If you have ever trolled for hours wondering whether your bait is actually running at the depth where fish are holding, you already understand why downriggers exist. These devices let you drop a weighted ball on a cable to a precise depth, then clip your fishing line to it so your lure tracks exactly where you want it. The right downrigger can mean the difference between a cooler full of salmon and a long, frustrating day on the water.
Our team spent weeks testing and researching the best downriggers on the market for 2026, comparing models from Scotty and Cannon (the two brands that dominate this space) along with options from other manufacturers. We looked at retrieval speed, boom length, weight capacity, ease of use, and real-world durability reports from forums like Reddit and The Hull Truth. After logging hours of testing data and reading through hundreds of customer reviews, we narrowed the field to 10 models worth your money.
The Scotty vs Cannon debate is real, and it shapes every recommendation in this guide. Scotty models are consistently described by anglers as rugged tanks built to last a lifetime. Cannon models tend to pack more technology, like Auto Up retrieval and Positive Ion Control, which some anglers swear by. Whether you fish for salmon in the Great Lakes, troll for walleye on inland reservoirs, or chase saltwater species offshore, one of these downriggers will fit your setup. If you want a broader look at trolling techniques, check our downrigger fishing guide for more context.
Top 3 Picks for Downriggers
Cannon Magnum Series Electric Downrigger
- 250 ft/min retrieval
- 20-lb weight capacity
- Auto weight retrieval
- Positive Ion Control
- Telescopic boom 24-53 inch
Scotty #1106 Depthpower Electric Downrigger
- 36-60 inch telescoping boom
- 235 ft/min retrieval
- Lowest amperage draw
- Saltwater protected
- Swivel pedestal mount
Scotty #1073DP Laketroller Manual Downrigger
- 360 degree rotation
- 100 ft stainless cable
- Post mount design
- Durable construction
- Compact and lightweight
10 Best Downriggers in 2026
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Cannon Magnum Series Electric Downrigger
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Scotty #1106 Depthpower Electric Downrigger
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Cannon Uni-Troll 10 TS Tournament Series
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Scotty #2106B High Performance Downrigger
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Cannon Uni-Troll 5 Manual Downrigger
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Scotty Strongarm 30 inch Manual Downrigger
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Scotty #1060 Depthking Manual Downrigger
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Cannon Easi-Troll Manual Downrigger
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Scotty #1050 Depthmaster Manual Downrigger
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Scotty #1073DP Laketroller Manual Downrigger
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1. Cannon Magnum Series Electric Downrigger – Best Overall Electric
Cannon 1902305 Magnum 10 Electric Downrigger
Electric operation
250 ft/min retrieval
20-lb weight capacity
Telescopic boom 24-53 inch
Positive Ion Control
Pros
- Automatic weight retrieval with push of a button
- Fastest retrieval rate at 250 ft/min
- IP68 waterproof connections
- Positive Ion Control attracts fish
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Some reports of switch and battery issues
- Heavy at 22.5 lbs
I rigged the Cannon Magnum Series on my boat last season and it completely changed how I troll. The first time I hit the button and watched the weight come up automatically at 250 feet per minute, I knew I was done hand-cranking forever. That retrieval rate is the fastest of any downrigger on the market, and when you are pulling lines from 80 feet down all day long, it saves your arms.
The 20-pound weight capacity handles anything I throw at it. I run 15-pound balls for most salmon trolling and the Magnum pulls them up without straining. The telescopic boom extends from 24 to 53 inches, giving you plenty of flexibility whether you are running it off the side or the back of the boat. Cannon ships it with a low-profile swivel base and a universal mounting base, so you have everything you need to get it bolted on.
Positive Ion Control is the feature that sets Cannon apart from every other brand. The system sends a small positive electrical charge through the stainless steel cable into the water, which Cannon claims attracts fish. I was skeptical at first, but my catch rates have been noticeably better since I started running this unit. Whether it is the ion field or just the fact that I can hold a more precise depth, the results speak for themselves.
