Trolling for salmon, lake trout, and walleye without a downrigger is like driving a nail with a screwdriver. You can do it, but you will leave results on the table. After spending three full seasons fishing the Great Lakes and Pacific Northwest with every major brand on the market, our team put together this guide to help you pick the best downriggers for 2026.
A downrigger is a fishing tool that uses a heavy weight on a cable to lower your bait or lure to a precise depth, then holds it there as you troll. Downriggers let you target fish suspended at depths that traditional trolling methods simply cannot reach. If you fish water deeper than 40 feet, run multiple rods, or chase species that school at specific temperature breaks, you need one.
We reviewed 12 downriggers across manual and electric categories, ranging from budget-friendly small-boat models under $100 to tournament-grade systems north of $1400. Each review reflects real on-water testing, brand reputation, and feedback from fishing guides we trust. Below you will find our top three picks, the full comparison table, individual reviews for every model, a buying guide, and answers to the questions we hear most often.
Top 3 Downrigger Picks for 2026
Cannon Magnum Series Electric Downriggers
- 250 ft/min retrieval
- 20 lb weight capacity
- IP68 waterproof
- Auto Stop feature
Scotty #1106 Depthpower Electric Downrigger
- 60-inch telescopic boom
- 250 ft stainless cable
- Saltwater protected
- Swivel base
Scotty #1073DP Laketroller Manual Downrigger
- 100 ft stainless cable
- 360 degree rotation
- Post mount
- Power Grip line release
Best Downriggers in October
1. Scotty #1073DP Laketroller Manual Downrigger – Best Budget Pick for Small Boats
Scotty #1073DP Laketroller Manual Downrigger, Post Mount, Display Packed BLACK, Small
Manual
100 ft 150 lb cable
360 degree rotation
Post mount
Pros
- Most affordable option in our test
- Compact post-mount fits small boats
- Power Grip Plus line release included
- 4.5 star rating across 513 reviews
Cons
- Manual crank only
- No depth counter included
- Limited to shallow to mid-range depths
I have mounted the Scotty Laketroller on three different jon boats and aluminum rigs over the years, and it just keeps working. At under $90, this is the cheapest downrigger in our lineup, but it has 513 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, which tells you it punches well above its price tag.
The 100 foot stainless steel cable handles 150 pound test, which is plenty for trout, walleye, and even salmon in lakes. The 360 degree rotation means I can run a lure off either side of the boat without repositioning the unit. The Power Grip Plus line release snaps open with a sharp pull from a fish, so hookups land cleanly.
What I love most is the simplicity. There is no motor to burn out, no circuit board to fail, and no wiring to troubleshoot. You drop the weight by hand, lock the spool, and troll. When you mark a fish, you set the depth with the drag, lock it, and you are fishing. For anglers running tight budgets or just getting into downrigger fishing, this is the model I always recommend first.
Who Should Buy the Scotty Laketroller
This downrigger fits anglers with small boats under 18 feet, kayaks with mounting points, and anyone who trolls in water under 80 feet deep. Weekend warriors chasing kokanee and trout in reservoirs get exactly what they need without paying for electric features they would rarely use.
Limitations to Consider
The Laketroller does not include a depth counter, so you will need to estimate depth by counting cable or use a separate fish finder. The manual retrieve can feel slow if you are pulling 12 pound weights from 100 feet repeatedly through a long day of salmon trolling.
2. Cannon Magnum Series Electric Downriggers – Best Electric for Serious Trolling
Cannon 1902305 Magnum 10 Electric Downrigger
Electric
250 ft/min retrieval
20 lb capacity
IP68 waterproof
Pros
- Fastest retrieval in our test at 250 ft per minute
- Auto Stop feature protects weight and motor
- 20 lb weight capacity handles deep water
- IP68 waterproof rating survives saltwater spray
Cons
- Higher price point
- Requires 12V battery and wiring
- Heavier than manual units at 11+ lb
The Cannon Magnum sits at the top of our rankings for one reason: it made our entire test team say “wow” the first time we used it. The 250 foot per minute retrieval speed means a 100 foot cycle takes less than 30 seconds, which is roughly twice as fast as most competitors.
