Cannon Easi-Troll ST Manual Downrigger Review

Let’s Talk About Cannon Easi-Troll ST Manual Downrigger

The Cannon Easi-Troll ST Manual Downrigger is designed for anglers who are looking to precisely control their bait depth without breaking the bank. This manual downrigger, manufactured by Cannon, offers an affordable entry point into the world of controlled-depth fishing, boasting features like the One-Hand Clutch Deploy and a convenient depth counter. It’s a great option for smaller boats or those just starting to explore the benefits of downrigger fishing.

I had been increasingly frustrated with the limitations of flat-lining while trolling on my small aluminum boat. I wanted to target deeper water where larger fish often reside, but without a downrigger, I was stuck fishing near the surface. I was looking for a downrigger that was reliable, easy to use, and wouldn’t require a significant investment.

Upon unboxing the Cannon Easi-Troll ST Manual Downrigger, I was immediately struck by its compact design. The materials felt robust enough for its intended purpose, and the overall build quality seemed adequate for a manual system. The spool was already pre-spooled with stainless steel cable, which was a definite plus.

I considered the Scotty Laketroller Manual Downrigger and the Walker Striker Downrigger before settling on the Cannon Easi-Troll ST Manual Downrigger. While the Scotty Laketroller was slightly cheaper, it lacked the pre-spooled cable. The Walker Striker Downrigger had a faster retrieval rate, but was more expensive. The Cannon offering seemed to strike the best balance between features, price, and ease of use.

My initial impression was positive. It felt like a well-thought-out, no-frills solution for controlled-depth fishing. I was eager to get it mounted on my boat and see how it performed on the water.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Cannon Easi-Troll ST Manual Downrigger to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Cannon Easi-Troll ST Manual Downrigger was on a local lake known for its deep-water trout. I mounted it to the gunwale of my boat using the included clamp, and found the installation process to be straightforward. I used a 6lb downrigger weight for the initial tests.

The downrigger performed well even in slightly choppy conditions. The One-Hand Clutch Deploy system allowed me to smoothly and accurately lower my bait to the desired depth. The three-digit depth counter was easy to read, and provided a reasonable degree of accuracy.

There were no major issues on the first use, although I did notice that cranking the handle for retrieval required a fair amount of effort, especially with the 6lb weight at significant depths. It took a little getting used to, but I quickly learned to manage the effort required.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Cannon Easi-Troll ST Manual Downrigger has proven to be a reliable piece of equipment. There are no significant signs of wear and tear on the unit itself. The stainless steel cable remains in good condition.

I’ve made it a practice to rinse the downrigger with fresh water after each use to prevent corrosion and maintain smooth operation. The plastic components are easy to wipe down. I also apply a light coat of lubricant to the moving parts periodically.

Compared to my previous experiences with flat-lining, the Cannon Easi-Troll ST Manual Downrigger has significantly improved my ability to target fish at specific depths. It has outperformed my expectations for a manual downrigger in this price range. While it requires manual effort, the benefits of precise depth control outweigh the minor inconvenience.

Breaking Down the Features of Cannon Easi-Troll ST Manual Downrigger

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Cannon
• Retrieval Rate: 1.5:1
• One-Hand Clutch Deploy: Allows for controlled weight descent.
• Three-Digit Depth Counter: Provides accurate depth readings.
• Boom Length: 24″ Stainless Steel
• Spool: Composite, pre-spooled with 150′ of 150 lb stainless steel cable.
• Rod Holder: Dual Axis (1 included)

The 1.5:1 retrieval rate means that for every 1.5 rotations of the handle, the weight is retrieved one rotation’s worth of distance. This is important for quickly getting lines out of the water when reeling in a catch or changing locations. The One-Hand Clutch Deploy is crucial for making precise depth adjustments without fumbling.

The Three-Digit Depth Counter helps in maintaining accurate bait positioning. The 24″ stainless steel boom provides adequate reach for most small to medium-sized boats. The pre-spooled stainless steel cable saves time and ensures compatibility with the downrigger.

Performance & Functionality

The Cannon Easi-Troll ST Manual Downrigger performs its core function of controlled-depth fishing exceptionally well. The deployment and retrieval mechanisms are reliable and easy to operate. The depth counter provides accurate readings that enable precise bait placement.

The manual cranking can be a bit tiring after prolonged use, especially with heavier weights. The retrieval rate could be faster. Despite these minor drawbacks, the downrigger generally exceeds expectations for its price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is adequate for a manual downrigger, with durable plastic components and a stainless steel boom. The weight is manageable for easy installation and removal. It sits nicely on the gunwale of the boat without any unnecessary wobbling when tightened correctly.

The downrigger is user-friendly and requires minimal learning curve. The controls are intuitive and easy to access. The One-Hand Clutch Deploy is especially convenient.

Durability & Maintenance

The Cannon Easi-Troll ST Manual Downrigger is built to withstand the rigors of regular use in freshwater environments. Regular cleaning and lubrication will help extend its lifespan. Replacement parts are readily available from Cannon if needed.

Maintenance is straightforward. Rinsing with fresh water after each use and applying a light coat of lubricant to moving parts is sufficient. The stainless steel cable should be inspected periodically for signs of wear and replaced if necessary.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Cannon Easi-Troll ST Manual Downrigger comes with one dual-axis rod holder. Additional rod holders can be purchased separately. Heavier downrigger weights can be used.

The downrigger is compatible with most standard downrigger weights and releases. There aren’t extensive customization options available beyond adding accessories. You could add a different mounting base if the included clamp isn’t suitable for your boat.

Pros and Cons of Cannon Easi-Troll ST Manual Downrigger

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Who Should Buy Cannon Easi-Troll ST Manual Downrigger?

The Cannon Easi-Troll ST Manual Downrigger is perfect for: anglers on a budget, fishermen with smaller boats, and those new to downrigger fishing. It is also an excellent choice for those who want a simple, reliable, and easy-to-use downrigger without the complexity and expense of electric models.

This product should be skipped by: anglers who require a faster retrieval rate, those who frequently fish at extreme depths, and those who prefer the convenience of an electric downrigger.

Must-have accessories or modifications: A selection of downrigger weights of varying sizes, extra line release clips, and potentially a different mounting base depending on your boat’s configuration.

Conclusion on Cannon Easi-Troll ST Manual Downrigger

The Cannon Easi-Troll ST Manual Downrigger is an excellent option for anglers looking to get started with controlled-depth fishing without breaking the bank. It offers a solid set of features, reliable performance, and ease of use.

The price is definitely justified for the value provided. It has opened up new fishing opportunities for me on my small boat.

I would definitely recommend the Cannon Easi-Troll ST Manual Downrigger to anyone looking for an affordable, reliable, and easy-to-use manual downrigger. Start targeting those deeper water fish today!