The little lakers are ok but think how much better it would be if you could use your downrigger at any depth or at any lake. Not to shoot your idea down but i would definately go with the Scotty ?1050s? (Next size up from the laker). I owned a set till i put the electrics on and they worked awesome. Worked great for rainbows to lakers to chinook. 250ft of DR cable too. Don't limit yourself, the 1050s will probably be the last ones you buy unless you go eletric. And they are small, great for small boats or limited spaces and not to spendy. Just my 2 cents.