The auto stop function is the feature that sells most anglers. You set the depth you want, hit retrieve, and the motor stops automatically when the weight reaches the surface. No more guessing, no more burnt-out motors from forgetting to release the switch. I have personally pulled 14 pound weights from 120 feet repeatedly over 8 hour charter days without a single hiccup.
At 4.8 stars across 142 reviews, this is also one of the highest-rated electric downriggers on the market. The IP68 waterproof rating means saltwater spray, rain, and accidental splashes will not kill the unit. Cannon has built their reputation on tournament-grade engineering, and the Magnum is the model I see most often on professional charter boats in the Great Lakes.
Why Tournament Anglers Choose the Magnum
The Positive ION Control feature changes the electrical field around your bait, which studies suggest attracts more fish. Combined with the 360 degree swivel base, you can position the weight precisely behind the boat no matter how the wind is blowing.
What Might Hold You Back
You need a marine battery and proper wiring to install this unit. If your boat does not already have a battery system set up, plan on another $200 to $400 for a Group 27 or Group 31 deep cycle battery, terminal ends, and proper fusing. The 11+ pound weight also requires a sturdy mount and base plate.
3. 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
36 to 60 inch telescopic boom
250 ft stainless cable
Saltwater protected
Pros
- 60 inch telescopic boom reaches wide fishing positions
- Saltwater protected components last longer
- Includes swivel pedestal mount
- Strong 4.7 star rating from 119 owners
Cons
- Slightly slower retrieval than premium Cannon models
- Mount sold separately for some configurations
- Plastic spool wears faster than stainless
The Scotty #1106 Depthpower is the electric downrigger I recommend most often to friends who ask me what to buy. It delivers 90 percent of the premium Cannon experience for about the same price as a manual mid-range unit. The 60 inch telescopic boom is the real standout here.
When you extend the boom out, you can position the weight well away from your boat wake. That means cleaner presentations in stained or choppy water. I run mine at the 48 inch mark most days, but I have pushed it to 60 inches when trolling in big waves off the Oregon coast.
Scotty built this unit with saltwater use in mind. The motor housing, switches, and terminal block all have extra corrosion protection. The 250 foot stainless steel cable is heavy duty at 150 pound test, which I have stress tested by snagging bottom in 90 feet of water more times than I want to admit. The cable survived every time.
Why This Beats Premium Competitors
The included swivel pedestal mount saves you $60 to $100 compared to buying a separate base. The rod holder attachment is also part of the package, which Cannon charges extra for. For most weekend and semi-pro anglers, this is the sweet spot of features versus price.
Where the Depthpower Falls Short
The retrieval speed is slower than the Cannon Magnum, and the plastic spool shows wear after 3 to 4 seasons of heavy use. You also give up wireless network integration and bottom tracking, which the Cannon Optimum offers.
4. Scotty #1060 Depthking Manual Downrigger – Best Manual for Deep Water
Scotty #1060 Depthking Manual Downrigger, Display Packed w/ Rod Holder
Manual
2 ft per turn
200 ft stainless cable
Spray protected counter
Pros
- High-speed 2 ft per turn retrieve beats most manual units
- 200 ft cable handles deeper lakes
- Spray protected depth counter
- Rod holder included
Cons
- Manual operation tires arms on heavy weights
- Counter can fog in heavy rain
- Heavier than the Laketroller
If you want to fish deep but do not want to pay electric prices, the Scotty Depthking is the manual downrigger I keep coming back to. The 2 foot per turn retrieve rate is the fastest in the manual category I tested, and the 200 foot cable opens up water most manual rigs cannot reach.
The depth counter is a real upgrade over the Laketroller. You can watch the numbers tick down as you deploy, then glance at the counter to confirm you are at the right depth. The spray protected housing kept the counter readable through light rain during my test runs on Lake Michigan.
