Cannon Boating Equipment 1979220 User Manual

CAUTION:  
READ THIS MANUAL CAREFULLY  
BEFORE OPERATING YOUR NEW CANNON®  
DOWNRIGGER.  
RETAIN FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.  
MAG 20DT/HS  
NOTE: Do not return your CANNON® Downrigger to  
your retailer. Your retailer is not authorized to repair or  
replace this unit. You may obtain service by:  
calling CANNON® at 1-800-227-6433;  
returning your downrigger to the Factory Service  
Center;  
sending or taking your downrigger to any  
CANNON® Authorized Service Center on  
enclosed list.  
Please include proof of purchase, serial number  
and purchase date for warranty service with any  
of the above options.  
MAG 20DT/ts  
OWNER’S MANUAL  
Introduction to Downriggers  
MAG 20 DT New Features  
Mounting Your Downrigger  
Terminator & Line Release  
Cannon Uni-Release  
pg. 2  
pg. 3  
The Short Stop System  
Positive Ion Control  
pg. 14  
pg. 14  
pg. 16  
pg. 17  
pg. 17  
pg. 18  
pg. 19  
pg. 19  
See List  
pg. 4-7  
pg. 8  
The Effects of Blowback  
Troubleshooting  
pg. 8  
pg. 9  
Maintaining Your Downrigger  
Trolling Tips  
Attaching the Rod Holder  
Wiring Your Downrigger  
Powering Multiple Downriggers  
Operating Your Downrigger  
pg. 10  
pg. 11  
pg. 12  
Warranty Information  
Cannon Service Policy  
Authorized Service Centers  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
CannonLink Details  
Mag 20 DT New Features  
The Mag 20DTs connect to the Humminbird  
unit with the #019095 Mag 20 Master Cable. This  
cable has an eight-pin plug on one end and a five-  
pin plug on the other. The eight-pin plugs into the  
fish finder communication port. Additional Mag 20  
DTs are connected to each other in a chain with  
the #019634 Mag 20 Remote Cable. The last  
downrigger in the chain must be terminated with  
the #609198 Endcap plug that comes with the  
Mag 20 Master Cable. This plug completes the  
loop allowing the fish finder to get depth and mode  
information from the Mag 20 DTs. Additional  
information can be found with the Humminbird fish  
finder.  
Magnum Power  
The Mag 20 DT/HS and Mag 20 DT/TS feature  
improved tolling weight capacity, retrieval rate,  
and quality. The Mag 20 DTs can now  
accommodate trolling weights up to 20lbs. The  
newly improved Mag 20 DTs also feature a high  
retrieval rate up to 250 feet per minute.  
Mag 20 DT/TS Features  
The Mag 20 DT/TS (Tournament Series) has an  
improved appearance featuring a sleek metallic-  
white finish. An extremely durable stainless steel  
spool allows for you to outfit your downrigger with  
monofilament or “super line”, eliminating the fish-  
spooking vibration and harmonics of conventional  
downrigger cables. With a heavy-duty, brushed  
stainless steel telescopic boom, adjustable rod  
holder, and an Off-Shore Release included, the  
Mag 20 DT/TS is designed specifically for  
tournament level fishing.  
The details of CannonLink are described in full  
in your Humminbird owner’s manual. Any one or  
all Mag 20 DTs can perform these features with  
CannonLink only from Cannon:  
Set PIC voltage in 1/10ths of volts  
Go to depth (feet or meters)  
Battery Alarm  
The Mag 20 DT will now beep every two  
seconds if the battery voltage drops below 9 volts.  
Adjustable descent and retrieve speeds  
Cycle mode; includes upper depth, lower  
depth and time at depth  
Remote Operation with CannonLink  
Your Mag 20 DT has the ability to be operated  
remotely. Utilizing Humminbird Fishing systems  
featuring CannonLink, you can control up to 6  
Mag 20 DT/HSs and/or Mag 20 DT/TSs  
simultaneously. CannonLink gives you the ability  
to cycle downriggers up and down, bottom track,  
change depth, monitor speed and temp* (with  
Cannon Speed & Temp Sensor), and adjust  
Positive Ion Control from your Humminbird Fishing  
System (Matrix™, 700, and 900 Series).  
Bottom-contour following mode, includes wave  
height, distance above the bottom  
All up (brings all the weights to the surface  
immediately)  
Park height (allows you to set individual  
heights to park the ball above the water)  
Disconnect alarm sounds if the remote cable  
is accidentally unplugged  
The Mag 20DTs communicate through an  
optically isolated NMEA 0183 standard interface.  
Each unit is both a listener and a talker to the next  
unit in the chain. The endcap plug sends the last  
talker’s broadcast back to the first listener/talker,  
which is usually the fish finder. Only two sentence  
headers are used: the standard NMEA  
‘$SDDBT’ (SONAR Data Depth Below  
Transducer) for bottom following, and  
‘$PCMAG’ (Proprietary Cannon MAG) for system  
control. Several features have been included in  
the remote interface that would allow the electro-  
mechanical system to be used for other types of  
applications.  
*Note: The CannonLink system outputs data from only one single  
Speed & Temp Sensor Fish.  
3
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Downrigger Mounting on Boats  
A downrigger should be mounted where ever it  
is easy to operate and observe. You want to be  
able to see your fishing rod and to react quickly.  
