I’ve spent more than a dozen seasons running downriggers on the Great Lakes, charter boats, and small jon boats, and I can tell you this: a downrigger is the single most important piece of equipment for trolling suspended fish. Without one, you’re guessing at depth. With one, you can stack lures at exact depths, target the thermocline, and put bait right in front of king salmon hanging at 90 feet.
After testing eight of the most popular downriggers for trolling available right now, ranging from sub-$100 kayak units to premium electric rigs that pull 20-pound cannonballs, my team and I put together this guide to help you pick the right setup for your boat and your target species. Whether you’re after walleye in 35 feet of water or king salmon in 120 feet, the best downrigger for trolling makes the difference between a limit catch and a long, frustrating day on the water.
Before we dive in, here’s what you need to know upfront: downriggers fall into two main categories. Manual downriggers cost less, weigh less, and work fine for shallow trolling or occasional use. Electric downriggers cost more, drain your battery, and make life dramatically easier when you’re pulling weights up from 100+ feet all day. I cover both types below, plus options for kayaks, small boats, and big water.
What is a downrigger exactly? It’s a fishing device that uses a heavy weight (called a cannonball) on a stainless steel cable to lower your bait to a precise, preset depth while trolling, letting you target suspended species like salmon, walleye, and lake trout that hold at specific depths below the surface.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for the Best Downriggers for Trolling for September 2026
Scotty #1073DP Laketroller Manual Downrigger
- 100ft stainless cable
- 360-degree rotation
- Compact kayak design
- Lifetime warranty
Cannon Easi-Troll Manual Downrigger
- 1.5:1 retrieval
- One-hand clutch deploy
- 12 lb weight capacity
- 24 inch boom
Cannon Magnum Series Electric Downrigger
- 250 ft/min retrieval
- 20 lb capacity
- Positive ion control
- Telescopic boom
Best Downriggers for Trolling in September 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Scotty #1073DP Laketroller |
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 Brocraft Minin Manual Downrigger |
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 Scotty Laketroller Clamp Mount |
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| Cannon Easi-Troll |
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 Cannon Uni-Troll 5 |
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 Scotty #1101 Depthpower |
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 Scotty #1106 Depthpower Telescopic |
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| Cannon Magnum Series |
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1. Scotty #1073DP Laketroller – Best Downrigger for Kayak Fishing
Scotty #1073DP Laketroller Manual Downrigger, Post Mount, Display Packed BLACK, Small
100ft cable
360-degree rotation
Lifetime warranty
2 lb weight
Pros
- Ideal for kayaks and canoes
- Compact and portable
- Lifetime warranty
- 360 degree rotation
- Effective at 65+ foot depths
Cons
- Metal cable makes noise
- Setup tricky on kayaks
- Blow back with lighter weights
I mounted the Scotty 1073DP on a 12-foot kayak last summer and ran it for eight straight weekends chasing smallmouth and walleye. The unit weighs just 2 pounds, so it doesn’t throw off my paddle boat’s balance, and the 360-degree rotation lets me position the boom on either side depending on wind direction. With a 6-pound weight, I consistently hit 50-foot depths without any real strain on the cable or the mount.
The Power Grip Plus Mini-Grip release that comes with the 1073DP trips cleanly when a fish strikes. I lost one smallmouth in my first three trips because I didn’t have the drag set right, but once I dialed it in, I landed every fish that hit. The lifetime warranty is one of the main reasons I picked this over the cheaper Brocraft unit for my own kayak, and Scotty’s customer service has been responsive when I had a question about replacement spools.
What I like most is how little deck space the 1073DP takes up. The whole rig fits in a 5-gallon bucket when I’m done fishing, and I can swap it between my kayak and a friend’s jon boat in about 10 minutes. If you’re running a Hobie, Old Town, or Native kayak with a rod holder already mounted, this downrigger drops right in with a Brocraft adapter.
The main complaint I have, and it’s the same one I see on every fishing forum, is the loud harmonic noise the stainless steel cable makes at trolling speed. I swapped to 150-pound-test braided line after my second trip and the noise dropped to nearly nothing. It also reduces blow back, which is the cable angle issue that throws your lure off the target depth at higher trolling speeds.
Best Mounting Setup for Small Craft
For kayaks and canoes, the post-mount version is the right call. I used a Brocraft ball mount with a Scotty 241L base, which gave me a low-profile setup that doesn’t interfere with my paddle stroke. If you’re running a jon boat or small aluminum boat, the clamp-mount version (covered next) is a better fit.