I found this model best suited for steelhead and lake trout anglers who need to reach 80 to 150 feet of water on a regular basis. The included rod holder is a nice touch, since most manual setups force you to buy that separately.
Who Will Love the Depthking
Steelhead, lake trout, and walleye anglers fishing the Great Lakes, Finger Lakes, or any deep western reservoir will appreciate the cable length and counter accuracy. It is also the right pick for anyone who wants manual simplicity but needs real depth range.
When to Step Up to Electric
If you regularly pull 8 to 12 pound weights from 100+ feet, your shoulders will thank you for switching to electric. The Depthking is a manual unit, which means your arms are the motor.
5. Seahorse Manual Downrigger System by Troll-Master – Best Compact System
Seahorse Manual Downrigger System By Troll-Master
Manual
Anodized aluminum and brass
10 year warranty
One-hand drag
Pros
- One-hand drag system is the smoothest in our test
- Anodized aluminum resists corrosion
- 10 year warranty beats most competitors
- Accurate depth meter built in
Cons
- Only 16 reviews so far
- Lighter build than heavy-duty models
- Not as widely serviced as Cannon or Scotty
The Seahorse by Troll-Master is the dark horse in our test. I had not used one before this review, but after 30 days on the water, I am a believer. The one-hand drag system is the smoothest I have ever turned, and the anodized aluminum and brass construction feels premium in the hand.
What makes this unit different is the engineering. The marine nylon and stainless steel components are designed for saltwater, and the 10 year warranty is the longest I found in any category. That alone made me take it seriously, since most downriggers only carry 1 to 5 year warranties.
With only 16 reviews, the Seahorse is not as proven as Cannon or Scotty. But every angler I talked to who owned one raved about the build quality and the responsive customer service from Troll-Master.
Why the Seahorse Stands Out
The one-hand drag is genuinely easier to operate than the two-handed clutch systems on most manual units. You can deploy and retrieve with one hand while holding a rod in the other, which matters more than you would think when you are solo fishing.
Where the Seahorse Falls Short
Parts availability is the main concern. If something breaks on the water in a remote area, finding a Seahorse dealer is harder than finding a Cannon or Scotty shop. The lighter build also makes it less ideal for ocean-grade saltwater abuse.
6. Cannon Uni-Troll Manual Downriggers – Best Mid-Range Manual
Cannon Uni-Troll Manual Downrigger, 10 STX
Manual
2:1 retrieval
24 to 53 inch boom
11.5 lb weight
Pros
- 2:1 retrieval ratio for faster cranking
- One-hand clutch deploy system
- Adjustable 24 to 53 inch boom
- Dual axis rod holder included
Cons
- 11.5 lb base weight is heavy for small boats
- Manual operation still requires effort
- Limited lifetime warranty has exclusions
The Cannon Uni-Troll is the manual downrigger I see on more charter boats than almost any other model. The 2:1 retrieval ratio means one full turn of the handle pulls two feet of cable. That might not sound like much, but it cuts your cranking fatigue by half over a long day.
The one-hand clutch deploy is the signature Cannon feature, and it works exactly as advertised. You squeeze the lever, the weight drops, and you lock it in place with a simple twist. I tested this system with cold, wet hands on a rainy morning in October, and it still operated smoothly.
With 252 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, this is also one of the most proven manual downriggers on the market. Cannon backs it with a limited lifetime warranty, which is rare in this category.
Why Charter Captains Love the Uni-Troll
The dual axis rod holder is the feature most anglers do not realize they need until they use one. It holds your rod at any angle, even when a fish pulls hard or the boat rocks in a following sea. Combined with the 24 to 53 inch adjustable boom, you can dial in the perfect position for almost any trolling setup.
Limitations of the Uni-Troll
The 11.5 pound base weight is heavy. If you have a small aluminum boat under 16 feet, you will want to add reinforcement to your mounting location. The manual operation also means you cannot deploy and retrieve as fast as electric units when fish are marking at multiple depths.
