downrigger recommendations

[fmm1991]

What does everyone recommend for downriggers? I have a new 16 and half foot crestliner fishhawk and would like to get set up for some summertime trolling. I have no experience with downriggers.

[JDK]

I have been very happy with my Cannon Easi-Trolls for a manual rigger.

[MarkNFish]

I have been very happy with my Cannon Easi-Trolls for a manual rigger.

X2

[Jethro]

My buddy has Cannon Lake Trolls on his 14' skiff and they work great. I have Penn 625's on my boat and love them. The only reason I'd replace them is to get electrics.

[teampar]

I have been very happy with my Cannon Easi-Trolls for a manual rigger.

X2 on the Easi-Trolls, used them for years with zero issues. I am however looking forward to the maiden voyage with the electric's this afternoon. 

[Jethro]

X2 on the Easi-Trolls, used them for years with zero issues. I am however looking forward to the maiden voyage with the electric's this afternoon. 

 

That's the way to go... If I had to do it over again I would skip the manuals. Electrics are superior in every way, especially if you fish solo.

[fmm1991]

great info thanks

[Turnbuckle]

If you can, get the electric cannons. Crestliner makes a downrigger bracket for the sidetrack system. It’s convenient, and if you go that route let me know as I have some tips for you to help the learning curve.

[stguy]

Hand cranks are better than nothing but at this point if I had to give up my electrics I think I would give up trolling.

I have used most of the manual ones and they all have pros and cons, I think I liked the Penns the best though.

There has been some pretty good deals on used manuals on Craigslist.

I would recommend taking a trip out with someone that knows how to use them, there is a bit of a learning curve and it can be frustrating and expensive, if your near Sebago, you can hop on board with me for a bit.

[fishlessman]

i would never go back to manual riggers

[lowaccord66]

i would never go back to manual riggers

Used manuals on Ontario...arms and shoulders are large as a result.  Ill take the trade off.

[bootstrap]

big jon captian packs. install the auto stops. walker bullet style releases.

[Mac Attack]

X100 on the vote for electrics
I have used both
Currently have manuals and wish they were powered

[JDK]

Women love a guy with manual riggers who looks like popeye at the end of a day.  Tells them he is a good fisherman.

[lowaccord66]

Women love a guy with manual riggers who looks like popeye at the end of a day.  Tells them he is a good fisherman.

Of course!!! It's because if they're lucky they are well aware of the difference between manual and electric!