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>         I would appreciate a reference (or specific hints) as to deploying a
> fixed (attached to wreck) 50 lb lift bag.  Specifically, any rules of thumb as
> to size (strength) and length of the line (deployed from reel or spool) as a
> function of the variables which include - at the least - depth and current.

I use a closed circuit bag (Halcyon Surf Mat) and send it up only if I'm
not using the buoy line. I don't have to worry about some stupid lift bag
coming back down on me again. I use lift bags for lifting. Closed curcuit
bags for surface marking, so the boat knows where I am.

> Also, how is the line controlled as it is released from the reel so that it
> does not run off the reel? - or jerk out of your hand?  How is the line
> attached to the wreck?

I don't attach anything to the wreck. I usually hook and buoy the wreck and
use that line for deco, etc. The last guy pops the grappel and chain with a
lift bag. During deco we coil the extra rope on a big hose reel (it gives us
something to do). We float around with our big float ball. I only use a bag
if I lose the line, or if some dork ties the boat to the float ball (the wind
will drag you around). I have lost a few grappels, and only 1 ascent line when
the boat was tied to it and a storm whipped up 8' - 10' seas. Trying to hang on
to a line in the current sucks, and I don't do it. I just drift and the boat
follows. I dive in the Puget Sound, so I don't have to worry about drifting
to Fiji during my deco.

>         This is all in the context of emergency only (I have done quite a few
> wreck dives without an emergency so the bulky Jersey reel/biodegradable line
> is not a desirable option for me).  A scenario of interest is offshore North
> Carolina at 100 feet with a 2 knot current.  I looked through related threads
> in the list aand several wreck diving books but could not put together an
> answer to these questions.  I thank any respondents for their time and
> apologize for what may be too elementary a question for this forum.

I don't think you plan on doing deco in a 2 knot current while tied to the
ship, do you? That would really suck. We get currents so bad that you see
major rapids on the surface, but I don't dive when it's like that.

-Jon
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