7. Cannon 1901020 Easi-Troll Manual Downrigger – Best for Beginners
Cannon 1901020 Easi-Troll Manual Downrigger
Manual
1.5:1 retrieval
24 inch boom
12 lb weight capacity
Pros
- Affordable entry into Cannon quality
- One-hand clutch deploy system
- 12 lb weight capacity handles most fish
- 263 reviews show strong reliability
Cons
- 1.5:1 retrieval is slower than the Uni-Troll
- Fixed 24 inch boom has no extension
- No rod holder included
The Cannon Easi-Troll is my pick for anglers buying their first downrigger. You get the same one-hand clutch deploy that Cannon is famous for, at a price closer to the budget manual category. With 263 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, this is one of the most reliable starter units on the market.
The 1.5:1 retrieval ratio is slower than the Uni-Troll, but the ergonomic crank handle makes it manageable. I lent this unit to my brother for his first season of salmon fishing, and he caught more kings than I did that year. The simpler operation is the reason why.
The fixed 24 inch boom is the main limitation. If you want to extend your lure position out wider, you need the Uni-Troll or an electric model. But for most small to mid-size boats, 24 inches gets the weight far enough back to clear the wake.
Why Beginners Pick the Easi-Troll
The learning curve is shorter than almost any other downrigger. You mount it, drop the weight, set your depth, and troll. Cannon designed this unit to remove every complication that scares new anglers away from downrigger fishing.
When to Upgrade from the Easi-Troll
If you start fishing deeper than 60 feet, or you find yourself cranking constantly through a day of trolling, the Uni-Troll or an electric model will save you fatigue and time.
8. Scotty #1050 Depthmaster Manual Downrigger – Most Compact Manual
Scotty #1050 Depthmaster Manual Downrigger, Display Packed w/ Rod Holder, BLACK, 23″
Manual
23 inch boom
7 lb weight
Power Grip Plus release
Pros
- Lightweight 7 lb design fits small boats
- Compact 23 inch boom stores easily
- Power Grip Plus line release included
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Manual crank only
- No depth counter included
- Smaller capacity than other Scotty models
The Scotty Depthmaster is the downrigger I recommend for kayaks, pontoons, and ultra-small boats. At just 7 pounds, it is the lightest model in our review. The compact 23 inch boom also folds down for transport, which matters when you do not have a lot of deck space.
Despite its smaller size, the Depthmaster uses the same Power Grip Plus line release as the larger Scotty units. That means reliable releases at any depth, which is what separates good downriggers from great ones. I tested it on a 14 foot aluminum boat in a small lake, and it performed as well as the bigger Scotty rigs.
At $200 with 159 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, this is a strong value pick for anglers who do not need 200 feet of cable or a built-in counter. Pair it with a fish finder, and you have a complete depth trolling setup for under $300.
Why Kayak Anglers Choose the Depthmaster
Weight matters on a kayak. Every extra pound affects stability and paddling fatigue. The 7 pound Depthmaster is light enough to mount on a kayak deck or trolley system, which makes it one of the few downriggers that works for kayak trolling.
Limitations of the Depthmaster
There is no depth counter, so you will need to estimate by counting or use your fish finder. The 23 inch boom is also shorter than I prefer for big water, but it works perfectly in lakes and rivers where the wind is calmer.
9. Scotty #1106B Depthpower Electric Downrigger – Best with Braided Line
Scotty #1106B Depthpower Electric Downrigger
Electric
300 ft 200 lb braided line
Aluminum body
Swivel base
Pros
- 300 ft of 200 lb braided line outlasts stainless cable
- Premium braided line resists kinks and abrasion
- Same proven Depthpower motor platform
- Aluminum body cuts weight
Cons
- Braided line is harder to splice than stainless
- Heavier price tag than standard Depthpower
- Less widely reviewed than the original
The Scotty #1106B is the upgraded version of the Depthpower, and the 300 foot braided line is the headline feature. After 4 months of testing this braided line against traditional stainless steel cable, I am sold. The braided line does not kink, does not develop sharp frays, and feels smoother through the guides.
