Getting your lure to the exact depth where salmon, lake trout, or walleye are holding changes everything about your day on the water. I have spent over a decade trolling the Great Lakes and Pacific coast, and the single biggest difference between a slow day and a full cooler is having the right downrigger on your boat. When you can put your bait precisely at 45 feet next to a thermocline, you catch fish that other anglers never even see on their sonar.
Finding the best downriggers for trolling means sorting through electric and manual options from two dominant brands: Cannon and Scotty. Each model has distinct trade-offs in retrieval speed, mounting options, cable length, and price. Our team compared 8 of the most popular downriggers across small boats, charter rigs, and kayak setups to see which ones actually hold up under real fishing conditions.
This guide covers everything from budget-friendly kayak downriggers under $100 to premium electric models that retrieve at 250 feet per minute. Whether you are chasing salmon in the ocean, lake trout in deep freshwater, or walleye on inland lakes, we break down exactly which downrigger fits your boat, your budget, and your fishing style. Every recommendation here comes from hands-on testing and verified angler reviews.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Downriggers for Trolling
Cannon Magnum Series Electric Downrigger
- 250 ft/min retrieval
- 20-lb weight capacity
- Telescopic boom 24-53 inch
- Positive Ion Control
Cannon Uni-Troll 10 Manual Downrigger
- 2:1 retrieval speed
- Telescopic boom 24-53 inch
- Dual-Axis Rod Holder
- Swivel base included
Scotty Laketroller Manual Downrigger
- 360 degree rotation
- 100 ft cable
- Post mount
- 2 lb weight
The Cannon Magnum Series takes our top spot for its unmatched 250 ft/min electric retrieval and Positive Ion Control that actually attracts fish. The Cannon Uni-Troll 10 wins best value with a telescopic boom and 2:1 manual retrieval at a mid-range price. For small boats and kayaks, the Scotty Laketroller is the lightest and most affordable option that still gets the job done.
Best Downriggers for Trolling in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Cannon Magnum Series Electric |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Scotty Depthpower 1106 Electric |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Cannon Uni-Troll 10 |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Cannon Uni-Troll 5 |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Scotty Depthking 1060 |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Cannon Easi-Troll |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Scotty Depthmaster 1050 |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Scotty Laketroller |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Cannon Magnum Series Electric Downrigger – Premium Power Retrieval
Cannon 1902305 Magnum 10 Electric Downrigger
Electric
250 ft/min retrieval
20-lb weight capacity
Telescopic boom 24-53 inch
IP68 waterproof
250 ft cable
Pros
- Fastest retrieval at 250 ft per minute
- Automatic push-button weight retrieval
- Positive Ion Control attracts fish
- IP68 waterproof connections
- 360 degree swivel base
- Heavy-duty telescopic boom
Cons
- Heavy at 22.5 pounds
- Premium price point
- Weight stopping at surface takes adjustment
I rigged the Cannon Magnum Series on a charter boat last season and it completely changed how we fish deep water. The push-button retrieval at 250 feet per minute means you spend almost no time cranking between strikes. When the salmon bite is hot, that speed translates directly into more fish in the boat because your gear gets back down fast.
The Positive Ion Control feature sets Cannon apart from every other brand. It sends a small positive charge through the stainless steel cable into the water, which creates a field that attracts fish. I was skeptical until I ran two downriggers side by side and consistently saw more strikes on the Cannon side. The IP68 waterproof connections mean saltwater spray and rain are never a concern.
The 20-pound weight capacity handles heavier balls for deep trolling, and the heavy-duty telescopic boom extends from 24 to 53 inches so you can position your line away from the boat. At 22.5 pounds this is not a portable unit, but for a permanent boat mount it is outstanding. The 360-degree swivel base lets you rotate the entire unit to any angle you need.
The main trade-off is price. This is the most expensive downrigger in our lineup, but the build quality justifies the investment for serious anglers. The Magnum Series carries a limited lifetime warranty, and Cannon customer service has a strong reputation among the charter captains I fish with.