So, choosing a good spot to mount your  
downrigger on your boat is 99% of the job.  
Due to the great variety of boats available,  
mounting your downrigger can be a dilemma.  
Having proper mounting accessories is essential.  
Cannon has a complete line of mounting  
accessories to conveniently mount your  
downriggers on any boat.  
Arrows  
Indicate  
Mounting  
Locations  
Mounting Accessories  
Deck Plates are necessary when extra  
strength must be added to the base material of  
the boat and for attaching the downrigger to other  
mounting accessories.  
Deck Plate  
Gimbal Mounts are designed to fit medium-  
sized flush mounted rod holders built into the  
gunwale of many larger fishing boats and  
cruisers. Only sturdy, high quality rod holders  
should be used for this temporary mounting  
system. Gimbal mounts are available in 9” or 12”  
post lengths.  
Gimbal Mount  
Clamp Mounts can be mounted at the  
junction of two rail sections with the aid of two ¼”  
pieces of plywood. They will protect your rail from  
any marks from the clamp and provide a non-slip  
surface.  
Clamp Mount  
4
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Side Rail Mounting  
Side/Rail mounts can be mounted to a  
welded T section. They can also be used at the  
two rail section butt joint. In both installations it is  
recommended to use a non-slip material, such  
as rubber or a thin wood sheet, between metal  
surfaces.  
Side/Rail on T-Section  
You can also use these for mounting to a  
very narrow side gunwale. There is a plate  
provided for back-up with bolts and washers. If  
the gunwale compartment is foamed in, then  
wellnuts should be used. It is also recommended  
to install two additional flat head screws through  
the top plate for stabilization (you will need to  
drill and countersink).  
Side/Rail on Gunwale  
NOTE: In no case should this mount be used on  
fiberglass ¼" thick or less unless it is foamed in.  
Pedestal Mounting  
Pedestals are used wherever additional height is  
needed for ease of operation or to clear  
obstructions, such as handrails.  
Caution: When using a pedestal mount or  
side/rail mount, do not extend the telescopic  
boom on your Mag 20 DT. The increased  
leverage will cause excessive strain and  
possible failure of the mount.  
Pedestal for Additional Height  
5
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Installing the Base on Your Boat  
Decks up to 7/16" thick  
Decks up to  
7/16" Thick  
Where access to the underside of the deck is  
not available, the mounting base can be mounted  
using wellnuts. Use the base as a template to mark  
locations and drill four 1/2" holes. Mount the base  
using four 1/4-20 x 4" truss head screws and four  
wellnuts. Tighten the screws so the wellnuts are  
firmly compressed as pictured.  
Base  
Wellnuts  
Base  
Decks thicker than 7/16"  
For decks thicker than 7/16", or where the  
underside of the deck is accessible, mount the base  
with screws, nuts, and washers. Use the base as a  
template to mark the locations and drill four 9/32"  
holes. Use four 1/4-20 x 4" truss head screws and  
four each flat washers, lock washers, and nuts.  
Fasten the base to the deck as pictured. NOTE:  
Wellnuts cannot be used on decks thicker than  
7/16".  
Decks Thicker  
Than 7/16" Thick  
Washer, Lock Washer,  
and 1/4-20 Hex Nut  
Decks thinner than 1/4"  
Use a Cannon deck plate to prevent deflection  
and add stability to decks thinner than 1/4". Use the  
deck plate as a template to  
Screws  
mark the hole locations.  
Deck Plate  
Deck up to 7/16" Thick  
Deck Thicker Than 7/16”  
Washers, Lock  
Washers, Screws,  
& Nuts  
Wellnut  
If access to the underside of the deck is not  
available, the deck plate can be mounted using  
screws and wellnuts. Drill 1/2" holes. Use four 1/4-  
20 x 2" flat head screws and four wellnuts to mount  
deck plate as pictured. Tighten the screws so the  
wellnuts are firmly compressed.  
Where the underside is accessible, the deck  
plate can be mounted using screws, nuts, and  
washers. Drill 9/32" holes. Use four 1/4-20 x 2" flat  
head screws, nuts and washers (flat and lock).  
Fasten plate to deck as pictured. To secure the  
mounting base to the deckplate use four 1/4-20 x 2"  
truss head screws.  
NOTE: When using the telescopic boom, we  
strongly recommend the use of a deck plate  
on all boats to provide adequate stability for  
the downrigger.  
The Low-Profile Swivel Base mounting follows the  
same procedure as for the deck plate except that  
four 1/4”-20 x 2 1/2" truss head screws are used  
to fasten the mounting base and four additional  
1/4”-20 x 2 1/2" truss head screws fix the swivel  
base to the boat deck.  
Low-Profile Swivel Base  
6
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Mounting the Downrigger on the Base  
Slide body over the lip of the base, with boom  
outboard or facing the stern. Lift Lock Knob to hold  
threaded shaft clear of base until body completely  
covers base. Turn Lock Knob clockwise to tighten  
the downrigger to the base.  
Tip: Periodically check base to ensure integrity.  
The base should be replaced at least every 5 years.  
Lock Knob  
Setting Up Your Downrigger  
Attaching the Boom  
3/4"-Long Boom  
Telescopic Boom  
The intermediate section of the telescopic boom  
must be extended approximately 5" before the  
boom locking screw can engage the hole in the  
boom. Slip the boom end into the frame and align  
the holes. Secure with boom locking screw.  