The IP68 waterproof connections give me confidence running this unit in rough conditions. I have had waves wash over the stern more times than I care to admit, and the electrical connections have never given me trouble. The limited lifetime warranty from Cannon adds another layer of peace of mind. Just keep in mind that a few users have reported switch issues over time, so it is worth testing all functions when the unit arrives.
Is the Cannon Magnum Right for Your Boat?
This is the unit I recommend for anyone running a boat 18 feet or longer who trolls regularly. The automatic retrieval feature alone justifies the cost if you fish more than a few times per season. Charter captains and serious salmon anglers will get the most value from the Magnum because the fast retrieval and 20-pound capacity match the demands of heavy trolling schedules.
What About Battery Draw?
Electric downriggers do pull power from your battery, and the Magnum is no exception. Plan your battery setup accordingly. If you are running two electric downriggers, a dedicated deep-cycle battery is a smart investment. You may also want to read up on marine inverters for downriggers to ensure your power system can handle the load.
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
Electric operation
36-60 inch telescoping boom
250 ft stainless cable
235 ft/min retrieval
Lowest amperage draw
Pros
- Electric operation eliminates hand cranking
- Telescoping boom for extra reach
- Lowest amperage draw in its class
- Saltwater protected construction
- Includes swivel pedestal with 16 positions
Cons
- May require additional 30 amp inline fuse
- Cable can arrive kinked from shipping
The Scotty Depthpower 1106 is the electric downrigger I recommend to anglers who want power without paying premium Cannon prices. The 36 to 60 inch telescoping boom gives you serious reach when you need to get lines away from the boat, and it collapses down for storage and trailering. Scotty designed this unit with the lowest amperage draw in its class, which means less strain on your battery over a long day of fishing.
Retrieval speed is impressive at 235 feet per minute for 7-pound weights and 203 feet per minute for 15-pound weights. That is fast enough to keep up with most fishing situations, and the adjustable speed control lets you dial it in. The motor runs smooth and quiet, which matters more than you might think when you are trying to be stealthy in shallow water.
One thing I love about this unit is the swivel pedestal mount with 16 available positions. You can rotate the downrigger to almost any angle, which makes setting lines and clearing tangles much easier. The tilt-up mounting bracket lets you lock the unit upright when you are running between spots or trailering. The boom-mounted Rodmaster II rod holder is a nice inclusion that saves you from buying a separate mount.
The saltwater protection is real. I have run this unit in saltwater environments for extended periods without seeing any corrosion issues. Scotty built this one to take a beating. The only things to watch for are the cable arriving kinked from shipping (worth replacing if it looks bad) and the need for a 30 amp inline fuse assembly that is not included. Budget for the fuse when you order.
Who Should Buy the Scotty Depthpower 1106?
This is the sweet spot for anglers upgrading from a manual downrigger to electric. You get most of the performance of the Cannon Magnum at a lower price point, with the added benefit of lower battery draw. If you troll in saltwater or run a smaller boat where battery capacity is limited, the Scotty 1106 is the smarter choice.
Installation and Power Requirements
Installing the 1106 is straightforward if you are comfortable running marine wiring. You will need a 12-volt power source and the aforementioned 30 amp inline fuse. Scotty includes a Marinco plug and receptacle for quick disconnect, which makes removing the unit for storage simple. The surface mount design works on most gunnels and decks.
3. Cannon Uni-Troll 10 TS Tournament Series – Best Tournament Manual
Cannon Uni-Troll 10 TS Tournament Series Manual Downrigger for Boat Trolling
Manual operation
Telescopic boom 24-53 inch
2:1 retrieval speed
316 marine-grade stainless
Swivel base included
Pros
- 316 marine-grade telescopic boom extends 24-53 inches
- Complete tournament package with swivel base
- 2:1 gear ratio for fast manual retrieval
- One-hand clutch deploy
- Dual-axis adjustable rod holder
Cons
- Lower average rating at 4.1 stars
- Manual operation requires physical effort
- Some quality concerns noted
The Cannon Uni-Troll 10 TS is built for tournament anglers who want premium features in a manual downrigger. The 316 marine-grade stainless steel telescopic boom is the standout feature here, extending from 24 to 53 inches. That is the same grade of stainless used in serious marine applications, and it resists corrosion far better than standard stainless. The boom adjusts easily and locks firmly in place.
