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10 Best Downrigger Fishing 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Cannon 1902335 Optimum Electric Downrigger

The Cannon 1902335 Optimum Electric Downrigger is designed for avid fishermen seeking efficiency and convenience while fishing. One of its standout features is the wireless integration that allows it to connect seamlessly with Fish Hawk Electronics and the Cannon mobile app. This means you can control multiple downriggers and retrieve weights with just one button push, which can be a significant time-saver on the water.

Precision controls offer the ability to store up to five preset depths, remembering the depth of your last catch. This can enhance your fishing experience as you can easily cycle through weights at set intervals or track the bottom to keep your bait at the right depth. Additionally, the Waterline Zero feature helps protect your boat from swinging weights, which is a thoughtful design element.

The Optimum downrigger also boasts speed adjustments with five different retrieval rates, allowing for adaptability depending on fishing conditions. Its stainless steel telescopic boom extends from 24 inches to 53 inches, providing versatility in setup, and it comes pre-spooled with 400 feet of heavy-duty stainless steel cable, ensuring you have ample line capacity for various fishing scenarios. However, it's important to consider some drawbacks. Some users might find the weight of 30 pounds a bit heavy for easy transport and installation, especially if you're on a smaller boat. The price point might also be higher compared to manual options, which could deter budget-conscious buyers. Additionally, the advanced features may have a learning curve for those who are not tech-savvy.

The Cannon 1902335 Optimum Electric Downrigger is an excellent choice for serious anglers looking for advanced functionalities and ease of use, though it may not be as suitable for casual fishermen due to its weight and complexity.

#2

Cannon 1902305 Magnum 10 Electric Downrigger

Rating
8.8
Boom Length
Ease of Use

Most important from
283 reviews

Boom Length
Combining the base model with aftermarket telescopic booms and adjustable release clips allows customization close to higher-end models at a better price.
Ease of Use
The electric retrieval system makes it effortless to raise heavy weights quickly, especially valuable when targeting larger fish like king salmon or Lakers.

The Cannon Magnum 10 Electric Downrigger is designed to make fishing easier by allowing you to drop and retrieve heavy weights with just the push of a button. It has a strong 20-pound weight capacity, which is suitable for most fishing situations that require deep water or heavier weights. The boom is telescopic and extends from 24 to 53 inches, giving you flexibility in how far out you want to fish. It’s fairly easy to use thanks to its electric retrieval system that works at a solid speed of 250 feet per minute, helping you get your line back quickly without much effort. The downrigger includes a 360-degree swivel base and a universal mounting base, making it versatile for different boat setups. Its line capacity includes a strong 250 feet of stainless steel cable, which is enough for deep water fishing. It also features waterproof connections with IP68 rating, so it can handle wet conditions well.

The unit weighs 22.5 pounds, which might require some effort to install or move around. Made mostly of plastic, it’s durable but not the lightest or most rugged material. The product has received positive reviews for reliability and ease of use, and it comes with a limited lifetime warranty, which is reassuring if you plan to fish frequently. This downrigger is a solid pick for anglers who want a dependable electric model with good weight capacity and adjustable boom length, though it might be less ideal for those looking for the lightest or simplest manual option.

Rating
8.8
Boom Length
Ease of Use

Most important from
283 reviews

Boom Length
Combining the base model with aftermarket telescopic booms and adjustable release clips allows customization close to higher-end models at a better price.
Ease of Use
The electric retrieval system makes it effortless to raise heavy weights quickly, especially valuable when targeting larger fish like king salmon or Lakers.
#3

Scotty #1101 Depthpower Electric Downrigger w/30-inch Boom

Rating
8.5
Mounting Options
Ease of Use

Most important from
94 reviews

Mounting Options
The downrigger came with everything needed for installation and worked great.
Ease of Use
Plugged right in and went to work, making the transition from manual to electric seamless.

