Welcome to our blog on downriggers – a crucial tool for serious anglers looking to take their fishing game to the next level! If you’re unfamiliar with a manual downrigger, they’re essentially fishing aids that help you maintain a precise depth for your lures or bait, making it easier to target specific fish species at varying depths. In this post, we’ll explore the best manual downrigger available, including their placement on boats. Also, we will address the need for extended booms at times and why. In this blog, we focus on the best manual options available that suit your needs. So whether you’re a seasoned angler or just getting started, join us as we dive into the world of downriggers and discover how to use them to catch more fish!
Scotty Products is recognized as a trusted brand among anglers, with a reputation for producing high-quality, durable gear that stands up to the rigours of fishing in challenging conditions. The company remains committed to its roots in salmon fishing. Based in British Columbia, Canada, it has a loyal following of anglers who rely on its products to help them catch more fish. The company has also continued to innovate in the downrigger space, introducing electric and high-performance models that have become popular among serious anglers worldwide.
With a history dating back to the 1940s, Cannon has been a leading manufacturer of downriggers for decades. One of the standout features of Cannon downriggers is their impressive performance capabilities. Many of their models are capable of handling heavy weights and reaching extreme depths with control. Additionally, their advanced control systems allow for precise adjustments and maximum control, allowing anglers to customize their setup based on the conditions and the specific fish they target.
Downrigger Placement
When mounting a downrigger on your boat, there are several options to consider. One of the most common locations is the transom corners, allowing easy access and quick deployment of your downrigger. This location is also ideal for trolling deeper waters, providing a straight-down trajectory for your lure or bait. Also, a primary factor is in heavy tides or currents; the risk of propping yourself is limited, especially if fishing deep.
However, mounting your downrigger at the midship has its own advantages. This location allows you to spread out your lines and cover more water. In turn, can be particularly useful when fishing for species spread out over a large area. Also, this allows for more room on the transom. Primarily when the transom is used for netting and/or entry from the boat. When mounting your downrigger at the midship can help balance your boat’s weight distribution, making for a smoother ride in choppy waters.
Ultimately, the best location to mount your downrigger will depend on your specific fishing needs and the layout of your boat. In our opinion, there is no ideal location but rather what works for your needs. Additionally, an extended boom can allow for midship mounting and mitigate the risk of prop interference. One of the most prominent factors when trolling is how heavy your downrigger ball is; having the right weighted ball for the task is very important.
- Mount: Tab Lock Base
- Boom Length: 18″
- Boom Diameter: Composite
- Retrieval per Revoliton: 12″
- Line Material: Cable 100′ 135lbs
- Depth Display: Counter
- Cannon Ball Weight Limit: 12lb
The Cannon Lake Troll downrigger is an excellent entry-level option for anglers who are just starting to explore the world of downrigger fishing. Despite its affordable price point, the Lake Troll is built to last. Designed with durable construction that can meet the demands of even the most extreme fishing conditions.
The downrigger also features a clutch brake system that allows for controlled descents and prevents the weight from free-spooling. This ensures maximum precision and control. In addition to its impressive performance capabilities, the Cannon Lake Troll also has a tube rod holder. A great feature to have making it easy to secure your rod and reel while trolling. This added convenience ensures you can focus on fishing without worrying about your gear shifting or getting in the way.
Overall, the Cannon Lake Troll downrigger is an excellent choice for anglers looking for an affordable, reliable, and user-friendly downrigger. Its durable construction, analog counter, clutch brake, and tube rod holder, this downrigger will provide years of reliable service!
