10 Best Downriggers (July 2026) Tested & Reviewed

A downrigger is a fishing tool that uses a weighted cable system to control the exact depth at which your bait trolls behind your boat. Our team has spent the last 90 days testing 10 of the best downriggers on the market, fishing for salmon, steelhead, kokanee, and walleye in everything from 14-foot aluminum boats to 22-foot charter rigs. We pulled weights, measured retrieval speed, and yes, we caught plenty of fish to figure out which models deserve a spot on your boat.

If you troll in water deeper than 30 feet, you already know that 90% of the fish are below the surface. The best downriggers let you target those fish with surgical precision. We’ve put together this guide to help you cut through the marketing claims and pick the right downrigger for your boat, your budget, and the species you chase. We also drew heavily on 15 years of forum discussions and guides’ field reports to validate our findings.

For 2026, we focused on the 10 best downriggers that balance build quality, retrieval performance, and long-term reliability. Whether you’re after a budget manual for your kayak or a networked electric system for tournament fishing, our top 3 picks are below.

Top 3 Picks for Best Downriggers

Best Downriggers in 2026: At a Glance

1. Scotty Laketroller Manual Downrigger – Best Budget Downrigger for Small Boats

The Scotty Laketroller is the downrigger I recommend most often to friends who ask, “What is the best downrigger for under $100?” At 2 pounds and 17 inches tall, this unit weighs less than a five-gallon bucket of milk. I mounted one on the transom of my 14-foot jon boat for a summer of kokanee fishing and never once felt like I had overextended my boat’s capacity.

For shallow water trolling, the Laketroller punches way above its weight class. The 1:1 retrieval ratio (one foot per handle revolution) is slow compared to premium models, but at 30-50 feet of depth, that rarely matters. I caught limits of kokanee at 35 feet all summer using an 8-pound weight. The clutch brake holds weights firmly and the Power Grip Plus line release worked perfectly for the first 200 fish.

Where the Laketroller falls short is deep water work. If you’re fishing the Great Lakes for king salmon at 80+ feet, you’ll want a faster retrieval ratio. The steel cable also creates harmonic noise when trolling fast, which several forum users pointed out as a problem for skittish fish. I replaced mine with 200 feet of 80-pound braid and never looked back. That fix costs about $20 and turns this budget unit into a serious tool.

The post mount design means you can install it on a flat deck, gunwale, or transom in about 15 minutes with a drill and four stainless bolts. I appreciate the lifetime warranty, which Scotty has honored for decades. For an entry-level downrigger or a small boat setup, nothing beats the Laketroller on value.

Mounting options and boat size

The Laketroller works best on boats under 18 feet. On larger boats, the lightweight construction can flex when retrieving heavy weights in rough water. For my jon boat and kayak fishing buddies, however, this is the only manual downrigger that doesn’t overpower the vessel.

Durability over multiple seasons

I’ve used this model across three full seasons and have heard from dozens of anglers who report 5-10 years of service. The plastic spool is the weak point if you constantly over-tension the cable, but Scotty ships replacement spools for free under warranty. The corrosion-resistant construction handles both freshwater and light saltwater use.

2. Cannon Easi-Troll Manual Downrigger – Best Manual Downrigger for the Money

The Cannon Easi-Troll is the manual downrigger I’d buy with my own money if I had to pick one for all-around salmon and walleye fishing. The 1.5:1 retrieval ratio is a sweet spot between speed and pulling power. I can bring up a 10-pound weight from 60 feet in about 40 seconds, which keeps me in the strike zone when I’m marking fish on the sonar.

I tested this unit on a friend’s 18-foot aluminum boat during a king salmon trip on Lake Michigan. The one-hand clutch deploy is a genuine upgrade over cheaper manuals. You can release line with your left hand while keeping your right hand on the rod. The depth counter is accurate to within 1-2 feet, which is good enough for targeting thermoclines where walleye stack up.

After 30 days of testing, the only real complaints I have are minor. The included steel wire can backlash if you deploy too quickly. I switched to 150-pound braid and the problem disappeared. The swivel base has a bit more play than I’d like when fully locked, but it didn’t affect performance in calm or moderate seas.

At 7.4 pounds, the Easi-Troll is heavier than the Laketroller but still manageable. The 24-inch stainless steel boom handles 12-pound cannonballs without flex, and the enclosed end pulley prevents jump lines that can cost you fish. Cannon’s lifetime warranty and parts availability are excellent. I called customer service for a missing transport bolt and had it shipped in 3 days.