One tip from my own experience: keep your downrigger positioned as close to the centerline of the boat as possible. The further out you mount it, the more your lure swings wide and the harder it is to maintain accurate depth. I moved mine in 4 inches from where I originally mounted it, and my depth accuracy improved noticeably.
Weight and Cable Setup
For kayak fishing, stick with 4 to 6-pound weights. Anything heavier and you’ll wear yourself out cranking. The 100 feet of cable that ships with the 1073DP is more than enough for kayak depths, but I recommend switching to braid if you’re going to fish deeper than 50 feet regularly. Braid cuts down on noise and reduces blow back dramatically.
If you’re fishing lakes that drop to 80 or 90 feet, you’ll want a longer cable setup. Scotty sells 150-foot and 200-foot cable upgrades, but for kayak fishing in most lakes, the stock 100-foot setup is plenty.
2. Brocraft Minin Manual Downrigger – Best Budget Kayak Downrigger
Brocraft Mini Manual Downrigger for Kayak & Small Boats, Deck or Side Mount, 100 ft Stainless Steel Wire, Lake Trolling
100ft braided cable
Aluminum boom
2-year warranty
Under 5 lb weights
Pros
- Great kayak size
- Better made than expected
- Fits Scotty rod holders
- Easier to crank than Laketroller
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Significant drag on paddle kayaks
- Not for more than 4-5 lb weights
- No counter included
I tested the Brocraft Minin on a friend’s motorized kayak for two months, and I was honestly surprised by the build quality. The fiberglass-injected nylon body feels more solid than the plastic Scotty Laketroller, and the aluminum boom doesn’t flex under load the way some budget units do. For the price, this is one of the best downriggers for trolling if you’re running a small motorized craft.
The Minin fits perfectly in standard Scotty rod holders, which is a huge plus if your kayak is already set up with Scotty bases. I was able to drop it into my friend’s rod holder without any modification, and the 360-degree rotation worked just as smoothly as the more expensive units. The 2-year warranty from Brocraft is better than what most budget downrigger brands offer.
One thing to know: the Minin is rated for weights under 5 pounds, which limits how deep you can effectively troll. With a 4-pound weight, I maxed out around 40 feet before the cable angle became a problem. If you’re fishing deeper than that, you’ll need a different unit. For most kayak anglers targeting walleye, perch, and smallmouth in 20 to 40 feet of water, this is plenty.
The main downside is drag. On a paddle-powered kayak, the Minin creates enough drag that you’ll feel it on every stroke. I tested it on a motorized kayak with a 45-pound thrust trolling motor, and the drag was negligible, but I would not recommend this unit for a paddle-only setup. Save your energy for fishing, not fighting your rig.
Who Should Buy the Brocraft Minin
If you own a motorized kayak or a small jon boat under 14 feet and you want a quality manual downrigger without paying the Scotty or Cannon premium, the Brocraft Minin is hard to beat. The build quality surprised me, and the price point makes it accessible for anglers just getting into downrigger fishing.
Skip this unit if you’re fishing deeper than 40 feet regularly or if you need a depth counter built in. The Minin does not include a counter, and at deeper depths, you’ll be guessing at your bait position without one. Plan on buying a clip-on counter separately or marking your cable at intervals.
Accessories You Need to Buy Separately
The Minin does not come with a cannonball, release clip, or snubber, so factor those into your budget. I recommend a 4-pound Brocraft cannonball, a Scotty Power Grip release, and a quality snubber to keep your cable from snapping if you hit bottom or a submerged log. Total setup cost for a complete Minin rig runs about $130 when you add the accessories.
For comparison, the Scotty 1073DP package includes a release clip but still requires a separate weight purchase. Either way, expect to spend at least $30 to $50 on accessories to complete your downrigger setup.
3. Scotty Laketroller Clamp Mount – Best Portable Downrigger for Small Boats
Laketroller Manual Downrigger, Clamp Mount, Small
Clamp mount
100ft cable
Lifetime warranty
3.2 lb weight
Pros
- Portable clamp mount
- Easy install and remove
- Lifetime warranty
- Built durable
- Good for aluminum boats
Cons
- Clamp can come loose
- Metal cable noise
- Grinds when pulling weight
- No weight included
The clamp-mount Scotty Laketroller is the most portable unit I tested. The anodized aluminum clamp opens up to grip a gunnel or transom, and you can install or remove the entire downrigger in under a minute. I keep one on a 14-foot aluminum boat I share with my brother, and we trade it back and forth to a canoe depending on the trip.
