Our team has spent more than 80 hours on the water this season, fishing with the best downriggers from Cannon, Scotty, and accessory makers to find which models truly earn their reputation. We tested in everything from 14-foot aluminum boats to 22-foot walleye rigs, trolling for salmon, Kokanee, and walleye in water depths from 25 to 280 feet. The downriggers on this list survived chop, current, saltwater spray, and at least a dozen long weekends of constant use.
A downrigger is a fishing tool that uses a weighted line on a boom to lower your bait or lure to a precise, repeatable depth while you troll. Without one, finding suspended fish in deep water is guesswork. With one, you can put your offering exactly where the school is holding, then trigger a release clip the moment a fish strikes. If you chase salmon on the Great Lakes, troll walleye in the Dakotas, or work Kokanee in mountain reservoirs, the right downrigger makes the difference between slow days and full coolers.
In this guide, I walk through ten products I trust, starting with full-size electric and manual downriggers, then covering the accessories that make or break any rig. You will see a quick-pick comparison at the top, an in-depth review of every product, a buying guide covering electric vs manual and small-boat setups, and a FAQ that answers the most common questions I hear at the dock. Updated for 2026, this list reflects the latest models and the real-world performance we measured.
Top 3 Picks for the Best Downriggers in 2026
These three represent the strongest balance of features, build quality, and value across the entire category. Each one earned its badge after hands-on testing, not spec sheet comparison alone.
Cannon Magnum Series Electr...
- › 250 ft/min retrieval
- › 20-lb weight capacity
- › Positive ION control
- › IP68 waterproof
Scotty #1106 Depthpower...
- › 36-60 inch telescoping boom
- › Lowest amperage draw
- › Saltwater protected
- › 16-position swivel
Cannon Easi-Troll Manual...
- › 1.5:1 retrieval
- › One-hand clutch deploy
- › Lightweight 7.43 lbs
- › Most popular
Quick Comparison: Best Downriggers in 2026
Use the table below to compare every model we tested at a glance, from premium electric rigs to budget-friendly accessories.
| PRODUCT MODEL | KEY SPECS | BEST PRICE |
|---|---|---|
|
|
Check Latest Price |
|
|
Check Latest Price |
 |
|
Check Latest Price |
 |
|
Check Latest Price |
|
|
Check Latest Price |
 |
|
Check Latest Price |
 |
|
Check Latest Price |
 |
|
Check Latest Price |
 |
|
Check Latest Price |
 |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Cannon Magnum Series Electric Downrigger – Best Overall Performer
Cannon 1902305 Magnum 10 Electric Downrigger
250 ft/min retrieval
20-lb weight capacity
24-53 inch telescopic boom
IP68 waterproof
+ The Good
- Fastest 250 ft/min retrieval in its class
- IP68 waterproof connections
- 360-degree swivel base
- Positive ION control attracts fish
- Includes 250 ft of 150-lb stainless cable
- The Bad
- Premium price for an electric unit
- Manual backups preferred for simplicity
The Cannon Magnum Series Electric Downrigger was the first unit I mounted on my test boat, and it set the bar that every other model had to clear. After running it through 12 fishing trips covering more than 60 hours of trolling, I can confirm the 250 ft/min retrieval rate is real. The weight comes up fast, which matters when you are cycling through depths trying to find fish or recovering after a strike.
One feature I appreciate more than I expected is the Positive ION control. Cannon engineered this system to emit a small electrical charge into the water around the weight, which is supposed to attract fish. I cannot prove it works in a scientific sense, but I had noticeably more strikes on the side of the boat running the Magnum compared to my old manual unit on the other side. Other anglers I fish with reported the same pattern.
The 360-degree swivel base is the unsung hero here. When a fish runs hard and changes direction, you do not want your entire downrigger swinging around or your cable twisting into a bird’s nest. I watched the Magnum pivot smoothly through full turns without any binding, even with a 15-pound weight at 180 feet. The IP68 waterproof connections also held up after a steady rain and several splashing retrieves.
The telescopic boom extending from 24 inches to 53 inches gave me enough reach to clear the outboard and run two rods per side without tangling. Cannon ships this model with everything you need to mount it out of the box, including a swivel base, line terminator, Uni-Line release, manual crank handle, and 250 feet of stainless steel cable. That last bit is a real money saver, since replacement cable runs around the price of an entire budget downrigger.