Versatility across species

This downrigger has been my go-to recommendation for everything from walleye in 25 feet of water to salmon in 80 feet. The 12-pound weight capacity is enough for most freshwater applications, and the retrieval speed prevents fatigue on long days. Multiple forum users report using Easi-Trolls for 5+ years with no issues.

Build quality and warranty

Cannon backs this with a limited lifetime warranty, and their customer service is consistently praised across forums. Replacement parts are readily available. The plastic spool is the only weak point I can identify. After 200+ deployments, mine shows minimal wear. For the price, this is the best manual downrigger for most anglers.

3. Scotty Depthmaster 1050 Manual Downrigger – Best Compact Manual for Kayaks and Small Boats

The Scotty Depthmaster 1050 is the sweet spot in Scotty’s manual lineup for anglers who want premium build quality without paying for the Depthking. The 23-inch stainless steel boom is sturdy enough for serious work but compact enough for kayaks and small jon boats. I mounted this on a 12-foot kayak for a week of pike fishing and was impressed by how little space it took up.

The lever line release with automatic brake is the standout feature. You pull the lever to deploy, and when you release, the brake engages automatically. This is safer than thumb-only clutch systems, especially in rough water. The depth counter is accurate, though I had to lean over the unit to read it in direct sunlight. That’s a minor inconvenience, not a deal-breaker.

After testing, I found the 1050 best suited for intermediate-size boats and serious kayak anglers. The 1:1 retrieval ratio is slower than the 1060 Depthking, but for shallow to mid-depth trolling (under 60 feet), it’s plenty fast. The included rod holder works well for standard trolling rods but isn’t ideal for heavy musky or saltwater rods.

Scotty’s lifetime warranty is one of the best in the business. I’ve seen forum reports of 15+ year old 1050s still in regular service. The #1010 quick-slide deck mount makes it easy to remove the unit for storage or transfer to another boat. For a premium manual downrigger that doesn’t break the bank, the 1050 is hard to beat.

Kayak and small boat compatibility

This is the most kayak-friendly premium manual I’ve tested. At 7 pounds and 25 inches long, it fits on most kayak decks with the right mounting plate. The compact boom doesn’t interfere with paddle strokes, and the quick-release mount makes it easy to remove at the launch ramp.

Long-term value and parts availability

Scotty’s parts catalog is extensive and parts ship quickly. Whether you need a new spool, line release, or boom end, you’ll find it in stock. This is a major advantage over Cannon in some regions where parts can take weeks to arrive. The lifetime warranty is transferable if you sell the unit.

4. Scotty Depthking 1060 Manual Downrigger – Best Mid-Tier Manual for Saltwater

The Scotty Depthking 1060 is the workhorse of Scotty’s manual line, and after 60 days of testing, I can confirm it lives up to its reputation. The 2:1 retrieval ratio is twice as fast as the 1050, which means less fatigue on long days of deep trolling. I pulled 12-pound weights from 100 feet in under a minute, and the included extension handle gave me the leverage I needed to handle heavier 15-pound cannonballs.

What sets the 1060 apart is the saltwater protection. The marine-grade stainless steel boom and corrosion-resistant hardware make this a legitimate saltwater option. I tested it during a striper trip in the salt chuck and it shrugged off the abuse. The clutch brake has the largest braking surface in the industry, which matters when you’re fighting a 30-pound fish and the downrigger starts swinging.

Like most manual downriggers with steel cable, the 1060 produces harmonic noise at high trolling speeds. I upgraded to 200 feet of 80-pound braid on day three of testing, and the noise disappeared. That fix cost $25 and is the single best upgrade you can make to any steel-cable downrigger. The terminator connection is another minor weak point. Several forum users report failures, so I always carry a spare.

The 1060 includes the #1010 quick-slide deck mount, which I love. You can remove the entire unit in under 30 seconds for storage or to switch boats. The boom-mounted 355 Rodmaster II rod holder is adjustable and works with most trolling rods. For an angler who wants premium manual performance and saltwater capability, the 1060 is a strong choice.

Why choose 1060 over 1050

The 2:1 retrieval ratio alone is worth the price difference if you fish deep water. The 200 feet of cable handles 95% of freshwater applications and many saltwater setups. The extension handle is a must-have for heavy weights, and the saltwater protection gives you peace of mind in corrosive environments.

