I have spent more mornings than I can count trolling cold water at dawn, watching the rod tips for that electric moment when a salmon slams the bait 80 feet down. Without a good downrigger, that kind of precision fishing is basically impossible. A downrigger lets you drop a weighted cannonball on a cable to an exact depth, clip your fishing line to it, and troll along knowing your bait is sitting right in the strike zone. Over the past two seasons, our team has tested and compared 10 of the most popular models to find the best downriggers available in 2026.
This guide covers both electric and manual options from the two brands that dominate the market: Cannon and Scotty. Whether you are chasing Great Lakes salmon, trolling for lake trout in deep water, or just want a compact unit for a small boat or kayak, there is a downrigger here for your setup. We break down retrieval speeds, boom lengths, weight capacities, mounting options, and real-world user feedback so you can make an informed choice without guessing.
Downriggers are absolutely worth the investment if you troll for species that hold at specific depths. Salmon, lake trout, walleye, and even some saltwater species respond to precisely presented baits. The question is not whether you need one, but which model matches your boat, your budget, and your fishing style. Let us get into the reviews.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Downriggers
Cannon Magnum Series Electric
- 250 ft/min retrieval
- Telescopic boom 24-53 in
- Positive ION control
- IP68 waterproof
Scotty #1106 Depthpower Electric
- 36-60 in telescopic boom
- 16-position swivel mount
- Low amperage draw
- Saltwater protected
Cannon Easi-Troll Manual
- 1.5:1 retrieval speed
- 24 in stainless boom
- One-hand clutch deploy
- 12 lb weight capacity
10 Best Downriggers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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Cannon Magnum Series Electric
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Scotty #1106 Depthpower Electric
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Scotty #1101 Depthpower Electric
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Check Latest Price |
Cannon Uni-Troll Manual
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Check Latest Price |
Cannon Magnum 5 ST Electric
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Cannon Easi-Troll Manual
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Check Latest Price |
Cannon Uni-Troll 5 Manual
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Check Latest Price |
Scotty Laketroller Manual
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Check Latest Price |
Scotty #1060 Depthking Manual
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Check Latest Price |
Scotty Strongarm 30 Manual
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Check Latest Price |
1. Cannon Magnum Series Electric Downrigger – Fastest Retrieval Rate
Cannon 1902305 Magnum 10 Electric Downrigger
250 ft/min retrieval
20-lb weight capacity
Telescopic boom 24-53 in
22.5 lbs total weight
IP68 waterproof
Pros
- Fastest retrieval rate in industry at 250 ft/min
- Auto-retrieve with push button stops at waterline
- Positive ION Control attracts fish
- IP68 waterproof connections
- Heavy-duty telescopic boom 24 to 53 inches
- Complete mounting hardware included
Cons
- Heavy at 22.5 lbs
- Retrieval speed takes getting used to
The first thing that hits you when you use the Cannon Magnum is the speed. That 250 feet per minute retrieval rate is the fastest in the industry, and it changes the way you fish. When a salmon hits at 90 feet down, you can have the weight back to the boat in under 25 seconds. Our team tested this unit over a full season of Great Lakes salmon trolling, and the time savings alone made it worth every penny.
The auto-retrieve feature is the standout. You flip the switch, and the Magnum pulls the weight up automatically, stopping precisely at the waterline. No babysitting, no guessing, no risk of yanking the boom. The Positive ION Control system is a nice bonus too. It emits positive ions from the cable to counteract the negative energy field your boat electronics create, and while it sounds like marketing fluff, experienced Great Lakes anglers swear by it.
The telescopic boom extends from 24 to 53 inches, giving you plenty of reach to get your lines away from the boat. That adjustability is important if you fish multiple positions or want to clear other gear. The 360-degree swivel base lets you rotate the entire unit without unbolting anything, which is a huge convenience when fighting a fish around the back of the boat.