- Mount: Portable 1021 Portable Clamp-on Bracket
- Boom Length: 23″ long boom
- Boom Diameter: 3/4″ Boom
- Retrieval per Revoliton: 12″
- Line Material: Cable 200′ 150lbs
- Depth Display: CounterCannon Ball Weight Limit: 12lb
The Scotty 1050 MP Compact manual downrigger is a must-have for any angler who wants a reliable and easy-to-use downrigger on their boat. One of the standout features of this downrigger is its compact size and lightweight design, which make it easy to move and set up wherever you need it. Additionally, the downrigger comes with an easy clamp mounting system that works seamlessly with aluminum boats, making installation a breeze. But what sets the Scotty 1050 MP apart is its impressive feature set.
The downrigger has a unique brake system that allows for a controlled descent and prevents the weight from free-spooling, giving you greater accuracy and control over your lure or bait. With its portability, easy installation, and impressive features, the Scotty 1050 MP Compact manual downrigger is an excellent choice for anglers of all skill levels. Whether fishing in a small boat or a larger vessel, this downrigger is an excellent choice for someone who wants to use a downrigger but does not want it on the boat all the time.
- Mount: Universal Mount Base – Composite
- Boom Length: 24″ stainless
- Boom Diameter: 1 1/4″
- Retrieval rate: 2:1
- Line Material: Cable – 200′ 150lbs
- Depth Display: Counter
- Cannon Ball Weight Limit: 20lb
The Cannon Uni-Troll 5 downrigger is an excellent upgrade for an angler looking to take that next step. The Uni-Troll 5 handles a 20lb cannon ball with a fixed boom and 2:1 retrieval rate. This will get that cable out of the water much faster when you hook the big one! In contrast, the Easi-Troll only handles 12lb and has a 1.5:1 retrieval rate; thus, we focus on the Uni-Troll 5. With a dual-axis rod holder, stainless steel cable, and one-handed clutch deployment, the unit offers unparalleled convenience and ease of use.
One of the standout features of the Cannon Uni-Troll 5 is its one-hand clutch deploy system. This lets you quickly and easily deploy your weight with just one hand. This added convenience makes it easy to adjust your depth on the fly and ensures that you’re fishing at the correct depth. In addition to its impressive performance capabilities, the Cannon Uni-Troll 5 also has a dual-axis rod holder. Allowing you to easily adjust the angle and position of your rod based on your fishing style and the conditions on the water.
The Cannon Uni-Troll 5 downrigger is an excellent choice for serious anglers who demand the best from their gear. With its fixed boom design, impressive 2:1 retrieval rate, one-hand clutch deploy system, dual-axis rod holder, and durable construction, this downrigger will surely provide years of trust and reliability.
- Mount: 1023 tilt bracket
- Boom Length: 30″ stainless
- Boom Diameter: 1 1/4″
- Retrieval per Revoliton: 24″
- Line Material: Cable – 200′ 150lbs
- Depth Display: Counter
- Cannon Ball Weight Limit: 20lb
The Scotty 1085 manual downrigger is a powerhouse option for serious anglers who demand heavy-duty capability from their gear. With the ability to handle up to 15lb cannon balls, this downrigger can troll at depths many others can’t match. The downrigger also features an adjustable rod holder that can be customized to your fishing setup, ensuring maximum versatility and flexibility. The downrigger comes standard with 150ft of stainless cable.
In addition to its impressive performance capabilities, the Scotty 1085 also boasts several convenient features that make it easy and comfortable to use. The downrigger’s extendable handle allows easy cranking, even in choppy or rough waters. At the same time, its flexible mounting options make it easy to set up and adjust to your specific boat and fishing needs.
The Scotty 1085 manual downrigger is an excellent investment for anglers who demand the best from their gear. Whether fishing in deep waters or trolling for large game fish, this downrigger will provide reliable, heavy-duty performance that will help you catch more fish and enjoy your time on the water to the fullest.
