8 Things To Know When Buying Downriggers

If you’re deep-water fishing in the oceans or on a lake, having a downrigger is a must-have for serious anglers. But if you’re unfamiliar with downriggers, choosing from all the available options can feel overwhelming.

Luckily, we’re here to help! Our guide below will tell you everything you need to know about downriggers, from how they work to what to know when buying them.

What is a Downrigger and How Does It Work?

A downrigger is a fishing device that allows you to reach fish in deeper waters by controlling the depth of your bait. Think of it as a mounted pulley system on your boat that can precisely lower a weight (called a downrigger weight) and your fishing line into deeper water. The fishing line attaches to the downrigger weight with a release clip, which holds the line in place until a fish strikes, releasing your line for you to reel in.

Using a downrigger lets you target specific depths consistently, ensuring your bait stays in the strike zone of species that dwell deeper in the water column. Whether you're trolling for salmon or targeting lake trout, a downrigger can make all the difference.

The Benefits of Using a Downrigger

A downrigger is a game-changer for anglers who want precision and efficiency. By maintaining your bait at optimal depths, downriggers increase your likelihood of attracting fish such as salmon, walleye, and kokanee.

With a properly set up downrigger, you can cover more water while trolling, maximize your fishing success, and improve your chances of reeling in trophy catches. Beyond that, downriggers reduce the guesswork and physical effort of traditional fishing techniques. Instead of manually lowering lines to a certain depth, a downrigger offers unmatched control, freeing you to focus on the thrill of fishing itself.

What To Know When Buying a Downrigger

If this is your first time shopping for a downrigger, there are many things to know when buying one. From where you’ll be fishing to what you’ll be fishing, there are many factors to consider to find the ideal downrigger for you.

1. Manual vs. Electric Downriggers

Manual downriggers are affordable and simple to use, making them ideal for beginners or anglers fishing in shallower waters. They use a hand crank to raise and lower the weight.

Electric downriggers, on the other hand, require less effort, as they automatically adjust the line at the touch of a button. For frequent or deep-water anglers, the convenience of electric models is worth the investment.

2. Freshwater vs. Saltwater Downriggers

Fishing in freshwater and saltwater environments presents unique challenges. Saltwater downriggers contain corrosion-resistant materials such as stainless steel or anodized aluminum to withstand harsh marine conditions.

Freshwater downriggers don’t face the same environmental demands, which may make them lighter or less expensive. Choosing a downrigger specifically for your fishing environment ensures durability and longevity.

3. Boom Length

The boom is the arm extending from the downrigger, guiding your line out and away from the boat. Longer booms, often exceeding 30 inches, are ideal for larger boats as they provide greater clearance, preventing tangles with the hull or motor. Shorter booms work well for smaller boats with less deck space.

4. Mounting Options

Anglers and boat owners can mount downriggers in several ways, such as with fixed mounts, side mounts, or swivel bases. Portable clamp-on mounts offer flexibility for anglers who rent boats or switch between vessels. Consider your boat's layout to determine which mounting system fits your needs.

5. Retrieval Speed

The ability to quickly retrieve your downrigger weight after each troll is crucial, especially when fishing at deeper depths. Electric downriggers typically offer faster retrieval speeds, saving time and effort. Some models even include variable speed settings, adding more versatility for different fishing scenarios.

6. Weight Capacity

The weight capacity of a downrigger determines how heavy the downrigger weight can be. Heavier weights (8–12 pounds) are better for deep trolling in strong currents, while lighter weights (4–6 pounds) are sufficient for most freshwater lakes and calmer waters. Check the weight capacity of your chosen downrigger to match your fishing environment.

7. Line and Reel

The type of cable or line is key to a downrigger's performance. Stainless steel cables offer durability for heavy-duty use, whereas braided lines are lighter and quieter. Pairing the right reel with the line ensures smooth operation.

8. Depth Gauge

Accurate depth gauges are crucial for precision trolling. Most downriggers include a built-in depth counter to help you monitor the depth of your bait. Digital depth gauges provide more accuracy, enabling you to better track and adjust your lure placement.

Essential Downrigger Accessories

In addition to choosing the right downrigger, don’t forget to pick up the essential accessories to maximize your fishing experience.

• Downrigger weights ("cannonballs"): Keep your line stable at depth.
• Line releases: Ensure your fishing line detaches smoothly when a fish strikes.
• High-quality cables: Maintain a reliable and efficient setup.
• Rod holders: Secure your fishing rods while trolling.
• Pulley systems: Enable smooth and controlled lowering and retrieval of your line.

Investing in these accessories ensures your downrigger performs at its best.

Installation Tips

Proper installation is vital for the safe and effective use of downriggers, ensuring optimal performance and preventing potential issues. When mounting downriggers, consider factors such as your boat's size, weight distribution, and accessibility to ensure smooth operation and stability.

For electric downriggers, take care to secure the wiring and protect them from moisture or water exposure to prevent malfunctions or electrical issues while on the water. Double-check that all mounting hardware is tight to withstand the strain during use.

Maintenance and Care

Like any piece of equipment, your downrigger needs regular maintenance to stay in peak condition and ensure it performs reliably every time you’re out on the water. After every saltwater trip, thoroughly rinse your downriggers with fresh water to remove any salt residue, which can cause corrosion over time. Pay special attention to hard-to-reach areas where salt may accumulate.

Occasionally, lubricate the moving parts, such as the spool and pulley, to keep everything running smoothly and prevent unnecessary wear. Inspect the cables regularly for frays, kinks, or other signs of wear and tear that could compromise their strength during use. Replace damaged cables immediately to avoid accidents or interruptions during fishing trips.

Setting Up Your Downrigger for Different Fishing Techniques

Downriggers aren’t limited to one fishing style for anglers looking to improve their success rates. Whether you're trolling with crankbaits, spoons, or live bait, the key is to adjust depth, speed, and lure selection to target specific species effectively. For example, deeper waters often require heavier weights, while certain species may respond better to a faster trolling speed or a specific bait type.

Find Downriggers and More Fishing Gear at Yeager's Sporting Goods

If you need a downrigger for your next fishing expedition, Yeager’s Sporting Goods is here to help. We offer all kinds of fishing tackle online for beginners and experienced anglers.

For over 100 years, we’ve been helping anglers make the most of their time out on the water. Whatever you need to reel in your next catch, you’ll find it at Yeager’s. Browse our selection online, or stop by our store in Bellingham, WA, today!