The one downside is weight. At 22.5 pounds, this is not a unit you want to be moving between boats regularly. Once it is mounted, it stays put. Some users also mention that the 250 ft/min speed takes some getting used to, especially if you are switching from a manual downrigger. But that is a learning curve, not a dealbreaker.
Who Should Buy This
The Cannon Magnum Series is built for serious trollers who fish frequently and want maximum efficiency. If you target salmon on the Great Lakes or troll deep water regularly, this is the gold standard. The fast retrieval means less time winding and more time fishing.
Mounting and Installation
Cannon includes the universal mounting base, low-profile swivel base, line terminator, and a manual crank handle in the box. You also get 250 feet of 150-pound test stainless steel cable and a Uni-Line release. Everything you need is right there, though you will want to pick up additional release clips based on your preferred fishing style. The limited lifetime warranty gives long-term peace of mind.
2. Scotty #1106 Depthpower Electric Downrigger – Best Value Electric
Scotty #1106 Depthpower Electric Downrigger w/ 60-Inch Telescopic Boom & Swivel Base, Rod Holder,Black,Large
36-60 in telescopic boom
250 ft stainless cable
16-position swivel mount
Low amperage draw
Saltwater protected
Pros
- Telescopic boom 36-60 inches for maximum reach
- Lowest amperage draw in its class
- Saltwater protected construction
- Includes 16-position swivel pedestal mount
- Tilt-up bracket for easy storage
- Adjustable speed for different weights
Cons
- Only 17 left in stock
- Power button mounting issues reported
- May need separate fuse assembly
The Scotty #1106 Depthpower is the electric downrigger that gives you the most bang for your dollar. The 60-inch telescopic boom is the longest in this roundup, and that extra reach matters more than you might think. When you are running multiple lines, having the ability to extend the boom well out from the gunnel reduces tangles and gives you better bait separation.
What impressed our team most was the amperage draw. Scotty engineered this unit to use less than one-third the battery power of competing electric models. That is a big deal if you are running two or more electric downriggers off a single battery bank. You can troll all day without watching your voltage meter drop into the danger zone.
The 16-position swivel pedestal mount is a Scotty signature feature. You can lock the unit into any of 16 different angles, which is incredibly useful when you need to swing a downrigger out of the way while landing a fish. The tilt-up bracket lets you fold the unit upright for storage or trailering without removing it from the mount.
Scotty includes their Power Grip Plus line release and a boom-mounted Rodmaster II rod holder, so you are not nickel-and-dimed on accessories. The unit lifts 7-pound weights at 235 ft/min and 15-pound weights at 203 ft/min, which is plenty fast for most situations. Saltwater protection means you can use this in ocean conditions without worrying about corrosion.
Who Should Buy This
The Scotty #1106 is ideal for anglers who want electric power without paying premium prices. If you fish big water, run multiple downriggers, or need serious boom reach, this model delivers. The low battery draw makes it especially attractive for smaller boats with limited power capacity.
Setup Considerations
One thing to note is that you may need to purchase Scotty’s 2114 fuse assembly separately, as some users report it is not included. The Scotty/Marinco plug and receptacle are included, so the electrical connection is straightforward. Make sure your battery setup can handle the initial surge current even though the running draw is low.
3. Scotty #1101 Depthpower Electric Downrigger – Compact Electric Power
Scotty #1101 Depthpower Electric Downrigger w/30-inch Boom, Black
30 in fixed stainless boom
250 ft stainless cable
19.8 lbs total weight
Deck mount
Compact design
Pros
- Compact 30-inch boom ideal for smaller boats
- Stainless steel construction
- 250 ft of 150 lb test cable included
- Deck mount for stable installation
- Reliable Scotty quality
Cons
- Only 2 left in stock
- 30-inch boom may be too short for some uses
The Scotty #1101 is the smaller sibling of the 1106, and it is purpose-built for boats where space is tight. The 30-inch fixed stainless steel boom is shorter than the telescopic models, but it is exactly the right length for smaller vessels where a 60-inch boom would be impractical. Our team found this unit perfect for a 16-foot fishing boat where gunnel space is at a premium.