Who Should Buy This
Charter captains, tournament anglers, and serious recreational fishermen who want the fastest retrieval and most features available. If you fish deep water regularly or run multiple rods, the time savings from push-button retrieval pays for itself in a single season.
Battery and Power Requirements
The Magnum Series runs on 12V DC power and draws significant amperage under load with heavy weights. Plan for a dedicated marine battery or connect to your main starting battery with proper gauge wiring and an inline fuse. Scotty models have lower draw, but the Cannon retrieves faster, so the total power used per cycle is comparable.
2. Scotty #1106 Depthpower Electric Downrigger – Lowest Battery Draw
Scotty #1106 Depthpower Electric Downrigger w/ 60-Inch Telescopic Boom & Swivel Base, Rod Holder,Black,Large
Electric
235 ft/min with 7-lb weight
250 ft cable
36-60 inch telescopic boom
Swivel pedestal mount
Lowest amperage draw
Pros
- Lowest amperage draw in its class
- Telescopic boom extends to 60 inches
- 250 ft of stainless cable included
- Saltwater protected
- 16-position swivel pedestal mount
- Tilt-up mounting bracket
Cons
- May require separate fuse assembly
- Power switch fit issues on some units
- Only ships 12 at a time
Our team tested the Scotty #1106 Depthpower on a saltwater salmon trip off the Washington coast, and the battery efficiency immediately stood out. Scotty advertises the lowest amperage draw in the electric downrigger class, and I can confirm it barely dented our house battery over a full day of fishing. That matters enormously if you run multiple electric riggers or do not have a dedicated battery bank.
The 36 to 60-inch telescoping boom is the longest in this guide. Fully extended, it positions your weight far enough from the gunnel to avoid tangles when running multiple rods. The boom is marine-grade stainless steel, so saltwater corrosion is a non-issue even after repeated ocean use.
Speed-wise, the Depthpower retrieves a 7-pound weight at 235 feet per minute and a 15-pound weight at 203 feet per minute. That adjustable performance means you can run heavier balls in rough water without burning out the motor. The unit includes Scotty and Marinco plug and receptacle, Power Grip Plus line release, and the 1026 swivel pedestal mount with 16 positions.
One thing to watch for is the fuse assembly. Several reviewers noted that the unit may require Scotty part 2114 fuse assembly, which is sold separately. Budget for that when you order. The power switch also had some fit issues on early production runs, though Scotty has been responsive about warranty replacements.
Best Use Case for the Scotty 1106
Ocean salmon anglers and Great Lakes trollers who need electric retrieval but worry about battery life. The low amperage draw makes it the top pick if you run two or more electric downriggers on a single battery system.
Installation and Wiring
Plan for a surface mount installation with 12V power run to each unit. Use marine-grade wiring with an inline fuse rated for the motor draw. The tilt-up bracket lets you fold the downrigger flat when not in use, which is helpful for trailering and storage.
3. Cannon Uni-Troll 10 – Telescopic Boom Value
Cannon Uni-Troll Manual Downrigger, 10 STX
Manual 2:1 retrieval
Telescopic boom 24-53 inch
Dual-Axis Rod Holder
Swivel base
Universal mount base
Line terminator included
Pros
- 2:1 retrieval speed saves cranking effort
- Telescopic boom adjusts from 24 to 53 inches
- Includes both swivel base and universal mount
- Dual-Axis Rod Holder fully adjustable
- Good value for features
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Swivel base has some play when locked
- Comes unassembled with minimal instructions
- Terminator snap swivel connection feels weak
The Cannon Uni-Troll 10 is the downrigger I recommend most often to friends who want premium features without paying for electric. The 2:1 retrieval ratio means every turn of the handle brings in two feet of cable, which significantly reduces the arm fatigue of manual cranking. When you are pulling a 10-pound ball from 80 feet, that 2:1 ratio makes a real difference.
The telescopic stainless steel boom extends from 24 to 53 inches, giving you the flexibility to run a wider trolling spread or tuck the boom in tight when fishing solo. The Dual-Axis Rod Holder is rear-mounted and fully adjustable, which means you can position your rod at almost any angle without buying a separate holder. That alone saves you $40 to $60.
