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A downrigger is the most effective tool for precise, controlled-depth trolling at virtually any depth. A downrigger set-up consists of a strong base mounted to the boat transom (or other location near the back of a boat), onto which a spool of heavy cable is attached. The cable is placed through the downrigger arm with a pulley system and descends straight down into the water below the boat. Heavy weights, often called cannon balls, are frequently attached to the cable to anchor it at a precise depth, determined by how much cable is released from the spool. Some downriggers can accommodate up to six individual lines, which gives anglers the ability to spread lures over a variety of depths, angles and distances.
To troll with a downrigger, the fishing line and lure are attached to the downrigger cable via a small clip (or release). Once attached to the cable, the line and lure are taken down to the desired depth for trolling. Once a fish strikes the lure, the line is jarred free from the clip, allowing the angler to fight the fish directly.
Most saltwater trollers consider sonar to be essential equipment when downrigging. Sonar helps determine the depth at which the lure should be presented by identifying the depth at which fish are located. Some also attach temperature or speed gauges to the downrigger cable to monitor these important factors to fishing success.
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