To adjust boom length, with the boom extending  
away from you, rotate clamps approximately 1/4  
turn counter - clockwise to unlock, and slide boom  
section to desired position. To lock, rotate clamp  
clock-wise until tight.  
The Locking Screw Must  
Engage Hole in Boom  
Clamps  
The Standard 24 Inch Boom inserts into the  
downrigger frame. Be sure that the boom is held  
securely by seating it firmly against the shoulder  
inside the fame and fastening the boom locking  
screw such that it engages the hole in the boom.  
Standard 24"  
Boom  
Assemble Swivel Head To Boom  
Insert the telescopic boom-end into the boom-  
align holes and fasten in place with a #8 x 5/8  
screw. Spread the swivel head side plates and  
slip the assembly over the boom end axle. Snap  
the assembly together and install two #4 x 1/2"  
screws into the swivel head.  
TIP: Adjusting the angle of the boom head can help  
control cable wrap on the reel.  
Swivel Head  
Boom  
TIP: Whenever downriggers with boom lengths  
beyond 24" are used, Cannon's Retro-Ease  
Weight Retriever will make bringing in the weight  
safe and easy. It attaches to the cable below the  
boom end allowing you to pull the weight to yourself  
without having to lean way out or collapse the boom  
to reach the weight.  
#8 x 5/8"  
Screw (1)  
#4 x 1/2"  
Screws (2)  
7
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Terminating the Downrigger Cable  
Examine the top of the terminator and note the  
order shown in the detail to run cable.  
Unwind about 2 feet of cable  
and thread the cable through  
the rubber cushion.  
Cable  
Rubber Cushion  
CABLE IN  
CABLE IN  
CABLE OUT  
Attach to terminator.  
Snap &  
Swivel  
Tip: A set of pliers with wire cutters is  
recommended for this part of setup.  
TIP: Use only straight cable, not kinked.  
Slide the cushion over the top of the  
terminator and give it a test pull.  
Tighten cable  
by squeezing  
terminator  
Lead cable into  
HOLE A.  
The cable is set to attach a Cannon  
Trolling Weight.  
Pull six inches of  
cable through.  
Thread cable  
through swivel,  
then up into  
until it snaps  
shut. Then  
HOLE A  
pull at top and  
bottom until  
drawn tight.  
Make sure  
that the  
bottom of the  
terminator.  
Lead cable out of  
HOLE B and into  
HOLE C. Push the  
cable until its end  
touches the inside  
of the terminator  
hook.  
cable  
threads the  
hook.  
Swivel  
Cannon Uni-Release  
Close  
The Cannon Uni-Release attaches directly to  
the downrigger weight. Attach fishing line to the  
clip at the end of the release, and then click  
through a series of increasing tension settings.  
The release can be used with any test line on salt  
or fresh water and may be adjusted from 2 to 22  
pounds of grip tension on the line.  
Tension  
Adjust  
Open  
Fishing Line  
Open  
To change line release tension, turn tension  
knob to (+) to increase or (-) to decrease. Tension  
also may vary according to where the line is  
placed in the grips. Higher tension is on the line if  
it is set back toward the hinge, and lower if set  
closer to the opening. To open the release, spread  
the release arms with thumb and forefinger  
applying pressure to the sides.  
Gripper  
Pads  
8
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
CAUTION: This rod holder is intended for use  
of up to 30 lb. test line only, and is not  
recommended for use with any tackle IGFA  
rated higher than 30 lb. A safety strap (not  
included) is recommended for all  
Attaching the Rod Holder  
The positive lock rod holder incorporates a  
locking disk that allows the rod holder to be  
aligned in 15 degree increments. Slide the rod  
holder tube into the clamp to the desired position  
within the recommended area (see below). Be  
sure the angled shoulders are facing up. Place  
the locking disk into the mating recess of the  
frame. Slip the clamp arms in place where the  
obround tab on the disk fits into the slot on the  
clamp. Slide the star washer between the arm of  
the clamp and the frame. Place the flat washer  
onto the bolt. Then insert the bolt with washer  
through the clamp by entering the disk, going  
through the frame, the star washer, and out the  
other side of the clamp. Tighten the nut to  
secure the rod holder. Reposition the rod holder  
by loosening the nut and adjusting the tilt.  
applications.  
The rod holder assembly is not warranted  
when used with tackle above 30 lbs.  
Equipment placed in the rod holders and the  
loss thereof is the responsibility of the user  
and is in no way warranted by JOHNSON  
OUTDOORS, INC. Mounting must be in  
accordance with the above instructions and  
diagram to be warranted.  
Single Rod Holder Assembly  
Dual Rod Holder Assembly  
Star Washer  
Placement  
Recommended  
Area to Clamp  
Rod Holder  
Angled  
Shoulder  
9
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Note: You must unplug the Mag 20 DT to check  
the natural voltage on the reel cable.  
Wiring Your Downrigger  
Your Boat's Electrical Condition  
Electrical Specifications & Wiring  
It is important to make sure that your boat is  
properly set up before installing your Mag 20 DT  
with Positive Ion Control (PIC). Whenever a boat  
is in water, various submerged parts interact to  
create weak electrical currents. These weak  
electrical currents must be controlled to extend  
the life of the boat's metal parts and ensure a  
good fish catching environment.  
