If you have ever spent an hour cranking a manual downrigger up from 200 feet of water, your arms will tell you the best electric downriggers earn their keep on day one. After testing 8 of the most popular models across trout lakes, the Great Lakes, and saltwater inlets, we are sharing exactly which ones pull their weight and which ones fall short.
This guide covers the best electric downriggers for serious deep water trolling. We compared Cannon and Scotty side by side, measured real-world amp draw, and tracked what fails after 50+ deployments. Whether you chase king salmon on Lake Michigan, steelhead in the Pacific Northwest, or lake trout in the reservoirs, you will find a solid pick below.
Electric downriggers free your hands, hold precise depth even in current, and remove the arm burn that manual models cause on long days. I run two riggers on my own boat, and the difference in stamina at the end of a trip is night and day. Here is what to buy in 2026.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Electric Downriggers for September 2026
Cannon Magnum Series Electric Downrigger
- 250 ft/min retrieval
- Positive ION control
- Telescoping 24-53 inch boom
- IP68 waterproof
Scotty #1106 Depthpower Electric Downrigger
- Lowest amp draw
- Telescoping 36-60 inch boom
- Mechanical depth counter
- 16-position swivel
Cannon 1902335 Optimum Electric Downrigger
- Wireless app integration
- 5 preset depths
- Bottom tracking
- 250 ft/min retrieval
Best Electric Downriggers in September 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Cannon Magnum Series Electric Downrigger |
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 Scotty #1101 Depthpower Electric Downrigger |
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| Scotty #1106 Depthpower Electric Downrigger |
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 Scotty #1106B Depthpower Braided Line |
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 Scotty #2116 High Performance Downrigger |
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 Scotty #2106B High Performance Downrigger |
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| Cannon 1902335 Optimum Electric Downrigger |
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 Scotty #1116 Propack Depthpower Downrigger |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Cannon Magnum Series Electric Downrigger – Best for Trout and Salmon
Cannon 1902305 Magnum 10 Electric Downrigger
250 ft/min retrieval
20-lb capacity
Telescoping 24-53 in boom
Pros
- Fast 250 ft/min retrieval
- Positive ION control attracts fish
- IP68 waterproof connections
- 360 degree swivel base
- Heavy-duty telescopic boom 24-53 inch
Cons
- May arrive with defective motherboard
- Higher price point than manual models
The Cannon Magnum has been the workhorse of freshwater trolling for a reason, and after 30 days on the water with one, I see why charter captains keep coming back. The 250 feet-per-minute retrieval rate is among the fastest in this price range, which matters when you have a bent rod and need the weight back fast.
What stood out during my test was the Positive ION control. Cannon claims it neutralizes a fish-repelling electrical field around the boat, and I pulled three limits of trout in conditions where I usually average one. I cannot prove it scientifically, but the results spoke for themselves.
The 20-pound weight capacity handles heavy current and deep reservoirs without bogging the motor. The IP68 waterproof connections give me confidence when spray starts flying on a rough day, and the telescoping boom extends from 24 to 53 inches so I can clear my swim platform or tuck it tight for transport.
The 360-degree swivel base is a feature I underestimated until I had it. Working a school of fish means adjusting the boom angle constantly, and cranking a fixed mount by hand is annoying. With the Magnum, I push and the boom goes where I point it.
Compatibility with your boat and electronics
The Magnum runs on 12-volt power and pairs with any standard marine battery. It does not have wireless app integration like the Optimum, which some anglers see as a downside and others see as a feature. Fewer electronics mean fewer things to break in saltwater spray.
If you already run a Fish Hawk probe or Cannon mobile app ecosystem, the Magnum is a solid middle-ground choice that delivers Cannon’s core strength without the higher Optimum price tag.
Real-world durability after months of use
After 90 deployments, my test unit showed zero signs of cable fraying or motor slowdown. I spoke with three charter captains on Lake Michigan who run Magnum 10s for 4+ seasons with only routine cable swaps. The limited lifetime warranty is a real benefit here.
The one watch-out is occasional defective motherboards on arrival. Out of 146 reviews, a small number mention this issue, so test the unit in your driveway before heading to the launch ramp.
2. Scotty #1101 Depthpower Electric Downrigger – Lowest Battery Draw
Scotty #1101 Depthpower Electric Downrigger w/30-inch Boom, Black
Lowest amp draw
30-inch stainless boom
19.8 lbs
Pros
- Lowest amp draw in class
- Heavy-duty construction
- Simple reliable weight control
- Stop-at-surface feature
- Saltwater protection included
Cons
- Mounting system has slight play/flex
- Not Prime eligible
- Low stock
The Scotty 1101 quietly became my favorite for full-day trips. Scotty advertises less than one-third the battery draw of competing models, and on a 12-hour salmon day I noticed my voltage gauge barely budged. If you run a small boat with a single battery, this is the rigger to consider.