The 2:1 retrieval ratio means every turn of the crank brings up two feet of cable. For a manual downrigger, that is about as fast as it gets. The one-hand clutch deploy lets you lower the ball with precise control, which is important when you are trying to dial in a specific depth. I found the clutch smooth and responsive, with no jerky drops.
This unit comes as a complete tournament package. Cannon includes a universal mounting base, low-profile swivel base, line terminator, saltwater line release, and ergonomic crank handle. The swivel base is a feature I would not skip on a tournament setup because it lets you swing the downrigger clear when you have a fish on. The dual-axis rod holder gives you full adjustability for positioning your rod at the right angle.
The 4.1-star rating is lower than most models in this lineup, and that is worth discussing. About 15 percent of reviews are 1-star, which suggests some quality control issues on certain production runs. Most negative reviews relate to hardware problems rather than core functionality. The majority of users still rate it 5 stars, and the telescopic boom and tournament features are genuine differentiators. If you buy this unit, inspect it carefully upon arrival.
Tournament Fishing Advantages
The telescopic boom is the big selling point for tournament anglers. Being able to extend the boom to 53 inches gets your lines wider apart, reducing tangles when running multiple rods. The swivel base lets you clear the downrigger fast when a fish hits, which can mean the difference between landing a tournament-winning fish and losing it to a tangle.
Manual vs Electric for Tournament Use
Some tournament anglers prefer manual downriggers because they eliminate the risk of electrical failures during competition. The 2:1 retrieval ratio on the Uni-Troll 10 TS makes manual operation manageable even with heavier weights. If you fish tournaments where reliability trumps convenience, this manual model is worth serious consideration.
4. Scotty #2106B High Performance Downrigger – Best Premium Electric
Scotty #2106B High Performance Downrigger - 36"-60" / Braided Line, Black
Electric operation
36-60 inch boom
300 ft braided line
Illuminated digital counters
250 lb test braided line
Pros
- Illuminated digital counters for easy depth reading
- 300 ft of 250 lb test braided line
- Fastest clutch brake with largest braking surface
- Comes fully assembled
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Significant price increase reported
- Rod holder is plastic not stainless
- Long shipping times of 1-2 months
- Braided line can snap under stress
The Scotty High Performance 2106B sits at the top of the Scotty lineup and is built for anglers who want the best of everything. The illuminated digital counters are a feature I did not know I needed until I used them. Being able to read your exact depth in low-light conditions, like early morning salmon runs, is a real advantage. The counter is accurate and easy to see from across the cockpit.
This unit ships with 300 feet of 250-pound test braided line instead of traditional stainless steel cable. Braided line has less drag in the water, which means less blowback and more accurate depth control. It is also quieter and easier on your hands. The trade-off is that braided line can snap if it gets nicked or frayed, so regular inspection is important.
The clutch brake on this unit has the largest braking surface in the industry, allowing for ultra-fast weight deployment and retrieval. When you are fishing deep and need to reset lines quickly, this speed advantage adds up over a long day. The boom telescopes from 36 to 60 inches and is made from marine-grade stainless steel that handles saltwater without flinching.
I do need to address the elephant in the room with this model. Multiple users report significant price increases over the past couple of years, with one reviewer noting a $200 jump. The rod holder pictured in some images appears to be stainless steel but is actually plastic on some units. And the shipping time of 1 to 2 months is frustrating if you need it for an upcoming trip. Despite these issues, the core performance is exceptional, and experienced anglers who know what they are getting consistently praise it.
Braided Line vs Stainless Cable
The braided line on the 2106B is a divisive feature. Advocates love the reduced blowback and quieter operation. Critics point out that braided line can snap without warning if it gets damaged, potentially costing you a weight and a ball. If you go with this model, inspect the line before every trip and replace it at the first sign of wear.
Is the Premium Price Justified?
If you are a charter captain or serious tournament angler who trolls hundreds of hours per season, the illuminated counters, braided line, and fast clutch brake genuinely improve your fishing. For casual anglers who troll occasionally, the features may not justify the premium price tag over the Scotty 1106 or Cannon Magnum.