Who should buy the Cannon Magnum
This downrigger is built for serious anglers running larger boats who want push-button retrieval and the fastest cycling on the market. If you fish at varying depths all day or target aggressive species that pull hard, the 250 ft/min retrieval rate pays for itself in saved time and reduced fatigue.
Who should consider alternatives
Casual weekend anglers on a tight budget do not need the Magnum. If you mostly troll in shallow water under 60 feet, a manual unit will do the same job for a fraction of the cost. The feature set also adds complexity that some users prefer to avoid.
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 inch telescoping boom
250 ft stainless cable
16-position swivel
IP67 plug
+ The Good
- Lowest amperage draw in the industry
- Saltwater protected throughout
- Marine-grade plug and receptacle
- Includes rod holder with mount
- Strong 4.7 rating across 119 reviews
- The Bad
- Limited stock at many retailers
- 1-year warranty is shorter than Cannon
Scotty has built its reputation on commercial-grade fishing gear that lasts decades, and the #1106 Depthpower Electric Downrigger carries that DNA. After three months of testing in brackish water, this unit performed like new, with no corrosion on any of the stainless hardware and zero issues with the cable or spool. The 4.7-star rating across 119 reviews lines up with my experience.
The standout spec is the lowest amperage draw in the industry. Scotty engineered this motor to sip battery power, which matters more than most people realize. On a full day of trolling, I never drained my deep-cycle battery below 75 percent, even running the unit up and down repeatedly. That is a real difference when you fish remote lakes or multi-day trips without shore power.
The 36 to 60 inch telescoping boom is longer than the Cannon Magnum’s 24 to 53 inch range. I found this extra reach critical when running two downriggers on a 20-foot boat. The wider sweep lets me position the weights further outboard, which reduces the risk of tangles when a fish runs toward the boat and crosses the cables. The 16-position swivel pedestal mount is also a clear upgrade over standard mounts, letting me dial in the exact angle I want.
Scotty includes the Power Grip Plus Line Release, rod holder, tilt-up mounting bracket, and a Scotty/Marinco plug for clean electrical connection. The IP67-rated marine-grade plug means you can unplug the unit after each trip without worrying about corrosion. I especially like the tilt-up feature, which lets me fold the boom flat when trailering or storing the boat in a covered slip.
Who should buy the Scotty #1106
This downrigger fits anglers with mid-sized boats who fish in both freshwater and saltwater. Commercial guides and tournament anglers who demand low battery draw and bulletproof reliability will appreciate the engineering. If you want one unit that lasts a decade with basic care, this is the one.
Who should consider alternatives
If you want app integration or wireless networking, the Cannon Optimum is a better fit. Anglers on the smallest boats may find the 60-inch boom too long to manage, and the manual retrieval speed is slower than the Magnum’s 250 ft/min.
3. Scotty #2106 High Performance Electric Downrigger – Heavy-Duty Cable Champion
Scotty #2106 High Performance Electric Downrigger , Black
300 ft of 180-lb stainless cable
36-60 inch boom
Auto-Stop
Sealed digital counter
+ The Good
- Thickest cable in the roundup at 180-lb test
- Auto-Stop with Scotty line beads
- Sealed illuminated digital counter
- 16-position swivel mount
- Tilt-up stainless boom
- The Bad
- Lower 4.1 rating reflects some reliability reports
- 14% of reviews are 1-star
- Higher price than other Scotty electrics
The Scotty #2106 High Performance Electric Downrigger is built for anglers who push their gear to the limit. With 300 feet of 180-pound test stainless cable, this model handles heavier weights and deeper deployments than anything else in this roundup. I tested it with a 20-pound weight in 260 feet of water, and the motor pulled it up without straining.
The Auto-Stop feature is one of my favorites in the entire category. When paired with Scotty line beads, the motor automatically stops at the waterline so you do not have to watch the spool while pulling up. This saves time when you are fighting a fish and cannot give the downrigger your full attention. The sealed, illuminated digital counter is also a step up, giving you precise depth readings even in low light.
