Downriggers

[MTstringer]

Does anyone have any preferences or advice for someone new to the world of downrigging? I have a 1700 Fisherman and I'd like to purchase (W/O breaking the bank)at least one downrigger to open up some new fishing opportunities.

[bigdog]

I have Walker and BigJon brand downriggers. Both are smaller hand crank models. I greatly prefer using the Walker. It has one handed operation, seems stronger and they make a better release system.

[GoodToGo]

I have Canon Unitroll manual riggers. They work nice and came with swivel bases and 8 lb balls (although I use 12 lb) from Cabelas. Pretty reasonable price and they crank up at 2' per turn instead of 1' like some other manuals.

[IrishZit]

I'll give you a tip from another newbie. I put an ad in the paper saying I would like to purchase used downriggers and had very good response. Granted I live in Duluth, but you have have a similar response. I got a pair of Big Jon's and a bunch of goodies for $100. Give it a try.

Sully

[MTstringer]

Thank you for the responses. I'm looking at the downriggers in Cabelas, but I think I'm going to put an ad in the local shopper to see what kind of used equipment may be available.

[Guest]

I have Big Jon Captn's pack riggers on my boat, got them as a package deal. My friend has the same priced cannon's 260.00 or so. I would highly recommend cannon's over the big jon's. I know if I were to spend cash I would buy Cannon's because of ease of use. Another site for you to look at them is Marine General. They specialize in Big Water trolling.

[Surface Tension]

I like Cannons. Well built and one hand operation.
However if your on a budget I don't think I'd pass up any good buy.