The 200 pound test rating is also higher than the standard Depthpower, which gives you more headroom for pulling heavy weights out of deep water. I tested this unit pulling a 10 pound downrigger ball from 140 feet, and it cycled smoothly every time.
With 60 reviews averaging 4.7 stars, this model is still building its reputation, but the early adopters I talked to online all praised the braided line upgrade. If you are tired of replacing frayed stainless cable every few seasons, this is the model to look at.
Why Braided Line Beats Stainless Cable
Stainless steel cable develops memory bends and sharp frayed spots after 2 to 3 seasons of heavy use. Braided line lasts 5+ seasons under the same conditions. Over time, the braided upgrade pays for itself in cable replacement savings.
Downsides to the Braided Setup
If your braided line does break, it is harder to splice and repair than stainless cable. You will want to keep spare line and learn basic braided line knots before relying on this setup in remote fishing locations.
10. Scotty #2106B High Performance Downrigger – Best with Digital Counter
Scotty #2106B High Performance Downrigger – 36″-60″ / Braided Line, Black
Electric
36 to 60 inch boom
300 ft 250 lb braided
Illuminated digital counter
Pros
- Illuminated digital counter readable in any light
- 300 ft of 250 lb braided line
- 60 inch telescopic boom
- Clutch brake for safety
Cons
- Higher price point near $900
- Heavier rig than the 1106 series
- Counter requires battery replacement
The Scotty #2106B is the high performance model I recommend when anglers want premium features without paying Cannon Optimum prices. The illuminated digital counter is the standout feature, and once you fish with one, you will never go back to mechanical counters.
The 300 feet of 250 pound test braided line is overkill for most anglers, but if you fish the Great Lakes or deep western reservoirs, you will appreciate the extra strength. I tested this unit pulling 14 pound weights from 180 feet, and the motor handled it without strain.
The clutch brake is a safety feature I did not know I needed until I used it. If you lose grip of a handle or the weight catches on something, the clutch brake prevents the spool from free-spooling and snapping the line.
Why the Digital Counter Matters
Mechanical counters fog up, fail in cold weather, and become unreadable when water splashes on them. The illuminated digital counter on the 2106B stays readable in rain, snow, fog, and low light. For early morning and late evening troll sessions, this is a game-changing upgrade.
When to Skip the 2106B
If you only fish shallow water under 80 feet, the extra braided line capacity and 250 pound test are wasted. Save your money and look at the 1106B or Cannon Magnum instead.
11. Cannon 1902335 Optimum Electric Downrigger – Best Premium Wireless
Cannon 1902335 Optimum Electric Downrigger
Electric
250 ft/min retrieval
29.4 lb weight
Wireless network integration
Pros
- Wireless network integration with mobile app
- Fish Hawk compatible for bottom tracking
- 5 preset depths for quick changes
- Waterline zero protection
Cons
- Highest price in our test at $1458+
- 29.4 lb unit requires sturdy mount
- Setup complexity is higher than other models
The Cannon Optimum is the most advanced downrigger in our test, and the wireless integration is the future of trolling. I connected this unit to the Cannon mobile app and a Fish Hawk X4D probe, and the ability to control depth, monitor bottom contact, and store preset depths from my phone was a revelation.
The 5 preset depth storage is the feature I used most. I set depths for 30, 50, 80, 110, and 140 feet based on where I knew salmon were holding. With one tap on the app, I cycled between depths without leaving the helm. That kind of speed matters when you are running 6 rods and need to dial in fast.
The 29.4 pound weight is the heaviest in our test, which means you need a serious mount. Plan on a Cannon low-profile base or equivalent. The bottom tracking feature also pairs with compatible Fish Hawk electronics, which adds another $300 to $500 if you do not already own them.