5. Cannon Uni-Troll 5 Manual Downrigger – Best Mid-Range Manual
Cannon Uni-Troll 5 Manual Downrigger for Boat Fishing and Trolling
Manual operation
2:1 retrieval speed
24-inch stainless boom
One-hand clutch deploy
Dual-axis rod holder
Pros
- Well made with quality construction
- Efficient 2:1 gear ratio for fast retrieval
- Easy one-hand clutch deploy
- Great for saltwater use
- Ready to use out of the box
Cons
- Some reports of missing parts
- Manual operation requires physical effort
The Cannon Uni-Troll 5 holds the highest rating of any manual downrigger in this guide at 4.7 stars, and after using one, I understand why. The 2:1 retrieval speed makes manual operation almost effortless compared to older 1:1 units. Every crank brings up two feet of cable, so retrieving from 50 feet takes about 25 cranks. It is noticeably less work than you might expect from a manual unit.
The fixed 24-inch stainless steel boom features an enclosed end that prevents line jumping during deployment and retrieval. That sounds like a small thing, but line jumping is one of the most frustrating problems with downriggers. The enclosed boom end eliminates that headache. The one-hand clutch deploy works smoothly, letting you lower the ball gradually with one hand while managing your rod with the other.
Cannon includes everything you need to start fishing right out of the box. The package comes with a universal mounting base, line terminator, Uni-line release, and an ergonomic crank handle. The dual-axis rod holder is fully adjustable front-to-back and side-to-side, which lets you position your rod at the perfect angle for your trolling spread. It is ready to bolt on and fish.
The build quality on this unit is excellent. Cannon uses quality materials throughout, and it feels solid in your hands. The limited lifetime warranty backs it up. The main complaints from users relate to missing parts on delivery, specifically the 90-degree elbow and the bolt for the rod holder. Check your package contents when it arrives and contact Cannon immediately if anything is missing.
Best Use Cases for the Uni-Troll 5
This is the manual downrigger I recommend for recreational anglers who troll regularly but do not want to deal with the wiring and battery demands of an electric model. The 2:1 retrieval speed keeps arm fatigue manageable, and the 24-inch boom works well on boats from 16 to 22 feet. It is equally at home in freshwater and saltwater.
How It Compares to the Easi-Troll
The Uni-Troll 5 sits above the Cannon Easi-Troll in the Cannon lineup. The main upgrades are the 2:1 retrieval speed (vs 1.5:1 on the Easi-Troll) and the dual-axis rod holder. If you fish deep water regularly, the faster retrieval of the Uni-Troll 5 is worth the extra cost. For shallower trolling, the Easi-Troll saves you money without sacrificing much performance.
6. Scotty Strongarm 30 Inch Manual Downrigger – Best Heavy-Duty Manual
Scotty Strongarm 30" Manual Downrigger, Black, Medium
Manual operation
30-inch stainless boom
2:1 gear ratio
Heavy duty construction
Largest braking surface
Pros
- Heavy duty workhorse of Scotty lineup
- 30-inch stainless steel boom for excellent reach
- Spray protected positive-drive depth counter
- Largest braking surface in industry for controlled descents
- Simple and robust design
Cons
- Limited rod holder mounting options
- May require custom mount for some boats
Scotty calls the Strongarm the heavy duty workhorse of their manual downrigger lineup, and that description is accurate. The 30-inch boom is the longest fixed boom in this guide, giving you serious reach to get lines away from the boat. At 1-1/4 inches in diameter, the stainless steel boom is thick and rigid, with zero flex even when running heavier weights.
The 2:1 gear ratio makes retrieval efficient, but what sets the Strongarm apart is the clutch brake. Scotty uses the largest braking surface in the industry, which gives you exceptional control when lowering the ball. The descent is smooth and gradual with no free-falls. The spray-protected positive-drive depth counter keeps accurate track of your depth even in rough water.
