Let’s Talk About Cannon Uni-Troll 10 STX-TS Tournament Series Manual Downrigger
The Cannon Uni-Troll 10 STX-TS Tournament Series Manual Downrigger isn’t just another piece of fishing equipment; it’s a precision instrument designed to put you in command of the depths. Cannon, a name synonymous with downrigger technology, has packed this model with features like a stainless steel spool, a robust telescopic boom, and a one-hand clutch deploy. It’s built for anglers who demand control and reliability on the water.
My journey to finding the perfect downrigger was driven by a growing frustration with inconsistent trolling depths and a desire for more precise bait presentation. I was tired of guessing and relying on luck; I needed a tool that would allow me to target specific depths with confidence. This led me to the Cannon Uni-Troll 10 STX-TS Tournament Series Manual Downrigger, which promised the control and precision I was seeking.
Unboxing the Cannon Uni-Troll 10 STX-TS Tournament Series Manual Downrigger was a promising start. The all-white construction looked clean and professional, and the weight of the stainless steel components gave me immediate confidence in its durability. The telescopic boom felt solid and extended smoothly.
I considered the Scotty 1106 Depthmaster and the Walker Tournament Series Striker Downrigger, both reputable options. However, the Cannon stood out because of its reputation for reliability and the inclusion of a stainless steel spool, a must-have for longevity in saltwater environments. The Cannon’s all-white finish also appealed to my desire for a clean and modern look on my boat.
My first impression was excitement tempered with a healthy dose of anticipation. Could this downrigger really deliver the precision and control I craved? Only time on the water would tell, but the initial signs were encouraging.
Real-World Testing: Putting Cannon Uni-Troll 10 STX-TS Tournament Series Manual Downrigger to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Cannon Uni-Troll 10 STX-TS Tournament Series Manual Downrigger was on Lake Michigan, targeting salmon at various depths. The conditions were relatively calm, but the water temperature stratification demanded precise depth control to find the actively feeding fish. I mounted the downrigger on my gunnel using a standard mounting bracket.
The Cannon performed admirably. The One-Hand Clutch Deploy mechanism allowed me to lower my lure to the desired depth with smooth, controlled precision. The three-digit depth counter proved invaluable, allowing me to dial in the exact depth where the fish were holding.
Initially, the cranking felt a bit stiff, but I quickly realized this was due to the newness of the cable and spool. After a few hours of use, the action smoothed out considerably. The only minor issue I encountered was a slight learning curve in mastering the clutch deploy for consistently smooth descents.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use in both freshwater and saltwater environments, the Cannon Uni-Troll 10 STX-TS Tournament Series Manual Downrigger has proven to be a reliable workhorse. The stainless steel components have held up remarkably well, showing no signs of corrosion or degradation despite constant exposure to saltwater. The cable still looks new.
Durability has been excellent, with no signs of wear and tear on the boom, spool, or cranking mechanism. I diligently rinse the downrigger with freshwater after each use, and periodically lubricate the moving parts with a marine-grade grease. This simple maintenance routine has kept the downrigger performing flawlessly.
Compared to my previous downrigger (a cheaper, entry-level model), the Cannon is in a different league. The precision, durability, and ease of use are significantly improved. It’s a noticeable upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of Cannon Uni-Troll 10 STX-TS Tournament Series Manual Downrigger
Specifications
The Cannon Uni-Troll 10 STX-TS Tournament Series Manual Downrigger is manufactured by Cannon. Its primary function is controlled depth fishing.
It features a stainless steel spool pre-spooled with 200′ of 150 lb stainless steel cable. The 316 marine-grade stainless steel telescopic boom extends from 24″ to 53″.
The downrigger incorporates a One-Hand Clutch Deploy and a Three-Digit Depth Counter. It has a 2:1 retrieval rate.
Included is one (1) rear mount dual axis rod holder. The swivel base is low-profile.