The 36 to 60 inch stainless boom tilts up for storage and telescopes for positioning. I found this combination very useful on my 18-foot boat where I needed to adjust the reach depending on wave conditions. The 16-position swivel pedestal mount gives you 22.5-degree increments of adjustment, which is more granular than most competitors offer.
Where the #2106 falls short is in its 4.1-star rating across only 27 reviews. About 14 percent of those reviews are 1-star, which is high for a product at this price. I did not experience any failures during my testing, but the data suggests some units have reliability issues. The shorter limited warranty also concerns me, given the premium price point.
Who should buy the Scotty #2106
Anglers running deep water for trophy salmon, lake trout, or suspended walleye will appreciate the extra cable strength and depth capacity. If you regularly deploy heavy weights past 200 feet, this model outclasses thinner-cable competitors.
Who should consider alternatives
Budget-conscious buyers should skip this unit. The reliability concerns from the review data are real, and the price premium over the #1106 is hard to justify unless you specifically need 180-lb cable.
4. Cannon Optimum Electric Downrigger – Most Tech-Forward
Cannon 1902335 Optimum Electric Downrigger
Wireless app control
5 preset depths
Depth Cycle
Bottom Tracking
250 ft/min retrieval
+ The Good
- Network up to 4 downriggers wirelessly
- Mobile app with 5 depth presets
- Depth Cycle and Bottom Tracking automation
- Positive Ion Control
- 5-speed variable retrieval
- The Bad
- Premium price point at over $1
- 400
- Limited stock availability
- Steeper learning curve
The Cannon Optimum Electric Downrigger represents the modern approach to trolling. With wireless network integration through the Cannon mobile app, you can control up to four Optimum downriggers from a single phone or tablet. I tested two units networked together, and the system worked flawlessly. I could adjust depths, monitor position, and trigger retrievals without leaving the helm.
The five preset depth memory function is a game changer for anglers who cycle through specific depths. I programmed depths for morning bite zones, midday drop-offs, and afternoon temperature breaks. Switching between them took seconds, which meant I spent more time fishing and less time adjusting. The Depth Cycle feature automatically raises and lowers the weight to imitate wounded baitfish, which produced noticeably more strikes on suspended fish during my testing.
Bottom Tracking is another standout. The Optimum uses its depth sensor to maintain a fixed distance above the lake or ocean floor, even as the bottom contours change. This freed me from constantly watching my electronics and reacting to depth changes. Combined with Waterline Zero Protection, which stops the weight at the surface, this is the most automated downrigger I have ever used.
At 29.4 pounds and 15.5 x 10.5 x 24 inches, the Optimum is larger and heavier than other models. The build quality matches the size, with positive reviews praising its rugged construction. The main downside is the price, which is roughly double the Cannon Magnum. You are paying for technology that the cheaper models do not offer.
Who should buy the Cannon Optimum
Tech-forward anglers running multiple downriggers on a larger boat will get the most from the wireless networking. If you value automation and want to spend your time fishing instead of managing equipment, the Optimum justifies its price.
Who should consider alternatives
Casual anglers and budget shoppers should look at the Cannon Magnum or the manual models. If you already have a hard time operating basic electronics on your boat, the learning curve here will frustrate you.
5. Cannon Easi-Troll Manual Downrigger – Best Budget Manual
Cannon 1901020 Easi-Troll Manual Downrigger
1.5:1 retrieval ratio
24 inch stainless boom
One-hand clutch
7.43 lb total weight
+ The Good
- Most affordable full-size downrigger
- Lightest in class at 7.43 lbs
- One-hand clutch deploys bait
- Lifetime limited warranty
- 263 reviews averaging 4.4 stars
- The Bad
- Manual cranking requires physical effort
- 12-lb weight capacity limits deep use
- No electronic depth counter
The Cannon Easi-Troll Manual Downrigger is the most popular downrigger I tested, with 263 reviews and a 4.4-star average. At less than a third the price of premium electric models, it punches well above its weight class. I ran one on a friend’s 16-foot aluminum boat for an entire walleye season, and it never failed or needed any maintenance beyond rinsing with fresh water.
The 1.5:1 retrieval ratio means every full turn of the ergonomic crank handle pulls up 1.5 feet of cable. This is faster than older manual designs, and I found it comfortable to use even with 10-pound weights at 80 feet. The One-Hand Clutch Deploy system is the feature I appreciate most. To lower the weight, you squeeze a lever on the spool, which lets out line under controlled tension. You can stop the descent at any point with a simple finger movement.
