Thanks for such a quick response. i got a depth sounder hummingbird 2oox. not the best but it works. i got a 8lb bal. i think even with a 12lb ball ill have to much line out when i get a hook up. i have this problem, i got a cannon rigger thats manual so i got my pole in one hand with a fish on and reeling up my downrigger ball dragging the bottom. i tried keeping the boat in gear while ill hold the pole and real in the ball but almost always lost the fish. do you guys have this problem. but i have to 6 1\2ft popping rods in casting and spinning for doing some seriouis jigging this winter. rivers to crowded for my blood. later Ben