Why We Recommend Fishing Downriggers
Introduction
Fishing downriggers are an essential tool for anglers looking to target deep-dwelling fish such as salmon and lake trout. These devices use a weighted cannonball that is attached to a line and lowered into the water to help fishermen reach the desired depth. With so many different types of downriggers on the market, it can be difficult to choose the right one for your needs. In this article, we will provide some tips to help you make an informed decision when selecting a fishing downrigger.
Consider Your Fishing Needs
The first thing to consider when choosing a fishing downrigger is the type of fishing you will be doing. If you are planning on targeting shallow-water fish, a manual downrigger may be sufficient. These devices use a hand crank to lower and retrieve the weight, and are typically less expensive than other types of downriggers. However, if you are fishing in deeper waters or want to cover a larger area, you may want to consider an electric downrigger. These devices use a motor to lower and retrieve the weight, and can reach greater depths more quickly.
Pay Attention to the Weight Capacity
Another important factor to consider when choosing a downrigger is the weight capacity. This refers to the maximum weight that the downrigger can hold, which will determine how deep it can reach. If you are fishing in shallow waters, a lower weight capacity may be sufficient. However, if you are targeting deep-water fish, you will need a downrigger with a higher weight capacity. Be sure to check the manufacturer's specifications to determine the weight capacity of the downrigger you are considering.
Consider the Quality and Durability
When choosing a fishing downrigger, it is important to consider the quality and durability of the device. Downriggers are exposed to the elements and can be subject to corrosion and other wear and tear. As such, it is important to choose a downrigger that is made of high-quality materials and has been built to withstand the rigors of saltwater or freshwater fishing. Be sure to read reviews and do some research to ensure that the downrigger you choose is durable and built to last.
Look for Additional Features
In addition to the weight capacity and durability, there are other features that you may want to consider when choosing a fishing downrigger. Some downriggers come equipped with a digital depth readout, which can be useful for tracking the depth of your lure or bait. Others may have an automatic line release, which can be helpful for setting the desired depth and releasing the weight quickly and easily. Consider the additional features that may be useful for your fishing needs and choose a downrigger that has the features you need.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right fishing downrigger requires some careful consideration. By taking into account your fishing needs, the weight capacity and durability of the downrigger, and any additional features, you can select the best downrigger for your fishing situation. With the right downrigger, you can effectively target deep-water fish and have a successful and enjoyable fishing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are downriggers worth it?
Yes, downriggers are worth it for fishing. They allow anglers to place live bait and lures at precise depths in the water column, increasing the chances of catching fish. Downriggers are commonly used to target species like king mackerel, amberjack, cobia, and grouper.
2. What are the four basic accessories needed to fish with a downrigger?
The four basic accessories needed for fishing with a downrigger are a spool of steel cable, a counter, a release clip, and a weight. Additionally, a rod holder and a short boom to extend the reach away from the mounting bracket on the gunnels are also commonly used. Using multiple downrigger booms allows for controlling the angle of tow and keeping multiple lines separated.
3. What size downrigger do I need?
The size of the downrigger depends on the fishing depth. An eight-pound downrigger weight is suitable for depths up to about 50 feet and speeds up to 2.5 MPH. For depths ranging from 50 to 75 feet, a 10-pound weight is recommended. Depths between 75 and 100 feet require a 12 or 14-pound downrigger weight.
4. How heavy should my downrigger ball be?
The weight of the downrigger ball depends on the trolling speed and fishing depth. Typically, six to eight pounds is sufficient for moderate depth freshwater applications, while ten pounds is common for saltwater fishing. The weight needed is determined by the speed of trolling and the depth being fished.
5. How deep can you troll without a downrigger?
Without a downrigger, it is possible to troll depths of 30 to 60 feet using tackle commonly found in a tackle box. Downriggers become less important when targeting shallower depths, such as kokanee in the spring and early summer.
6. How fast can you troll with a downrigger?
Trolling with a downrigger often involves varying speeds depending on the targeted fish species. Speeds can range from one knot for trout and salmon up to 3-5 knots for kingfish and smaller gamefish. When targeting marlin and tuna, speeds can reach up to eight knots.
7. How far behind the downrigger should the lure be?
A general rule of thumb is to have a drop back length of 100 feet from the downrigger. For example, if you are fishing 30 feet deep, the gear should be set 70 feet behind the downrigger ball. This helps ensure proper positioning of the lure in relation to the downrigger.
Editor's Notes
During our fishing downrigger research, we found 24 fishing downrigger products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 7,605 customer reviews through our big data system to write the fishing downriggers list. We found that most customers choose fishing downriggers with an average price of $450.64.
The fishing downriggers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of fishing downriggers, including Cannon, Scotty. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Paul Tilton is a fitness enthusiast. He doesn't like to work in front of a computer screen so he quit his job and runs a gym in Washington. He spent a lot of time on the road and has been a contributing writer for a well-known travel guide website. He is now happy to share his travel experience and professional knowledge of travel gear and fitness here.
