Remote Controlled Downrigger

Two years ago, when I caught a small salmon out of Moss Landing, it was the first time I tried to use a downrigger.  I found that it was a bit frustrating having to alternate between paddling and letting the downrigger out, and if I didn't maintain my speed, I'd get my anchovy all tangled up in the downrigger line.  So I thought it would be nice to have a way to remotely control my downrigger. 

I got a used reel off Ebay and attached a windshield wiper-type motor to it. It was a bit heavier than I'd prefer, but it was the only type of geared motor I could find.  (Alternatively, you could buy an electric reel for $250-$400.) This was then mounted on the base of my Scotty Lake Troller.

I then made a control box that contained the receiver board and a pulse width modulator board (to vary the motor speed).  For the trial purpose, I used an old battery for my FF.  I plan on getting a lithium iron phosphate battery eventually that will power both my FF/GPS and downrigger at 20 Ah/6 lbs.

I didn't really want to make holes in my P15 for trolling mounts yet so I made a bracket that is secured by the Plano bucket.  (This is a way you could easily add rod holder mounts to your yak without extra holes.)

I mounted the remote transmitter on a bracket that slips onto my paddle shaft.

It worked fine at Lake Almanor on its trial run.  I was only targeting fish at about 30-40 ft. but I could easily raise and lower my weight while I continued to paddle.

Need to do a few more refinements on the idea now.

OK that is better than sliced bread and pockets on jeans!

I want one. I am not good with electronics but could do the rest. I would buy the plans if your willing.

Love the remote transmitter on the paddle.  Awesome!

Now that is rocking!

-Brian G

Isn't it a little late for April Fools jokes, Doug?
Hahaha! Kidding. That is so creative (and useful) that I can't understand why nobody has thought of it before. Great idea and even better application. You need to patent that idea.

Doug, you are an amazing creator. Your knowledge and mechanical ablities are just, shit, I dont even know what to say. Very cool indeed. I second Sin, get that idea patented.

Ok... Doug... I have a new handle for you... "Q"... like the gadget man from James Bond... that's you!

That is SOOO far beyond anything I am capable of doing.
Great job "Q" !!
How long did the entire project take and what was the final cost?
Pretty amazing stuff Doug.

Q indeed...that is nuts.

great report.

super coool pics.

awesome post

Your fab skills are unparalleled my friend. Insane to say the least.
We need to talk.

Z

Wow, that is super cool Doug.

Jedmo

Sweet!

I think the fact that you have your own kayak test pond rules, too. 

Hi Yakers:

     I like you tooling but, my RC Boat is more fun!
                                                      Sea-ya
                                                      Ernie

http://rcfishingworld.com/