Let’s Talk About Cannon 150ft Downrigger Cable
The Cannon 150ft Downrigger Cable is a seemingly simple, yet crucial piece of equipment for any serious angler engaging in downrigger fishing. Manufactured by Cannon, a well-respected name in fishing gear, this cable is designed to withstand the harsh underwater environment and provide reliable performance. It boasts a 150-foot length, constructed from 7-strand, 302-grade stainless steel, and has a 150 lb test strength.
I needed a reliable and durable downrigger cable for my salmon and lake trout fishing trips on the Great Lakes. The old cable on my downrigger was showing signs of wear, and I didn’t want to risk losing expensive gear or a trophy fish due to cable failure.
Upon unboxing, the Cannon 150ft Downrigger Cable felt robust and well-constructed. The stainless steel had a clean, polished finish, and the cable itself felt substantial without being overly stiff.
Compared to other downrigger cables I’ve used in the past, this one from Cannon appeared to be of higher quality, specifically in the feel of the braiding. I chose the Cannon cable because of the brand’s reputation for reliability and the specific 302-grade stainless steel, which I know to be corrosion-resistant.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to get it on the water and see if it lived up to the Cannon name, but I also knew that downrigger cables can be finicky, especially after experiencing some cheaper brands.
Real-World Testing: Putting Cannon 150ft Downrigger Cable to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Cannon 150ft Downrigger Cable was on Lake Michigan, targeting Chinook salmon in late summer. The conditions were typical for that time of year: moderate chop, bright sunlight, and water depths ranging from 50 to 120 feet.
The cable performed flawlessly. I found the cable very easy to spool onto my Cannon downrigger and it fed smoothly without any kinks or snags.
I had no issues or surprises after the first use. The cable held up well to the repeated stress of raising and lowering the downrigger weight, and there was no noticeable stretching or fraying.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Cannon 150ft Downrigger Cable continues to impress. I’ve used it in a variety of conditions, from calm lakes to choppy seas, and it has consistently performed without issue.
The cable shows minimal signs of wear and tear. I occasionally wipe it down with a clean cloth, but that’s the extent of the maintenance.
Compared to the previous downrigger cable, the Cannon cable outperforms in terms of durability and resistance to corrosion. I feel much more confident using it, knowing that it won’t fail me when I need it most.
Breaking Down the Features of Cannon 150ft Downrigger Cable
Specifications
- 150-foot Length: The 150-foot length provides ample scope for reaching desired fishing depths in most freshwater and some saltwater applications. It is important to have enough cable to account for blowback and the angle of the boat’s troll.
- 7-Strand, 302-Grade Stainless Steel: The 7-strand construction offers a balance of flexibility and strength, while the 302-grade stainless steel provides excellent corrosion resistance in both freshwater and saltwater environments. Stainless steel is crucial for longevity in aquatic environments.
- 150 lb Test: The 150 lb test strength is more than sufficient for most downrigger fishing applications, including trolling for salmon, trout, and walleye. Anglers need a high test strength to prevent break offs when using heavier downrigger weights and fighting larger fish.
These specifications are critical for a reliable and effective downrigger setup. The length allows for reaching the depths where fish are holding, the stainless steel ensures long-term durability in the water, and the test strength provides peace of mind when targeting larger species.
Performance & Functionality
The Cannon 150ft Downrigger Cable performs exceptionally well in its intended function. The cable spools smoothly onto the downrigger drum, runs cleanly through the boom and release mechanisms, and holds the downrigger weight securely at the desired depth.
Its strength and corrosion resistance are definite strengths, while there are no significant weaknesses observed so far. This downrigger cable meets my expectations perfectly and, frankly, exceeds the performance of the cheap alternatives I tried previously.
Design & Ergonomics
The Cannon 150ft Downrigger Cable is a simple yet effective design. It provides a consistent and reliable connection between the downrigger and the weight.
The weight and feel of the cable are appropriate for its intended use and does not present any handling issues. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The 302-grade stainless steel construction indicates a long lifespan. Its resistance to corrosion and wear ensure reliability in the field.
Maintenance is minimal; a simple wipe down after each use to remove any debris or salt residue is generally sufficient.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Cannon 150ft Downrigger Cable itself doesn’t require any specific accessories. It’s designed to work seamlessly with standard downrigger setups.
The cable is compatible with various downrigger weights, releases, and other accessories from Cannon and other brands. Anglers have the flexibility to customize their downrigger setups to suit their specific fishing needs.
Pros and Cons of Cannon 150ft Downrigger Cable
Pros
- High-Quality Stainless Steel Construction: Ensures excellent corrosion resistance and long-term durability in freshwater and saltwater environments.
- Optimal 150lb Test Strength: Offers ample strength for most downrigger fishing applications, providing peace of mind when targeting larger fish.
- Smooth and Consistent Performance: Spools easily onto the downrigger drum and runs cleanly through release mechanisms.
- Minimal Maintenance: Requires only basic cleaning to maintain its performance and longevity.
- Trusted Brand: Cannon is a reputable brand known for producing reliable and high-quality fishing gear.
Cons
- Can be a bit pricey compared to other downrigger cables on the market.
- Stainless steel cable can develop kinks if not spooled properly.
Who Should Buy Cannon 150ft Downrigger Cable?
This downrigger cable is perfect for serious anglers who demand reliability and durability from their equipment. It’s ideal for those who frequently target salmon, trout, walleye, and other species using downriggers in both freshwater and saltwater.
Those who only fish occasionally or are on a very tight budget might consider a cheaper alternative. However, the Cannon 150ft Downrigger Cable is a worthwhile investment for those who want peace of mind and long-term performance.
A must-have accessory would be a pair of quality crimping pliers and sleeves for making secure connections to downrigger weights and releases.
Conclusion on Cannon 150ft Downrigger Cable
The Cannon 150ft Downrigger Cable is a reliable and durable product that delivers consistent performance. Its high-quality stainless steel construction, ample test strength, and smooth operation make it an excellent choice for serious anglers.
The price is justified by the cable’s longevity and the peace of mind it provides. I would absolutely recommend the Cannon 150ft Downrigger Cable to anyone looking for a dependable downrigger cable.
If you are serious about downrigger fishing, invest in the Cannon 150ft Downrigger Cable. You won’t be disappointed!