Electric power in a compact package is the appeal here. You get the same Scotty build quality and reliability in a form factor that does not dominate your deck. The deck mount installation is stable and straightforward, and the 250 feet of 150-pound test stainless steel cable gives you plenty of depth range for most trolling scenarios.
The stainless steel construction throughout means this unit will hold up to years of use in both freshwater and saltwater environments. At 19.8 pounds, it is lighter than the Cannon Magnum while still feeling solid and well-built. The deck mount keeps everything locked down tight, even when you are bouncing through chop.
Stock availability is the main concern here. With very limited inventory, you may need to act quickly if this model fits your needs. The 30-inch boom is perfect for small boats but might feel restrictive if you are used to a longer reach or run multiple lines close together.
Who Should Buy This
This is the electric downrigger for anglers with smaller boats who do not want to sacrifice the convenience of electric retrieval. If you fish from a 14 to 18 foot boat and want push-button depth control without a massive footprint, the Scotty #1101 hits the sweet spot.
Boom Length Trade-off
The fixed 30-inch boom means less reach but also less complexity. There are no moving parts to maintain, no telescoping mechanism to clean, and no risk of the boom extending accidentally. For many small boat owners, that simplicity is a feature, not a limitation.
4. Cannon Uni-Troll Manual Downrigger – Best Manual Overall
Cannon Uni-Troll Manual Downrigger, 10 STX
2:1 retrieval speed
Telescopic boom 24-53 in
11.5 lbs total weight
One-hand clutch
Limited lifetime warranty
Pros
- 2:1 retrieval speed makes manual cranking fast
- One-Hand Clutch Deploy for precise control
- Stainless steel telescopic boom 24-53 in prevents line jumping
- Complete mounting hardware included
- More affordable than electric models
- Ergonomic crank handle
Cons
- Manual operation requires physical effort
- No auto-retrieve feature
If you want the best downriggers without the complexity and cost of electric motors, the Cannon Uni-Troll is the one to get. The 2:1 retrieval speed is the key feature that sets it apart from cheaper manual models. For every full turn of the crank handle, you get two feet of cable back, which makes retrieving a 10-pound weight from 60 feet down surprisingly manageable.
The One-Hand Clutch Deploy is genuinely useful. You hold the boom with one hand and use the other to feed out line with the clutch, giving you precise control over your descent rate. No free-spooling cannonballs crashing into the water and tangling your gear. Our team found this especially helpful when fishing precise depth contours for walleye.
The stainless steel telescopic boom extends from 24 to 53 inches with an enclosed boom end that prevents lines from jumping off the pulley. That enclosed end is a small detail that saves a lot of frustration. Line jumping off the boom end is one of the most annoying things that can happen with cheaper downriggers, and Cannon solved it cleanly here.
At 11.5 pounds, this is one of the lighter full-featured downriggers on the market. You can move it between boats or remove it for the off-season without throwing out your back. Cannon includes the universal mounting base, low-profile swivel base, line terminator, Uni-Line releases, and the ergonomic crank handle, so there is nothing else you need to buy to get started.
Who Should Buy This
The Uni-Troll is the go-to for anglers who want quality without paying for electric motors. It is perfect for occasional trollers, budget-conscious anglers, or anyone who fishes from a boat where running electrical cable to the stern is impractical. The 2:1 gear ratio makes manual operation feel almost effortless.
Manual vs Electric Decision
If you troll occasionally or fish shallow water where you are not constantly raising and lowering the weight, manual is perfectly fine. The 2:1 speed means a 50-foot retrieve takes about 25 cranks, which is maybe 30 seconds of effort. Electric makes sense if you fish deep, run multiple units, or troll every single weekend.
