How the Positive Ion Control System Works The PIC system uses an internal circuit that passes the voltage through the drive train of the Mag 20 DT to the reel set screw. The set screw
contacts the cable. Care must be taken to ensure contact between the cable and the set screw when replacing the cable.
The positive Ion Control system applies a
variable 0.2 to 1.2 volts on the trolling cable at all times. To adjust the Positive Ion Control, simply turn the PIC knob on the back of the Mag 20 DT housing (see below).
Measuring the Natural Electrolysis and PIC
Voltage on Your Boat
A voltmeter with a scale of zero to one volt will measure the natural electrolysis. Place the ground lead of the meter on the motor or the battery ground. Place the positive lead on the stainless steel downrigger cable while it is in the water. The downrigger must be unplugged. The voltage you
measure on the volt meter is your boat’s natural Data In electrolysis voltage. Use the same set up to
measure the PIC voltage; just plug in the Mag 20 DT and adjust the PIC knob to the voltage desired.
Using Positive Ion Control
Positive Ion Control is very effective when trolling. The zone of attraction created at the downrigger wire will attract the fish. It is best to use a short drop back between the downrigger release and the lure. Drop backs of 10 to 20 ft. are typical. A drop back of 50 to 100 ft. will entirely negate the effects of the PIC circuit. Fishing depths greater than 125 ft. may require a slightly higher PIC voltage. If you return to shallow water fishing remember to turn the PIC voltage down again.
The correct PIC setting for your best fishing advantage varies, depending on fish type and location. For example, the proper setting for Puget Sound Steelhead may not be effective for Great Lakes Steelhead. To fully benefit from PIC technology, it is important that you experiment with the PIC setting to find the proper voltage for the gamefish in your area. For more information on this subject, refer to “Secrets of Fishing with Electricity” by Ollie Rode.
Positive Ion Control (PIC) Knob
Data Out
POSITIVE ION CONTROL
15
