How to Extend a Scotty Downrigger Electrical Cable

The electric downrigger retrieves the cable while you fight the fish.

The Scotty electric downrigger controls the trolling depth of your lure or bait. The company manufactures manual and electric downriggers with a weight and cable system that holds a constant depth and drags the lure. The lure and fishing line attaches to the cable with a clip, and the line releases from the clip when a fish strikes. Extending the cable requires simple operation of the control system on the downrigger.

Things You'll Need

• Downrigger
• Downrigger weight
• Fishing rod
• Rod holder

Instructions

1. Attach the clip on the end of the cable to the metal loop on the ball weight. The downrigger does not function without the weight.

2. Locate the brake handle on top of the downrigger. Pull the brake handle to release it from the cable. Slowly turn the handle in a clockwise direction to begin lowering line.

3. Turn the handle counterclockwise and push it forward when the line clip is exposed on the cable. This stops the cable and locks it in a stationary position. Attach your fishing line to the clip and place the rod in a rod holder.

4. Pull the brake handle and turn in a clockwise motion to continue releasing line. Continue turning the handle to speed the release of cable. Turn the handle counterclockwise and push forward to stop the line when it reaches the desired depth.

Tips & Warnings

• Release the cable at a slow pace and monitor the depth counter on the downrigger. The slow pace prevents tangles in the fishing line and kinks in the downrigger cable.

References

• Scotty: Electric Downrigger Manual
• Fish Alaska Magazine; Downriggers; July 2003