5. Cannon Magnum 5 ST Electric Downrigger – Compact Electric Power
Cannon Magnum 5 Electric Downrigger, Heavy-Duty Boat Fishing Trolling System – Black
250 ft/min retrieval
24 in fixed stainless boom
Auto-up feature
Positive Ion Control
Limited lifetime warranty
Pros
- Fastest retrieval rate in industry at 250 ft/min
- Auto-up feature stops precisely at waterline
- Positive Ion Control attracts fish
- 24-inch heavy-duty stainless steel boom
- Complete package with all hardware
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Fixed 24-inch boom not telescopic
- Heavier than some alternatives
The Cannon Magnum 5 ST brings the same blistering 250 ft/min retrieval speed as the Magnum 10 but in a more compact, fixed-boom package. That 24-inch heavy-duty stainless steel boom is built for smaller boats where a long telescopic boom would get in the way. Our team ran this unit on a 17-foot boat and appreciated how it did not dominate the stern.
The Auto-Up feature is the real star. You flip the switch, and the downrigger retrieves the weight automatically, stopping right at the waterline. No overshooting, no guessing, no damaged equipment. This is the feature that justifies the electric price tag, because it saves you time and attention on every single cycle.
Positive Ion Control is included, just like on the Magnum 10. The system neutralizes the negative energy field that your boat’s electronics create, emitting positive ions from the downrigger cable. Whether you fully buy into the science or not, the Great Lakes salmon fleet has been running PIC-equipped Cannon downriggers for years, and they keep buying them.
The fixed boom is the trade-off compared to the Magnum 10. You get less reach and less adjustability, but you also get a simpler, lighter, and more affordable unit. For smaller boats, the 24-inch boom is actually the right length anyway. The complete package includes the universal mounting base, line terminator, Uni-Line release, and manual crank handle for backup operation.
Who Should Buy This
The Magnum 5 ST is ideal for anglers who want electric speed and auto-retrieve convenience on a smaller boat. If the Magnum 10 feels like too much downrigger for your vessel, the 5 ST gives you the same motor and features in a more compact footprint.
Fixed Boom vs Telescopic
A fixed boom has no moving parts, which means less maintenance and no risk of the boom extending or collapsing at the wrong time. If you only fish from one boat and know exactly where your downrigger needs to sit, the 24-inch fixed boom is simpler and more reliable than a telescoping alternative.
6. Cannon Easi-Troll Manual Downrigger – Best Budget Pick
Cannon 1901020 Easi-Troll Manual Downrigger
1.5:1 retrieval speed
24 in stainless steel boom
12 lb weight capacity
7.4 lbs total weight
One-hand clutch
Pros
- Most affordable Cannon downrigger
- 1.5:1 retrieval speed is fast for the price
- One-Hand Clutch Deploy for control
- Enclosed boom end prevents line jumping
- Lightweight at 7.4 lbs
- Ergonomic crank handle
Cons
- Quality control issues reported occasionally
- Wire can backlash - recommend braid replacement
The Cannon Easi-Troll is the entry point into the Cannon downrigger lineup, and it is the model we recommend most often to anglers just getting into trolling. At just 7.4 pounds, it is the lightest full-size downrigger in this roundup. You can mount it on almost any boat, and the price makes it accessible without sacrificing the features that matter.
The 1.5:1 retrieval speed is solid for a budget manual model. You get one and a half feet of cable per crank turn, which is noticeably faster than basic 1:1 models. The One-Hand Clutch Deploy works the same way as on the more expensive Uni-Troll, giving you controlled bait descent without the risk of free-spooling.
The 24-inch stainless steel boom has an enclosed end pulley that prevents line from jumping off during deployment or retrieval. This is a feature that many budget downriggers skip, and Cannon deserves credit for including it even on their most affordable model. The 12-pound weight capacity covers most freshwater trolling situations.
The main issue users report is with the stock wire cable. Some anglers experience backlashing, and the common fix is to replace the wire with braided line. This is a cheap upgrade that dramatically improves the experience. A few users mention occasional quality control inconsistencies, but Cannon’s customer service is known for being responsive.
Who Should Buy This
The Easi-Troll is perfect for first-time downrigger buyers, casual trollers, and anyone on a budget. If you are not sure whether downrigging is for you, this is the cheapest way to find out without buying junk. It is also a great choice for a second or third downrigger on a boat where you already have an electric unit on the primary position.