These specifications translate directly into enhanced performance and user experience. The stainless steel components ensure long-term durability, even in harsh saltwater conditions. The telescopic boom provides flexibility in lure placement, and the one-hand clutch deploy allows for precise bait positioning.
Performance & Functionality
The Cannon Uni-Troll 10 STX-TS Tournament Series Manual Downrigger excels at its primary job: precisely controlling the depth of your lure. The three-digit depth counter is accurate and easy to read, allowing you to dial in the exact depth where the fish are holding. The 2:1 retrieval rate makes retrieving lines relatively effortless, even with heavy weights.
The main strength of this downrigger is its ability to deliver precise and repeatable results. The one-hand clutch deploy is smooth and reliable, and the stainless steel components provide confidence in its long-term durability. A minor weakness is that the manual cranking can become tiring after extended periods of use, particularly with heavier weights.
The Cannon Uni-Troll 10 STX-TS Tournament Series Manual Downrigger exceeded my expectations. It provided the control and precision I was seeking, and has significantly improved my fishing success. I wish I had bought it sooner.
Design & Ergonomics
The Cannon Uni-Troll 10 STX-TS Tournament Series Manual Downrigger features a robust design with high-quality materials. The all-white construction looks clean and professional. The unit feels solid and well-built.
The ergonomics are generally good, with the cranking handle positioned for comfortable use. The one-hand clutch deploy is intuitive and easy to operate. There is a slight learning curve in mastering the clutch for consistently smooth descents, but it quickly becomes second nature.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction of the Cannon Uni-Troll 10 STX-TS Tournament Series Manual Downrigger suggests it will last for many years with proper care. The 316 marine-grade stainless steel is highly resistant to corrosion. Simple maintenance, such as rinsing with freshwater and lubricating moving parts, is all that is needed to keep it in top condition.
Repairing this unit looks straightforward as all the components appear to be easily accessible. I would expect any repairs to be relatively simple, if needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Cannon Uni-Troll 10 STX-TS Tournament Series Manual Downrigger comes with one rear-mount dual axis rod holder, which is a useful addition. You can also mount it on a variety of bases.
The Cannon is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories. Many anglers upgrade the cable to a heavier gauge or add a line release for more precise lure presentation.
Pros and Cons of Cannon Uni-Troll 10 STX-TS Tournament Series Manual Downrigger
Pros
- Precise depth control with accurate three-digit counter.
- Durable stainless steel construction for long-term reliability.
- One-Hand Clutch Deploy for smooth and controlled bait positioning.
- Telescopic Boom offers flexible lure placement options.
- Reputable Cannon brand with a track record of quality.
Cons
- Manual cranking can be tiring after extended use.
- Relatively high price point compared to entry-level downriggers.
Who Should Buy Cannon Uni-Troll 10 STX-TS Tournament Series Manual Downrigger?
The Cannon Uni-Troll 10 STX-TS Tournament Series Manual Downrigger is perfect for serious anglers who demand precise depth control and reliable performance. It is also well-suited for those who fish in saltwater environments, where durability is paramount. It is ideal for anglers targeting salmon, trout, walleye, and other species that hold at specific depths.
Anglers on a tight budget or those who only occasionally fish with downriggers might want to consider a less expensive option. Anglers who frequently troll with very heavy weights might also prefer an electric downrigger for ease of use.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality mounting bracket for securely attaching the downrigger to your boat. A line release is also recommended for more precise lure presentation.
Conclusion on Cannon Uni-Troll 10 STX-TS Tournament Series Manual Downrigger
The Cannon Uni-Troll 10 STX-TS Tournament Series Manual Downrigger is a top-tier manual downrigger that delivers exceptional precision, durability, and ease of use. While it comes with a higher price tag than some of its competitors, the investment is justified by its long-term reliability and performance.
The price is justified due to its high-quality stainless steel materials. These protect against the elements and ensure longevity.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Cannon Uni-Troll 10 STX-TS Tournament Series Manual Downrigger to any angler who is serious about controlled depth fishing. It’s a game-changer that will help you catch more fish. Take command of the depths!