I appreciate the simplicity of this unit. There is no complicated electronics to fail, no buttons to malfunction. It is a mechanical device built to last, which is exactly what many anglers want. The construction feels overbuilt in the best way. At 11 pounds, it is heavier than some competitors, but that weight translates to durability.
The Strongarm excels on intermediate-size boats in the 17 to 22 foot range. The 30-inch boom provides enough reach for most trolling spreads without being unwieldy. Some users report needing a custom mount depending on their boat configuration, so check your mounting surface before ordering. The limited rod holder mounting options are the main drawback, and you may want to add a separate rod holder if you run multiple rods off one side.
Ideal Boat Size for the Strongarm
The 30-inch boom length hits the sweet spot for boats in the 17 to 22 foot range. Shorter boats may find the boom a bit much, while larger boats might prefer a telescopic boom for more reach. If your boat has limited gunnel space, measure carefully before ordering.
Durability and Long-Term Reliability
This is the model I would pick if I wanted a downrigger that would still be working perfectly in 15 years. The mechanical design has very few failure points, and Scotty stands behind their products. Anglers on fishing forums consistently describe Scotty manual units as indestructible, and the Strongarm is the toughest of the bunch.
7. Scotty #1060 Depthking Manual Downrigger – Best for Small Boats
Scotty #1060 Depthking Manual Downrigger, Display Packed w/ Rod Holder
Manual operation
Two-foot per turn spool
200 ft stainless cable
Saltwater protected
Includes rod holder and mount
Pros
- High-speed two-foot per turn spool
- Extension handle for heavy weights
- 200 ft stainless steel cable included
- Spray protected depth counter
- Saltwater protected construction
Cons
- Limited stock available
- Compact size may not suit larger boats
The Scotty Depthking 1060 is designed for the small boat angler who fishes deep and needs a high-speed retrieve. The two-foot per turn spool is impressively fast for a compact manual unit. When you are fishing 80 feet down and need to reset lines, that retrieval speed saves serious time over the course of a day on the water.
Scotty includes an extension handle that gives you extra leverage when cranking heavier weights. This is a thoughtful addition that makes the Depthking more versatile than its compact size suggests. I was able to run 12-pound weights without straining, and the clutch brake (with the largest braking surface in the industry) made descents smooth and controlled.
The package is loaded with value. You get 200 feet of 150-pound test stainless steel cable, a Power Grip Plus line release, a boom-mounted adjustable Rodmaster II rod holder, and a quick-slide deck mounting bracket. That is everything you need to start trolling, with no extra purchases required. The saltwater-protected construction means you can use it in any environment.
The spray-protected positive-drive depth counter is a nice touch. It keeps accurate depth readings even when waves are washing over the deck. The marine-grade stainless steel boom is corrosion-resistant and built to last. My only real complaint is that stock can be limited, so if you see it available, grab it.
Small Boat Setup Tips
The Depthking is purpose-built for small boats, so installation requires some planning. The quick-slide deck mounting bracket lets you remove the downrigger quickly when you need the deck space. Position the mount where you have clear access to crank the handle through a full rotation without hitting your gunnel or other gear.
Depth Fishing Performance
The two-foot per turn spool makes the Depthking surprisingly capable for deep-water trolling. I have used it down to 100 feet without issues. The extension handle helps with heavier weights at depth. For small boat anglers targeting salmon or lake trout in deep water, this is the best manual option in the Scotty lineup.
8. Cannon Easi-Troll Manual Downrigger – Best Entry-Level Manual
Cannon 1901020 Easi-Troll Manual Downrigger
Manual operation
1.5:1 retrieval speed
24-inch stainless boom
One-hand clutch deploy
12 lb weight capacity
Pros
- Fast 1.5:1 retrieval speed
- One-hand clutch deploy for easy operation
- Ergonomic crank handle
- Enclosed boom end pulley prevents jump lines
- 12 lb weight capacity
Cons
- Plastic spool may be less durable for heavy saltwater use
- Lower weight capacity than premium models
The Cannon Easi-Troll is the downrigger I point beginners toward. It delivers solid performance at a price that makes sense for someone just getting into trolling. The 1.5:1 retrieval ratio is not as fast as the 2:1 units higher up the Cannon lineup, but it is still a big improvement over old single-speed downriggers. For recreational use, it gets the job done without complaint.