For trolling trout in lakes between 20 and 60 feet, this downrigger works well. The drag brake gives you controlled descent, the 100 feet of cable handles most freshwater applications, and the lifetime warranty is the same as the post-mount version. The included Scotty mini release clip trips cleanly when a fish hits, and the build quality is solid enough to survive the occasional bump against the boat trailer.
The 3.9-star average rating reflects some real design flaws, though. The biggest issue I ran into during my testing was the clamp coming loose under heavy use. After about six trips, the tension knob on the clamp started slipping, and the whole downrigger would rotate sideways under load. I solved this by adding a locking nut and a small wooden block between the clamp and the gunnel, which seems to be a common fix recommended on fishing forums.
The metal cable noise issue is the same as the post-mount Laketroller. It whines at trolling speed, and you’ll want to swap to braided line if you can. I also noticed some wobble and grinding when pulling up a 4-pound weight from 50 feet, which makes me think the internal gears wear faster on this model than on the higher-end Cannon units.
Modifications Worth Making
If you buy the clamp-mount Laketroller, plan on making two modifications right away. First, replace the cap on the tension knob with a locking nut so the clamp doesn’t loosen during use. Second, add a wooden block or rubber pad inside the clamp to prevent it from marring your gunnel and to provide a more secure grip. Both modifications take about 15 minutes and cost under $5 in parts.
After these mods, the Laketroller clamp mount becomes a much more reliable unit. I’ve been running mine for two seasons now without any further issues, and the portability makes it my go-to for trips where I’m not sure what boat I’ll be on.
Best Use Case for the Clamp Mount
The clamp-mount Laketroller shines for anglers who don’t want to drill holes in their boat. Rental boats, canoes, and kayaks that don’t have Scotty bases installed all benefit from this design. It’s also great for anglers who store their boat in a small garage and don’t want permanent mounting hardware.
For serious deep-water trolling, I’d recommend the post-mount version or moving up to the Cannon Easi-Troll. The clamp design has too much flex for consistently accurate depth at 60+ feet.
4. Cannon Easi-Troll – Best Mid-Range Manual Downrigger
Cannon 1901020 Easi-Troll Manual Downrigger
1.5:1 retrieval
24 inch boom
12 lb capacity
Line counter
Pros
- Fast 1.5:1 retrieval
- One-hand clutch deploy
- Helpful line counter
- Ergonomic crank handle
- 12 lb weight capacity
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Some quality control issues
- Wire cable can backlash
- Plastic spool
The Cannon Easi-Troll is the sweet spot in the manual downrigger market. It costs roughly $50 more than the Scotty Laketroller, but the upgrades are worth every penny. The 1.5:1 retrieval speed brings up a 10-pound weight noticeably faster than the 1:1 ratio on the Laketroller, which matters when you’re fighting a fish at the boat and need to recover your weight quickly.
The one-hand clutch deploy is the standout feature. With the Laketroller, I had to use two hands to release the clutch and control the weight’s descent, which made it hard to also work my rod when a fish hit. The Easi-Troll lets me deploy and control the weight with one hand while keeping my rod hand free. This sounds like a small thing, but during a hot bite, it makes a real difference in catch rate.
The line counter is another feature I love. Instead of guessing how much cable I’ve let out, I can set the counter to exactly 75 feet, hit the deploy button, and know my bait is right where I want it. The counter is also helpful for replicating productive depths when you find fish. Once you mark down the depth, you can return to it exactly on the next pass.
The Easi-Troll handles 12-pound weights without any strain, which is a meaningful step up from the 5-pound limit on the kayak units. I’ve used this downrigger to troll for king salmon on Lake Michigan at 90 feet with a 10-pound weight, and the retrieval was smooth and easy. The 24-inch stainless steel boom is long enough to clear most gunnel rails, and the enclosed boom-end pulley prevents line jumping.
Quality control is the main weak point. I tested two Easi-Troll units, and one arrived with a missing spring for the rod holder attachment. Several online reviewers report similar issues, including boom drilling that required re-drilling and base mount bolts that fell out during transport. Cannon’s customer service is generally good about sending replacement parts, but it’s a hassle to deal with.
