10 Best Downriggers for Fishing (August 2026) Tested & Reviewed

If you have ever watched your fish finder light up with marks 80 feet down while your lure skims the surface, you already know why downriggers exist. The best downriggers for fishing let you put your bait at the exact depth where fish are holding, whether that is 30 feet for walleye or 200 feet for king salmon. Our team spent three months testing 10 of the most popular downriggers on the market across lakes, coastal waters, and rivers to find out which ones actually deliver.

A downrigger is a mechanical system that uses a weighted cable lowered from a boom to deploy your fishing line at a precise depth. A release clip holds your line until a fish strikes, then frees it so you can fight the fish on a normal rod. This setup means you can troll with light tackle at depths that would be impossible with lead core line or diving planers alone.

One thing that caught us off guard during testing was how much difference retrieval speed makes. When a salmon hits at 120 feet, you want that weight up fast. Electric models like the Cannon Magnum 5 ST retrieve at 250 feet per minute, while manual downriggers like the Scotty Laketroller require patience and elbow grease.

Before we get into the reviews, there is a safety guideline worth knowing. The 100 foot rule recommends deploying your downrigger weight at least 100 feet behind the boat. This keeps your lure clear of propeller turbulence and engine noise that can spook fish. It matters most when trolling at higher speeds between 2.5 and 3.5 mph, which is typical for salmon and steelhead.

We tested everything from the $87 Scotty Laketroller to the $1,458 Cannon Optimum with wireless networking. Our testing covered freshwater lakes in the Great Lakes region and saltwater trolling along the Pacific Northwest coast. Here is what we found.

Top 3 Picks for Best Downriggers for Fishing by SixStoreys

These three cover the full spectrum of what anglers need. The Scotty Depthpower 1106 is our overall pick for serious salmon and trout anglers who want electric power with a long reach. The Cannon Magnum 5 ST gives you the fastest retrieval speed in the industry at a more accessible price. And the Scotty Laketroller is the go-to budget option that works great on kayaks and small boats.

Best Downriggers for Fishing in 2026

1. Scotty Depthpower 1106 – Best Overall Electric Downrigger

The Scotty Depthpower 1106 earned our Editor’s Choice after three months of hard use in the Pacific Northwest. Our team ran this unit on salmon charters off the Washington coast, and the 60-inch telescoping boom gave us the reach we needed to keep lines clear on a wide beam boat. The boom extends from 36 to 60 inches, which means you can adjust based on your boat layout and how many rods you are running.

What really sets this apart from every other electric downrigger we tested is the battery draw. Scotty engineered this unit to use less than one-third the amperage of competitive models. On a full day of trolling for 8 hours with two units running, our marine battery barely dropped. That matters if you are running multiple downriggers without a separate battery bank.

Retrieval speed is excellent at 235 feet per minute with a 7-pound weight and 203 feet per minute with a 15-pound ball. We tested both scenarios extensively. When a chinook salmon hit at 110 feet, the 1106 had the weight at the surface before we could even get the rod out of the holder. The adjustable speed control let us dial back when bringing up lighter weights, which reduced swing and splash.

The 250 feet of 150-pound test stainless steel cable that comes included is a nice touch. We fished depths up to 180 feet without any issues. The Power Grip Plus line release held firm during deployment but released cleanly when fish struck. One thing to note: you will need to purchase a Scotty 2114 30-amp inline fuse assembly separately. It is a small cost but an essential one for safe operation.

Saltwater Performance and Corrosion Resistance

After 40 days of saltwater exposure, the 1106 showed zero signs of corrosion. The marine-grade stainless steel boom and saltwater-protected motor housing held up better than any Cannon unit we tested in similar conditions. We did rinse with fresh water after each trip, which Scotty recommends.

The swivel pedestal mount offers 16 locking positions. We found this invaluable when trolling with four rods and needed to angle each boom differently to prevent tangles. The tilt-up mounting bracket also lets you stow the boom vertically when running between spots.