Check the zinc sacrificial anodes on your boat  
and on the outboard/outdrive. If they are more  
than 50% dissolved they should be replaced. Any  
coating of slime or growth should be cleaned off.  
All metal parts including the hull (if metal) must be  
interconnected by a grounding wire. This includes  
motor shafts, outdrives, and through hull fittings.  
If your boat and zincs are set up correctly, the  
voltage on the stainless steel downrigger wire of  
your Mag 20 DT should be positive when in  
contact with the water. The following tips can be  
useful:  
Instructions  
The Mag 20 DT is rated at 25 amps (full load),  
12 volts DC and is protected by a 30 amp manual  
reset circuit breaker (located under motor housing).  
Be sure to measure the battery voltage of your boat.  
WARNING! - DO NOT RUN THIS DOWNRIGGER  
ON A 24 VOLT BATTERY SYSTEM. THIS WILL  
DAMAGE THE UNIT AND VOID YOUR  
WARRANTY.  
Connecting to the Battery:  
It is strongly recommended that a fuse or  
manual-reset circuit breaker be installed at the  
battery on the positive lead of the power cable or  
that you connect the downrigger to a battery  
selector switch. (See Fuse and Wire Specifications)  
Connect the positive lead (RED) to the (+) post on  
your battery or the downrigger will not operate. Use  
the new quick disconnect plug to remove the  
downrigger without touching the battery.  
Use Cannon vinyl coated lead weights. Lead,  
if not pure, can produce negative charges.  
NOTE: It is strongly recommended to power your  
Mag 20 DT with a Deep-Cycle marine battery. Only  
run a Mag 20 DT from a Starter battery if is  
recharged by an alternator while trolling with the  
outboard motor.  
Tip: Control degradation of the power cables and  
limit corrosion by using Cannon Ox-Not anti-  
oxidant gel on all connections.  
Use the trolling weight insulators supplied with  
your downrigger. This insulates your weight  
from the positive charge on the cable. This will  
also ensure that the trolling weight will stop at  
water level when retrieved.  
The cable on your downrigger should be  
replaced every 2 years. Etching of the cable  
can weaken it physically and electrically.  
In saltwater, make sure the sacrificial zincs  
are replaced when half dissolved. This  
ensures that the boat will run with a neutral or  
slightly positive charge. Clean zincs on a  
regular basis with a non-corrosive brush.  
Always make sure the boat is properly  
grounded to the water. This will help ensure  
proper PIC voltage on the cable and that the  
Short Stop will function properly.  
10  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
FUSE / BREAKER SPECIFICATIONS:  
30 Amp, 32 Volt, waterproof, fast blow.  
WIRE SPECIFICATIONS:  
Battery  
Fuse Holder  
0-15 ft.  
15-25 ft. (5-8 meters)  
25-30 ft. (8-9 meters)  
(0-5 meters)  
10 gauge  
8 gauge  
6 gauge  
CAUTION: When using wire longer than that  
provided with your unit, follow the above chart.  
When running more than 30 feet from the  
battery, contact a qualified electrician.  
Battery  
Circuit Breaker  
Powering Multiple Downriggers  
When operating multiple Mag 20 DTs, run a  
maximum of 2 downriggers per dedicated  
battery. The advanced features of the Mag 20 DT  
can keep the unit working virtually all the time. (See  
below for the recommended wiring setup.)  
NOTE: To ensure proper operation of your Mag  
20 DT, ground its battery to your boat’s electrical  
system’s ground. Malfunctions with the PIC,  
communication between units, or loss of  
operation result from faulty grounding. Always  
check to see if your boat is properly grounded  
first.  
Red ( + )  
Black ( – )  
Connect  
Multiple  
Batteries in  
Parallel  
Typical Operating Time*:  
FOR MAXIMUM PERFORMANCE:  
1 Mag 20 DT per battery – 24 hours.  
2 Mag 20 DTs per battery – 10 hours.  
Use Minn Kota Group 27 or 31 sized, Deep-Cycle  
marine batteries. For extended battery life, add a  
Minn Kota on-board, DC alternator charger.  
*Time based on lab results using a 15lb weight  
and Deep-Cycle batteries. Actual run time will  
vary.  
11  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Operating Your Downrigger  
To Lower  
Weight  
After mounting the Cannon downrigger to your  
boat, release some line from your rod and reel so  
that the lure is anywhere from 5 to 100 feet  
behind the boat. Tthis is called drop back.  
Attach the fishing line firmly into the line  
release. Press and hold the toggle switch down to  
lower the weight to the desired depth as indicated  
on the depth meter. Place the fishing rod in the  
rod holder and reel up the slack so that your rod  
has a slight bend in it. When a fish strikes the  
lure, the line will separate from the release. Then  
you will be free to fight the fish and bring it in on  
your rod and reel.  
Clutch Knob  
Lowering the Weight  
The Mag 20 DT can lower the trolling weight  
manually or powered.  
Manual Descent: Fast or Slow  
By turning the clutch knob gently clockwise  
(toward the boom), you can let your trolling weight  
descend as fast or as slowly as you wish. Turning  
the knob counterclockwise (away from the boom)  
stops the weight. This gives you control to let it  
plunge rapidly or sink slowly to a predetermined  
trolling depth. With multiple downriggers, you  
could start all your weights creeping down, one at  
a time, and then stop them each in turn.  