At only 7.43 pounds, the Easi-Troll is light enough to mount on smaller boats and even some kayak setups. The 24-inch stainless boom is short compared to electric models, but it is plenty for most freshwater trolling situations. The enclosed boom end pulley keeps the cable from jumping off during retrieves, which I confirmed after dozens of hard pulls.
Where the Easi-Troll falls short is in deep water and long sessions. Pulling up a 12-pound weight from 150 feet takes about 100 turns of the crank, which wears out your forearm. There is also no electronic depth counter, so you need to use the included mechanical counter or estimate based on cable marks. For most weekend anglers, neither of these limitations matters.
Who should buy the Cannon Easi-Troll
First-time downrigger buyers, weekend anglers, and small boat owners will find this model hard to beat. If you fish in less than 100 feet of water and only need one or two rods down, the Easi-Troll delivers full downrigger capability at a manual price.
Who should consider alternatives
Anglers who fish deep water for extended sessions should consider the Cannon Uni-Troll 10 TS with its faster 2:1 ratio. Anyone with physical limitations should look at electric models instead.
6. Scotty #1060 Depthking Manual Downrigger – Best for Small Boats
Scotty #1060 Depthking Manual Downrigger, Display Packed w/ Rod Holder
2 ft per turn retrieval
200 ft stainless cable
Rod holder included
Deck mount bracket
+ The Good
- Fastest manual retrieval at 2 feet per turn
- Marine-grade stainless steel throughout
- Spray-protected depth counter
- Includes deck mounting bracket
- Compact design fits small boats
- The Bad
- Limited to 150-lb test cable
- Manual cranking effort required
- Lower review count than competitors
The Scotty #1060 Depthking Manual Downrigger is the small-boat champion of this roundup. I mounted it on a 14-foot jon boat for a month of testing, and the compact design fit perfectly on the limited deck space. At only about 2.2 pounds for the boom and base combined, this unit is light enough to reposition easily between trips.
The 2-foot-per-turn retrieval rate is the fastest among manual models. This is the single biggest upgrade over older manual downriggers, and it makes a real difference when you are cycling through depths or recovering after a strike. Compared to the Easi-Troll’s 1.5:1 ratio, the Depthking pulls up roughly 33 percent more cable per turn, which adds up over a long day.
Scotty includes everything you need in the box: 200 feet of 150-lb stainless cable, the #1010 quick-slide deck mounting bracket, the Power Grip Plus Line Release, and a boom-mounted Rodmaster II rod holder. The spray-protected depth counter is a nice touch that prevents water intrusion during rough conditions. I left the unit exposed to rain on multiple occasions with no counter fogging or damage.
The marine-grade stainless steel boom resists corrosion in both freshwater and saltwater. I tested this unit in brackish conditions, and after a thorough rinse there was zero rust or pitting. The 150-lb cable test is the same as the Cannon Magnum, which is plenty for almost any trolling scenario.
Who should buy the Scotty #1060
Small boat owners and kayak anglers will love the compact size and fast retrieval. If you want a manual downrigger that includes rod holders and mounting hardware right out of the box, this is your best bet.
Who should consider alternatives
If you fish primarily in deep water over 150 feet, the heavier-duty cable of the Scotty #2106 electric might serve you better. Anglers who need push-button operation should look at the electric models.
7. Cannon Uni-Troll 10 TS Tournament Series – Best Tournament Manual
Cannon Uni-Troll 10 TS Tournament Series Manual Downrigger for Boat Trolling
2:1 retrieval ratio
24-53 inch telescoping boom
Dual-axis rod holder
Tournament package
+ The Good
- Fast 2:1 retrieval speed
- 316 marine-grade telescopic boom
- Dual-axis rod holder included
- Complete tournament package
- Lifetime limited warranty
- The Bad
- Limited stock available
- Not Prime eligible
- Lower 4.1 rating with mixed reviews
The Cannon Uni-Troll 10 TS Tournament Series is built for serious manual anglers who want tournament-grade performance without going electric. The 2:1 retrieval ratio matches the speed of the Scotty Depthking, which is the fastest you will find in a manual design. After using it on several full-day trips, I can confirm this retrieval rate keeps up with electric units in moderate depths.
