How to Use a Mini-Troll Downrigger

The Mini-Troll mounts on thin-walled boats.

The Cannon Mini-Troll Downrigger is a portable model that operates in the same fashion as traditional designs but it fits small boats. The manual downrigger is easy to use but the angler must be cautious about the attachment and positioning. The downrigger does not permanently bolt to the boat and slipping is a potential hazard. The downrigger is ideal for trolling in boats as small as canoes and is compatible with all thin-rail gunwale designs.

Things You'll Need

• Downrigger
• Wood block
• Ball weight
• Line clip
• Rod and reel
• Rod holder
• Trolling motor
• Fish finder

Instructions

1. Mount the Mini-Troll on the transom or side of the boat, a common mounting position. Place a wood block between the inside of the gunwale and the clamp. Turn the clamp handle to secure the downrigger to the boat. Turn with as much pressure as possible to prevent the downrigger from slipping.

2. Locate the clip on the end of the cable. Hook the clip on the ball weight ring. Locate the line release that is included with the downrigger. Hook the line release clip on the ball weight ring.

3. Place the butt of your rod in the rod holder. Pinch the clip to open the jaws on the line release. Open the rod bail on the fishing reel to free the line. Place your line between the jaws of the clip.

4. Grab the cable crank handle on the downrigger. Pull the brake release on the gears and turn the handle in a counterclockwise motion. Every turn lowers 1 foot of cable. Continue lowering the cable and line until you reach the desired depth. Push the brake against the gears to stop lowering the cable.

5. Drive the boat at a speed lower than 3 miles per hour. The speed pulls the line and trolls the lure or bait behind the boat.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a fish finder to locate fish and determine the best trolling depth. The fish finder may also be installed on small boats.

References

• Cannon: Mini-Troll Product Manual

Resources

• Cannon Downriggers