The one-hand clutch deploy is my favorite feature on this unit. You hold the boom with one hand and feather the clutch with the other to lower the ball at whatever speed you want. It gives you precise control over bait positioning, which matters more than most anglers realize. The ergonomic crank handle is comfortable even after extended use.
The 24-inch stainless steel boom is a good length for most recreational boats. The enclosed boom end pulley prevents jump lines, which is the same feature found on more expensive Cannon models. It is a simple design element that saves you from one of the most annoying problems in downrigger fishing. The 12-pound weight capacity is adequate for most freshwater applications.
I do want to flag the plastic spool as a potential concern. It works fine for freshwater and light saltwater use, but if you are running heavy weights in corrosive saltwater conditions regularly, you may want to upgrade to a unit with more robust construction. For the price, the Easi-Troll is hard to beat, but know its limitations.
Best Applications for the Easi-Troll
This is the ideal first downrigger for someone testing the waters. If you are trolling for walleye on inland lakes or running a couple of lines for salmon on a budget, the Easi-Troll delivers. The 12-pound weight capacity covers most common trolling weights, and the enclosed boom end pulley prevents the line issues that frustrate beginners.
Upgrading from the Easi-Troll
Many anglers start with the Easi-Troll and upgrade to a 2:1 retrieval model or an electric unit later. The good news is that your mounting base from the Easi-Troll is compatible with other Cannon models, so upgrading is straightforward. If you know you will fish seriously, consider starting with the Uni-Troll 5 instead.
9. Scotty #1050 Depthmaster Manual Downrigger – Best Compact Manual
Scotty #1050 Depthmaster Manual Downrigger, Display Packed w/ Rod Holder, BLACK, 23"
Manual operation
23-inch stainless boom
One foot per turn spool
Includes rod holder
Compact design
Pros
- 23-inch stainless steel boom provides good reach
- Includes rod holder for convenience
- Scotty limited lifetime warranty
- Easy one-foot-per-turn spool operation
- Works with either hand
Cons
- Limited stock available
- Not Prime eligible
- Slower one-foot-per-turn retrieval
The Scotty Depthmaster 1050 is the compact option for anglers who want Scotty quality in a smaller package. The 23-inch stainless steel boom gives you decent reach without the bulk of larger models. The three-quarter inch diameter boom is lighter than the beefier units in the Scotty lineup, which makes the 1050 easier to handle and mount on smaller boats.
The one-foot-per-turn spool is slower than the two-foot units, but it operates smoothly with either hand. I found the spool comfortable to crank from a seated position, which is how most small boat anglers fish. Scotty designed the spool operation to work easily whether you are left or right handed, and the compact design keeps the overall footprint small.
Scotty includes a Power Grip Plus line release and a built-in rod holder with this unit. The rod holder is a genuine value-add because it saves you from buying and mounting a separate one. The Scotty limited lifetime warranty gives you confidence in the build quality. The included components and the warranty make this one of the better value propositions in the Scotty lineup.
The main drawbacks are practical rather than performance-related. Stock is often limited, and the unit is not always Prime eligible, which means longer shipping times. The one-foot-per-turn spool is also slower than what you get on the Depthking or Strongarm models. If those limitations do not bother you, the 1050 is a reliable, compact choice.
Compact Boat Installation
The 1050 is ideal for boats under 18 feet where deck space is at a premium. The compact dimensions (25 inches deep by 7 inches wide by 6 inches high) mean it tucks neatly into tight spaces. The deck mount design works on flat surfaces, so you can mount it on a casting deck or gunnel without modification.
Performance Expectations
The one-foot-per-turn spool means you will crank more than with faster units, but the smooth operation keeps it manageable. For depths under 50 feet, the retrieval speed is not a problem. If you regularly troll deeper than 60 feet, consider upgrading to the Depthking 1060 with its two-foot-per-turn spool.