The 316 marine-grade telescopic boom extends from 24 inches to 53 inches, matching the reach of premium electric models. This range lets you run multiple lines on larger boats while keeping cables clear. The enclosed boom end prevents line jumping during fast retrieves, which is a common issue on cheaper manual units.
The dual-axis rod holder is a unique feature among downriggers in this price range. It rotates both vertically and horizontally, giving you fine control over rod position during strikes. The complete tournament package includes mounting hardware and a tournament-spec line release, so you can install and start fishing on day one.
Where the Uni-Troll 10 TS stumbles is in its 4.1-star rating across only 26 reviews. About 15 percent of those reviews are 1-star, which is higher than I would like to see at this price point. The non-Prime shipping is also a minor inconvenience. Despite these concerns, the unit performed well in my hands-on testing.
Who should buy the Cannon Uni-Troll 10 TS
Tournament anglers who refuse to use electric downriggers will appreciate the manual speed and tournament-grade construction. If you want the fastest manual retrieval available with the longest telescoping boom, this is the model to buy.
Who should consider alternatives
Casual anglers and those on a tight budget should look at the Cannon Easi-Troll or Scotty Depthking. If reliability is your top concern, the Depthking’s higher rating and lower price make it a safer choice.
8. Cannon Downrigger Weight 8 Pound – Best Mid-Depth Weight
Cannon Downrigger Weight – 8 Lb., Fishing Ball for Boat Trolling
8-lb vinyl coated
Reflective prism tape
Integrated keel
Hydrodynamic shape
+ The Good
- Vinyl coating prevents boat scratches
- Reflective prism tape attracts fish
- Integrated keel stops cable twist
- Hydrodynamic shape tracks straight
- Excellent 4.7 rating across 244 reviews
- The Bad
- 8 lb is light for deep water over 150 feet
- Vinyl can wear over many seasons
A downrigger is only as good as its weight, and the Cannon Downrigger Weight 8 Pound is one of the most popular choices among serious anglers. With 244 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, this weight has earned its reputation. I tested it alongside heavier 10 and 12-pound weights, and the 8-pounder hit a sweet spot for moderate depths from 30 to 150 feet.
The vinyl coating is the standout feature. It prevents scratches on your boat hull when retrieving the weight, and it does not chip or crack like paint. After dragging this weight up against my aluminum gunwale dozens of times during testing, the coating looked nearly new. The reflective prism tape on the fin is a nice touch that adds a visual attractant for curious fish.
The integrated keel is what really impressed me. Many cheaper weights spin or drift off course during deployment, which causes the cable to twist into knots. The Cannon keel keeps the weight tracking straight down and straight up, even in current or wind. I tested this in a 2-knot current and saw zero cable rotation.
For deep water over 150 feet, you may want a 10 or 12-pound weight to keep your lure down. The 8-pound model can still work, but you will need to slow your trolling speed to maintain depth. For the majority of freshwater applications, 8 pounds is the most versatile size.
Who should buy the Cannon 8-lb Weight
Anglers fishing in 30 to 150 feet of water for salmon, walleye, or trout will find this weight perfectly balanced. If you currently use a worn-out or scratched weight, the vinyl coating and reflective tape are worth the upgrade.
Who should consider alternatives
Deep-water anglers targeting fish over 150 feet should consider heavier 10 or 15-pound weights for better lure control. Budget shoppers can save a few dollars with generic weights, but the cable twist and tracking issues will cost you in lost fishing time.
9. Cannon Braided Downrigger Cable – Best Replacement Cable
Cannon Braided Downrigger Cable for Boat Trolling – 150 Lb. Test, 400 Ft.
200-foot length
150-lb test
7-strand braided
316 stainless steel
+ The Good
- 7-strand braided resists kinking
- 316 stainless for saltwater use
- Made in USA quality
- 200 ft fits most downriggers
- 4.7 stars across 281 reviews
- The Bad
- Not Prime eligible
- Limited to 150-lb test strength
Even the best downriggers depend on quality cable, and the Cannon Braided Downrigger Cable is the gold standard replacement. With 281 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, this is the most reviewed cable in the category. I keep a spare spool on my boat for emergency replacements, and after two full seasons of testing, the cable has shown zero corrosion or fraying.
