This article will give and over view of the Mini-Troll Downrigger.
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Mini Troll
Mini-Troll Model Number
Mini-Troll Anatomy
- Reel- This is used to spool the cable, available in lengths ranging from 150 to 400 feet. Mini-Troll is equipped with 100’ of 150 lb test stainless-steel cable.
- Swivel Head & Depth Meter- This relays the cable at the end of the boom to lower the weight and provides information as to how much cable you have run out, enabling you to choose your trolling depth.
- Frame / Boom-The Mini Troll has a uni-body. The frame & the boom are one piece. The frame/boom length is 12” from the reel to the end of the boom.
- Mounting Clamp- This will clamp the Mini Troll to the boats Gunwale* or Transom. The widest this will open is 2.5”. * We recommend you mount Mini-Troll off the transom of your boat (if possible), so that the weight is being pulled directly behind the downrigger. Mounting your Mini-Troll the gunwale is not recommended as lateral stress on the frame may cause cracking.
- Clamp Screw-Is used to adjust the opening of the clamp mount.
- Spool Adjustment Knob Allows you to control how fast or slow the weight drops. Also, if loosened completely it allows you to remove the spool cover and change the spool if needed.
- Crank Handle- Used to drop the weight down or raise it up. Mini Troll Retrieval Speed 1:1 Ratio. Meaning every 1 crank of the handle will raise it 1’.
- Weight- Not included w/ downrigger. This is used to maintain the depth at which you want to fish. Sizes of weights range from 4 to 16 lbs. Mini Troll has a 6-lb weight capacity.
Mounting to the Boat
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Spacer Block
Depending on boat application, the spacer block (supplied) may be required. To attach the spacer block to the main frame, simply slide the dovetail shaped tab of the block into the matching recess in the frame. Make sure that the holes in the block face down.
Transom Mount
Depending on transom width, a wood block may be required to allow the rigger to clamp properly.
Gunwale Mount*
On thin-walled aluminum boats, it is recommended that a wood block be used on the inside of the boat. This will distribute the clamping force to a larger area to prevent possible boat damage. Depending on rail overhang, a wood block may also be required on the outside of the boat.
*We recommend you mount Mini-Troll off the transom of your boat (if possible), so that the weight is being pulled directly behind the downrigger. Mounting your Mini-Troll the gunwale is not recommended as lateral stress on the frame may cause cracking.
Operating Downrigger
To lower the weight, turn the reel handle clockwise.
To raise the weight, turn the reel handle counterclockwise.
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Lowering the Weight
With one hand on the downrigger reel handle, loosen the adjustment knob at the top center of the reel and lower the weight by turning the reel handle clockwise. Once the weight is at a desired depth, tighten the adjustment knob to hold the cable in place. -
Raising the Weight
Loosen the adjustment knob and turn the cable reel handle clockwise. Once retrieved, tighten the adjustment knob to hold the weight out of the water. -
Adjusting the Depth Meter
The depth meter is located on the side of the swivel head, as pictured below. You can raise or lower your depth by turning the crank handle. The depth meter counts the revolutions of the reel and reflects your depth in feet. To reset the depth meter, simply turn the reel with your fingers backwards or forwards until you reach 0.
Mini-Troll Accessory Pack #2250005
This is an accessory which includes a 4 lbs weight, Uni-Line Release, and rod holder for the downrigger. (Sold Separately)