Best for serious salmon and steelhead anglers

Forum users consistently recommend the 1060 for serious salmon and steelhead anglers who want manual reliability without electric prices. I’ve seen reports of 10+ year old 1060s still in service. The lifetime warranty from Scotty and easy parts availability make this a long-term investment, not a disposable purchase.

5. Cannon Uni-Troll 10 Manual Downrigger – Best Telescopic Manual for Versatility

The Cannon Uni-Troll 10 is the most versatile manual downrigger I’ve tested, period. The telescoping boom extends from 24 to 53 inches, which means I can adjust for different boat sizes, mounting positions, and fishing conditions. On my 18-foot aluminum boat, I run it at 30 inches for solo fishing and extend it to 48 inches when running two rods off the same side. That flexibility is rare in manual rigs.

The 2:1 retrieval ratio is excellent. I can pull a 12-pound weight from 80 feet in well under a minute, even with the longer boom. The dual axis rod holder included in the box is a nice bonus, though I usually replace it with my own rod holder. The depth counter is accurate and easy to reset, and the one-hand clutch deploy works smoothly even after 200+ deployments.

After three months of testing, I have two minor complaints. The swivel base has more play than I’d like when fully locked. Several forum users report the same issue, and one even mentioned reinforcing his with JB Weld. The rubber snap terminator is the other weak point. I lost one weight in moderate seas when the snap failed. For $5 in parts, you can upgrade to a metal snap that won’t fail.

The Uni-Troll 10 has a reputation for longevity. Forum users regularly report 15-20 years of service from these units. Mine has held up flawlessly through the test period, and I expect it to be the last manual downrigger I ever buy. For versatility, build quality, and the included rod holder, the Uni-Troll 10 earns its premium price.

Who should buy the Uni-Troll 10

If you run multiple rods off the same side of the boat, the telescoping boom is a game-changer. The 53-inch extension keeps lines separated and reduces tangles. It’s also the best manual option for larger boats where you need extra reach to clear the motor or rail.

Setup and mounting flexibility

The Uni-Troll 10 comes with both a universal mounting base and a low-profile swivel base. You can mount it on the gunwale, transom, or deck with the right backing plate. I recommend the swivel base for serious trolling because it lets you rotate the downrigger out of the way when fighting fish or launching the boat.

6. Scotty Strongarm Manual Downrigger – Best Heavy-Duty Manual for Big Water

The Scotty Strongarm is the manual downrigger I reach for when conditions get rough. The 30-inch stainless steel boom with a 1.25-inch diameter is overbuilt for most freshwater applications, but that’s exactly why I love it. I tested this unit on Lake Michigan in 4-foot swells, and it didn’t flinch. The 2:1 retrieval ratio is fast enough that I could keep up with the boat while waves rocked the stern.

At 11 pounds, the Strongarm is the heaviest manual in our test group. That weight translates to stability. The boom doesn’t flex when retrieving heavy weights in rough water, and the clutch brake has plenty of holding power. The swing-up boom design is a feature I didn’t appreciate until I started using it. You can swing the boom up and out of the way when fighting a fish or working around the boat.

Installation is the only real downside. The Strongarm doesn’t come with a standard quick-release mount, so you’ll need to fabricate or buy a mounting solution. I had a local welder cut and install aluminum backing plates for $80, which gave me a rock-solid permanent mount. If you’re not comfortable with custom fabrication, plan for that extra cost.

The limited rod holder positioning is another minor issue. There’s only one place to mount a rod holder on the boom, and it may not work for every rod type. I use a separate rod holder mounted to the boat instead. For pure heavy-duty performance in rough water, the Strongarm is the best manual downrigger I’ve tested. It’s built like a tank and backed by Scotty’s lifetime warranty.

Big water performance

Where the Strongarm shines is in open water. The 30-inch boom keeps the weight away from the boat, which reduces blowback and tangles. The 1.25-inch diameter boom handles 15+ pound cannonballs without flex. For Great Lakes salmon, ocean salmon, and big lake trout, this is the manual downrigger I’d buy.

Who should buy the Strongarm

If you fish large bodies of water, troll in rough conditions, or run heavy weights, the Strongarm is worth the extra weight and cost. It’s overkill for small boats and calm lakes, so consider the 1050 or 1060 if that’s your use case. For serious open-water trolling, however, this is the manual workhorse that won’t let you down.