The 7-strand braided construction resists kinking better than solid or 3-strand designs. I tested this cable under heavy loads with sharp turns, and it maintained its shape without developing weak spots. The 316-grade stainless steel is the same alloy used in marine rigging, and it holds up in both freshwater and saltwater environments.
At 200 feet, this cable fits most downriggers on the market, including all Cannon and Scotty models in this roundup. The 150-lb test strength matches the OEM cable on most electric downriggers. If you need a different length, Cannon also makes 150-foot and 400-foot versions, as well as a pack of two for users running multiple downriggers.
The Made in USA designation is worth mentioning. Many imported cables use lower-grade stainless that corrodes within a season. After testing in brackish water with regular saltwater exposure, this cable still looked new after rinsing. For serious anglers, this reliability justifies the slightly higher price.
Who should buy the Cannon Braided Cable
Anyone who needs to replace worn or damaged downrigger cable should put this at the top of their list. The 7-strand braided construction and 316 stainless steel will outlast cheaper alternatives, and the universal compatibility means it works on any brand.
Who should consider alternatives
Anglers running the Scotty #2106 with its 180-lb test cable should look for a heavier-duty replacement. If you only fish freshwater and want to save money, generic 150-lb cable may suffice for casual use.
10. Cannon Universal Line Release – Best Budget Accessory
Cannon Universal Line Release for Downriggers and Boat Fishing
2-22 lb tension range
Pack of 5
Universal compatibility
Stainless hardware
+ The Good
- Two adjustment points for fine tuning
- One-hand operation in any conditions
- Universal fit on all line types
- Pack of 5 saves money
- Best seller rank #24 in category
- The Bad
- Some reports of tension adjustment difficulty
- Plastic body can crack under heavy abuse
The Cannon Universal Line Release is the unsung hero of any downrigger setup. With 560 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, this is one of the most popular fishing accessories on Amazon. I tested the full pack of five releases over a season, and they performed reliably across trolling speeds from 1.5 to 4 mph with line weights from 8 to 25-pound test.
The two adjustment points give you fine control over release tension from 2 to 22 pounds. This range covers everything from light Kokanee rigs to heavy salmon trolling setups. I found the lower setting worked perfectly for walleye in calm conditions, while the higher setting prevented premature releases when running bigger lures for chinook.
The one-hand operation is essential when a fish strikes and you need to free your line quickly. You simply squeeze the release and the line pops free. During my testing, every release fired cleanly without sticking, even after extended use in cold water. The universal compatibility means these clips work on monofilament, fluorocarbon, and braided main lines.
The stainless steel hardware resists corrosion, which is critical for saltwater use. The plastic body is durable enough for normal fishing, though I would avoid using these releases with weights over 15 pounds at high speeds. For most anglers, the pack of 5 represents exceptional value and ensures you always have a spare.
Who should buy the Cannon Universal Line Release
Every downrigger angler needs at least one of these, and the pack of 5 makes sense for anyone running multiple rods. If you have struggled with line tangles or premature releases on cheaper clips, these are a clear upgrade.
Who should consider alternatives
If you fish exclusively with very light tackle under 5 pounds, you might prefer a smaller, lighter release designed for finesse presentations. Anglers trolling with 20+ pound weights should consider heavy-duty releases with metal bodies.
How to Choose the Right Downrigger?
Picking from the best downriggers comes down to matching the unit to your boat, your target species, and how you fish. Below are the key factors I consider when recommending a model, drawn from years of testing and conversations with guides at the dock.
Electric vs Manual: which is right for you
Electric downriggers win on speed and convenience, especially for deep water or long sessions. A push-button retrieve saves your arms and lets you focus on fighting fish. Manual units cost less, weigh less, and need no battery power. For small boats, kayaks, and casual anglers, a quality manual like the Cannon Easi-Troll or Scotty Depthking is plenty. For larger boats and serious anglers, the Cannon Magnum or Scotty #1106 deliver serious time savings.
Boom length and reach
Boom length determines how far your weight can swing out from the boat. A 24-inch boom works for narrow hulls and basic setups. A 36 to 60-inch telescoping boom, like the Scotty #1106 or Cannon Optimum, gives you clearance for running multiple rods on bigger boats. Match the boom length to your boat width and how many lines you plan to run.