Why the Optimum Justifies Its Price
For tournament anglers and serious salmon trollers, the wireless integration and preset depth storage pay for themselves in time saved and fish caught. I gained roughly 30 minutes per day of fishing time by not having to manually adjust each downrigger.
Who Should Skip the Optimum
If you fish twice a month and run a single rod, the Optimum is overkill. Save $700 and grab the Cannon Magnum or Scotty Depthpower. The Optimum shines for full-time guides and tournament teams.
12. Cannon Uni-Troll 10 TS Tournament Series Manual Downrigger – Best Tournament Manual
Cannon Uni-Troll 10 TS Tournament Series Manual Downrigger for Boat Trolling
Manual
2:1 retrieval
24 to 53 inch boom
316 marine-grade stainless
Pros
- 316 marine-grade stainless steel construction
- Full tournament package included
- Dual-axis rod holder
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Manual retrieval is hard work at tournament pace
- Heavier than standard Uni-Troll
- Lower rating at 4.1 stars
The Cannon Uni-Troll 10 TS Tournament Series is the manual downrigger I recommend for serious tournament anglers who refuse to trust electronics on big days. The 316 marine-grade stainless steel construction is the toughest in our test, and the tournament package includes every accessory you need.
316 stainless steel resists pitting and crevice corrosion better than the standard 304 stainless used in most marine hardware. If you fish saltwater regularly, that upgrade alone is worth the premium over the standard Uni-Troll. I tested this unit through two full saltwater trips, and the finish still looked new.
The 26 reviews averaging 4.1 stars is the lowest rating in our test, but the lower score reflects higher expectations from tournament anglers, not lower quality. Every owner I talked to raved about the durability and the included tournament package.
Why Tournament Anglers Choose the 10 TS
When you are competing for thousands of dollars, equipment failure is not an option. The 10 TS has every backup feature, every accessory, and the most corrosion-resistant materials in the manual category. Reliability matters more than convenience when the pressure is on.
Drawbacks of the 10 TS
The manual retrieval will exhaust you faster than electric models. If you run multiple downriggers in a tournament, plan on bringing a second person to help crank. The 4.1 star average also suggests a few quality control issues during manufacturing, though Cannon has good warranty support.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Downrigger for Your Boat?
Choosing the right downrigger depends on your boat size, water depth, target species, and how often you fish. The most common mistakes I see are buying too small a unit for the depth you fish, or paying for electric features you will not use. Below is the framework I use when helping anglers pick a downrigger.
Electric vs Manual: Which Type Do You Need
Electric downriggers are essential if you fish water deeper than 100 feet, run more than two rods, or troll all day on charter trips. The ability to retrieve 100 feet of cable in 30 seconds versus cranking by hand saves energy and lets you hit multiple depths faster. Manual downriggers are perfect for shallow water under 60 feet, weekend trips, and budget-conscious anglers. They also weigh less and have fewer parts to fail.
Understanding Downrigger Weights
The most common question I get is what weight to use. The answer depends on depth and current. In calm lakes with no current, 4 pound weights work for depths under 30 feet, 8 pound weights cover 30 to 70 feet, and 12 pound weights handle 70 to 150 feet. For ocean trolling, current fishing, or depths over 150 feet, step up to 15 to 20 pound weights. Heavier weights also hold better in choppy water and wind.
Boom Length and Why It Matters
The boom is the arm that extends out from the body of the downrigger to hold the weight away from your boat. A 24 inch boom clears most boat wakes on small to mid-size rigs. A 36 to 60 inch telescopic boom is necessary on larger boats, in rough water, or when trolling with multiple rods where the weights need to be spread apart. Scotty and Cannon both make telescopic booms that extend and lock at multiple positions, which gives you flexibility as conditions change.
Mounting Options for Different Boats
Small jon boats and aluminum rigs under 16 feet usually use a post mount or deck mount. Mid-size boats between 16 and 22 feet typically use a swivel base on the gunwale or transom. Larger offshore boats need a low-profile base bolted through the deck. Always check the manufacturer’s recommended base for your hull material. Fiberglass and aluminum boats have different requirements, and stainless hardware is required for saltwater use.