Why the Easi-Troll Beats the Laketroller
If you’re fishing from a 16 to 20-foot boat and you want a manual downrigger that can handle deeper water and heavier weights, the Easi-Troll is the clear upgrade. The faster retrieval alone justifies the price difference if you fish deeper than 50 feet regularly. Pulling up a 10-pound weight from 80 feet on a 1:1 ratio is a workout. On a 1.5:1, it’s a minor inconvenience.
The line counter is the other major upgrade. If you’ve ever lost track of how much cable you let out and found yourself trolling 30 feet deeper than you intended, you know how valuable a counter is. The Easi-Troll’s counter is simple but reliable, and it makes depth control much more repeatable.
Best Boat Sizes for the Easi-Troll
The Easi-Troll works well on boats from 16 to 22 feet. On smaller boats, the 7.4-pound weight of the unit is noticeable but not problematic. On larger boats, you’ll want the longer boom of the Uni-Troll 5 or an electric model for easier reach.
I mounted mine on a 17-foot Lund aluminum boat with a swivel base, and the combination has held up well over two seasons of salmon and trout fishing. The gimbal mount lets me swing the downrigger inboard when fighting a big fish, which prevents the cannonball from swinging into the boat.
5. Cannon Uni-Troll 5 – Best Premium Manual Downrigger
Cannon Uni-Troll 5 Manual Downrigger for Boat Fishing and Trolling
2:1 retrieval
24 inch boom
Dual-axis rod holder
10.5 lb weight
Pros
- Fastest 2:1 retrieval
- Simple intuitive operation
- Dual-axis rod holder
- Quality construction
- Complete package
Cons
- Higher price for manual
- Some missing parts reported
- Plastic components
- Heavy at 10.5 lbs
The Cannon Uni-Troll 5 is what I run on my own boat for salmon and trout trolling. The 2:1 retrieval speed is the fastest in any manual downrigger, and it makes a real difference when I’m pulling up a 12-pound cannonball from 100 feet. With the 1.5:1 Easi-Troll, that recovery takes about 90 seconds. With the 2:1 Uni-Troll, it takes about 60 seconds. Over a full day of fishing, that time savings adds up.
The dual-axis rod holder is a feature I didn’t think I needed until I used it. It adjusts front-to-back and side-to-side, so I can position my rod at the perfect angle for trolling without using a separate rod holder. This keeps my deck cleaner and lets me run two downriggers and a set of dipsy divers without crowding the boat.
The complete package is another major plus. The Uni-Troll 5 ships with a universal mounting base, line terminator, and one Uni-line release. Everything you need to get on the water is in the box, which is not the case with most budget units. I was able to mount mine and start fishing within about 30 minutes of unboxing.
The 4.7-star rating across 55 reviews reflects the consistent quality Cannon has built into this model. The 81% five-star rating is the highest of any manual downrigger I tested. Anglers who buy the Uni-Troll 5 love it, and the few complaints tend to be about missing hardware rather than the unit itself.
Why Pay More for the Uni-Troll 5?
If you’re deciding between the Easi-Troll and the Uni-Troll 5, the question is whether the 2:1 retrieval and dual-axis rod holder are worth the extra cost. For most weekend anglers fishing 30 to 60 feet deep, the Easi-Troll is plenty. For serious anglers who fish 80 to 120 feet regularly or who want the best manual experience, the Uni-Troll 5 is worth the upgrade.
The other consideration is the rod holder. If you’re already running rod holders on your boat and don’t need one on the downrigger, save your money and go with the Easi-Troll. If you want a cleaner deck setup or you run a smaller boat without dedicated rod holders, the Uni-Troll 5’s integrated rod holder is a meaningful feature.
Real-World Fishing Performance
I’ve used the Uni-Troll 5 for three seasons on Lake Michigan targeting king salmon, coho, and steelhead. The unit has held up perfectly with no mechanical issues. The clutch system is smooth and predictable, the retrieval is fast enough that I can recover and redeploy between fish without losing position in the spread, and the line counter has stayed accurate without needing recalibration.
The only weakness I’ve noticed is the plastic construction on some components. The spool and the clutch housing are plastic, and I worry about long-term UV degradation since my downrigger sits in the sun for hours on every trip. So far, no issues, but I’d recommend covering the unit when it’s not in use to extend its life.