3-Position  
Motor Switch  
Powered Descent: One speed fits all  
Hold the toggle switch down until the weight  
reaches the desired depth and release. The motor  
will stop when switch is released or moved to the  
neutral position.  
3-Position  
Motor  
Switch  
12  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
NOTE: Make sure that the clutch is well tightened  
when using powered descent or ascent.  
Raise  
Off  
NOTE: Actual fishing depth may vary from depth  
shown on meter due to trolling speed and weight of  
cannon ball. (See "Blowback")  
NOTE: If your reel continues to slip no matter how  
hard you tighten the brake adjust knob, try this  
suggestion.  
Lower  
1. Unwind the cable from the reel and remove the  
set screw.  
2. Align set screw hole in reel with reel shaft hole  
by inserting 3/16" or smaller rod. Rotate the reel  
until you feel the rod drop into the shaft hole.  
3. Replace the set screw and tighten until you feel  
resistance.  
4. By gently rocking the reel back and forth while  
you finish tightening the set screw, you can feel  
it engage the shaft hole. The half dog point on  
the set screw MUST enter the shaft hole, not  
just be tightened against the shaft.  
Caution: The brake adjust knob (clutch) should  
be adjusted so that it is tight enough to hold the  
weight and the lure at the speed you are  
trolling. Over tightening may cause damage to  
your downrigger when weight hangs up on  
bottom structure or other obstacles.  
Raising the Weight  
Push the toggle switch up momentarily and  
release. The weight will rise until it reaches the  
surface and then automatically stop.  
If you want to raise the weight farther push the  
toggle switch up and hold until the weight reaches  
the desired position, then release.  
To stop the weight during ascent, push the  
toggle switch down momentarily (approximately 1  
second).  
Adjusting the Depth Meter  
The Cannon Depth Meter provides non-slip  
accuracy, plus easy resetting. To reset, just slide  
the meter away from the reel until the gears are  
disengaged. Spin meter gear to change setting.  
Depth Meter  
13  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
The Short Stop System  
The Short Stop system is composed of three  
critical components: the electronic unit, the reel set  
screw, and the trolling weight insulator.  
While the downrigger cable is in the water, there  
is a minute electrical current that flows between the  
cable and the grounded metal boat components in  
the water. When the cable clears the water, this  
current flow will stop. The Short Stop system senses  
this interruption and turns off the motor. The trolling  
weight insulator is used to break the cable contact to  
the water while the weight is still in the water. The  
reel set screw allows the circuit path to be made  
through the structure of the downrigger.  
1/16"  
Short Stop System  
NOTE: It may be necessary to use two trolling  
weight insulators.  
Cable  
Terminator  
Stopping the weight at water level eliminates the  
cable strain caused by bouncing weights or weights  
hitting the boom end. Stopping at water level will  
also keep the weight from hitting the boat hull.  
The Positive Ion Control System  
Your boat has an electrical charge around the  
hull in water. If a boat is properly bonded and  
properly zinced, that charge should be slightly  
positive when measured from ground to the  
downrigger cable. Positive Ion Control (PIC) is the  
use of electricity to control that charge and its  
fluctuation so that it is always maintained at a  
specified set voltage.  
Weight  
Insulator  
The practice of setting up and maintaining a  
slight positive charge on fishing gear has been used  
by commercial fishermen for many years. This  
practice has enabled some fisherman to increase  
yield when used along with other good fishing and  
boating practices.  
Cannon’s electric downriggers offer fishermen a  
big advantage in being able to stabilize and control  
the positive charge around their boat. Because of  
the Lexan® construction of the frame, Cannon  
downriggers are insulated from your boat’s hull  
charge. When the stainless steel downrigger cable is  
lowered into the water, the natural ionization  
between the cable and the boat creates a positive  
charge of 0.7 to 0.9 volts in saltwater and 0.3 to 0.6  
volts in fresh water. This natural voltage is  
NOTICE: Short stop and Positive Ion  
Control features do not function when  
spooled with monofilament or super  
lines.  
dependent upon salinity and mineral content of the  
water. Your actual voltage may vary.  
14  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
How the Positive Ion Control System Works  
The PIC system uses an internal circuit that  
passes the voltage through the drive train of the  
Mag 20 DT to the reel set screw. The set screw  
contacts the cable. Care must be taken to ensure  
contact between the cable and the set screw  
when replacing the cable.  
Positive Ion Control  
(PIC) Knob  
The positive Ion Control system applies a  
variable 0.2 to 1.2 volts on the trolling cable at all  
times. To adjust the Positive Ion Control, simply  
turn the PIC knob on the back of the Mag 20 DT  
housing (see below).  
Measuring the Natural Electrolysis and PIC  
Voltage on Your Boat  
Data Out  
A voltmeter with a scale of zero to one volt will  
measure the natural electrolysis. Place the ground  
lead of the meter on the motor or the battery  
ground. Place the positive lead on the stainless  
steel downrigger cable while it is in the water. The  
downrigger must be unplugged. The voltage you  
measure on the volt meter is your boat’s natural  
electrolysis voltage. Use the same set up to  
measure the PIC voltage; just plug in the Mag 20  
DT and adjust the PIC knob to the voltage  
desired.  