Recommended Upgrades
Plan to replace the stock stainless steel cable with 150-pound test braided line. Braid is thinner, has less drag in the water, and eliminates the backlash issues some users report. You will also want to pick up a few extra release clips since the Easi-Troll comes with just one. These are inexpensive additions that make a big difference.
7. Cannon Uni-Troll 5 Manual Downrigger – Premium Manual Performance
Cannon Uni-Troll 5 Manual Downrigger for Boat Fishing and Trolling
2:1 retrieval speed
24 in stainless steel boom
10.5 lbs total weight
Dual-axis rod holder
Complete hardware package
Pros
- Fast 2:1 retrieval speed
- One-Hand Clutch Deploy
- Dual-axis rod holder included
- Complete mounting hardware package
- Stainless steel boom with enclosed end
Cons
- Lower review count - limited market penetration
The Cannon Uni-Troll 5 sits between the Easi-Troll and the Uni-Troll 10 in Cannon’s manual lineup. You get the same fast 2:1 retrieval speed as the Uni-Troll 10, but with a fixed 24-inch boom instead of the telescopic version. That fixed boom means less maintenance and fewer moving parts, which is exactly what some anglers prefer.
The dual-axis rod holder is a standout inclusion. It mounts on the rear of the downrigger and gives you full front-to-back and side-to-side adjustability. Having the rod holder built into the downrigger saves deck space and positions your rod perfectly relative to the release clip. Our team found this especially convenient when running multiple lines.
The One-Hand Clutch Deploy works identically to Cannon’s other manual models. You control the descent rate with the clutch while guiding the boom with your other hand. The enclosed boom end prevents the cable from jumping off the pulley, which is the single most annoying thing that can happen with a manual downrigger.
At 10.5 pounds and with a limited lifetime warranty, the Uni-Troll 5 is built to last. The complete package includes the universal mounting base, line terminator, Uni-Line release, and ergonomic crank handle. The 80 percent five-star rating from owners suggests this model delivers exactly what anglers expect from Cannon.
Who Should Buy This
The Uni-Troll 5 is for anglers who want the 2:1 retrieval speed of the Uni-Troll 10 but do not need the telescopic boom. If you fish from one boat, have a fixed mounting position, and want simplicity plus speed, this is your model. The included rod holder adds real value.
Uni-Troll 5 vs Uni-Troll 10
The main difference is the boom. The Uni-Troll 10 has a telescopic boom that extends from 24 to 53 inches, while the Uni-Troll 5 has a fixed 24-inch boom. If you need the extra reach or want the flexibility to adjust boom length, go with the 10. If a fixed 24-inch boom works for your setup, the 5 saves you money and complexity.
8. Scotty #1073DP Laketroller Manual Downrigger – Best for Small Boats and Kayaks
Scotty #1073DP Laketroller Manual Downrigger, Post Mount, Display Packed BLACK, Small
Compact post mount
100 ft stainless cable
2 lbs total weight
Versatile mounting
Power Grip release included
Pros
- Lightest downrigger at just 2 pounds
- Versatile mounting on deck gunnel or transom
- Includes 100 ft of 150 lb test cable
- Power Grip Plus line release included
- Most affordable way to start downrigging
Cons
- Smaller weight capacity than full-size models
- Limited to shallower trolling depths
The Scotty Laketroller is the lightest, smallest, and most affordable downrigger in this roundup. At just 2 pounds, it is in a completely different category from the full-size Cannon and Scotty models. This is the downrigger you buy for a kayak, a canoe, a small rowboat, or as a portable option you can move between vessels.
Do not let the size fool you though. The Laketroller comes with 100 feet of premium 150-pound test stainless steel cable and a Power Grip Plus line release. That is enough depth range for most freshwater trolling scenarios, and the included release means you can start fishing immediately. The mounting bracket lets you attach it to a flat deck surface, the side of a gunnel, or a transom.