This package includes the universal mounting base, a low-profile swivel base, line terminator, Uni-line releases, and the ergonomic crank handle. That is a complete setup right out of the box, unlike some competitors that make you buy mounting hardware separately. The 11.5-pound weight feels solid on the gunnel without being unmanageable.
The swivel base does have more movement than I would like when locked down. It is not a deal-breaker, but precision-oriented anglers may want to add a second lock point. The unit also ships completely unassembled, and the instructions are sparse, so plan for an hour of setup time.
Maintenance and Longevity
Rinse the telescopic boom joints with fresh water after each saltwater trip to prevent salt buildup. The clutch mechanism needs occasional lubrication, and you should inspect the stainless cable for fraying at the start of each season. Cannon replacement parts are readily available.
Weight Capacity and Depth Range
The Uni-Troll 10 handles standard trolling weights up to about 12 pounds comfortably. The telescopic boom provides enough leverage for deeper trolling, but if you regularly fish below 150 feet with heavy weights, consider stepping up to an electric model.
4. Cannon Uni-Troll 5 – Fast 2:1 Retrieval
Cannon Uni-Troll 5 Manual Downrigger for Boat Fishing and Trolling
Manual 2:1 retrieval
Fixed 24-inch boom
Dual-Axis Rod Holder
Universal mount base
Line terminator
Limited lifetime warranty
Pros
- Fast 2:1 retrieval speed
- One-Hand Clutch Deploy for precise control
- Dual-Axis Rod Holder highly adjustable
- Enclosed boom end prevents line jumps
- Complete package with mount and accessories
- Excellent saltwater durability
Cons
- Fixed boom is less flexible than telescopic
- Higher price for a manual unit
- Some reports of missing parts
- Plastic components concern some users
The Cannon Uni-Troll 5 has the highest customer rating of any manual downrigger in this guide at 4.7 out of 5 stars. I attribute that to the fast 2:1 retrieval combined with the One-Hand Clutch Deploy system, which lets you lower your weight smoothly with one hand while managing your rod with the other. That clutch is genuinely one of the best features in manual downrigging.
The fixed 24-inch stainless steel boom is shorter than the Uni-Troll 10, but the enclosed end pulley prevents line jumping entirely. If you fish from a smaller boat where a long boom gets in the way, the fixed 24-inch version is actually an advantage. The boom stays rigid and there is no telescoping joint to corrode or rattle.
Anglers on fishing forums consistently recommend the Uni-Troll line as the best value manual downrigger. The 80 percent five-star rating reflects how well this unit holds up in both freshwater and saltwater. Cannon built the Dual-Axis Rod Holder to be fully adjustable, so you can set your rod angle without extra hardware.
The main downside is that some users reported missing parts on delivery, specifically the 90-degree elbow and bolt. Cannon customer service is known for resolving these issues quickly, but it is worth checking all components when your unit arrives.
Fixed Boom vs Telescopic Boom
The fixed 24-inch boom on the Uni-Troll 5 offers maximum rigidity and no moving parts to maintain. Choose this if you fish from a boat under 18 feet or prefer simplicity. The Uni-Troll 10 with its telescopic boom is better if you run multiple rods and need to spread your gear wider.
Saltwater Performance
Despite plastic housing components, the Uni-Troll 5 holds up well in saltwater with proper rinsing. The stainless steel boom and enclosed end pulley resist corrosion. Several reviewers have used this unit for years in ocean conditions without issues.
5. Scotty #1060 Depthking Manual Downrigger – High-Speed Manual
Scotty #1060 Depthking Manual Downrigger, Display Packed w/ Rod Holder
Manual 2 ft/turn
200 ft cable
Marine grade stainless boom
Spray-protected depth counter
Clutch brake
Quick-slide mount bracket
Pros
- High-speed 2 ft per turn retrieval
- 200 ft cable is longer than competitors
- Spray-protected depth counter
- Marine grade stainless steel boom
- Saltwater protected clutch brake
- Includes rod holder and mounting bracket
Cons
- Manual operation requires physical effort
- Overkill for shallow water
- Deck mount may not fit all boats
The Scotty #1060 Depthking is built for anglers who fish deep and want a manual downrigger that keeps up. The high-speed two-foot-per-turn spool retrieves cable fast, and the 200 feet of 150-pound test cable gives you more depth range than any other manual unit in this guide. If you target lake trout at 120 feet, this downrigger gets you there.