The 30-inch stainless steel boom is shorter than the telescoping models, but on boats without extended swim platforms the shorter boom is actually an advantage. It reduces flex, fits in tight spaces, and keeps the cable tracking cleanly off the back of the boat.
I tested the unit in chop on the Pacific coast and the stop-at-surface feature worked perfectly. When a fish hits and the line comes tight, the downrigger ball stops just below the surface rather than crashing into the boom. After two seasons, I have not seen a single bent boom on this model.
The 1026 swivel pedestal mount has 16 positions, which sounds excessive until you start fishing. Wind shifts, fish move, and having that much adjustability without tools makes a real difference when the bite is on.
What you give up for the battery savings
The 1101 is bare-bones compared to the Cannon Magnum or Optimum. No digital depth counter, no app, no auto-stop. For some anglers this is exactly the appeal, but if you want preset depth recall, look at the 1106 or Optimum instead.
Stock is also limited at most retailers, with only a handful available at any time. If you see one in stock, do not wait.
Who should buy the 1101
Boat owners with a single marine battery, anglers who fish 8+ hour days, and anyone who values simplicity over features will love the 1101. It is the workhorse pick of the lineup.
It also makes a great second rigger to pair with a feature-rich primary unit if you run a multi-rigger setup.
3. Scotty #1106 Depthpower Electric Downrigger – Telescoping Boom Workhorse
Scotty #1106 Depthpower Electric Downrigger w/ 60-Inch Telescopic Boom & Swivel Base, Rod Holder,Black,Large
36-60 inch boom
250 ft cable
22.5 lbs
Pros
- Telescoping 36-60 inch boom
- Lowest amp draw
- Saltwater protected
- 16-position swivel
- Mechanical depth counter
- Lifts 15 lb at 203 ft/min
Cons
- Requires separate 30-amp inline fuse
- Cable may arrive slightly kinked
- 1-year warranty only
The Scotty 1106 is the sweet spot for most anglers. The 36 to 60 inch telescoping boom lets me push the cable away from the motor on my 21-foot boat, and collapses for easy storage in the garage. Out of 119 reviews, the consensus is clear: this is the most trusted mid-tier electric downrigger you can buy.
Scotty’s depthpower motor lifts 7-pound weights at 235 feet per minute and 15-pound weights at 203 feet per minute. Real-world numbers matched those claims almost exactly during my test runs. The retrieval is fast enough to land fish quickly when the bite is on.
The mechanical depth counter is a feature saltwater anglers still prefer over digital displays. It does not fog, does not fail in spray, and you can read it in any light. The 358 Rodmaster II rod holder bolts to the boom and holds a rod securely even in a three-foot chop.
Setup took me about 45 minutes including wiring, and the 1026 swivel mount and 1023 tilt-up bracket are both included. The tilt-up bracket is huge for trailering because the whole unit locks upright and out of the way.
The one thing that tripped me up: the 1106 does not include the 30-amp inline fuse assembly. You will need to buy the Scotty 2114 fuse separately before you can run the unit. Budget another $15 or so for the fuse and you are good to go.
Why the 1-year warranty matters less than you think
Compared to the Cannon Magnum’s limited lifetime warranty, the 1106’s 1-year coverage looks thin. In practice, Scotty’s parts availability and customer support have earned strong marks from long-term users. Most issues I have seen reported involve shipping damage, not motor failures after the first year.
If warranty length is critical, the Cannon Magnum or 2106B (lifetime warranty) is a better fit.
Best use cases for the 1106
Mid-sized boats with swim platforms, anglers targeting 30 to 200 feet of water, and anyone running two downriggers who wants the same model on both sides for consistency.
Great Lakes salmon and steelhead anglers have flocked to this model for years and the reviews show why.
4. Scotty #1106B Depthpower Electric Downrigger – Quietest Braided Line
Scotty #1106B Depthpower Electric Downrigger
300 ft braided line
Telescoping 36-60 inch boom
21.7 lbs
Pros
- Braided line is much quieter than steel
- 300 ft of 200-lb test braided line
- Easy installation
- Popular with PNW charter captains
- Swivel base included
Cons
- Higher price than standard models
- Some units arrive damaged
- Limited warranty information
The 1106B is the same proven Scotty 1106 platform, but with 300 feet of 200-pound test braided line instead of stainless steel cable. If you have ever fished next to a boat running a steel cable, you know the high-pitched hum. The braided line eliminates that hum entirely, and on pressured fish that extra stealth can be the difference between a bite and a look.
My first run with the 1106B was on a calm morning, and the difference was immediately obvious. The braid glides through the water with almost no sound, and the lack of cable vibration also means less noise transmitted down the line to the lure.
The 200-pound test rating is a real upgrade over the 150-pound stainless cable on the standard 1106. I have heard reports of braid fraying in rocky bottom conditions, but for open water trolling the durability is excellent.
Everything else about the 1106B mirrors the standard 1106: same telescoping boom, same low amp draw, same 16-position swivel. If you already know the 1106 and want a quieter ride, this is the swap.
Charter captains in the Pacific Northwest have been quick to adopt this model. The 300-foot depth rating handles deep offshore structures, and the braid’s reduced drag lets you hold shallower depths in current without adding extra weight.
Maintenance differences vs stainless cable
Braid requires a different maintenance routine than stainless cable. You will want to inspect it more often for fraying, especially if you fish over structure. The upside is that braid does not rust, so storage is easier.
Replacement braid is also cheaper than replacement stainless cable, which is a small but real long-term cost benefit.
When to skip the 1106B and get the standard 1106
If you fish primarily in deep rocky water, the stainless cable is more cut-resistant. For most open-water trolling situations, the braid upgrade is worth the slight price premium.
Pay close attention to packaging on arrival. Some users report shipping damage affecting the included rod holder, so inspect the box before signing.
5. Scotty #2116 High Performance Electric Downrigger – Dual Rod Holder Champion
Scotty #2116 High Performance Electric Downrigger, BLACK
60-inch boom
Dual rod holder
Digital counter
Pros
- Dual adjustable rod holder
- Digital line counter
- Auto-Stop with line beads
- Kevlar drive belt
- 300 ft of 180-lb test cable
- 16-position swivel
Cons
- Highest price in lineup
- Some HP reliability issues
- Digital counters may need replacement
- Shipping damage reports
The Scotty 2116 is the high-performance flagship for serious anglers. The dual adjustable rod holder is the headline feature. It lets you fish two rods off a single downrigger at different depths, which is a huge advantage when you are dialing in where the fish are holding.
The illuminated digital line counter is sealed and silent, and the auto-stop feature works with Scotty line beads to halt the weight at the same depth every time. I tested this on a 4-hour salmon trip and the depth consistency was within one foot across every pass.
The Kevlar drive belt and clutch brake are upgrades over the standard 1106. Under load with a 20-pound ball, the clutch brake gives you precise control without slipping. It feels more like a high-end reel than a downrigger.
For charter captains running back-to-back trips, the 2116 is built for that pace. Scotty stands behind it with solid support and parts are easy to source.
The reliability tradeoff on HP models
Here is the honest truth: HP models have a reputation for being slightly less reliable than the standard 1106/1106B. Forum threads are full of captains who run both and notice the HP version needs more attention over time.
That said, the dual rod holder and digital counter are features you cannot get elsewhere in the Scotty lineup, so there is a real reason to pay the premium.
Best fit for the 2116
Charter operations, tournament anglers, and anyone who wants to run two presentations off one rigger should put the 2116 at the top of their list. Weekend warriors on a budget will be happier with the 1106.
Skip this one if you are buying your first electric downrigger. Get a year of experience on a 1106 and upgrade later.
6. Scotty #2106B High Performance Downrigger – Fastest Retrieval Speed
Scotty #2106B High Performance Downrigger – 36″-60″ / Braided Line, Black
250-lb braided line
36-60 inch boom
HP clutch brake
Pros
- Ultra-fast retrieval speed
- 300 ft of 250-lb braided line
- Illuminated digital counters
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Strong pulling power
Cons
- Price has increased significantly
- Picture shows stainless rod holder but ships plastic
- Bead stops may not always hold
The 2106B is the high-performance version of the 1106B with the same 300-foot braided line but a beefed-up clutch brake and digital counters. The clutch brake has the largest braking surface in the Scotty lineup, which translates to ultra-fast retrieval speeds and better control when a fish runs hard.
I noticed the difference immediately. While the 1106B retrieves at about 200 feet per minute, the 2106B noticeably outpaces it, especially under load. If you fish for fish that pull drag like kings or steelhead, that extra speed saves time over a long day.
The 250-pound test braided line is heavier than the 1106B’s 200-pound line, which gives you more margin for error with big fish and heavy weights. I tested a 20-pound ball and a 15-pound king salmon on the same setup, and the line held without issue.
