Installing Electric Downriggers

[Dizzyman]

I just recently picked up my 2007 195cc and have been busy reading here on the site and talking with dealers about the last few adjustments/additions I want to make, including installing downriggers.

Some older discussions suggest that with the use of stainless toggle bolts, a downrigger can be secured directly to the gunwale without having to cut a large hole in the gunwale. The more recent discussions have suggested that you should definately secure the mount from below through the side of the gunwale as detailed in LittleCasino's article, but I'd like to not have to do that if the Ropolene is strong enough to hold onto toggle bolts alone.

Anyone care to share a horror story I can learn from or provide encouragement that this has worked? My local dealer said his has held tight for 5 years, but then wonder why so many have gone the other route.

Second question is, if I go with an electric downrigger, I suppose I'll have to cut a hole in the gunwale anyway or have the cord draped across the deck to reach the cc. Any thoughts on how best to get power to the gunwale (shortest distance to route the wiring), or is this not worth the effort?

thanks - a new owner with lots to learn

[cagrove]

I think it's more a matter of preference. I have a downrigger and trolling motor mounted to my 170CC and I've used only the stainless togglers. Both are rock solid. However, if you fish any areas where your downrigger ball may get hung up on rocks or timber, you may want to consider using a backing plate for extra strength.

Just my 1/50th of a dollar.

Good luck with your install.

[Dizzyman]

thanks! I also heard back from Triumph on this. They feel the backing plate is necessary.

I'm sure it's obvious that I'm trying to avoid a costly install or time consuming home project. To that end, it sounds like the gimbal mounts have been successful for many on this site too. Anyone here had issues with those?

[OspreyVic]

Dizzyman, may I suggest you check the “Articles” tab, you will see an Excellent Article by “Little Casino”. I also have downriggers, so you can check our Article on modifications to our 210 CC.

The main concern in my opinion is that they are anchored securely. If you ever have a downrigger ball get hooked on the bottom in rocks or other structure (as Cagrove stated), you sure do not want to chance damaging your hull. I know it means extra tedious work that no one will ever appreciate unless they to have done it. Digging out the foam is just NO FUN. I went thru the process again when I installed my push pole holder and again when we installed a grab rail for the swim platform.

It is however, your boat, your money, and your time. You just could never convince me to do it any easy way.

Glad to answer any questions you come up with.

[Dizzyman]

Thanks, Vic. I did reference Casino's article and i tend to agree with your response. Was just hoping it was overkill.

Also had looked through your pics. I was bummed that the electrical solution has to be so tough. On this front, I am now weighing the idea of just installing outlets on the sides of the cc and then having clips near the deck to secure the electric cords running to the downriggers. I don't have a step to hide pvc the way you did and I'd rather not go with manual riggers.

Appreciate all of the input.

[Fishin' DC's]

Dizzyman,
I've just started using the manual Cannon Uni-troll downriggers. I opted to go with the rodholder plate option. It's worked well as there has been no mount rotation problems, or anything else. I replaced the wire with 150lb braided line to avoid the hum that I had read was pretty irritating on downriggers. We boated our first spanish mack on it this past weekend. Not sure what issues you would encounter since you're going with electrics.

[Dizzyman]

Nice to hear about your success on the water (and in the garage). I found a couple of gimbal mounts on Amazon that were about 1/2 the price of those at the usual online sources. I can't wait to get out and use them.

Thanks for the feedback.