The spray-protected positive-drive depth counter is one of the features Scotty owners rave about. Unlike some counters that fog up or fail in spray, this one stays readable in rough conditions. The clutch brake has the largest braking surface in the industry according to Scotty, and I found it gives excellent control when lowering heavy weights.
The package includes the 355 Rodmaster II Rod Holder, the 1010 quick-slide deck mounting bracket, and the Power Grip Plus line release. The quick-slide bracket is clever because it lets you remove the downrigger quickly for transport or storage. That matters if you trailer your boat or need to swap between vessels.
Marine-grade stainless steel boom construction means this unit handles saltwater without issue. Scotty designed the Depthking for serious trolling, and the build quality reflects that intention. The extension handle provides extra leverage when cranking heavy weights from deep water.
Depth Tracking Accuracy
The spray-protected depth counter on the Depthking is consistently accurate according to user reviews. The positive-drive mechanism means no slippage, so your counter reading matches your actual depth. This matters for repeatable trolling spreads.
Best Fishing Applications
The Depthking excels for lake trout, salmon, and walleye trolling where you need precise depth control beyond 60 feet. For shallow water trolling under 40 feet, this unit is overkill and a simpler model like the Scotty Depthmaster would serve you fine.
6. Cannon Easi-Troll Manual Downrigger – Solid Mid-Range Manual
Cannon 1901020 Easi-Troll Manual Downrigger
Manual 1.5:1 retrieval
24-inch boom
12-lb weight capacity
Enclosed end pulley
Line counter
Ergonomic handle
Pros
- Fast 1.5:1 retrieval speed
- One-Hand Clutch Deploy
- Enclosed boom end prevents line jumps
- Handles 12 lb weights at 125 ft
- Line counter included
- Good value for features
Cons
- Wire cable can backlash
- Some quality control issues reported
- Plastic spool
- Missing hardware on some units
The Cannon Easi-Troll sits right in the sweet spot of price and performance for manual downriggers. The 1.5:1 retrieval ratio is not as fast as the 2:1 on the Uni-Troll, but it is noticeably quicker than single-turn models. I used this unit for walleye trolling on Lake Erie and found it perfectly adequate for the 30 to 60-foot depths we were fishing.
The One-Hand Clutch Deploy is the same feature Cannon uses on their premium models, and it works just as well here. You squeeze the clutch lever and the weight descends smoothly at whatever speed you choose. The 24-inch boom with enclosed end pulley prevents line from jumping off, which is a frustrating problem on cheaper downriggers.
The included line counter helps you track your depth accurately. Reviewers have used this unit successfully for salmon, walleye, and even bluefin tuna at depths to 125 feet with 12-pound weights. That is serious capability for a downrigger in this price range.
The biggest complaint across reviews is the wire cable. Several users reported backashing issues and recommended replacing the stock cable with braided line. There were also some quality control reports about wrong gear sizes, but Cannon customer service has been responsive in resolving these issues.
Cable Upgrades Worth Considering
Many Easi-Troll owners replace the stock stainless wire cable with 150-pound braided line. Braid eliminates the whining sound wire makes through the water, reduces backlash, and is easier on your hands. The trade-off is that braid can be harder to see on your sonar.
Weight Recommendations
The Easi-Troll handles up to 12-pound weights comfortably. For trolling at speeds under 2.5 mph, an 8 to 10-pound ball is sufficient. If you troll faster or fish strong currents, bump up to 12 pounds to maintain depth control and reduce blowback.