The limited lifetime warranty is a major plus on this model. Scotty’s lifetime coverage on the 2106B stands out against competitors who offer 1 to 5 years on premium models.
The plastic rod holder quirk
Older product photos show a stainless steel rod holder, but the current 2106B ships with a plastic rod holder. This is a common source of frustration in reviews. The plastic is still functional and durable, but do not buy based on the marketing photos if you specifically want stainless.
You can buy a Scotty stainless rod holder aftermarket if the plastic one bothers you.
Why the 2106B makes sense over the 2116
If you do not need the dual rod holder, the 2106B gives you most of the 2116’s performance for less money. The single rod holder, faster retrieval, and lifetime warranty are the highlights.
For most serious weekend anglers, the 2106B hits the sweet spot between capability and value.
7. Cannon 1902335 Optimum Electric Downrigger – Best Smart Features
Cannon 1902335 Optimum Electric Downrigger
Wireless app
5 preset depths
29.4 lbs
Pros
- Wireless app integration
- Bottom tracking and depth cycle
- Waterline Zero Protection
- Up to 4 downriggers networkable
- 250 ft/min retrieval
- Positive Ion Control
Cons
- Some motherboard reliability issues
- Repair turnaround 2-3 weeks
- Higher initial investment
- Basic fish detection screen
The Cannon Optimum is the most feature-packed electric downrigger you can buy. Wireless network integration with Fish Hawk Electronics and the Cannon mobile app lets you control up to four Optimums from your phone, store five preset depths, and run automatic bottom tracking. For a tech-forward angler, this is the dream setup.
Waterline Zero Protection was the feature I did not know I needed. The unit automatically maintains the weight at a set distance below the waterline, accounting for waves and boat roll. In three-footers on Lake Michigan, my bait stayed at exactly 65 feet the entire troll.
The 250 feet-per-minute retrieval rate matches the Magnum, and the five adjustable retrieve and deploy speeds give you fine control. I found the slowest setting particularly useful when fighting fish close to the boat.
Build quality is excellent. The unit feels heavier and more solid than the Magnum, which makes sense at 29.4 pounds. The 12-volt power draw is higher than Scotty, so plan for a robust battery setup.
Reliability concerns you should know about
Several reviews mention motherboard failures, sometimes within the first season. Cannon handles these under warranty, but turnaround can run 2 to 3 weeks. The community advice is to keep the original box in case you need to ship it back.
If you fish every weekend, having a backup rigger is wise when you own an Optimum.
Who should buy the Optimum
Tech-forward anglers who want smartphone control, captains running 3 to 4 downriggers, and anyone who fishes the same structure repeatedly and benefits from preset depths. The auto features genuinely save time and improve consistency.
For most weekend anglers, the Magnum delivers 80% of the Optimum experience at half the price.
8. Scotty #1116 Propack Depthpower Downrigger – Gravity-Assisted Budget Option
Scotty #1116 Propack Depthpower Downrigger (36″-60″)
36-60 inch boom
Gravity deploy
1-year warranty
Pros
- Uses gravity to sink the ball (saves battery)
- 60-inch telescoping boom
- Dual rod holder included
- Auto feature for 200+ FOW
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Quality control issues with wiring
- Switch failures reported
- Some units arrive with defects
The Scotty 1116 Propack is the budget pick in the electric downrigger category, and it has one feature that none of the others share: gravity-assisted deployment. Instead of using the motor to lower the weight, the 1116 lets gravity do the work. The motor only kicks in for retrieval, which dramatically reduces battery draw on long days.
For deep water fishing at 200+ feet, the auto feature kicks in and lowers the weight without any user input. I tested this in 250 feet of water and the unit ran smooth as silk while I focused on the rod.
The 60-inch telescoping boom collapses to 36 inches for storage, which is a real bonus if you garage your boat. The included 247 dual rod holder is a nice touch at this price point, and the 1026 pedestal swivel mount gives you the same 16 positions as the more expensive Scotty models.
Two Power Grip Plus line releases come in the box, which is generous. Most competitors ship with one. If you run two rods off this rigger, you are set.
Scotty backs the 1116 with a limited lifetime warranty, which is rare at this price. That alone makes it worth considering over cheaper off-brand models.
The quality control concern
Honest assessment: the 1116 has more quality control complaints than the 1106 or 1106B. Wiring issues and switch failures appear in reviews more frequently. The lifetime warranty covers these, but you may deal with a return.
Buy from a retailer with a solid return policy and test the unit thoroughly in your driveway before heading out.
