Let’s Talk About Cannon Magnum 5 Electric Downrigger
The Cannon Magnum 5 Electric Downrigger is designed to revolutionize your trolling experience, automating the precise deployment and retrieval of your fishing weights. Forget manual cranking; this electric downrigger promises effortless control and increased efficiency on the water, a tempting proposition for any serious angler.
My back has been aching after long days on the water manually cranking up heavy downrigger weights. I needed a solution that would allow me to focus on fishing and not fighting equipment.
The Cannon Magnum 5 Electric Downrigger arrived well-packaged, and the initial impression was solid; the materials felt durable, and the construction appeared robust. Its compact design was also a pleasant surprise.
Compared to the Scotty 1106 and the Walker Downrigger Strike Vision, the Cannon Magnum 5 Electric Downrigger stood out due to its auto up feature and reputation for faster retrieval speeds. I was immediately excited by the promise of simplified and quicker weight adjustments.
Real-World Testing: Putting Cannon Magnum 5 Electric Downrigger to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Cannon Magnum 5 Electric Downrigger on Lake Michigan, targeting salmon in early August. The conditions were typical for that time of year: choppy water, moderate winds, and occasional light rain.
The Cannon Magnum 5 Electric Downrigger performed admirably in these conditions. The electric motor provided smooth and consistent power.
The controls were intuitive, and the three-digit depth counter made precise weight placement easy to achieve. Initially, I was surprised at how quiet the motor was compared to some older models I’ve used.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of use (approximately 20 fishing trips), the Cannon Magnum 5 Electric Downrigger continues to perform reliably. There are no signs of significant wear and tear.
I regularly rinse it with fresh water after each use and apply a silicone lubricant to moving parts, making maintenance simple. The Cannon Magnum 5 Electric Downrigger has far exceeded my expectations, streamlining my trolling setup and saving considerable time and energy.
Breaking Down the Features of Cannon Magnum 5 Electric Downrigger
Specifications
The Cannon Magnum 5 Electric Downrigger features an auto up function, automatically retrieving the weight to the waterline. Its retrieval rate is a fast 250 feet per minute, ensuring efficient operation.
The downrigger also includes a three-digit depth counter for precise weight positioning, and the short-stop feature prevents cable strain by stopping retrieval at the waterline. The Positive Ion Control (PIC) system is designed to neutralize negative energy fields.
These specifications are critical for effective trolling, allowing anglers to quickly adjust weight depth, avoid cable damage, and potentially attract more fish. The high retrieval speed is especially valuable when quickly clearing lines.
Performance & Functionality
The Cannon Magnum 5 Electric Downrigger performs its primary function of deploying and retrieving weights with exceptional ease and speed. The accuracy of the depth counter is reliable, and the auto-up feature is a game-changer.
The Positive Ion Control (PIC) is difficult to quantify, but anecdotal evidence suggests an improvement in hook-up rates. The only slight weakness is that the boom arm, while sturdy, could be longer for wider boat setups.
The Cannon Magnum 5 Electric Downrigger significantly exceeds my expectations in terms of usability and efficiency. It has truly transformed my trolling experience.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Cannon Magnum 5 Electric Downrigger is impressive. The materials feel durable and the unit is well-constructed.
The design is user-friendly, with intuitive controls and a clear display. There’s no real learning curve; anyone familiar with downriggers can start using it immediately.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience and the feedback from other anglers, the Cannon Magnum 5 Electric Downrigger is built to last. Regular cleaning and lubrication are all that’s needed to keep it in top condition.
Repairs, if needed, are relatively straightforward, and Cannon offers excellent customer support.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Cannon Magnum 5 Electric Downrigger comes with a universal mounting base and a line release. While there are no extensive customization options, Cannon offers various boom lengths and mounting solutions.
The unit is also compatible with most standard downrigger weights and releases.
Pros and Cons of Cannon Magnum 5 Electric Downrigger
Pros
- Fast Retrieval Rate: The 250 feet-per-minute retrieval rate saves significant time and gets your lines back in the water quickly.
- Auto Up Feature: Automatically retrieving the weight to the waterline eliminates manual cranking and prevents damage.
- Precise Depth Control: The three-digit depth counter allows for accurate weight placement and repeatable trolling depths.
- Positive Ion Control (PIC): While hard to measure, the PIC system potentially attracts more fish to your lines.
- Durable Construction: Built with high-quality materials, the downrigger withstands harsh marine environments.
Cons
- Boom Length: The boom length might be shorter than desired for wider boats.
- Price: The initial investment is significant compared to manual downriggers.
Who Should Buy Cannon Magnum 5 Electric Downrigger?
The Cannon Magnum 5 Electric Downrigger is perfect for serious anglers who spend a significant amount of time trolling and value efficiency and precision. It’s also ideal for those with physical limitations that make manual cranking difficult.
Anglers who only occasionally troll or are on a tight budget might find a manual downrigger more suitable. A must-have accessory is a quality swivel base for easy repositioning.
Conclusion on Cannon Magnum 5 Electric Downrigger
The Cannon Magnum 5 Electric Downrigger is a worthwhile investment for serious anglers seeking to enhance their trolling experience. Its automated features, reliable performance, and durable construction justify the price.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Cannon Magnum 5 Electric Downrigger to anyone looking to upgrade their fishing setup and spend more time catching fish. Stop cranking, start fishing!