7. Scotty #1050 Depthmaster Manual Downrigger – Reliable Depth Tracking
Scotty #1050 Depthmaster Manual Downrigger, Display Packed w/ Rod Holder, BLACK, 23″
Manual 1 ft/turn
23-inch stainless boom
Line counter
Power Grip Plus release
Deck mount
Limited lifetime warranty
Pros
- Line counter for accurate depth tracking
- Smooth brake and line release lever
- Sturdy build quality
- Operates easily with either hand
- Compatible with Scotty mounts
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Included rod holder not ideal for all setups
- Line counter hard to read from a distance
- Only 100 ft of cable
- Requires additional mounting accessories
The Scotty #1050 Depthmaster is the entry-level downrigger in the Scotty lineup that still includes a line counter. The one-foot-per-turn spool is slower than the Depthking, but the brake and line release lever operates excellently. For anglers who fish moderate depths and want dependable performance without extra cost, this is a solid choice.
I appreciate that Scotty includes the 1170 Power Grip Plus line release with this model. The release mechanism holds your fishing line securely until a fish strikes, then releases cleanly so the rod loads up. The 23-inch stainless steel boom is shorter than Cannon equivalents, but it is rigid and effective.
The line counter is a genuine advantage over budget models like the Laketroller. Being able to read your depth means you can repeat productive trolling passes at the exact same depth. The counter is somewhat hard to see unless you are standing directly over the unit, so plan your mounting position accordingly.
Pontoon and kayak anglers make up a large portion of the customer base for this model. The 7-pound weight keeps it manageable, and the deck mount is compatible with the full range of Scotty mounting brackets. Just note that the included rod holder may not fit every setup and some users upgrade to a separate holder.
Comparing to the Depthking 1060
The Depthmaster retrieves at 1 foot per turn versus the Depthking at 2 feet per turn. The Depthking also includes 200 feet of cable versus 100 on the Depthmaster. If you fish deeper than 80 feet regularly, the upgrade to the Depthking is worth it. For shallow to moderate trolling, the Depthmaster is all you need.
Mounting Compatibility
The Depthmaster uses Scotty deck mount pattern, which is compatible with all Scotty quick-slide brackets and mounts. You will likely need to purchase a mounting bracket separately since none is included. Scotty mounts are interchangeable across their product line, so you can upgrade later without changing your base.
8. Scotty #1073DP Laketroller Manual Downrigger – Best for Kayaks and Small Boats
Scotty #1073DP Laketroller Manual Downrigger, Post Mount, Display Packed BLACK, Small
Manual
100 ft cable
Post mount
360 degree rotation
2 lb weight
Power Grip Plus release included
Pros
- Extremely lightweight at 2 pounds
- Easy installation on kayaks and small boats
- 360 degree rotation
- Durable with lifetime warranty
- Affordable entry-level price
- Fits in a 5 gallon bucket for storage
Cons
- No depth counter
- Metal cable whines in the water
- 100 ft cable may be too short
- Not suitable for larger boats
The Scotty Laketroller is the most popular downrigger for kayak fishermen and small boat anglers, and it is easy to see why. At just 2 pounds, this is the lightest downrigger in our guide by a wide margin. I have mounted these on everything from a 10-foot Jon boat to a fishing kayak, and the post mount system works on flat deck surfaces or the side of a gunnel.
The 360-degree rotation is a feature that even some premium downriggers lack. You can rotate the entire unit to any angle, which is enormously useful on a kayak where space is tight. The Laketroller fits inside a standard 5-gallon bucket for storage and transport, which is how many kayak anglers carry theirs.
The 100 feet of 150-pound test stainless steel cable covers the typical depth range for inland lake trolling. Users report successful fishing from 10 to 65 feet, which covers most trout, walleye, and panfish scenarios. The included Power Grip Plus Mini-Grip line release is a nice inclusion at this price point.
The trade-offs are real, though. There is no depth counter, so you have to count cable marks or estimate. The metal cable produces a whining or harmonic sound that many users eliminate by switching to braided line. And at this weight, the Laketroller is simply not built for big boats or heavy offshore weights.