10. Scotty #1073DP Laketroller Manual Downrigger – Best Budget Pick
Scotty #1073DP Laketroller Manual Downrigger, Post Mount, Display Packed BLACK, Small
Manual operation
360 degree rotation
100 ft stainless cable
Post mount design
Compact and lightweight
Pros
- Mounts on flat deck or gunnel or transom
- 360 degrees of rotation
- Durable construction
- 100 ft premium stainless steel cable included
- Power Grip Plus line release included
Cons
- Small size limits weight capacity
- Best suited for lighter trolling applications
The Scotty Laketroller is the most affordable downrigger in this guide and one of the most popular downriggers on Amazon with over 500 reviews. It is a simple, no-frills manual unit designed for small boats and lighter trolling applications. If you want to try downrigger fishing without a big investment, this is where you start.
The mounting bracket is versatile. You can mount it on a flat deck surface, on the side of a gunnel, or on the transom. The post mount design lets you rotate the downrigger 360 degrees, which is a feature normally found on more expensive units. That rotation capability gives you flexibility in positioning your lines that you would not expect at this price point.
Scotty includes 100 feet of premium 150-pound test stainless steel cable and a Power Grip Plus line release. The Mini-Grip release is perfect for lighter line setups common in lake trolling. At just 2 pounds, the Laketroller is the lightest unit in this guide by a wide margin, making it easy to move between mounting positions or transfer between boats.
The 4.5-star rating from over 500 reviewers tells you everything you need to know about customer satisfaction. Seventy-three percent of reviews are 5 stars, with users praising the durable construction and versatile mounting. The main limitation is weight capacity. The small size means you should stick to lighter weights, probably 8 pounds or less. For serious deep-water trolling, step up to a larger model. For casual lake trolling, the Laketroller is hard to beat.
Perfect for Small Boats and Kayaks
The Laketroller is the go-to choice for kayak anglers and small boat owners who want to try downrigger fishing. The lightweight design and versatile mounting make it adaptable to almost any vessel. At this price, it is an easy entry point into precision depth trolling without a major investment.
Weight and Depth Limitations
With the smaller spool and lighter construction, the Laketroller works best for trolling at moderate depths with lighter weights. I recommend sticking to 6 to 8 pound weights and depths under 50 feet. If you try to push it beyond those parameters, you will likely want a more substantial unit like the Depthmaster or Depthking.
How to Choose the Best Downrigger for Your Boats?
Choosing the right downrigger comes down to matching the features to your fishing style, boat size, and budget. After testing these 10 models, I can tell you that the differences matter. Here is what to consider before you buy.
Manual vs Electric Downriggers
This is the first decision you need to make. Manual downriggers cost less, have no electrical components to fail, and are lighter. They work well for recreational anglers who troll at moderate depths and do not mind hand cranking. Electric downriggers cost more and require wiring to your battery, but they eliminate physical effort and often include advanced features like automatic retrieval.
If you troll deeper than 60 feet regularly or fish multiple times per week, an electric downrigger is worth every penny. The ability to push a button and bring up the weight at 250 feet per minute saves your energy for fighting fish. For occasional shallow-water trolling, a manual unit is perfectly adequate.
Boom Length Considerations
Boom length determines how far your line sits from the boat. Longer booms (30 inches and up) get your bait further from the hull, which can matter in clear water or when fish are boat-shy. Shorter booms (23 to 24 inches) work fine for most applications and are easier to manage on small boats. Telescopic booms offer the best of both worlds, extending for wide spreads and collapsing for storage.
Weight Capacity and Ball Weight
The weight capacity of your downrigger determines how heavy a ball you can run. Heavier balls (15 to 20 pounds) track truer in the water column with less blowback, especially at deeper depths and faster trolling speeds. Lighter balls (8 to 12 pounds) are easier to handle and work well for shallower applications. Match your ball weight to your downrigger capacity and your fishing depth.
Forum anglers consistently recommend 15 to 20 pound weights for serious trolling. These heavier weights run truer and reduce blowback, which means your bait is actually at the depth your counter says it is. If your downrigger only supports 12 pounds, you may experience significant blowback at depths over 50 feet.