- Mount: Universal Mount Base – Composite
- Boom Length: 24-53″ stainless
- Boom Diameter: 1 1/4″
- Retrieval Rate: 2:1 ratio
- Line Material: Cable – 200′ 150lbs
- Depth Display: Counter
- Cannon Ball Weight Limit: 20lb
The Cannon Uni-Troll 10 downrigger has an extendable boom design that allows you to target fish from 24 to 53 inches at different depths, making it suitable for various fishing conditions. This is an excellent option for someone looking to mount their downriggers mid-ship. With the telescopic boom, the downrigger can be extended to prevent the cable from ever getting near the motors. The extendable boom also offers a wider breadth of presentation, allowing for an extra 4ft on your spread out there.
Like the other Uni-Troll models, the unit has a 2:1 retrieval rate, making it easy and quick to retrieve your line. Its low-profile swivel base allows you to adjust the position of the downrigger easily.Eensuring that you’re fishing at the optimal angle for your target species. The one-hand clutch deploy system is another excellent feature of the Cannon Uni-Troll 10. Making it easy to adjust the depth of your line on the fly. The dual-axis rod holder and stainless steel cable make this downrigger highly durable.
Overall, the Cannon Uni-Troll 10 downrigger is a piece of highly versatile and precise equipment that can help you catch more fish. With its extendable boom design, 2:1 retrieval rate, universal mount base, one-hand clutch deploy system, and durable construction. This downrigger is an excellent choice for any angler who wants to make their fishing experience easier on the water and fish a little deeper.
- Mount: Universal Mount Base – Composite
- Boom Length: 24-53″ stainless
- Boom Diameter: 1 1/4″
- Retrieval Rate: 2:1 ratio
- Line Material: Cable – 200′ 150lbs
- Depth Display: Counter
- Cannon Ball Weight Limit: 20lb
The Cannon Uni-Troll 10 Tournament Series (TS) and the Uni-Troll 10 downriggers are part of the same family; the TS version has some notable differences that set it apart. The TS version’s high-grade marine stainless steel spool is the primary difference that accounts for the higher price point. This material provides outstanding durability and resistance to corrosion, making it ideal for saltwater fishing. Additionally, the telescopic boom of the TS model allows for greater flexibility in positioning the downrigger and adjusting the length of the boom.
Finally, the eye-catching white design of the TS version is a visual departure from the standard black finish of the Uni-Troll 10, adding an extra level of appeal for those looking for a high-performance and attractive downrigger. It will help you catch more fish in saltwater conditions. While the Uni-Troll 10 is an excellent downrigger in its own right, the added durability and versatility of the Uni-Troll 10 TS make it a worthwhile investment for serious anglers who demand the best equipment for their fishing adventures.
Tips
- Consider the type of fishing you’ll be doing: Different downriggers are designed for different types of fishing, such as trolling in saltwater or freshwater lakes. Choose a downrigger suitable for the type of fishing you’ll be doing.
- Think about the size of your boat: Downriggers come in various sizes, so make sure to choose one that fits comfortably on your boat. A larger downrigger may be necessary for bigger boats, while a smaller one may be more suitable for smaller boats.
- Look for features that suit your needs: Consider the features that are important to you, such as an adjustable boom, a fast retrieval rate, or a one-hand clutch deploy system. Look for a downrigger with features that will help you fish more effectively and efficiently.
Conclusion
In conclusion, downriggers are essential for serious anglers who want to improve their chances of catching fish. With various downriggers available on the market, you must consider your specific fishing needs and preferences when choosing a downrigger. Altogether consider factors such as the type of fishing you’ll be doing, the size of your boat, and the features you’re looking for should all be considered.
We discussed some top downriggers available, including the Scotty 1050HP compact manual downrigger, the Cannon Lake Troll downrigger, and the Cannon Uni-Troll 10 downrigger. Each of these downriggers has its unique features and advantages. Choosing the right one will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
No matter which downrigger you choose, it’s essential to learn how to use it effectively and safely. Proper downrigger placement, choosing the right weight, and setting the depth correctly are all key factors in successful downrigger fishing. With practice and experience, downriggers can become a valuable tool in your fishing arsenal and help you catch more fish.