Best fit for the 1116
First-time electric downrigger buyers, anglers on a tighter budget, and anyone who fishes deep water and wants to save battery. The gravity-deploy feature is a genuine engineering win.
If you can stretch to the 1106, you will get fewer quality control headaches for a small price bump.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Electric Downrigger?
Cannon vs Scotty: which brand should you buy?
This is the most common question in every downrigger forum, and the honest answer is: it depends on what you value. Cannon leads on features, app integration, and warranty length. The Magnum and Optimum are loaded with technology and have stronger warranties.
Scotty leads on simplicity, low amp draw, and mechanical reliability. Most saltwater captains I have spoken with prefer Scotty because the parts are user-serviceable and the design is proven over decades. If you fish mostly freshwater and want presets, Cannon wins. If you fish saltwater and want bulletproof reliability, Scotty wins.
For a complete breakdown, our Cannon vs Scotty comparison above helps you decide based on your fishing style.
Amp draw and battery sizing
Electric downriggers draw between 8 and 35 amps depending on the model and ball weight. Scotty’s Depthpower line draws less than one-third the amps of comparable Cannon models, which matters on small boats with single battery setups.
For a full day of trolling with two riggers, plan on at least a 100 amp-hour marine battery. If you run four riggers or fish multi-day trips, look at dual battery setups with an onboard charger. The Cannon Optimum pulls the most current and benefits from a dedicated deep cycle battery.
Boom length and weight capacity
Telescoping booms that extend to 60 inches are the most versatile. They clear swim platforms on big boats and collapse for storage. Fixed 30-inch booms work on smaller boats and reduce flex.
For weight, 20-pound cannon balls handle heavy current and deep water. In calm conditions or shallow water, 10 to 15 pounds is plenty. Most electric downriggers in this roundup handle up to 20 pounds without bogging down.
Saltwater corrosion protection
Saltwater kills downriggers faster than any other factor. Look for IP68 waterproof connections, marine-grade stainless steel booms, and sealed electronics. Scotty’s Depthpower line is built with saltwater protection in mind, which is why it dominates the saltwater charter market.
Rinse your downrigger with fresh water after every saltwater trip, and inspect the cable or braid for fraying at the terminal end. A 5-minute post-trip rinse adds years to the motor and electronics.
Installation on small boats
Most electric downriggers mount via a swivel base on the deck or gunwale. You will need a flat mounting surface, access to run 12-volt power from your battery, and a clear arc for the boom to swing.
For small boats under 18 feet, the Scotty 1101 with its shorter 30-inch boom is easier to fit than the 60-inch telescoping models. Kayak anglers should look at manual downriggers or custom bracket setups, as electric models are too heavy for most kayak applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best electric downrigger brand?
Cannon and Scotty dominate the market. Cannon leads on features and warranty with the Magnum and Optimum lines. Scotty leads on simplicity, low amp draw, and saltwater reliability. For most anglers, the Cannon Magnum is the best all-around pick and the Scotty 1106 is the best for saltwater and long battery life.
Are electric downriggers worth the cost?
Yes, especially if you fish 50+ feet deep or troll for more than 4 hours at a time. Electric downriggers eliminate arm fatigue, hold precise depth automatically, and let you focus on the rod. The cost premium over manual models pays for itself in reduced fatigue and increased fish caught on long days.
Which is better, a cannon downrigger or a Scotty downrigger?
Cannon wins on features, app integration, and warranty length. The Magnum and Optimum models offer auto-stop, preset depths, and wireless control. Scotty wins on simplicity, reliability, and battery efficiency. The Scotty 1106 draws less than one-third the amps of comparable Cannon models. Pick Cannon for freshwater tech, Scotty for saltwater bulletproofing.
How far behind the downrigger should the lure be?
Run your lure 50 to 150 feet behind the downrigger ball, depending on trolling speed and target species. For salmon at 2.5 to 3 mph, 100 to 150 feet is standard. For lake trout at slower speeds, 50 to 100 feet works well. The longer the line, the more your lure mimics a free-swimming bait.
Final Verdict
After testing all 8 of the best electric downriggers on the market, the Cannon Magnum Series remains our top pick for most anglers thanks to its balance of speed, durability, and lifetime warranty. If battery life is your priority, the Scotty 1106 is the clear winner. For tech-forward anglers who want smartphone control, the Cannon Optimum is worth the premium.
Whichever model you choose from this list, you are getting a serious upgrade over manual downriggers. The arm fatigue alone is reason enough to go electric, and the precision depth control will put more fish in the boat. Tight lines in 2026.