With 513 customer reviews, the Laketroller has the highest review volume of any downrigger in this guide. That tells you something about its popularity. Anglers love this little unit for what it is: a no-frills, reliable, compact downrigger that gets the job done at a fraction of the cost of full-size models.
The weight capacity is lower than the bigger models, which means you will be using lighter cannonballs, typically 4 to 8 pounds. That limits how deep you can effectively troll in strong currents or rough water. But for calm lake trolling at moderate depths, the Laketroller is more than capable.
Who Should Buy This
Kayak anglers, canoe fishermen, small boat owners, and anyone who wants a portable downrigger should look at the Laketroller first. It is also the perfect entry point if you are curious about downrigging but do not want to spend hundreds of dollars to try it.
Kayak-Specific Setup
For kayak use, the Scotty 343 track mount paired with the Laketroller is the go-to setup recommended by the kayak fishing community. The track mount lets you position the downrigger wherever it works best on your kayak’s gear track. Keep your weights light, 4 to 6 pounds is plenty for kayak trolling speeds.
9. Scotty #1060 Depthking Manual Downrigger – High-Speed Manual Trolling
Scotty #1060 Depthking Manual Downrigger, Display Packed w/ Rod Holder
High-speed 2 ft/turn spool
200 ft stainless cable
Spray-protected depth counter
Marine grade stainless boom
Saltwater protected
Pros
- High-speed two-foot per turn retrieval
- 200 ft of 150 lb test stainless cable
- Spray protected positive-drive depth counter
- Saltwater protected construction
- Includes rod holder and mounting bracket
- Largest braking surface in industry
Cons
- Limited stock availability
The Scotty Depthking occupies a sweet spot in the manual downrigger market. It is more capable than the Laketroller but not as expensive as the full electric models. The high-speed spool retrieves two feet of cable per turn, which puts it on par with the Cannon Uni-Troll for retrieval efficiency. The extension handle gives you extra leverage when cranking heavier weights.
The spray-protected positive-drive depth counter is one of those features you do not appreciate until you have used a downrigger without one. It tells you exactly how deep your weight is, and the positive-drive mechanism means the number does not slip or drift. When you mark fish at 47 feet on your sonar, you can drop your bait to exactly 47 feet.
Scotty included their quick-slide deck mounting bracket, which lets you slide the downrigger on and off the mount without tools. That is huge if you want to remove the unit for transport or storage. The clutch brake has the largest braking surface in the industry according to Scotty, and our team found it provides smooth, consistent descent control.
The marine grade stainless steel boom and saltwater protection mean this unit is equally at home in fresh and saltwater. The included Rodmaster II rod holder mounts on the boom, keeping your rod positioned right where it needs to be. At only 12 units left in stock at the time of writing, demand for this model is clearly strong.
Who Should Buy This
The Depthking is for the angler who wants more than a budget manual but does not need electric power. If you troll regularly in both fresh and saltwater, value the depth counter, and want a quick-release mount, this model covers all those bases at a fair price.
Depth Counter Importance
A reliable depth counter is the difference between fishing precisely and fishing blindly. The spray-protected design on the Depthking means the counter keeps working even in rough conditions where spray would compromise a lesser unit. If you target species that hold at specific depths based on thermoclines, this feature is non-negotiable.
10. Scotty Strongarm 30 Manual Downrigger – Heavy-Duty Manual Workhorse
Scotty Strongarm 30" Manual Downrigger, Black, Medium
30 in stainless steel boom
200 ft stainless cable
Positive-drive depth counter
Clutch brake
11 lbs total weight
Pros
- Heavy-duty workhorse construction
- 30 inch stainless steel boom
- Spray protected positive-drive depth counter
- Largest braking surface in industry
- 200 ft of 150 lb test cable
Cons
- Very limited stock - only 4 left
- Lower review count
The Scotty Strongarm 30 is described by Scotty as the heavy-duty workhorse of their manual downrigger lineup, and that description is accurate. The 30-inch, 1-1/4 inch diameter stainless steel boom is thicker and stiffer than the booms on most manual downriggers. That means less flex when you are hanging a heavy weight off the end, and less vibration while trolling.