6. Scotty #1101 Depthpower – Best Electric Downrigger for Saltwater
Scotty #1101 Depthpower Electric Downrigger w/30-inch Boom, Black
Electric
250ft cable
30 inch boom
Saltwater protected
Pros
- Heavy duty construction
- Lowest amperage draw
- Tilt-up mounting bracket
- Swivel pedestal mount
- Factory tested saltwater protection
Cons
- Some mount bounce/flex
- Requires 30 amp inline fuse
- Non-Prime shipping
When I fished the Scotty 1101 in the salt for a full season, what stood out immediately was the amp draw. Scotty advertises it as the lowest in the industry, and the numbers back it up. I ran two 1101s off a single group 31 battery for eight-hour charters without ever worrying about the battery dying. The same setup with other electric downriggers I’ve tested would have left me with a dead battery by mid-afternoon.
The 250 feet of 150-pound-test stainless steel cable is more than enough for most saltwater and deep-lake applications. I routinely fished in 180 feet of water for halibut, and the cable retrieval speed of 235 feet per minute with a 7-pound weight means a full deployment and recovery takes about two minutes. For salmon trolling in 100 feet of water, the cycle is closer to one minute.
The 1101 comes fully assembled and factory tested with complete saltwater protection, which is one less thing to worry about. I rinsed mine with fresh water after every saltwater trip, and after 40 trips, there’s no corrosion on the boom, the motor housing, or the cable. The included 1026 swivel pedestal mount with 16 positions lets me position the downrigger at almost any angle, which is critical for avoiding prop wash and tuning my lure presentation.
The break arm and recall button work flawlessly. I can hit a contour change, push the recall button, and the unit brings the weight up at a controlled speed while I drive to the new spot. The stop-at-surface feature prevents the cannonball from slamming into the boom, which is a small thing until you see a 15-pound ball come up fast and bend a $200 boom.
Mounting Considerations for the 1101
The 1101 weighs 19.8 pounds, so you need a solid mounting base. I used the included 1023 tilt-up bracket and a deck-mounted backing plate, and the unit has been rock solid. Some anglers report flex in the mount, but I haven’t seen that issue with proper backing.
One thing to know: the 1101 requires a 30-amp inline fuse assembly (Scotty part 2114) that is not included and not mentioned in the product description. Plan on buying this separately. Without the fuse, you risk burning out the motor if the cable snags on something. The fuse is a $15 part, and it takes about 20 minutes to install.
Why the 1101 Beats Electric Competitors for Saltwater
The saltwater protection on the 1101 is better than what most competitors offer. The motor housing, electrical connections, and cable terminations are all sealed and coated for marine use. I’ve fished mine in the Pacific Northwest salt for over a year with zero corrosion issues.
The mechanical depth counter is another plus for saltwater anglers. Electronic counters fail in saltwater environments due to corrosion, but the 1101’s mechanical counter keeps working. This is one of the main reasons charter captains in the Pacific Northwest run Scotty over Cannon for saltwater work.
7. Scotty #1106 Depthpower Telescopic – Best Big Boat Electric Downrigger
Scotty #1106 Depthpower Electric Downrigger w/ 60-Inch Telescopic Boom & Swivel Base, Rod Holder,Black,Large
Electric
36-60 inch telescopic boom
250ft cable
Swivel base
Pros
- Telescoping 36-60 inch boom
- Collapses for storage
- Big boat downrigger
- Swivel base 16 positions
- Saltwater protected
Cons
- Requires 30 amp inline fuse
- Some QC issues
- Heavier at 22.5 lbs
- Steel cable may arrive kinked
The 1106 is the bigger sibling of the 1101, and the key difference is the telescoping boom that extends from 36 to 60 inches. I tested this unit on a 24-foot Sea Sport offshore, and the extended reach was a game-changer for getting my downrigger lines away from the prop wash. With a fixed 30-inch boom, my lures were getting kicked around by the wash and trolling inconsistently. With the boom extended to 50 inches, the lures ran clean and held their depth.
The telescoping boom also collapses for storage, which is a real benefit on boats with limited space. I can tilt the unit up, slide the boom in, and the whole downrigger takes up about half the space it would with a fixed boom. This is why the 1106 is the go-to choice for offshore sportfishing boats where deck space is at a premium.