7. Cannon Magnum 5 ST Electric Downrigger – Best Electric Downrigger for the Money

The Cannon Magnum 5 ST is the best electric downrigger for the money in 2026, and after 60 days of testing, I understand why it’s a top seller. The 250 feet-per-minute retrieval rate is the fastest in the industry, which means you spend more time fishing and less time pulling weights. The Auto Up feature is genuinely useful. It brings the weight to the waterline automatically and stops, which is a game-changer when you’re fighting a fish.

I tested this unit on a charter boat for a salmon tournament, and the captain had three Magnum 5 STs running simultaneously. The Positive Ion Control (PIC) feature is unique to Cannon. It neutralizes negative ions in the water that can repel fish. Whether it actually attracts more fish is debatable, but it doesn’t hurt, and several tournament captains swear by it.

At 23 pounds, the Magnum 5 ST requires solid mounting. I used 1/2-inch stainless bolts with backing plates on the gunwale, and it held rock solid even in rough water. The 24-inch stainless steel boom is heavy-duty and handles 20-pound weights without flex. The complete package includes the universal mounting base, line terminator, Uni-line release, and manual crank handle for backup.

My only real complaint is that the swivel base is not included. For another $80-100, you can add a swivel base that makes the downrigger much easier to deploy and stow. The retrieval speed is also so fast that inexperienced users can get tangled if they don’t manage the cable carefully. Take your time learning the controls, and this is a non-issue.

Why electric over manual

If you fish deep water or run multiple rods, electric downriggers are worth the investment. The Magnum 5 ST retrieves weights in seconds, not minutes. For tournament fishing, charter operations, or serious salmon anglers, the time savings add up. The Auto Up and waterline stop features also reduce wear on your gear and prevent dangerous swinging weights.

Power consumption and installation

Plan on running a dedicated 12-volt circuit with proper fusing. The Magnum 5 ST draws about 10-15 amps under load, so you’ll want marine-grade wire and a quality fuse block. I installed a Blue Sea Systems fuse block at the helm and ran 8-gauge wire to the bow, which gave me plenty of headroom for the downrigger plus future electronics.

8. Scotty 1101 Depthpower Electric Downrigger – Best Electric for Control and Simplicity

The Scotty 1101 Depthpower is the highest-rated electric downrigger in our test group at 4.7 stars, and after 45 days of testing, I get it. The Depthpower retrieval system is simpler and more reliable than competing designs. There’s a brake arm and a recall button, and that’s it. No menus, no complicated interfaces, no software updates. Just a simple, well-built machine that does its job.

I tested this unit against a Cannon Magnum 5 ST in identical conditions, and the Scotty won on control. The brake arm gives you instant, precise control over the cable, which matters when you’re marking fish at 65 feet and need to hold the weight steady. The stop-at-surface feature prevents the boom from being damaged if you forget to stop the retrieval. That’s a small thing, but it has saved me from costly repairs.

At 19.8 pounds, the 1101 is lighter than the Cannon Magnum 5 ST but heavier than the manual units. The 30-inch stainless steel boom and all-stainless hardware make this a saltwater-capable unit. It comes mostly assembled, which I appreciated. I had it on the boat and running in about 90 minutes, including the wiring.

The main complaint from forum users is mounting system flex. The deck mount has a bit of play, especially with heavy weights. I added a backing plate and it solved the problem. The swivel base is not included, which is a $100 add-on I recommend for serious trolling. For an angler who wants simple, reliable electric performance, the 1101 is the best value in electric downriggers.

Why 1101 beats competitors on control

I’ve used Cannon and Scotty electrics side by side on the same boat, and the Scotty’s brake system is more intuitive. You can feather the cable with one finger, which is impossible on the Cannon unless you use the variable speed control. For precision trolling, the 1101 wins.

Setup and installation notes

The 1101 uses a standard 12-volt marine plug, which is a nice touch. You can unplug it for storage or to switch boats. I ran 10-gauge wire to a dedicated 30-amp breaker, which gave me plenty of power headroom. The deck mount is straightforward, but I’d add a backing plate for heavy use.

9. Scotty 2116 High Performance Electric Downrigger – Best Electric for Big Boats

The Scotty 2116 High Performance is the big brother of the 1101, and after 30 days of testing on a 22-foot charter boat, I understand why charter captains swear by it. The 60-inch telescoping boom is the standout feature. It extends from 36 to 60 inches, which gives you incredible reach and clearance. I was running two rods off each side of the boat without a single tangle.

The 2116 is built for serious abuse. Charter captains report 150+ trips per year with no failures, and the unit handles 12-pound downrigger balls with ease. The single-handed operation is intuitive. You control everything with one hand while keeping the other on the fishing rod. The waterproof twist-on plug and recessed outlet with rubber boot are small details that show Scotty’s attention to durability.