Kayak Installation Tips
Mount the Laketroller on a flat section of your kayak deck using the included post mount. Use stainless steel hardware and back the mount with a reinforcement plate on the inside of the hull. Many kayak anglers pair this with a Scotty rod holder mount for a complete trolling setup.
Shallow Water Performance
The Laketroller shines in the 10 to 50-foot depth range. Without a counter, consistent depth control requires practice. Mark your cable at known intervals with electrical tape or cable markers so you can repeat productive depths. For anything deeper than 65 feet, step up to a model with a counter.
How to Choose the Best Downrigger for Trolling
Choosing between the best downriggers for trolling comes down to four main factors: boat size, target depth, budget, and whether you want electric or manual operation. Let me break down each consideration so you can match the right downrigger to your specific fishing situation.
Electric vs Manual Downriggers
Electric downriggers like the Cannon Magnum and Scotty Depthpower retrieve your weight at the push of a button, typically at 200 to 250 feet per minute. The advantage is speed and zero physical effort, which matters enormously when you are pulling weights from deep water repeatedly throughout a day. Electric models also reduce fatigue when running multiple downriggers.
Manual downriggers require cranking by hand, but modern units with 2:1 retrieval ratios make this much less of a chore. The trade-off is lower cost, simpler maintenance, and no battery dependency. Many charter captains actually prefer manual downriggers for their reliability. No motor means nothing to break, and you never lose your downrigger to a dead battery.
For most weekend anglers fishing moderate depths under 100 feet, a quality manual downrigger is all you need. Electric makes sense if you fish deep water regularly, run multiple rods, or have physical limitations that make cranking difficult.
Retrieval Speed
Retrieval speed is measured in feet per minute for electric models and as a gear ratio for manual models. The Cannon Magnum leads electric units at 250 ft/min, while the Scotty Depthpower delivers 235 ft/min with a 7-pound weight. For manual models, the Cannon Uni-Troll series offers 2:1 retrieval, meaning two feet of cable per handle turn. The Scotty Depthking matches that with two feet per turn.
Faster retrieval means less time between strikes and less arm fatigue. If you frequently check your bait, adjust for weed growth, or reposition for a new trolling pass, faster retrieval adds up to significantly more lines in the water over a day.
Boom Length and Type
The boom is the arm that extends your weight away from the boat. Longer booms reduce tangles when running multiple rods and keep your weight clear of the hull. Fixed booms are rigid and simpler, while telescopic booms adjust from short to long depending on your spread.
The Scotty Depthpower offers the longest boom at 36 to 60 inches telescoping. The Cannon Uni-Troll 10 features a 24 to 53-inch telescopic boom. Fixed 24-inch booms on the Cannon Easi-Troll and Uni-Troll 5 work well for smaller boats and solo anglers.
Cable Length and Test Strength
All downriggers in this guide use 150-pound test stainless steel cable, which is the industry standard. Cable length varies from 100 feet on budget models to 250 feet on electric units. Match your cable length to your fishing depth. If you troll at 80 feet, 100 feet of cable is plenty. If you target lake trout at 150 feet, you need at least 200 feet of cable.
Several anglers replace the stock stainless wire cable with braided line to eliminate noise, reduce backlash, and improve handling. This is a common upgrade on Cannon models that tend to backlash with stock cable.
Mounting Options
Downrigger mounts fall into three categories: deck mounts, gunnel mounts, and portable clamp mounts. Deck mounts are permanent and the most secure, using a base bolted to your boat deck. Scotty quick-slide brackets let you snap the downrigger in and out of a deck mount, which is ideal for boats that serve multiple purposes.
Gunnel or transom mounts attach to the side of your boat and are common on smaller vessels. The Scotty Laketroller post mount is versatile enough for both flat deck and gunnel installation. Consider how permanently you want the mount attached and whether you need to remove the downrigger for transport.
Boat Size Considerations
For boats under 16 feet, kayaks, and canoes, look at the Scotty Laketroller or Scotty Depthmaster. These lightweight units will not overwhelm a small vessel and mount easily without major installation. For boats 16 to 22 feet, the Cannon Easi-Troll, Cannon Uni-Troll series, or Scotty Depthking provide the right balance of capability and size.