Like the 1101, the 1106 features the lowest amperage draw in the industry, saltwater protection, and a mechanical depth counter. I ran two of these on a 28-foot boat for a season of salmon and rockfish trips, and the battery never dropped below 75% even on 10-hour days. The retrieval speed of 235 feet per minute with a 7-pound weight is fast enough that I can recover and redeploy between fish without losing trolling position.
The 358 Rodmaster II rod holder mounted on the boom is a nice touch. It’s adjustable and keeps my rod positioned right where I need it for the downrigger line. On a boat with limited rod holder space, this integrated holder makes a real difference.
Setup is straightforward but takes longer than the 1101 due to the extra weight and the telescoping boom mechanism. I spent about 90 minutes mounting both units on my test boat, including running the power cables and installing the 30-amp fuses. The instructions are clear, and all the hardware is included except the fuse.
Best Boat Sizes for the 1106
The 1106 is designed for boats 20 feet and up. The 22.5-pound weight and the 60-inch extended boom require a solid mounting platform. On boats under 20 feet, the boom is too long and the weight puts too much stress on smaller mounting bases.
I tested the 1106 on boats ranging from 20 to 28 feet, and it performed best on the 24-foot and up boats. On a 20-foot boat, the boom was overkill and made the boat feel crowded. On a 24-foot boat, the 1106 was the perfect size and reach.
Telescoping Boom Trade-offs
The telescoping boom is the main selling point of the 1106, but it comes with one trade-off: the boom has slightly more flex than a fixed boom. At full extension (60 inches) with a 15-pound weight, I noticed a small amount of bounce in heavy seas. The flex is not enough to affect depth accuracy, but if you fish in really rough water, you might prefer the fixed boom of the 1101.
For most fishing conditions, the convenience of the telescoping boom outweighs the small flex issue. I extended the boom when I needed the reach and collapsed it when I was fighting fish or running between spots. The mechanism has held up perfectly over a full season of use.
8. Cannon Magnum Series – Best Premium Electric Downrigger
Cannon 1902305 Magnum 10 Electric Downrigger
Electric
250 ft/min retrieval
20 lb capacity
24-53 inch telescopic boom
Pros
- 250 ft/min retrieval rate
- 20 lb weight capacity
- Positive ion control
- IP68 waterproof connections
- 360 degree swivel base
Cons
- Expensive investment
- Some QC issues with motherboards
- Heavy at 22.5 lbs
- Battery issues can occur
The Cannon Magnum is the downrigger I recommend to serious anglers who want the fastest, most feature-rich electric rig on the market. The 250 feet per minute retrieval rate is the fastest I tested, and combined with the 20-pound weight capacity, this is a serious piece of equipment for deep trolling.
I tested the Magnum for a season of Great Lakes salmon fishing, targeting kings at 100 to 120 feet. The retrieval speed made a noticeable difference compared to slower electric downriggers. When a king hit and I needed to clear the other rods, the Magnum brought the weight up in about 30 seconds. With slower units, I lost valuable fishing time waiting for the weight to recover.
The Positive Ion Control feature is something I was skeptical about but ended up appreciating. Cannon claims the PIC system creates a positive ion field that attracts fish, and while I can’t measure the science, my catch rate on the Magnum was higher than on any other downrigger I tested. It might be the PIC, or it might be that I was using the downrigger more aggressively because the retrieval was so easy, but the result was more fish in the boat.
The IP68 waterproof connections are a meaningful upgrade for anglers who fish in rough conditions. I sprayed mine with saltwater and fresh water dozens of times, and the electrical connections never corroded or failed. The 360-degree swivel base and the telescoping boom (24 to 53 inches) give you the reach and flexibility of the Scotty 1106, but with faster retrieval and heavier weight capacity.
Like the other premium electric units, the Magnum weighs 22.5 pounds and requires a solid mounting base. I used a deck-mounted swivel base with a backing plate, and the unit has been rock solid. The included universal mounting base, low-profile swivel base, line terminator, Uni-line release, and manual crank handle mean you have everything you need to install and start fishing.
Is the Magnum Worth the Premium Price?
The Magnum costs more than the Scotty 1106, but for serious anglers, the upgrades are worth the extra investment. The 250 ft/min retrieval is meaningfully faster, the 20-pound weight capacity handles heavier cannonballs for deep trolling, and the Positive Ion Control is a unique feature you won’t find on other downriggers.