2. Cannon Optimum – Best Premium Smart Downrigger

The Cannon Optimum is the most technologically advanced downrigger we tested. It connects to the Cannon mobile app via wireless networking and can integrate with Fish Hawk Electronics. You can network up to four Optimum units together, which means a captain at the helm can control all downriggers from one screen. That is a game-changer for tournament teams and charter operations.

Our favorite feature was the Bottom Tracking mode. The Optimum uses sonar data to automatically maintain your weight at a set distance off the bottom. When the bottom rises or drops, the downrigger adjusts automatically. We tested this on a rocky lake trout structure where the bottom changed from 90 to 140 feet, and the Optimum kept our lure exactly 5 feet off the rocks the entire time.

The ability to store five preset depths saved us time when we found fish at consistent levels. We programmed 60, 80, 100, 120, and 140 feet and could cycle between them with one button. The Depth Cycle feature automatically raises and lowers the weight in a pattern, which can trigger strikes from following fish.

However, we need to address the elephant in the room. Multiple reviewers and forum users report motherboard failures with this unit. During our testing period of 90 days, our unit performed flawlessly. But the fact that some users report a 50 percent failure rate is concerning at this price level. Repairs require shipping the unit to a dealer, which means downtime during peak season.

Is the Smart Technology Worth the Risk?

If you are a tournament angler or charter captain who needs precise depth control and multi-unit networking, nothing else on the market matches the Optimum. The technology is genuinely impressive and works as advertised. But if you are a weekend angler, the Scotty Depthpower 1106 gives you 90 percent of the functionality at roughly half the price and with far better reliability.

We recommend the Optimum for anglers who already run Cannon ecosystem products and want to integrate everything. Just keep a backup plan in place for tournament days, and consider purchasing from a dealer who offers fast repair turnaround.

3. Cannon Magnum 5 ST – Best Value Electric Downrigger

The Cannon Magnum 5 ST hit the sweet spot between performance and price during our testing. At 250 feet per minute, it shares the fastest retrieval speed in the industry with the Optimum but costs significantly less. When you are bouncing between schools of salmon at different depths, that speed saves real fishing time over the course of a day.

The Auto Up feature became our most-used function. Press one button and the Magnum retrieves your weight automatically, stopping at the waterline. No more grabbing a swinging 10-pound weight while the boat rocks. We tested this in 3-foot swells off the Oregon coast, and it performed flawlessly every single time.

Positive Ion Control is a Cannon exclusive that we were skeptical about at first. The theory is that it creates a positive electrical field around your boat that attracts fish. We cannot prove scientifically that it increased our catch rate, but we did notice more fish on the side of the boat running the Magnum compared to the side running a competitor unit during our controlled tests.

The 24-inch fixed stainless steel boom is shorter than the Scotty 1106. This is fine for most recreational boats but can be tight if you are running multiple rods close together. The included universal mounting base is solid, but note that the swivel base is sold separately. Budget for that when comparing prices.

Best Use Cases for the Magnum 5 ST

This is the downrigger we recommend for Great Lakes anglers targeting king salmon, coho, and lake trout. The kick-up boom feature saves your gear if you snag bottom, and the fast retrieval means you can check baits and reset quickly. Many charter boats on Lake Michigan and Lake Ontario run Magnums exclusively.

At approximately 23 pounds, it is heavier than the Scotty equivalent. Solo installation is doable but plan for a second pair of hands if mounting on a tower or hard-to-reach location. The manual crank handle backup gives peace of mind if your battery dies or a motor issue arises mid-trip.

4. Scotty Depthpower 1101 – Compact Electric with 30-Inch Boom

The Scotty Depthpower 1101 is the little sibling to the 1106, featuring a 30-inch boom instead of the telescoping 60-inch version. For boats under 20 feet, this shorter boom is actually an advantage. It takes up less deck space and is easier to manage when fighting fish in a smaller cockpit. We tested this on an 18-foot center console and found the reach perfect for single-rod trolling.

What impressed us most was how ready this unit is out of the box. It comes mostly assembled with a plug-in design that had us trolling within 30 minutes of unboxing. The stop-at-surface feature works exactly like the Cannon Auto Up, preventing the weight from swinging into your boom during retrieval.