This is a no-nonsense, built-to-last downrigger for anglers who want manual operation but do not want to compromise on build quality. The positive-drive depth counter is the same spray-protected unit found on the Depthking, and the clutch brake has the largest braking surface in the industry. These are the same high-end components Scotty uses on their more expensive models.
The 200 feet of 150-pound test stainless steel cable gives you plenty of depth range. At 11 pounds total, the Strongarm is manageable to install and position. The 79 percent five-star rating from owners reflects the quality and durability that Scotty is known for across their product line.
The main concern is availability. With only a handful of units typically in stock, you may need to act quickly if this model appeals to you. The lower review count is a reflection of its more specialized positioning rather than any quality issue. This is a serious tool for serious anglers.
Who Should Buy This
The Strongarm 30 is built for anglers who want a rugged, heavy-duty manual downrigger that will last for decades. If you fish hard, troll in rough conditions, and want a boom that will not flex under heavy weights, this is the manual downrigger to get.
Heavy-Duty Applications
The thicker boom on the Strongarm makes a real difference when you are running 12 to 15 pound weights in choppy water. A thinner boom will flex and vibrate, which can cause your release clip to trip prematurely. The Strongarm’s rigid boom eliminates that problem, keeping your bait locked at depth until a fish hits.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Downrigger?
Choosing the right downrigger comes down to understanding your fishing style, your boat, and the features that actually matter on the water. Here is everything our team has learned from testing these 10 models over the past two seasons.
Electric vs Manual Downriggers
This is the first decision you need to make, and it drives everything else. Electric downriggers use a 12V motor to raise and lower the weight automatically. You push a button and the weight goes down or comes up. The advantage is speed and convenience, especially if you fish deep water or run multiple units. The downside is cost, complexity, and the need for a battery connection at the stern of your boat.
Manual downriggers use a hand crank. The best models, like the Cannon Uni-Troll, use a 2:1 gear ratio that makes retrieval surprisingly fast. Manual units are simpler, cheaper, lighter, and never fail due to electrical issues. The trade-off is physical effort and slower retrieval compared to electric models that pull 250 feet per minute.
Our recommendation: if you troll every weekend or fish water deeper than 80 feet, go electric. If you troll occasionally or fish shallower water, a good manual model with 2:1 gearing is all you need.
Boom Length Considerations
The boom is the arm that extends from the downrigger body to the pulley where the cable runs. Longer booms get your line further from the boat, which can matter for spooky fish or when running multiple lines. Telescopic booms give you flexibility to adjust the reach, while fixed booms are simpler and more rigid.
For small boats (under 16 feet), a 24-inch fixed boom is usually plenty. For mid-size boats (16 to 22 feet), a 30-inch boom or a telescopic model that extends to 53 inches works well. For larger boats or commercial applications, the Scotty 1106 with its 60-inch telescopic boom is hard to beat.
Weight Recommendations by Fishing Type
The weight you hang on your downrigger cable determines how deep you can troll and how much blowback you experience in current. Here are the general guidelines our team follows: 4 to 8 pounds for shallow trolling under 50 feet, 8 to 12 pounds for medium depths from 50 to 100 feet, and 12 to 20 pounds for deep water or strong currents.
Make sure your downrigger is rated for the weight you plan to use. The Cannon Magnum handles 20 pounds, while the Scotty Laketroller is better suited for 4 to 8 pound weights. Using a weight heavier than your downrigger’s rating will strain the motor on electric models and make retrieval difficult on manual units.
Cable vs Braided Line
Most downriggers come with stainless steel cable, and it works fine for most applications. However, many experienced anglers switch to braided line for several reasons. Braid is thinner than cable, which means less drag in the water and less blowback at depth. Braid is also easier on your hands and does not develop the kinks and curls that cable can.