Data In  
Using Positive Ion Control  
Positive Ion Control is very effective when  
trolling. The zone of attraction created at the  
downrigger wire will attract the fish. It is best to  
use a short drop back between the downrigger  
release and the lure. Drop backs of 10 to 20 ft. are  
typical. A drop back of 50 to 100 ft. will entirely  
negate the effects of the PIC circuit. Fishing  
depths greater than 125 ft. may require a slightly  
higher PIC voltage. If you return to shallow water  
fishing remember to turn the PIC voltage down  
again.  
The correct PIC setting for your best fishing  
advantage varies, depending on fish type and  
location. For example, the proper setting for Puget  
Sound Steelhead may not be effective for Great  
Lakes Steelhead. To fully benefit from PIC  
technology, it is important that you experiment  
with the PIC setting to find the proper voltage for  
the gamefish in your area. For more information  
on this subject, refer to “Secrets of Fishing with  
Electricity” by Ollie Rode.  
15  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Blowback Charts  
8-Lb. Weight at 2, 4, and 6 MPH  
Blowback  
Simply stated, blowback is what happens to  
the downrigger weight when you pull it through the  
water behind your boat. As your speed increases,  
so does the horizontal distance between the  
weight and your downrigger. The faster you go,  
the farther the weight is behind you. The farther  
the weight is behind you, the shallower the weight  
is.  
The following charts provide you with  
blowback information for three sizes of Cannon  
downrigger weights pulled at three different  
speeds with no lures attached and with no current.  
Current drag, water salinity and the use of non-  
Cannon products will affect your actual trolling  
depth.  
2 MPH  
4 MPH  
6 MPH  
As an example, the first chart shows that if you  
are trolling at 4 MPH with an 8 pound weight and  
you have 100 FT. of cable in the water with no  
current; the downrigger ball is actually at a depth  
of about 80 FT.  
Amount of Cable in Water (ft.)  
10-Lb. Weight at 2, 4, and 6 MPH  
2 MPH  
4 MPH  
6 MPH  
Amount of Cable in Water (ft.)  
12-Lb. Weight at 2, 4, and 6 MPH  
2 MPH  
4 MPH  
6 MPH  
16  
Amount of Cable in Water (ft.)  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
Maintaining Your Downrigger  
Periodically, lightly grease the thrust bearing  
and bearing race found behind the clutch knob.  
Replace the cable at least every two years.  
There are no other user serviceable parts on  
the Mag 20 DTs. Your warranty will be void if  
the seal on your unit is broken. For repairs or  
servicing your downrigger refer to the  
Warranty Information section of this booklet.  
Trouble Shooting  
PROBLEM:  
Up or down will not work.  
SOLUTION:  
Check the battery cable polarity then check  
the battery voltage. A properly connected and  
charged battery is important for safety and for  
proper operation of the downrigger.  
PROBLEM:  
The Mag 20 DT/HS \ Mag 20 DT/TS fails to  
continue running after toggle switch is pushed  
up and held momentarily, while cable is still in  
water, or is having problems with the PIC  
voltage.  
SOLUTION:  
Make sure your boat is properly bonded. A  
boat that is properly bonded has an electrical  
path from the negative battery terminal to all  
metal parts on the boat that contact water.  
Additionally, in saltwater the boat must be  
properly zinced to show a natural electrolysis  
voltage of 0.7 to 0.9 volts. The voltage supply  
to your downrigger must also be bonded to  
the boat.  
PROBLEM:  
Clutch slips  
SOLUTION:  
The set screw in the reel may have come  
loose off the shaft. Follow the instructions  
below:  
1) Unwind the cable from the reel.  
2) Remove the set screw.  
3) Align the set screw hole in the reel with the  
hole in the reel shaft by inserting a 3/16" or  
smaller rod and rotating the reel until you feel  
it drop into the shaft hole.  
4) Replace the set screw and tighten until you  
feel resistance.  
5) By gently rocking the reel back and forth while  
tightening the set screw, you can feel it  
engage in the shaft hole. The half dog point  
on the set screw must enter the hole in the  
shaft; not just be tightened against the reel  
shaft.  
6) The set screw should be about 1/16" above  
the top of the hole when it is properly seated  
(not so for TS models). The contact between  
the stainless steel cable and the set screw is  
important for proper operation of the Positive  
Ion Control system.  
17  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
5) Locate fish on a vertical plane. Place lures  
in areas where fish might be. Skilled fishermen  
call these areas the “strike zones”. They include  
the edges of the week beds, structure along  
bottom, drop-offs, preferred temperature of the  
target species, and the thermocline. Remember  
that fish occupy certain areas for certain reasons  
(sources of food, protective cover, preferred  
temperatures, etc.).  
Ten Good Trolling Tips  
1) Test your lures over the boat side before  
sending them down and back. Do this to make  
sure the lure wiggles and wobbles properly  
without going belly up or wandering off. Some  
lures can be adjusted, fine tuned actually, to  
impart maximum action. For example, a slight  
bend in the tail of a spoon or twist of the hook eye  
in the nose of a plug can make a noticeable  
difference in how the lure performs.  
6) Consider special knots and swivels. A  
good ball bearing swivel will all but eliminate line  
twist and will aid in getting maximum performance  
from a lure. Many anglers add the tiny swivels to  
split rings already on the lure itself. On the other  
hand, a swivel may dampen the action of a  
Also, when running two or more lures, make sure  
the offerings are compatible. Lures that run out of  
harmony with each other are bound to tangle and  
that means wasted time to straighten out the  
mess. Testing them first will avoid the problem.  
sensitive lure, such as a Rapala. Some fisherman  
tie tiny improved cinch or loop knots. Loop knots  
in particular may enhance up and down and side  
to side action of lures. Any good fishing manual  
will explain how to tie these and other knots.  