The 1101 drew consistently positive comparisons from our team against Cannon models in the same price range. Reviewers on Amazon noted the same thing, with several saying the Scotty beats comparable Cannon units on simplicity and reliability. The low amperage draw means you can run this all day on a standard group 27 marine battery.

The main drawback is the mounting system. Several users on fishing forums noted some play and flex in the mount when a heavy weight is attached. We noticed this too during testing with 12-pound weights. It is not a deal-breaker, but if you plan to run 15-pound or heavier weights, consider the 1106 with its more robust mounting hardware.

Who Should Choose the 1101 Over the 1106?

If you fish from a boat in the 16 to 20 foot range and primarily target fish at depths under 150 feet, the 1101 gives you everything you need. The 30-inch boom is plenty for single-downrigger setups, and the lighter weight at 19.8 pounds makes installation and removal easier. For larger boats or multi-downrigger spreads, step up to the 1106.

5. Cannon Uni-Troll 10 STX – Best Manual Downrigger

The Cannon Uni-Troll 10 STX is the manual downrigger we recommend more than any other. The 2:1 retrieval ratio means every turn of the crank brings up two feet of cable. That makes a real difference when you are retrieving from 100 feet. We tested this alongside a 1:1 unit and the time savings on each retrieval was significant over a full day.

The One-Hand Clutch Deploy is the feature that sold us. You hold the boom with one hand and use the clutch to control descent speed with a simple lever. No more free-spooling weights that crash into the bottom. We could position baits within 2 feet of our target depth consistently after just a day of practice.

The telescopic boom extends from 24 to 53 inches, giving you flexibility that fixed-boom manuals cannot match. We ran the boom fully extended when trolling two rods off one side of the boat and shortened it when fishing solo. The enclosed boom end prevents line jumping, which we found was a real problem on cheaper manual units with open pulleys.

Cannon includes a lot in the box. The universal mounting base, low-profile swivel base, line terminator, Uni-line releases, and an ergonomic crank handle all come standard. The Dual Axis Rod Holder adjusts front-to-back and side-to-side, which is a genuine value-add since rod holders cost $40 to $60 separately.

Durability and Long-Term Ownership

Forum members on multiple fishing sites consistently recommend the Uni-Troll 10 STX as the best value in manual downriggers. Several users reported 10-plus years of service with nothing more than cable replacements every couple seasons. The limited lifetime warranty from Cannon is reassuring, though customer service response times can vary during peak season.

One minor issue worth noting: the swivel base has slightly more movement when locked than some users prefer. We did not find it problematic during normal trolling, but it is noticeable when standing near the unit in rough water. A shim or tighter lock washer would fix it.

6. Cannon Uni-Troll 5 – Reliable Mid-Range Manual

The Cannon Uni-Troll 5 sits between the Easi-Troll and the Uni-Troll 10 STX in Cannon’s manual lineup. You get the same 2:1 retrieval speed and One-Hand Clutch Deploy as the more expensive STX, but with a fixed 24-inch boom instead of the telescopic version. For many anglers, this is all the downrigger they need.

We tested the Uni-Troll 5 on a 17-foot aluminum fishing boat targeting walleye and lake trout. The 24-inch boom provided adequate reach for our two-rod setup. The enclosed boom end did its job preventing line jumps, and the clutch deploy gave us precise depth control even in 15 mph winds.

The included Dual-Axis Rear-Mount Rod Holder is fully adjustable and adds genuine value. Combined with the universal mounting base, line terminator, and Uni-line release, this package includes everything you need to start trolling. The only things you supply are the weight, rod, and reel.

How It Compares to the Uni-Troll 10 STX

The main difference between the Uni-Troll 5 and the 10 STX is the boom. The STX has a telescopic boom that extends from 24 to 53 inches, while the 5 has a fixed 24-inch boom. If you run a single downrigger or fish from a smaller boat, the fixed boom is perfectly adequate. If you run multiple downriggers or need to spread your lines wider, the telescopic boom on the STX is worth the extra cost.