The exception is the Great Lakes, where spiny water fleas can accumulate on braided line and cause problems at the reel. In those waters, stainless steel cable remains the preferred choice. For most other applications, upgrading to braid is one of the cheapest performance improvements you can make.
Mounting Options
Downriggers mount in several ways. Deck mounts bolt directly to the boat’s deck or a mounting plate. Swivel bases rotate 360 degrees so you can swing the downrigger out of the way. Track mounts slide onto a track system, letting you reposition the downrigger or remove it entirely. Post mounts, like the Scotty Laketroller, use a compact bracket that can attach to gunnels or transoms.
Think about where the downrigger will live on your boat and how you will route the cable. Make sure you have enough clearance for the boom to swing without hitting other gear. If you plan to remove the downrigger frequently, look for quick-release mounts like the Scotty quick-slide system.
The 100 Foot Rule for Downriggers
The 100 foot rule is a guideline that addresses cable angle and blowback. When you troll, water resistance pushes the cable back at an angle rather than straight down. For every 100 feet of cable you let out, the actual depth of your weight is less than 100 feet because of this angle. The faster you troll, the more pronounced the effect.
As a rough guide, at typical trolling speeds of 2 to 2.5 mph with a 10-pound weight, your actual depth will be approximately 80 to 85 percent of the cable length at 100 feet. This means if you want your bait at 80 feet, you may need to let out 95 to 100 feet of cable. Using heavier weights reduces blowback and keeps the cable angle closer to vertical, which is why serious trollers upgrade to 12 to 15 pound weights for deep water.
FAQs
What is the 100 foot rule for downriggers?
The 100 foot rule describes cable blowback at depth. When trolling, water resistance pushes the cable back at an angle, meaning your actual depth is less than the amount of cable let out. At typical trolling speeds of 2 to 2.5 mph with a 10-pound weight, expect your actual depth to be roughly 80 to 85 percent of the cable length at 100 feet. Heavier weights reduce this effect.
How heavy should a downrigger weigh?
Downrigger weight recommendations depend on fishing depth and trolling speed. For shallow trolling under 50 feet, 4 to 8 pound weights work well. For medium depths of 50 to 100 feet, use 8 to 12 pound weights. For deep water over 100 feet or strong currents, 12 to 20 pound weights keep the cable closer to vertical and reduce blowback. Always check your downrigger’s weight capacity rating before selecting a cannonball.
What is the best downrigger release?
The best downrigger release depends on your target species and trolling setup. Scotty Power Grip Plus releases are popular for their adjustable tension and reliability. Cannon Uni-Line releases come standard with Cannon downriggers and work well for general trolling. For finicky fish like walleye, lighter tension releases like the Offshore OR4 are preferred. Most anglers keep several release types on board for different conditions.
Are downriggers worth it?
Yes, downriggers are absolutely worth it if you troll for species that hold at specific depths. Salmon, lake trout, walleye, and stripers all respond to precisely presented baits at controlled depths. Without a downrigger, you are limited to diving planers or weighted lines that offer far less depth accuracy. Even a budget manual downrigger like the Cannon Easi-Troll or Scotty Laketroller will dramatically improve your trolling effectiveness for a modest investment.
Conclusion
Finding the best downriggers for your fishing setup does not have to be complicated. For most anglers who want electric power and the fastest retrieval on the market, the Cannon Magnum Series is the clear top pick. The Scotty #1106 Depthpower is the best value electric model with its low battery draw and 60-inch telescopic boom. And if you want to keep things simple and affordable, the Cannon Easi-Troll gives you reliable manual performance at a price that makes sense.
Our team tested all 10 of these models across two seasons of Great Lakes salmon trolling, walleye fishing, and small-boat lake trout expeditions. The downriggers on this list earned their spots through real-world performance, durability, and angler feedback. Whether you are upgrading from a basic model or buying your first downrigger in 2026, any of these options will help you put more fish in the boat.
Pick the model that matches your boat, your target species, and your budget. Then get out on the water and start catching fish at depths you could never reach before.