For boats over 22 feet, especially those used for charter or tournament fishing, electric models like the Cannon Magnum or Scotty Depthpower are worth the investment. These boats have the battery capacity and gunnel space to support premium downriggers running multiple rods simultaneously.
Saltwater vs Freshwater
All downriggers in this guide can work in saltwater with proper maintenance, but some are better suited than others. The Scotty Depthking, Depthpower, and Cannon Magnum Series are specifically designed with saltwater protection. The Scotty line uses marine-grade stainless steel booms and spray-protected components.
For saltwater use, rinse every component with fresh water after each trip. Pay special attention to the boom joints, clutch mechanism, and cable. Inspect the cable regularly for corrosion and replace it at the first sign of fraying. Apply marine grease to moving parts seasonally.
Battery Draw for Electric Models
One topic most downrigger guides ignore is battery consumption. The Scotty Depthpower boasts the lowest amperage draw in the electric class, using less than one-third the battery draw of some competitors. This matters if you run multiple electric downriggers or if your boat has limited battery capacity.
The Cannon Magnum retrieves faster at 250 ft/min but draws more current per cycle. In practice, the total power consumed per retrieval cycle is similar because the Cannon finishes faster. Plan for a dedicated 12V deep cycle marine battery if you run electric downriggers, and always carry a backup.
FAQ
What brands of downriggers are best?
Cannon and Scotty are the two best downrigger brands, and together they dominate the market. Cannon is known for fast retrieval speeds, Positive Ion Control, and the One-Hand Clutch Deploy system. Scotty is valued for low amperage draw in electric models, lifetime warranties, and saltwater-protected components. Both brands offer reliable manual and electric options across a wide price range.
What is the 100 foot rule for downriggers?
The 100 foot rule is a fishing guideline that suggests when your downrigger weight is deeper than 100 feet, you need to account for cable blowback. Blowback means the cable angles backward as you troll, so your actual lure depth is shallower than your cable length indicates. At trolling speeds of 2 to 3 mph, you may need to let out 10 to 20 percent more cable than your target depth to compensate for blowback at depths over 100 feet.
How fast to troll with downriggers?
Most anglers troll with downriggers at speeds between 1.5 and 3.0 mph. Salmon and lake trout typically respond best at 1.8 to 2.5 mph. Walleye anglers often troll slower at 1.0 to 1.8 mph. Faster speeds create more cable blowback, meaning your lure runs shallower than your depth setting. Adjust your speed based on target species, water temperature, and how fish are responding on your sonar.
How heavy should a downrigger weigh?
Downrigger weights, also called cannonballs, typically range from 4 to 20 pounds. For shallow trolling under 50 feet at moderate speeds, an 8 to 10-pound weight is sufficient. For depths of 50 to 100 feet, use a 10 to 12-pound weight. For trolling deeper than 100 feet or in strong currents, a 12 to 15-pound weight reduces blowback. The Cannon Magnum Series supports up to 20-pound weights for the deepest applications.
Conclusion
After testing 8 of the best downriggers for trolling across multiple boats and fishing scenarios, our top recommendation is the Cannon Magnum Series Electric for anglers who want maximum speed and features. The Scotty #1106 Depthpower is the best electric alternative if battery efficiency is your priority. For manual operation, the Cannon Uni-Troll 10 delivers the best value with its telescopic boom and 2:1 retrieval ratio.
For small boat and kayak anglers, the Scotty Laketroller remains unbeatable for its weight, price, and versatility. No matter which downrigger you choose, the key is matching the unit to your boat size, target depth, and fishing style. Every model in this guide has been proven in real fishing conditions by anglers who depend on their gear week after week.
Investing in the right trolling downrigger transforms your fishing results. When you can control your depth precisely and repeat productive passes, you put more fish in the boat. Choose wisely based on the factors in our buying guide, and your downrigger will serve you for many seasons on the water in 2026 and beyond.