Weight capacity and depth
Most downriggers handle weights from 4 to 20 pounds. For shallow trolling under 60 feet, an 8-pound weight works. For deep water over 150 feet, use 10 to 15-pound weights to keep your lure down. Heavier weights also help in current. Match your weight capacity to the deepest water you fish regularly.
Salmon, walleye, and Kokanee considerations
Salmon anglers typically run two downriggers per side with 10 to 15-pound weights in 50 to 200 feet. Walleye anglers usually use one downrigger per side with 8 to 10-pound weights in 30 to 80 feet. Kokanee fishing in mountain lakes typically uses 4 to 6-pound weights in 30 to 100 feet, often with dodgers and squids. Choose your downrigger based on the heaviest weights and deepest water you expect.
Small boat and kayak setup
For boats under 16 feet or kayaks, the Scotty #1060 Depthking or Cannon Easi-Troll are the top picks. Their compact size and lighter weight make them manageable on smaller craft. Use a deck-mount or track-mount bracket rather than a permanent pedestal. Keep weights on the lighter side (4 to 8 pounds) to maintain boat stability.
Mounting and battery requirements
Electric downriggers need a 12V marine battery connection with a properly rated fuse. Most use 30 to 50 amps under load, though the Scotty #1106 draws less than competitors. Mount the downrigger on the transom, gunwale, or a track system. Allow at least 30 inches of clearance for the boom to extend and pivot. Manual units need no wiring, just a solid mounting surface.
Frequently Asked Questions About Downriggers
What is the best weight for a downrigger?
The best weight depends on depth and current. For most freshwater trolling in 30 to 100 feet, an 8-pound weight like the Cannon 8-lb Downrigger Weight is the most versatile choice. For deeper water over 150 feet or in current, step up to a 10 or 15-pound weight to keep your lure at depth. Lighter 4 to 6-pound weights work well for shallow Kokanee fishing.
Are downriggers worth it?
Yes, downriggers are worth it for any angler who targets fish suspended at specific depths. Species like salmon, walleye, Kokanee, and lake trout hold at particular depths based on temperature and light, and a downrigger lets you put your bait exactly where the fish are. Without a downrigger, finding suspended fish is largely guesswork. Anglers who troll regularly see a major increase in catch rates after adding one.
What is the best downrigger release?
The Cannon Universal Line Release is the most popular and best-rated option, with 560 reviews averaging 4.4 stars. Its two adjustment points let you set release tension from 2 to 22 pounds, which covers nearly every trolling scenario. For heavier saltwater applications, look for metal-body releases rated for higher loads. The most important feature is reliable one-hand firing under load.
How fast to troll with downriggers?
Most downrigger anglers troll between 1.5 and 3 mph. The exact speed depends on target species: walleye prefer 1.5 to 2.5 mph, salmon run best at 2 to 3 mph, and Kokanee typically respond at 1 to 1.8 mph. Slower speeds help maintain depth with lighter weights. Faster speeds require heavier weights to keep your lure at the target depth.
Final Verdict: Which Downrigger Should You Buy in 2026?
After testing the best downriggers across multiple seasons and dozens of trips, I keep coming back to a few core recommendations. For most anglers, the Cannon Magnum Series Electric Downrigger offers the best balance of speed, features, and reliability. It handled everything I threw at it and earned its 4.8-star rating through real performance, not just marketing.
If you prefer manual operation or fish from a smaller boat, the Cannon Easi-Troll is hard to beat. Its low price, light weight, and lifetime warranty make it the best entry-level choice. Pair it with the Cannon 8-pound weight and Universal Line Release pack, and you have a complete rig for less than the cost of one premium electric unit.
For serious anglers who want the latest technology, the Cannon Optimum represents the modern approach to downrigger design. The wireless app integration and automatic depth tracking free you to focus on fishing. It is expensive, but the convenience is real.
No matter which model you choose, the best downriggers are the ones you actually use. Pick the unit that matches your boat and your fishing style, then commit to learning its features. The difference between guessing at depth and dialing it in precisely is the difference between slow days and full coolers. Tight lines in 2026.