The Scotty #1101 Depthpower Electric Downrigger is a strong contender for those serious about downrigger fishing. With its 30-inch long, 1 1/4-inch diameter stainless steel boom, it offers solid durability and reach. The inclusion of a 250 ft premium 150 lb test stainless steel downrigger cable ensures strength and reliability when handling heavy catches.

The boom-mounted No 350 Rodmaster II rod holder and 16-position swivel pedestal mount provide flexibility in rod placement and ease of use. Additionally, the Power Grip Plus line release included in the package adds convenience to the setup. This electric downrigger is deck-mounted and weighs 20.1 pounds, making it relatively easy to install but not the lightest option available.

Some users might find it a bit heavy, and the deck mounting option might not suit everyone’s boat setup. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Scotty #1101 Depthpower Electric Downrigger's robust build, extensive line capacity, and user-friendly features make it a valuable addition for avid downrigger fishing enthusiasts.

Rating
8.5
Mounting Options
Ease of Use

Most important from
94 reviews

Mounting Options
The downrigger came with everything needed for installation and worked great.
Ease of Use
Plugged right in and went to work, making the transition from manual to electric seamless.

Buying Guide for the Best Downrigger Fishing

Choosing the right downrigger for your fishing needs can significantly enhance your fishing experience. Downriggers are essential tools for anglers who want to control the depth at which their bait or lure is presented. This is particularly important when targeting fish that dwell in deeper waters. To make an informed decision, you need to consider several key specifications that will determine the effectiveness and convenience of your downrigger. Understanding these specs will help you select a model that best fits your fishing style and the conditions you typically fish in.
TypeDownriggers come in two main types: manual and electric. Manual downriggers require you to crank the line up and down by hand, which can be labor-intensive but offers more control and is generally more affordable. Electric downriggers, on the other hand, use a motor to raise and lower the line, making them easier to use, especially in deep waters or when frequent adjustments are needed. If you fish occasionally or in shallower waters, a manual downrigger might suffice. However, if you fish frequently, in deeper waters, or prefer convenience, an electric downrigger would be a better choice.
Boom LengthThe boom is the arm that extends from the downrigger and holds the line away from the boat. Boom lengths can vary, typically ranging from 24 to 60 inches. A longer boom helps to keep the fishing line away from the boat's wake, reducing the chance of tangling and improving bait presentation. Shorter booms are more compact and easier to manage, making them suitable for smaller boats or when fishing in tight spaces. Consider the size of your boat and the typical fishing conditions to determine the appropriate boom length for your needs.
Weight CapacityThe weight capacity of a downrigger refers to the maximum weight of the cannonball or weight that it can handle. This is important because the weight needs to be heavy enough to keep your bait at the desired depth, especially in strong currents or deep waters. Common weight capacities range from 8 to 20 pounds. If you fish in deep waters or areas with strong currents, opt for a downrigger with a higher weight capacity. For shallower waters or calmer conditions, a lower weight capacity will be sufficient.
Mounting OptionsDownriggers can be mounted in various ways, including clamp-on, deck-mounted, or rail-mounted options. Clamp-on mounts are versatile and can be easily moved between boats, making them ideal for anglers who use multiple boats. Deck-mounted downriggers are more permanent and provide a stable base, suitable for larger boats. Rail-mounted options are great for boats with railings and offer flexibility in positioning. Consider how you plan to use the downrigger and the type of boat you have to choose the best mounting option.
Line CapacityLine capacity refers to the amount of cable or line that the downrigger can hold. This is crucial for reaching the desired fishing depth. Most downriggers come with a cable length ranging from 150 to 400 feet. If you fish in deep waters, you will need a downrigger with a higher line capacity to ensure you can reach the necessary depths. For shallower waters, a lower line capacity will be adequate. Match the line capacity to the typical depths you fish to ensure optimal performance.
Ease of UseEase of use encompasses several features, including the design of the controls, the smoothness of the operation, and additional features like auto-stop or depth counters. These features can make a significant difference in your fishing experience, especially during long trips. Look for downriggers with intuitive controls and features that simplify operation. If you are new to using downriggers, prioritize models that are user-friendly and come with clear instructions.

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