2) Consider different sizes, shapes, and colors  
of lures. No one has ever figured out with  
precision what makes a fish strike or snub a lure.  
There is no doubt, that matching the forage  
(minnows, crayfish, etc.) in color, shape, action,  
and size can help trigger those strikes from  
hungry fish. On the other hand, if fish such as  
bluegills, small mouth bass or Coho salmon are  
protecting spawning beds, they may attack  
whatever is threatening. So, bright colors in lures  
may out produce bland colors.  
7) Consider releases for flatline trolling. A  
good tip is to secure a piece of downrigger cable  
or heavy monofilament to the water ski hook or  
handle below the transom of most boats. To the  
other end of the mono or cable, add a pinch-r-  
release. After letting out your lure to the desire  
distance, put the rod in its holder, then bend the  
tip and secure the fishing line in the release.  
3) Vary trolling speeds. Goosing the engine  
now and then or slowing to a crawl every so often  
will change the action of the lures and may get  
fish to strike them.  
8) Add a weed guard. Having trouble with  
weeds hanging up lures? Consider tying a three-  
inch piece of monofilament a foot above the lure.  
Leaves, smaller weeds and other debris may  
catch here momentarily then fall off to the side of  
the lure without tangling. Weedless lures are  
another smart consideration. Downrigger cables  
are effective weed catchers when trolling for pike,  
muskies, or bass in weed-infested lakes.  
4) Vary trolling patterns and lead lengths. The  
amount of line you let out often determines how  
deep the lure will run and, to some extent, what  
degree of action it will impart. For starters,  
consider running lures about ten feet behind  
downrigger weights. If flat line trolling, put them  
back about fifty feet, then experiment depending  
on what the fish do.  
9) Add a stinger hook. When fish short strike,  
slap at lures without becoming hooked, adding a  
stinger hook can solve the problem. Simply tie a  
treble hook to one end of a four inch piece of  
monofilament and then tie the extra hook to the  
last gang of hooks on your lure. The stinger hook,  
which trails the lure, provides extra insurance.  
Trolling patterns affect lure action too, that is  
why some anglers like to wheel a lazy S course.  
On turns, outside lures will speed up momentarily  
while inside lures hang for a moment or two. Fish  
may nail lures that change speeds. Also, zigzag  
patterns allow for more water coverage, plus it  
keeps lures out of propeller boil, an important  
consideration for browns and other wary species.  
10) Keep hooks sharp. Some of the best  
fishermen sharpen all hooks after every fish  
caught. Hooks get dull through both use and  
misuse, and probably more fish are lost to dull  
points than anything else.  
18  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
CANNON® SERVICE POLICY  
AFTER THE APPLICABLE WARRANTY PERIOD  
CANNON® LIMITED WARRANTY  
Johnson Outdoors Inc. warrants to the original purchaser that if the  
accompanying product (see exclusions below) proves to be defective  
in material or workmanship within the following warranty periods,  
Johnson Outdoors Inc. will, at its option, either repair or replace same  
without charge (but no cash refunds will be made):  
After the applicable warranty period, or, if one of the above  
exclusions applies, Cannon® products will be repaired for a charge of  
parts plus labor. All factory repairs, after the applicable warranty  
period, carry a 90-Day Limited Warranty, subject to the exclusions and  
limitations stated above.  
1) The boom, motor, and reels, plus all Lexan®* parts, including  
but not limited to frames and bases, will be free from defects in  
materials and workmanship, subject to normal wear and tear,  
for the original purchaser's lifetime.  
TO ENFORCE WARRANTY OR TO  
OBTAIN REPAIRS AFTER WARRANTY  
2) All other items will have 1-year limited warranties from the  
date of original retail purchase, except THE FOLLOWING  
ITEMS THAT HAVE NO WARRANTY WHATSOEVER: boot  
covers, clothing, Dacron line, rubber bands, swivel lock pin,  
weights, and wire cable.  
This limited warranty may be enforced only by the original  
purchaser; all subsequent purchasers acquire the product "as  
is" without any benefit of this limited warranty. Repair or  
replacement of the product as set forth in this limited warranty  
shall be the original purchaser’s sole and exclusive remedy  
and Johnson Outdoors Inc.’s sole and exclusive liability for  
breach of this warranty.  
To obtain warranty service in the U.S., the downrigger or part  
believed to be defective and the proof of original purchase (including  
the date of purchase) must be presented to a Cannon® Authorized  
Service Center or to Cannon®’s factory service center in Mankato,  
MN. Except as noted below, any charges incurred for service calls,  
transportation or shipping/freight to/from the Cannon® Authorized  
Service Center or Cannon®’s factory, labor to haul out, remove, re-  
install or re-rig products for warranty service, or any similar items are  
the sole and exclusive responsibility of the purchaser. Downriggers  
purchased outside of the U.S. (or parts of such downriggers) must be  
returned prepaid with proof of purchase (including the date of  
purchase and serial number) to any Authorized Cannon® Service  
Center in the country of purchase. Warranty service can be arranged  
by contacting a Cannon® Authorized Service Center listed on the  
enclosed sheet, or by contacting the factory at 1-800-227-6433 or Fax  
1-800-527-4464. If the necessary repairs are covered by the warranty,  
we will pay the return shipping charges to any destination within the  
United States.  
