Hey 'Mac!
Great question and I think you're right on the money with your inclinations regarding downrigger release lengths.
Generally when you get a release with your new downrigger, it's quite short. Generally less than a foot in length.
I fail so see any advantage to shorter release drops. In fact I like to build my own releases and I make them at least as long as my downrigger booms for ease of use.
There is a better reason to use longer releases and as 'Mac mentioned "with the long ones you seem to see more what is going on..."
Here's a diagram with my explanation why longer releases are more advantageous!
- aRelease.jpg (62.04 KiB) Viewed 7278 times
This diagram is a slide from my "Dirty Downrigger Tricks" Powerpoint presentation. As it's almost show season I'll be giving this seminar at the Seattle Boat Show, The Western Washington Sportsman's Show and a few PSA Meetings near you!