How To Use A Downrigger

Revised by BoatUS editors in April 2012

1. When you're at the fishing area, attach the fishing line to the line release mechanism on the weight. Determine the distance between the weight and the lure. Then, put the fishing reel in freespool with the click engaged, or keep it in gear with a very light drag. epth you want. The depth is shown on the cable footage counter. Wind excess line back onto the fishing reel until the rod tip bows downward.

2. Next, release the drag, and lower the weight and lure to the depth you want. The depth is shown on the cable footage counter. Wind excess line back onto the fishing reel until the rod tip bows downward. 

3. When a fish strikes, the release mechanism is tripped. This separates the fishing line from the weight.