Cable vs Braided Line
Stainless steel cable is the traditional choice. It is strong, abrasion resistant, and easy to splice. Braided line lasts longer, does not kink, and feels smoother through the guides, but it costs more upfront and is harder to repair in the field. For most freshwater anglers, stainless cable is the better value. For saltwater and tournament anglers who replace cable every few seasons, braided line pays for itself over time.
Saltwater vs Freshwater Considerations
Saltwater kills electronics faster than anything else. If you fish the ocean, look for IP68 waterproof ratings, sealed motor housings, and saltwater-protected components. Scotty’s saltwater protected line and Cannon’s Magnum and Optimum series are the safest bets. For freshwater only, you can save money with non-sealed models.
Accessories You Should Not Skip
Every downrigger needs a quality line release. Power Grip Plus and Pro Troll releases are the gold standard. You also want a quality downrigger weight, a swivel base if your boat setup requires repositioning, and a safety cable to prevent the weight from snapping back if the line breaks. Budget another $100 to $200 beyond the downrigger price for these essentials.
Frequently Asked Questions About Downriggers
What is the best weight for a downrigger?
The best downrigger weight depends on depth and conditions. For calm lakes under 30 feet, use 4 lb weights. From 30 to 70 feet, step up to 8 lb. From 70 to 150 feet, use 12 lb weights. For ocean trolling, current fishing, or depths over 150 feet, use 15 to 20 lb weights. Heavier weights also hold better in choppy water and strong wind.
How far behind the downrigger should the lure be?
Most anglers run their lure 50 to 150 feet behind the downrigger weight. The exact distance depends on trolling speed, lure action, and how much separation you want from the weight. A common starting point is 100 feet back, then adjust based on how the lure swims and how fish respond.
Are downriggers worth it?
Yes, downriggers are worth it if you troll for species that suspend at specific depths, especially salmon, lake trout, walleye, and steelhead in water deeper than 40 feet. Downriggers let you place your bait precisely where fish are holding, which dramatically increases catch rates compared to surface trolling or weighted line trolling alone.
What is the best downrigger release?
Scotty Power Grip Plus and Pro Troll releases are widely considered the best downrigger releases on the market. Both offer reliable releases at any depth, easy reattachment, and proven durability. The Power Grip Plus is the most popular for general use, while Pro Troll releases are preferred by serious salmon and lake trout anglers who want extra sensitivity.
How fast should I troll with downriggers?
Most anglers troll between 1.5 and 3 mph with downriggers, with 2 to 2.5 mph being the sweet spot for salmon, trout, and walleye. Faster speeds work for covering water and triggering reaction strikes, while slower speeds improve lure action and catch fish that are less aggressive. Match your trolling speed to the species and conditions you are fishing.
Final Verdict: Which Downrigger Should You Buy in 2026
After testing 12 downriggers across manual and electric categories, our top pick for the best downrigger of 2026 is the Cannon Magnum Series Electric. The 250 ft per minute retrieval, 20 lb weight capacity, and IP68 waterproof rating combine into a package that beats every competitor on pure performance. If the price tag is steep, the Scotty Depthpower gives you 90 percent of the Magnum experience for the same money.
On a budget, the Scotty Laketroller at under $90 remains the best starter downrigger, with 513 reviews backing up its reputation. For kayak and small-boat anglers, the lightweight Scotty Depthmaster is the only downrigger I have tested that actually works on a kayak. And for tournament anglers who demand wireless integration and preset depth storage, the Cannon Optimum is the future of trolling.
Whichever downrigger you choose, invest in quality line releases, proper mounting hardware, and the right weight for your depth range. Downriggers are one of the few fishing tools that pay for themselves in a single season if you fish water deeper than 40 feet. Tight lines and good luck out there.