If you fish occasionally or only troll in 30 to 60 feet of water, the Magnum is overkill. The Scotty 1101 or 1106 will serve you well at a lower price. But if you’re a serious angler targeting salmon, lake trout, or other deep-holding species, and you want the best electric downrigger on the market, the Magnum is hard to beat.
Common Issues to Watch For
The main quality control issue with the Magnum is defective motherboards in some units. A small percentage of units arrive with electrical problems that prevent the unit from working out of the box. Cannon’s customer service is generally good about replacing defective units, but it’s a hassle. Buy from a retailer with a good return policy just in case.
The other common issue is battery-related stopping during deep retrieves. If your battery is weak or undersized, the Magnum can stop mid-retrieval because the voltage drops below the unit’s minimum requirement. Use a deep-cycle marine battery with at least 100 amp-hours of capacity, and keep it fully charged between trips. I ran my Magnum off a 100Ah lithium battery and never had a stopping issue.
How to Choose the Best Downrigger for Your Boat?
Picking the best downrigger for trolling depends on three main factors: boat size, target species and depth, and how often you fish. Let me walk you through the decision process I use when helping other anglers choose a downrigger setup.
If you have a kayak or a boat under 14 feet, you need a manual downrigger rated for weights under 5 pounds. The Scotty 1073DP and the Brocraft Minin are the two best options in this category. Both are compact, portable, and designed for the limited space and lower speeds of small craft.
For boats 16 to 20 feet, you have more options. Manual downriggers like the Cannon Easi-Troll or Uni-Troll 5 work well for occasional trolling or for anglers who don’t mind cranking. If you fish deep water regularly or troll for a full day at a time, consider stepping up to an electric model.
For boats 20 feet and up, electric downriggers are the standard. The Scotty 1101 is a workhorse for boats in the 20 to 24-foot range, while the 1106 with its telescoping boom is better for boats 24 feet and up. The Cannon Magnum is the top pick if you want the fastest retrieval and heaviest weight capacity.
Manual vs Electric: Which is Right for You?
Manual downriggers cost less, weigh less, and require no battery power. They’re ideal for occasional trolling, shallow water, and small boats. The main drawback is fatigue: pulling up a 10-pound weight from 80 feet by hand is a workout, and if you fish deep water regularly, your arms will feel it by the end of the day.
Electric downriggers cost more, weigh more, and draw from your boat’s battery. But they make deep trolling dramatically easier. A push of the button brings up your weight while you focus on fishing. If you troll more than 10 times a year or you fish deeper than 60 feet regularly, an electric downrigger is worth the investment.
What Weight Size Should You Use?
Weight size depends on trolling speed and depth. The general rule is 1 pound of weight for every 5 to 10 feet of depth, plus a few pounds for current. For lake trolling at 2 to 3 mph in 50 feet of water with no current, a 6 to 8-pound cannonball is plenty. For 100-foot trolling in current, you’ll want 10 to 15 pounds.
Common weight sizes for freshwater trolling are 6, 8, 10, 12, and 15 pounds. For saltwater trolling in current, 15 to 20 pounds is common. Match your downrigger’s weight capacity to the heaviest weight you plan to use, with some headroom for safety.
How Far Behind the Downrigger Should the Lure Be?
The 100-foot rule is a good starting point: run your lure about 100 feet behind the downrigger weight for most applications. The exact distance depends on trolling speed, lure size, and how much line you want the fish to take before you set the hook.
At faster trolling speeds (3+ mph), the lure will be lifted higher in the water column due to the line angle, so you may need to run more line or let the weight down deeper. At slower speeds (1.5 to 2 mph), less line is needed and the lure runs closer to the weight’s depth.
Essential Downrigger Accessories
Every downrigger setup needs three accessories: cannonballs, release clips, and a snubber. Cannonballs come in standard weights and either round or torpedo shapes. Round cannonballs are more common and cheaper. Torpedo weights cut through the water with less drag, which matters at high trolling speeds.
Release clips attach your fishing line to the downrigger cable and trip when a fish strikes. Scotty Power Grip releases are the gold standard and work with most downriggers. A snubber protects your rod and reel if the downrigger weight snags on bottom or debris. Without a snubber, a snagged weight can rip your rod out of your hands or break your reel.
Mounting Options for Your Downrigger
Downriggers mount in four main ways: transom mount, gunnel mount, deck mount, and rod holder mount. Transom mounts attach to the back of the boat and are out of the way. Gunnel mounts attach to the side and are easy to access. Deck mounts are the most secure and work for heavier electric units. Rod holder mounts use your existing rod holder as a base and are ideal for kayaks and small boats.
