Cannon Lake-Troll Manual Downrigger Review

Let’s Talk About Cannon Lake-Troll Manual Downrigger

The Cannon Lake-Troll Manual Downrigger is a compact and affordable solution for anglers looking to precisely control their lure depth. Designed for smaller boats and those new to downrigger fishing, it offers a simplified approach to targeting fish at specific depths. This manual downrigger from Cannon boasts a user-friendly design and a clutch/brake system for controlled lure descent.

I’ve been guiding on smaller inland lakes for years, and many of my clients are intimidated by complex electric downriggers. I needed a reliable, easy-to-use downrigger that wouldn’t break the bank and could be easily mounted on a smaller fishing boat or even a kayak. The Cannon Lake-Troll Manual Downrigger seemed to fit the bill perfectly.

Out of the box, the Cannon Lake-Troll Manual Downrigger feels surprisingly robust. The copolymer boom and pre-spooled stainless steel cable suggest a decent level of durability. The overall design is straightforward and functional, prioritizing simplicity over flashy aesthetics.

Compared to more expensive electric downriggers from Scotty or even other manual models with digital counters, the Lake-Troll stands out due to its simplicity and price point. I specifically chose it over the Scotty Laketroller because of the Cannon’s clutch/brake system, which I felt offered better control during descent, and it was lighter for use on smaller boats. It also had a slightly longer boom than the Shakespeare Crappie Downrigger, giving me a little more spread from the boat.

My first impression was positive; it wasn’t fancy, but it felt like a solid, no-nonsense piece of fishing gear. I was eager to see how it performed on the water, especially considering its budget-friendly price.

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

First Use Experience

I tested the Cannon Lake-Troll Manual Downrigger on a local lake known for its deep, cold-water trout. I mounted it on the gunnel of my 14-foot aluminum boat and targeted depths between 20 and 40 feet. The conditions were typical for early spring: cool, overcast, and with a slight chop on the water.

The Lake-Troll proved to be quite easy to use, even for someone accustomed to electric models. The clutch/brake system allowed for a smooth and controlled descent of my lure, and the retrieval rate felt adequate for its size. Initially, I did have some slight trouble with the line counter slipping, but a quick adjustment fixed the issue.

The biggest surprise was how effectively it handled the weight of a 4-pound downrigger ball. I expected some slippage or difficulty, but the clutch held firm.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Cannon Lake-Troll Manual Downrigger has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it at least twice a week throughout the spring and summer fishing seasons. There are minimal signs of wear and tear. The copolymer boom still feels sturdy, and the stainless steel cable shows no signs of fraying.

Maintenance is simple: a quick rinse with fresh water after each use and occasional lubrication of the moving parts. Compared to my experience with more complex electric downriggers, the Lake-Troll is a breeze to maintain. This simplicity translates to increased reliability.

It has definitely outperformed my expectations for a downrigger in this price range. While it lacks the bells and whistles of more expensive models, its reliable performance and ease of use make it a valuable tool for any angler targeting deep-water fish.

Breaking Down the Features of Cannon Lake-Troll Manual Downrigger

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Cannon is a well-known and respected name in fishing equipment. Their reputation for quality and durability is well-earned.

• Composite Boom: The 18″ composite boom provides a decent spread for your lines. It is strong enough to handle the strain of trolling.

• Composite Spool: Pre-spooled with 100′ of 135 lb. test stainless steel cable, the composite spool is durable. The cable is strong and resistant to corrosion.

• One-Hand Clutch Deploy: The one-hand clutch deploy allows precise and easy bait positioning with full control. This is a vital feature for maintaining accurate depth.

• Swivel-Head Dial Depth Counter: The easy-to-read depth counter is located at the end of the boom. It ensures that you know exactly where your weights are.

• 1:1 Retrieval Rate: This retrieval rate helps in getting lines out of the water with ease. This is beneficial in quickly changing lures or moving to new fishing spots.

• Tube Style Rod Holder: Includes one (1) rear mount tube style rod holder. This is convenient for trolling multiple lines.

Performance & Functionality

The Cannon Lake-Troll Manual Downrigger performs its primary function – controlled lure depth – exceptionally well. The clutch/brake system is smooth and reliable, and the depth counter, once adjusted, is reasonably accurate. It struggles a bit with heavier weights in strong currents.

Its strengths lie in its simplicity and ease of use. The main weakness is the line counter, which can slip if not properly tightened. It exceeded my expectations, providing reliable downrigger performance at a fraction of the cost of electric models.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is decent for its price point. The materials, while not premium, feel durable and well-assembled. It is lightweight and easy to mount on smaller boats, making it an excellent choice for kayaks or canoes.

The design is user-friendly, with intuitive controls and a comfortable handle. There’s a minimal learning curve, even for those new to downrigger fishing.

Durability & Maintenance

The Cannon Lake-Troll Manual Downrigger seems built to last, especially with proper care. The composite materials are resistant to corrosion and UV damage. The stainless steel cable is also a significant plus.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only a quick rinse after each use and occasional lubrication. This simple maintenance routine ensures longevity and reliable performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Cannon Lake-Troll Manual Downrigger comes with a basic tube-style rod holder, which is adequate for most anglers. There aren’t many customization options specific to this model. However, it is compatible with various universal downrigger mounting brackets.

You can easily add different styles of rod holders. Additionally, you can upgrade the downrigger cable to a heavier test if needed.

Pros and Cons of Cannon Lake-Troll Manual Downrigger

Who Should Buy Cannon Lake-Troll Manual Downrigger?

The Cannon Lake-Troll Manual Downrigger is perfect for:

• Anglers new to downrigger fishing who want an affordable and easy-to-use entry point.
• Fishermen with smaller boats, kayaks, or canoes who need a lightweight and compact downrigger.
• Those targeting fish in relatively calm waters and at moderate depths.

This product might not be ideal for anglers who:

• Fish in very deep water or strong currents.
• Require the speed and precision of an electric downrigger.
• Regularly use very heavy downrigger weights.

A must-have accessory would be a reliable mounting bracket. Also, consider a higher-quality line counter if precise depth control is critical.

Conclusion on Cannon Lake-Troll Manual Downrigger

The Cannon Lake-Troll Manual Downrigger is a surprisingly capable and reliable piece of fishing gear, especially considering its price. It offers a simple and effective way to control lure depth. This makes it an excellent choice for anglers on a budget or those new to downrigger fishing.

The value proposition is strong. You get a functional downrigger that performs its core function well without breaking the bank.

I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable and easy-to-use downrigger for smaller boats. The Cannon Lake-Troll Manual Downrigger provides a gateway to the exciting world of controlled-depth fishing. So grab one, hit the lake, and start catching those deep-water fish!