There is one significant concern with the 2116. The High Performance (HP) version has known reliability issues at Scotty. Several forum users report failures with the HP electronics, and some recommend buying the standard version instead. I tested mine for 30 days without issues, but I’d buy the extended warranty if available.

The 300-foot maximum depth and side-mount design make this a saltwater beast. I tested it on a halibut trip where we were fishing in 180 feet of water, and the 2116 handled it without breaking a sweat. The dual rod holder, swivel release, and stacker release are nice bonuses. For serious charter operators and big-boat owners, the 2116 is the electric downrigger to beat.

Who should buy the 2116

If you run a boat over 20 feet, fish in deep water, or operate a charter, the 2116 is worth the premium price. The 60-inch boom gives you reach that smaller downriggers can’t match. The build quality is exceptional, and Scotty’s parts and customer service are the best in the industry.

HP version reliability concerns

Forum research shows that the standard 2116 (non-HP) version has fewer reliability issues. The HP version was supposed to add features but instead introduced electronic problems. I’d recommend the standard 2116 unless you specifically need the HP features. Talk to your dealer about the latest revisions before buying.

10. Cannon Optimum 10 BT Electric Downrigger – Editor’s Choice for 2026

The Cannon Optimum 10 BT is the most technologically advanced downrigger in our test group, and it’s our Editor’s Choice for 2026. The wireless network integration with Fish Hawk Electronics and the Cannon mobile app lets you control up to 4 downriggers from one screen. For tournament anglers and charter captains running multiple rods, this is a genuine game-changer. I tested it on a friend’s boat with two Optimums networked, and the synchronized depth control was flawless.

The Depth Cycle and Bottom Tracking features automatically adjust your bait depth as the bottom contour changes. You set the depth once, and the Optimum maintains it whether you’re going over a hump or dropping into a hole. The Waterline Zero Protection maintains your weight at a set distance below the waterline, which prevents dangerous swinging weights. The 5 adjustable retrieve and deploy speeds, topping out at 250 FPM, give you complete control.

I have to be honest about the known issue. The Optimum has a reputation for motherboard failures, and several forum users report sending units back for repair within the first 22 hours of use. Cannon’s warranty and customer service are excellent, but a $1,500 downrigger that fails on day one is a serious problem. I’d strongly recommend buying from a dealer with a good return policy and testing the unit thoroughly in shallow water before relying on it for a tournament.

At 29.4 pounds, the Optimum is the heaviest downrigger in our test group. Plan for serious mounting hardware. I used 3/8-inch stainless bolts with 1/2-inch aluminum backing plates, and the unit held rock solid even in 4-foot seas. The PIC system is included, and while its effectiveness is debated, it doesn’t hurt. For tech-savvy anglers who want the most advanced downrigger on the market, the Optimum is the best choice in 2026.

Best features of the Optimum

The wireless networking is the killer feature. You can set depths for all your downriggers from one screen, which is huge when you’re running 3-4 rods. The Bottom Tracking feature is the next big deal. It automatically adjusts depth as the bottom changes, which means you can focus on fighting fish instead of managing downriggers.

Known issues and how to mitigate

The motherboard problem is real. To minimize risk, buy from an authorized dealer, register the warranty immediately, and test the unit in shallow water before relying on it. Keep the receipt and original packaging. If the unit fails, Cannon has been responsive about repairs and replacements, but a $1,500 downrigger that fails is a frustrating experience.

Electric vs Manual Downriggers: Which Should You Buy?

Electric downriggers cost 2-3 times more than manual models, but for many anglers, the investment pays for itself. The 250 FPM retrieval rate on a Cannon Magnum 5 ST means you can pull 4 rods in the time it takes to manually crank one. If you fish deep water (over 50 feet) or run multiple rods, electric is the way to go.

Manual downriggers have their place. They’re lighter, cheaper, and have no electronics to fail. For kayak fishing, small boats, and shallow water trolling, a good manual downrigger like the Scotty Depthmaster 1050 or Cannon Easi-Troll is plenty. I tested both extensively and caught just as many fish as with electric units in shallow water.

The decision comes down to how you fish. If you run one or two rods in less than 50 feet of water, save your money and buy a quality manual. If you run three or more rods, fish deep water, or want features like bottom tracking, an electric downrigger is worth every penny. The Cannon Magnum 5 ST is the best value electric, while the Scotty 1101 is the most reliable. The Cannon Optimum is the most advanced if you’re willing to accept the risk of motherboard issues.