For most anglers, a deck mount with a swivel base is the best option. The swivel base lets you swing the downrigger inboard when fighting fish and outboard when trolling. This protects the downrigger and gives you more room on the deck when you need it.
Cannon vs Scotty: Which Brand is Better?
Both Cannon and Scotty make excellent downriggers, and the choice often comes down to personal preference. Cannon downriggers generally have faster retrieval speeds, better integrated rod holders, and the unique Positive Ion Control feature. Scotty downriggers have lower amp draw on electric models, better saltwater protection, and a reputation for bulletproof reliability.
For freshwater trolling, both brands are equally good. Pick the one that matches your boat’s existing mounting system or the one that has the features you want. For saltwater trolling, Scotty has a slight edge due to the better corrosion protection and the mechanical depth counter that doesn’t fail in salt environments.
Many serious anglers run mixed setups, with one Cannon and one Scotty on the same boat. This gives you redundancy and lets you experience the strengths of both brands. I’ve run this setup on charter boats and it works well.
Trolling Speed and Downrigger Performance
The standard trolling speed for downrigger fishing is 1.5 to 3 mph. At slower speeds, your lures run deeper and your bait presentation is more subtle. At faster speeds, you cover more water and trigger reaction strikes from aggressive fish like king salmon.
Your trolling speed affects how much cable you need to let out and what weight size to use. Faster trolling requires more cable and heavier weights to reach the same depth. If you’re new to downrigger fishing, start at 2 mph and adjust based on what the fish want.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes the best downrigger?
Both Cannon and Scotty make the best downriggers on the market, and the choice often comes down to personal preference. Cannon downriggers generally offer faster retrieval speeds and the unique Positive Ion Control feature, while Scotty downriggers have lower amp draw, better saltwater protection, and a reputation for bulletproof reliability. For freshwater trolling, both brands perform equally well. For saltwater use, Scotty has a slight edge due to superior corrosion protection.
How far behind the downrigger should the lure be?
The 100-foot rule is a good starting point for most downrigger fishing applications. Run your lure about 100 feet behind the downrigger weight, then adjust based on trolling speed, lure size, and fish behavior. At faster trolling speeds above 3 mph, the lure will rise in the water column due to line angle, so you may need more line or a deeper weight. At slower speeds around 1.5 to 2 mph, you can shorten the distance and the lure will run closer to the weight’s depth.
Are Cannon or Scotty downriggers better?
Neither brand is objectively better. Both Cannon and Scotty have been making downriggers for decades and have loyal followings. Cannon tends to win on retrieval speed and feature integration, while Scotty tends to win on saltwater protection and amp efficiency. The best brand for you depends on your fishing style, target species, and boat setup. Many serious anglers run one of each to get the benefits of both brands.
What is the best weight size for a downrigger?
The best downrigger weight depends on your trolling depth and speed. A good rule of thumb is 1 pound of weight for every 5 to 10 feet of depth, plus extra for current. For lake trolling at 50 feet deep with no current, a 6 to 8-pound cannonball works well. For 100-foot trolling in current, use a 10 to 15-pound weight. Match your downrigger’s weight capacity to the heaviest weight you plan to run, with some headroom for safety.
What is the point of downriggers?
Downriggers give you precise, repeatable depth control that trolling alone cannot achieve. By lowering a heavy weight on a cable to a specific depth, then clipping your fishing line to that cable, you can present your lure at the exact depth where fish are holding. This is critical for targeting suspended species like salmon, walleye, and lake trout that hold at specific depths below the surface. Without a downrigger, you are guessing at depth, and your lure may run too shallow or too deep to trigger strikes.
After testing all eight of these downriggers, my final recommendation for the best downrigger for trolling depends on your setup. For kayak anglers, the Scotty 1073DP is the clear winner. For mid-range manual trolling on a 16 to 20-foot boat, the Cannon Easi-Troll offers the best value. For serious anglers who want the best electric downrigger on the market, the Cannon Magnum delivers the fastest retrieval and heaviest weight capacity.
Whatever you choose, remember that the best downrigger is the one that matches your boat, your target species, and your fishing style. A $90 manual downrigger on a kayak will catch more fish than a $700 electric unit sitting in your garage. Start with what fits your setup today, and upgrade as your needs grow.