipsy Diver is also compatible with various aftermarket releases, allowing anglers to further customize the trip mechanism to their specific needs. The availability of a wide range of compatible accessories makes the Dipsy Diver a highly versatile and adaptable trolling tool.

Pros and Cons of Luhr Jensen 0 Dipsy Diver

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Who Should Buy Luhr Jensen 0 Dipsy Diver?

The Luhr Jensen 0 Dipsy Diver is perfect for anglers who want to precisely control the depth of their lures while trolling. It’s an excellent choice for targeting salmon, trout, walleye, and other species that hold at specific depths. The Dipsy Diver is also a great option for anglers who want to cover a wide area and avoid tangles when running multiple lines.

This product might not be suitable for anglers who primarily fish in shallow water or who prefer to use other trolling techniques, such as downrigging. Anglers who only target surface-feeding fish would also likely not benefit from using a Dipsy Diver. A must-have accessory for using the Dipsy Diver is a quality line counter reel to ensure accurate depth control.

Conclusion on Luhr Jensen 0 Dipsy Diver

The Luhr Jensen 0 Dipsy Diver is a proven and reliable tool for controlling lure depth while trolling. Its adjustability, durability, and ease of use make it an excellent choice for anglers of all skill levels. While it may require some initial practice to get the trip mechanism dialed in, the rewards of precise depth control and tangle-free trolling are well worth the effort.

At a price point of $19.99-$29.99, the Luhr Jensen 0 Dipsy Diver offers excellent value for the money. It’s a well-built and effective tool that can significantly improve your trolling success. I would wholeheartedly recommend the Luhr Jensen 0 Dipsy Diver to any angler looking to take their trolling game to the next level. Go out there, experiment with different lures and depths, and get ready to catch some fish!