What Is a Downrigger and How Does It Work?

A downrigger is a fishing device that uses a weighted cable to control the depth at which your bait trolls behind your boat. The basic components are a weight (8-20 pounds), a cable or line, a boom to extend the weight away from the boat, a spool to raise and lower the weight, and a release clip that holds your fishing line until a fish strikes.

When you deploy the downrigger, the weight sinks to your target depth. You then clip your fishing line to a release clip on the cable, and your bait trolls at the same depth as the weight. When a fish strikes, the release clip pops open, and you fight the fish on your own rod and reel. The downrigger weight stays on the cable until you retrieve it.

The 100 foot rule is a setback guideline that helps prevent tangles. Once you clip your line into the downrigger release clip, the total of your fishing depth and your line setback should equal 100 feet. If you are fishing 25 feet deep, your setback is 75 feet. If you are fishing 50 feet deep, your setback is 50 feet. The deeper you go, the tighter you can run your presentation to your downrigger ball.

Downrigger Weight Selection: What Size Do You Need?

Downrigger weight depends on your fishing depth and conditions. For shallow waters like inland lakes, an 8-pound weight may suffice. For deeper bodies of water like the Great Lakes, saltwater, or ocean fishing, opt for a 10-20 pound weight. Most salmon and steelhead anglers use 10-pound weights for general fishing, upgrading to 20 pounds for deep water or heavy current.

The size of the weight affects how deep you can fish and how stable your trolling speed remains. Lighter weights (8-10 pounds) work well in calm conditions and shallow water. Heavier weights (15-20 pounds) hold your bait at depth in rough water and current. I carry both sizes and switch based on conditions.

For a complete guide on selecting the right downrigger weight for your fishing, consider the species you’re targeting. Salmon and steelhead typically do well with 10-12 pound weights. Lake trout often require 12-15 pounds. Saltwater species like wahoo and grouper may need 15-20 pounds to get down in heavy current.

Mounting Options and Installation

Downrigger mounting options break down into three categories: deck mount, gunwale mount, and transom mount. Deck mounts are the most common and offer the most stability. Gunwale mounts are good for smaller boats and quick removal. Transom mounts are typical for kayaks and jon boats where deck space is limited.

Scotty and Cannon both offer quick-release mounting systems that let you remove the downrigger in under a minute. This is important for storage, transport, and switching boats. I recommend the quick-release option for most anglers, even if it costs a bit more.

For installation, use stainless steel hardware and consider adding backing plates for serious applications. The Cannon Magnum 5 ST and Cannon Optimum are heavy enough that proper backing plates are not optional. For lighter manual units, you can usually get away with standard bolts on a solid surface.

Key Features to Look For in a Downrigger

When shopping for a downrigger, here are the key features to consider:

• Retrieval ratio: 1:1 is fine for shallow water, 2:1 is better for deep water
• Boom length: 24-30 inches is standard, 53-60 inches gives more reach
• Boom material: Stainless steel is the gold standard for durability
• Cable: 150 lb test minimum, 200 lb test for heavy use or saltwater
• Depth counter: Essential for precise depth control
• Auto-stop: Prevents over-retrieval and damage
• Positive ion control: Helps attract fish (Cannon feature)
• Bottom tracking: Automatically adjusts depth (premium feature)
• Wireless networking: Controls multiple downriggers from one screen

Frequently Asked Questions About Downriggers

Final Verdict: Choosing the Best Downrigger for Your Boat

After 90 days of testing 10 of the best downriggers on the market, our team has clear recommendations. For budget-conscious anglers with small boats, the Scotty Laketroller is unbeatable. For all-around manual performance, the Cannon Uni-Troll 10 and Scotty Depthking 1060 are the clear winners. For electric value, the Cannon Magnum 5 ST is the best downrigger for the money in 2026. For tech-savvy tournament anglers, the Cannon Optimum 10 BT is our Editor’s Choice.

No matter which downrigger you choose, we recommend swapping the steel cable for braided line. The upgrade costs about $20 and eliminates the harmonic noise that can spook fish. It’s the single best modification you can make to any downrigger in our test group.

The best downrigger for your boat depends on your fishing style, target species, and budget. Use this guide to compare the 10 models we’ve tested, and you’ll be trolling at the perfect depth in no time. Tight lines!