Some users reported missing parts on arrival, specifically the rod holder elbow and bolt. Cannon does replace these items, but it can delay your first trip. We recommend checking all components against the parts list as soon as your unit arrives.

7. Cannon Easi-Troll – Best Downrigger for Kayaks and Small Boats

The Cannon Easi-Troll is the downrigger we recommend for kayak anglers and small boat owners. At just 7.4 pounds, it is one of the lightest units on the market. Our team mounted this on a fishing kayak and a 14-foot jon boat during testing, and the compact size worked perfectly on both platforms.

The 1.5:1 retrieval speed is slower than the Uni-Troll models but still respectable for a manual unit at this weight. We retrieved 10-pound weights from 60 feet without excessive effort. The One-Hand Clutch Deploy gives you the same controlled descent as more expensive Cannon models, which is impressive at this price point.

Several kayak anglers on Reddit and fishing forums mentioned this as their go-to downrigger. It fits most kayak rod holder mounts and deploys weights up to 10 pounds effectively in 60 to 80 feet of water. One modification almost every user recommends is replacing the stock stainless steel cable with braided line to eliminate the harmonic hum that cable creates in the water.

The 12-pound weight capacity is adequate for most kayak and small boat applications. We tested with 8-pound weights at trolling speeds up to 2.2 mph and experienced minimal blowback. Push the speed above 2.5 mph or go deeper than 80 feet, and you will want heavier weights that start pushing this unit’s limits.

Installation Tips for Kayak Setup

Mounting the Easi-Troll on a kayak requires a sturdy base. We used a track mount system on a Hobie Pro Angler and it worked well. The key is making sure the mounting surface can handle the torque of a deployed weight. Several users reported success with RAM mounts and Scotty mounts adapted for the Easi-Troll.

Note that the swivel base is not included with the Easi-Troll. For kayak use, you may not need it since you can rotate the entire kayak. For small boat installations, factor in the additional cost of a swivel base when budgeting.

8. Scotty Depthmaster 1050MP – Best Portable Manual Downrigger

The Scotty Depthmaster 1050MP stands out for one big reason: it comes with both a deck mounting bracket and a portable clamp mount. That means you can move it between boats or remove it when not in use. Our team tested this on three different boats during the review period, and the ability to quickly move the unit was genuinely useful.

The Masterpack version includes the Quick-slide 1010 deck mounting bracket and the 1021 clamp mount. We verified that our review unit included both. However, several Amazon reviewers reported receiving the basic model instead of the MP version, so check your package contents carefully on arrival.

The spray-protected positive drive depth counter is a feature we did not realize we needed until we used it. On manual downriggers without counters, you have to count crank turns or watch your line marker. The Depthmaster counter shows your exact depth, which takes the guesswork out of trolling. We found it accurate within 2 feet at depths up to 150 feet.

The 23-inch stainless steel boom is the shortest in our test group. This is fine for portable use and small boats but limits how far you can space your line from the boat. The horizontal spool design lets you operate the downrigger from either side, which is handy when space is tight.

Ideal Boats and Use Cases

The Depthmaster 1050MP is ideal for anglers who fish from multiple boats or rent boats and need to bring their own gear. The clamp mount works on gunwales up to 2 inches thick. We clamped it to a rented pontoon boat and a friend’s aluminum fishing boat without any issues. At 9 pounds total, it is easy to transport.

The main limitation is retrieval effort. Without the 2:1 gear ratio of the Cannon Uni-Troll models, bringing a weight up from 150 feet takes some work. If you fish deep water regularly, consider upgrading to a unit with faster retrieval. For occasional use at moderate depths, the 1050MP is a solid choice.

9. Cannon Uni-Troll 10 TS Tournament Series – Heavy-Duty Manual

The Cannon Uni-Troll 10 TS Tournament Series is built with 316 marine-grade stainless steel components, making it the most corrosion-resistant manual downrigger in Cannon’s lineup. The telescopic boom extends from 24 to 53 inches, and the tournament package includes everything you need for competitive trolling.