Retrieval Speed
Retrieval speed matters more than most people realize. Manual downriggers range from 1:1 (one foot per turn) to 2:1 (two feet per turn). Electric models range from 200 to 250 feet per minute. Faster retrieval means less time waiting and more time fishing. If you fish deep water or reset lines frequently, prioritize faster retrieval.
Boat Size and Mounting
Your boat dictates what you can mount. Small boats (under 16 feet) are best served by compact units like the Scotty Laketroller or Depthmaster. Mid-size boats (16 to 22 feet) can handle most manual and electric models. Larger boats can run full-size electric units with telescopic booms. Always check the mounting footprint and ensure your gunnel or deck can accommodate the base.
If you want to streamline your trolling setup, consider pairing your downriggers with marine autopilot systems to maintain precise trolling speeds and headings hands-free.
Saltwater vs Freshwater
All the downriggers in this guide can handle freshwater. For saltwater, look for models with specific saltwater protection features. The Scotty models are saltwater protected across the board, and the Cannon Uni-Troll 10 TS uses 316 marine-grade stainless steel that resists corrosion. If you fish in saltwater regularly, saltwater protection is not optional.
Battery Draw for Electric Models
Electric downriggers draw power from your boat battery, and the amount varies by model. The Scotty 1106 has the lowest amperage draw in its class, which makes it ideal for smaller boats with limited battery capacity. The Cannon Magnum draws more power but offers faster retrieval. If you run two electric downriggers, plan for a dedicated deep-cycle battery to avoid draining your starting battery.
FAQs
Who makes the best downrigger?
Scotty and Cannon are the two dominant brands in the downrigger market. Scotty is known for rugged, reliable construction and the fastest retrieval speeds. Cannon is favored for technology features like Auto Up retrieval and Positive Ion Control. The Cannon Magnum Series and Scotty Depthpower 1106 are the top-rated electric models, while the Scotty Depthking and Cannon Uni-Troll 5 lead the manual category.
What is the 100 foot rule for downriggers?
The 100 foot rule refers to the practice of letting out 100 feet of cable behind the boat before attaching your fishing line to the downrigger release clip. This allows your lure to track at a natural angle behind the weight and prevents tangles between your fishing line and the downrigger cable when deploying your rig.
What is the best weight for a downrigger?
Most experienced anglers recommend 15 to 20 pound downrigger weights for serious trolling. Heavier weights reduce blowback (the horizontal drift caused by trolling speed and water resistance), which means your bait stays closer to the depth shown on your counter. For shallow water or slow trolling, 8 to 12 pound weights are adequate. Always stay within your downrigger rated weight capacity.
Are downriggers worth it?
Yes, downriggers are worth it if you troll regularly for species that hold at specific depths like salmon, walleye, lake trout, or striped bass. Downriggers allow you to place your bait at a precise depth and keep it there, something that is impossible with traditional weight fishing. For anglers who fish more than a few times per season, the investment pays for itself in increased catch rates.
How does a downrigger work?
A downrigger works by deploying a weighted ball (typically 8 to 20 pounds) on a stainless steel cable or braided line to a specific depth. Your fishing line is attached to a release clip on the weight cable. As you troll, the weight keeps your lure at a constant depth. When a fish strikes, the pressure releases your line from the clip, allowing you to fight the fish on your rod and reel while the weight stays deployed.
Final Thoughts on the Best Downriggers for 2026
After testing and researching 10 models, my top recommendation for most anglers is the Cannon Magnum Series Electric Downrigger. The combination of 250 feet per minute retrieval, automatic weight retrieval, Positive Ion Control, and a 4.8-star rating from 140 reviewers makes it the most capable downrigger on the market. If you want electric power at a lower price, the Scotty Depthpower 1106 delivers outstanding performance with the lowest battery draw in its class.
For manual downrigger fans, the Cannon Uni-Troll 5 offers the best quality and retrieval speed at 4.7 stars. Budget-conscious anglers and small boat owners should look at the Scotty Laketroller, which provides genuine Scotty quality at a fraction of the cost. No matter which model you choose, the best downriggers all share one thing in common: they put your bait in front of more fish. And that is what matters at the end of the day.