ottoman82 41 Report post Posted April 10, 2018 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 :-) Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Bobber Down 921 Report post Posted April 11, 2018 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. Quote Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming - WOW - what a ride!!! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
naden 136 Report post Posted April 11, 2018 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 1 Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Thefishleclair 175 Report post Posted April 11, 2018 I’d go with D&R down rigger combo. Quote Grumpas' Baits Check it out on FB Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
filletandrelease 17 Report post Posted April 11, 2018 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. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
ottoman82 41 Report post Posted April 11, 2018 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. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
redotter 25 Report post Posted April 11, 2018 Can't go wrong with Cabelas D20 linecounter reel and 8' downriggers rod combo. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
agentfish 0 Report post Posted April 12, 2018 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. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites