I run my release off the cannon ball. I used some weed eater line (tuna cord or heavy 100# + mono, etc will work, too), got some aluminum sleeves big enough to take the line, measured out what it takes to be able to drape the "leash" over my gunwale, crimped a loop and swivels on both ends and I'm ready to go.

I stop the cannon ball about 6" or so below the surface so it isn't swinging, reach out with my "stick" which is a piece of oak furring about 5.5' long with an angled notch to catch the "leash" and bring the release clip on board. Don't have to reach out over the side of the boat, work with the Scotty retriever, etc.

I drop my gear back whatever distance I'm going to, clip it in the release, and drop the cannon ball. The "leash" will pull up at an angle when fishing, so your gear might be a couple of feet higher than the cannon ball - not necessarily a bad thing if you're dragging the bottom with the cannon ball. A lot safer for folks running the gear, especially if it is choppy or your have heavy swells.

I am also of the opinion that the extra length to the release gives a little more flex to the gear and you can detect changes to gear action (ie weeds/shakers) easier than if you're running the short releases like Scotty sells.