Rod for Downrigging

[ottoman82 41]

Hey guys I am looking to get into downrigging for some lake trout this summer and I would like to know your guys recommendations on a decent rod and reel setup that will not break the bank.  I will be mostly fishing inland lakes and will not be on superior at all.  I will be using a Cannon downrigger on a 14' aluminum boat if that info helps at all.  Thanks in advance :-)

[Bobber Down 921]

Look for a line counter reel in your price range. You can get by without a line counter but it's nice to have that option. Then check out the Ugly Stiks or other rods in 8 to 9 foot medium power range. You don't need to spend a lot. You need to be able to handle everything from the smaller tinny. Safety first.

[naden 131]

I bought a few rapala delta line counter/downrigger rod combos at d&r last year for around 100 bucks, 9 ft long med/heavy, seem decent for the price

[Thefishleclair 175]

I’d go with D&R down rigger combo.  

[filletandrelease 17]

For use in a 14' boat I'd go with a rod that is on the shorter side. 7.5 or 8' is plenty long and will be easier to reach the line from a sitting position to put in the release. Expensive rods arent neccesary for downrigging but one with good guides might be worthwhile if you ever plan to use braided line. 

[ottoman82 41]

Thanks a lot guys.  Lots of good info as usual.  I will take a trip to D&R this set of days off to have a look.  Thanks again.

[redotter 25]

Can't go wrong with Cabelas D20 linecounter reel and 8' downriggers rod combo.

[agentfish 0]

Main thing you want in a rigger rod is a slow or moderate action.  This will allow for more of the rod to load up and take up slack when you get a hit.

 

Longer rods are used for this reason.  The longer the rod the more take up you can get.