6 Simple Downrigger and Rod Holder Maintenance Tips
Cannon has been the trusted downrigger for controlled depth fishing for over 40 years. Downriggers and their accessories are relatively maintenance-free, but there are a few quick and easy ways to care for your investments.
This downrigger and rod holder cleaning and maintenance guide will help you keep your downrigger and rod holders running and looking like new for years to come—and don't worry, they're simple and take very little time.
We’ve outlined the most important Cannon downrigger maintenance tips below to help keep your product performing its best for years to come.
Note: Regular maintenance will keep your downrigger performing optimally. We highly recommend that you always consult your downrigger's user manual for product-specific care instructions. Find comprehensive guides and more information at https://cannon.johnsonoutdoors.com/us/support/manuals.
How to Clean a Downrigger
Over time, grime and debris can accumulate, and cleaning your downrigger is the first step in keeping it running smoothly. We recommend following these helpful tips to clean your downrigger effectively:
Materials Needed:
- Microfiber or soft cloth
- Water-based multi-purpose cleaning solution
- Glass cleaner
- Melamine foam cleaning sponge
Grab a bottle of multipurpose cleaner or another water-based* silicone spray, apply to a soft cloth, and wipe down the exterior of the downrigger, including the boom and base.
A melamine foam cleaning sponge is a great alternative to cleaning the exterior housing of the downrigger as well!
For electric downriggers with LCD display screen, repeat this step on the display screen but with a glass cleaner solution like Windex.
Frequency:
- Freshwater downriggers: every few uses, and at the beginning and end of season
- Saltwater downriggers: after every use to avoid saltwater buildup/corrosion, and at the beginning and end of season (rinse downrigger with freshwater after saltwater use, then proceed with cleaning steps listed above)
*Important: make sure the spray chosen is water-based, NOT oil-based. Avoid wood polish spray as it contains oil.
Downrigger Cable and Boom Inspection
All Cannon downriggers come pre-spooled with Stainless Steel Cable in various lengths and strengths. Working together with the cable, your boom length determines how far from the side of your boat your weight drops.
Cannon downriggers come with both telescoping and fixed booms. There are a couple tips below to ensure the longevity of these components:
- Inspect the downrigger cable to ensure there are no frays or kinks in the cable
- Inspect the boom and pulley to ensure there are no cracks or damage
Frequency:
- At the beginning of the season, and monthly during use
If you do find that your cable needs replacement, you can find everything you need on our website. Get your Stainless-Steel Downrigger Cable from cannon today.
Downrigger Base and Mount Maintenance
Our universal and low-profile bases featuring heavy-duty composite or stainless steel construction provide strong mounting options while allowing easy removal of the downrigger. Follow these simple inspection tips to ensure your downrigger is ready to hit the water whenever you are:
No special tools are required for this inspection! Examine the downrigger base for signs of stress cracks, dry rot, or cracking. This scan is especially important for boats kept outdoors all summer, as the sun and elements can weather your gear.
Frequency:
- Twice yearly: once as you prepare your gear for storage at the end of the season, and once when you’re prepping your boat for the season to come.
Electric Downrigger Maintenance
If you own an electric downrigger, such as the Cannon Optimum™ or Magnum, there are a couple additional maintenance steps to consider:
- Clean battery connection of any corrosion
- Check the battery terminals and wires for corrosion. Give them a quick clean with fine sandpaper or emery cloth and replace any corroded wires
- Check cable caps to ensure they’re secured on the connector ends, especially if disconnected for long periods of time
Rod Holder Maintenance and Cleaning
Cannon’s aluminum and composite rod holders keep your fishing rods stable and your trolling spread versatile. They pair seamlessly with our family of downriggers to make controlled depth fishing efficient and easy.
Speaking of easy, check out this tip below to get the most out of your investment!
Materials Needed:
- Microfiber or soft cloth
- Water-based multi-purpose cleaning solution
- Melamine foam cleaning sponge
Using a multipurpose cleaner or another water-based* silicone spray, apply to a soft cloth and wipe down the exterior of your rod holders. A melamine foam cleaning sponge is a great alternative to cleaning the exterior of your rod holders as well!
Frequency:
- Freshwater downriggers: every few uses
- Saltwater downriggers: After every use to avoid saltwater buildup/corrosion (rinse rod holders with freshwater after saltwater use, then proceed with cleaning steps listed above)
*Important: make sure the spray chosen is water-based, NOT oil-based. Avoid wood polish spray as it contains oil.
We also recommend inspecting the rod holders for cracks or loose parts occasionally throughout the season.
How to Store a Downrigger for End-of-Season or Longer-Term Storage
In order to prepare your downrigger and its accessories for storage after a successful fishing season, there are a few additional steps you can take to ensure the long life of your products.
- Perform all applicable steps above
- Unplug your electric downriggers from the battery
- If you store your boat outside, consider removing your downriggers from the boat/mounts and store them in a safe place, such as a garage or basement
- Check cable caps to ensure they’re secured on the connector ends, especially if disconnected for long periods of time
- For added protection, cover your downriggers with Cannon's professional-grade downrigger covers, available in black and white colors.
Bonus: Update Your Downrigger Software [Cannon Optimum Only]
Cannon Optimum is the smartest downrigger on the water, made even smarter by our commitment to continuous improvement. Follow these 3 easy steps to get up to speed and out to fish:
Step 1: Get the App
You can send software updates from your mobile device directly to your downriggers with the Cannon Mobile App.
Step 2: Find Your Update
Once you download the app, select “Software Update” from the menu. If an update is available, you will see it on the screen. Select the update and download it to the Cannon app.
Step 3: Send it to your Downrigger
Once the update is available, the screen will display a “Transfer” button. Double check that your Optimums are powered on and connected to the network, and tap the Transfer button. The downrigger and app will alert that the software update is transferring. Once complete, the Optimum will reboot and your software will be updated.
Do You Need Cannon Downrigger Parts?
Did you know that you can order Cannon parts directly online*, making it easy to keep your downrigger running like new? Visit our parts portal, create an account, or proceed as a guest to explore and order parts as needed.
*This is service is available only for parts shipping within the USA, via UPS or USPS. All sales final.
Conclusion
By following these simple maintenance tips for your downrigger and accessories, you'll ensure that they stay in excellent condition, ready for many successful fishing adventures in the seasons to come.
Regular care and maintenance not only extend the lifespan of your downrigger but also enhance your overall fishing experience. So don't forget to include downrigger care as part of your fishing routine.
Happy fishing!
Find comprehensive guides and more information at https://cannon.johnsonoutdoors.com/us/support/manuals.