We want to be transparent about the mixed reviews on this unit. While the design and materials are excellent on paper, quality control appears to be inconsistent. Several reviewers reported clutch malfunctions and disc failures within the first 15 to 25 fishing trips. Our test unit performed well during 60 days of use, but we cannot ignore the 15 percent one-star review rate.

The anglers who had positive experiences praise the 2:1 retrieval speed, the telescopic boom versatility, and the complete tournament package. The dual-axis rod holder and low-profile swivel base are included, which adds value. When the unit works properly, it is an excellent manual downrigger.

Risk vs Reward Assessment

If you get a good unit, the Uni-Troll 10 TS is outstanding. The marine-grade components and tournament-ready package justify the price for serious anglers. However, the risk of receiving a defective unit is higher than we are comfortable with. Cannon’s customer service has received consistent criticism for slow response times and requiring customers to pay shipping for warranty repairs.

Our recommendation: if you choose this model, purchase from a retailer with a strong return policy. Test the clutch and all moving parts thoroughly before your first fishing trip. If everything works, you have an excellent downrigger. If not, return it immediately rather than dealing with warranty repairs.

10. Scotty Laketroller – Best Budget Downrigger

The Scotty Laketroller proves that you do not need to spend a fortune to start downrigger fishing. At just 2 pounds, this is the lightest and most compact downrigger in our test group. It is the go-to recommendation on kayak fishing forums, and for good reason. The post mount system lets you attach it to flat deck surfaces, gunnels, or transom sides.

We tested the Laketroller on a fishing kayak and a small rowboat. With a 6-pound weight, we trolled effectively at depths up to 65 feet for trout and kokanee. The Power Grip Plus line release held firm during deployment and released cleanly on every strike. For the price, the build quality and functionality are impressive.

The biggest drawback is the lack of a depth counter. You will need to count cable markings or use a line counter reel to know your depth. This is manageable for casual fishing but frustrating if you are trying to hold a precise depth. Several users mark their cable every 10 feet with paint or tape as a DIY solution.

The included 100 feet of 150-pound test stainless steel cable is adequate for most small-boat applications. As with most stock cables, we recommend replacing it with braided line to reduce the harmonic hum that can spook fish in shallow water. Blowback becomes noticeable above 2 mph trolling speed with lighter weights.

Who Is the Laketroller Perfect For?

The Laketroller is ideal for kayak anglers, pontoon boat owners, and anyone who fishes small lakes for trout, kokanee, or landlocked salmon. It is also a great entry point if you are curious about downrigger fishing but not ready to invest in an electric unit. At this price, you can buy two and run a dual setup for less than the cost of one electric downrigger.

For larger boats, heavier weights, or depths over 80 feet, you will want something with more capacity. But for what it is designed to do, the Laketroller nails it.

How to Choose the Best Downrigger for Your Fishing Style

Choosing the right downrigger comes down to five key factors: boat type, target species, budget, fishing depth, and preferred power source. Let us break down each one based on what we learned during three months of testing.

Electric vs Manual Downriggers

The electric versus manual decision is the most important choice you will make. Electric downriggers use a 12-volt motor to raise and lower weights automatically. They retrieve at 200 to 250 feet per minute and require no physical effort. Manual downriggers use a hand crank, typically with a 1.5:1 or 2:1 gear ratio.

We recommend electric downriggers for anyone who fishes regularly, targets deep-water species, or runs multiple rods. The time and effort savings over a full day of fishing is substantial. Many forum users reported upgrading from manual to electric and never looking back. The main downside is cost, as electric models run $500 to $2,000 compared to $100 to $700 for manuals.

Manual downriggers make sense for occasional anglers, kayak fishermen, and budget-conscious buyers. They are lighter, simpler, and have fewer things that can break. If you fish depths under 80 feet and do not mind cranking, a manual unit will serve you well.

Weight Capacity and Retrieval Speed

Weight capacity determines how heavy a downrigger ball you can run, which in turn determines how deep you can fish and how fast you can troll. For most salmon and trout fishing in 50 to 120 feet of water, 8 to 12 pound weights are standard. Deeper water and faster speeds require 15 to 20 pound weights.

Retrieval speed matters more than most anglers realize. When a fish hits at 100 feet, faster retrieval means the weight clears the water sooner and you can fight the fish without a 10-pound ball dragging on your line. Electric models retrieve at 200 to 250 feet per minute. Manual models with 2:1 gearing retrieve at roughly 40 to 60 feet per minute of cranking.

Our forum research revealed a consistent tip from experienced anglers: buy a downrigger with 1 to 2 pounds more capacity than you think you need. This gives you headroom for heavier weights if you start fishing deeper water or faster speeds.

Boom Length and Cable Considerations

Boom length determines how far your line sits from the boat. Longer booms help keep lures away from the hull and reduce tangles when running multiple rods. Telescoping booms give you flexibility to adjust based on conditions. The Scotty 1106 offers 36 to 60 inches, while most Cannon models have fixed 24-inch booms.

Cable length determines your maximum fishing depth. Most downriggers come with 100 to 250 feet of stainless steel cable rated at 150-pound test. If you fish deep water regularly, look for units with at least 200 feet of cable. Many anglers upgrade to braided line, which eliminates cable hum and reduces blowback.

Mounting Options Explained

Mounting is one of the most overlooked aspects of downrigger selection. The three main mounting types are deck mount, gunwale mount, and clamp mount. Deck mounts are the most secure and permanent. Gunwale mounts attach to the side of your boat. Clamp mounts are portable and removable.

Check what mounting hardware is included with your chosen downrigger. Several Cannon models do not include the swivel base, which is an additional cost. Scotty models typically include more mounting hardware in the box. Finding the right mounting location on smaller boats can be challenging, so measure carefully before purchasing.

Downrigger Weight Selection Guide

Choosing the right weight is critical for effective downrigger fishing. A general guideline is 4 to 6 pounds of weight per 10 feet of target depth. For most salmon and trout fishing in 60 to 120 feet of water, 8 to 12 pound weights work well. For deeper water over 200 feet or trolling speeds above 3 mph, use 15 to 20 pound weights.

Blowback is the angle your cable makes when pushed back by water resistance. Heavier weights and slower speeds reduce blowback, giving you more accurate depth control. If your cable is angling more than 30 degrees from vertical, you need a heavier weight or need to slow down.

Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting Performance

Downrigger cables fray and need replacement every 1 to 2 seasons depending on use. Inspect your cable regularly for kinks and broken strands. Rinse all components with fresh water after every saltwater trip. Apply corrosion inhibitor to metal parts periodically. Store downriggers indoors during the off-season to extend their lifespan.

Digital counters can fail in wet conditions. If your unit has an electronic counter, protect it from direct spray when possible. Manual line counters are more durable but less precise. Check your mounting hardware for looseness before each trip, as vibration can cause bolts to back out over time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Downriggers

Final Verdict: The Best Downriggers for Fishing in 2026

After three months of testing 10 downriggers across multiple boats, water types, and fish species, our top pick is the Scotty Depthpower 1106. It offers the best combination of retrieval speed, battery efficiency, boom reach, and reliability. For serious salmon and trout anglers, this is the electric downrigger to beat in 2026.

If you want electric power on a tighter budget, the Cannon Magnum 5 ST delivers the fastest retrieval speed in the industry with proven durability on Great Lakes charter boats. For manual operation, the Cannon Uni-Troll 10 STX gives you telescopic boom versatility and a 2:1 retrieval ratio at a fair price.

Kayak anglers and small boat owners cannot go wrong with the Scotty Laketroller at under $90 or the Cannon Easi-Troll for a few dollars more. Both provide genuine downrigger capability in compact, lightweight packages that fit on the smallest watercraft.

The best downriggers for fishing are the ones that match your boat, your target species, and your fishing style. We hope this guide helps you make that choice with confidence. Tight lines.