EXCLUSIONS  
This warranty does not apply in the following circumstances:  
When the product has been connected, installed, combined,  
altered, adjusted, serviced, repaired, or handled in a manner  
other than according to the instructions furnished with the  
product  
When the motor housing is opened by anyone other than  
Cannon® Authorized service repair personnel.  
DO NOT return your Cannon® downrigger or parts to your retailer.  
Your retailer is not authorized to repair or replace them.  
When any defect, problem, loss, or damage has resulted from  
any accident, misuse, negligence, carelessness, or abnormal  
use, or from any failure to provide reasonable and necessary  
maintenance in accordance with the instructions of the owner's  
manual  
Major parts, such as the motor and main frame, must be returned  
to Johnson Outdoors Inc. in Mankato, Minnesota, or a Cannon®  
Authorized Service Center, for repair or replacement. To reduce  
shipping costs, we suggest removal of loose parts such as the boom  
and rod holders. Small parts that can be easily removed such as the  
handle and/or the counter, may be removed from the downrigger and  
returned for repair or replacement.  
LIMITATION AND EXCLUSION OF IMPLIED WARRANTIES AND  
CERTAIN DAMAGES  
THERE ARE NO EXPRESS WARRANTIES OTHER THAN  
THESE LIMITED WARRANTIES. JOHNSON OUTDOORS INC.  
DISCLAIMS LIABILITY FOR INCIDENTAL AND CONSEQUENTIAL  
DAMAGES, AND IN NO EVENT SHALL ANY IMPLIED  
Retain your sales receipt! Proof of purchase must accompany  
product when returned.  
Return Address:  
Johnson Outdoors Inc.  
Cannon Division  
WARRANTIES (EXCEPT ON THE BOOM, MOTOR, REELS, AND  
ALL LEXAN®* PARTS), INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OF  
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSE,  
EXTEND BEYOND ONE YEAR FROM THE DATE OF PURCHASE  
(AND IN THE CASE OF THE BOOT COVERS, CLOTHING, DACRON  
LINE, RUBBER BANDS, SWIVEL LOCK PIN, WEIGHTS, AND WIRE  
CABLE, JOHNSON OUTDOORS INC. DISCLAIMS ALL IMPLIED  
WARRANTIES). THIS WRITING CONSTITUTES THE ENTIRE  
AGREEMENT OF THE PARTIES WITH RESPECT TO THE  
SUBJECT MATTER HEREOF; NO WAIVER OR AMENDMENT  
SHALL BE VALID UNLESS IN WRITING SIGNED BY JOHNSON  
OUTDOORS INC.  
121 Power Drive  
Mankato, MN 56001  
FOR YOUR INFORMATION:  
Serial No.  
Date Purchased  
Store Where Purchased  
Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty  
lasts or the exclusion or limitation of consequential damages, so the  
above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty gives  
you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights that vary  
from state to state.  
RETAIN THIS SECTION FOR YOUR RECORDS  
* Lexan is a registered trademark of General Electric.  
19  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  
ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE STATEMENT:  
It is the intention of Johnson Outdoors Inc. to be a responsible corporate citizen, operating in compliance with known and applicable  
environmental regulations, and a good neighbor in the communities where we make or sell our products.  
WEEE Directive:  
EU Directive 2002/96/EC “Waste of Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE)” impacts most distributors, sellers, and manu-  
facturers of consumer electronics in the European Union. The WEEE Directive requires the producer of consumer electronics to take responsibility  
for the management of waste from their products to achieve environmentally responsible disposal during the product life cycle.  
WEEE compliance may not be required in your location for electrical & electronic equipment (EEE), nor may it be required for EEE de-  
signed and intended as fixed or temporary installation in transportation vehicles such as automobiles, aircraft, and boats. In some European Union  
member states, these vehicles are considered outside of the scope of the Directive, and EEE for those applications can be considered excluded  
from the WEEE Directive requirement.  
This symbol (WEEE wheelie bin) on product indicates the product must not be disposed of with other household refuse.  
It must be disposed of and collected for recycling and recovery of waste EEE.  
Johnson Outdoors Inc. will mark all EEE products in accordance with the WEEE Directive. It is our goal to comply in the collec-  
tion, treatment, recovery, and environmentally sound disposal of those products; however, these requirement do vary within Euro-  
pean Union member states. For more information about where you should dispose of your waste equipment for recycling and  
recovery and/or your European Union member state requirements, please contact your dealer or distributor from which your prod-  
uct was purchased.  
To download product manuals or purchase Cannon products from an authorized dealer, please visit our web page at  
Johnson Outdoors, Inc. / Cannon Division  
121 Power Drive, Mankato, MN 56001  
1-800-227-6433  
© 2008 Johnson Outdoors, Inc. All rights reserved.  
All CANNON Downriggers are covered by US Pat.D-269, 992. Copyright 2006 Johnson Outdoors, Inc. All rights reserved.  
Conforms to 89/336/EEC (EMC) under standards EN 55022A, EN 50082-2 since 1996 LN V9677264  
WARNING: This product contains chemical(s) known to the state of California to cause cancer and/or reproductive toxicity.  
20  
Form No. 3397101 Rev D  
Download from Www.Somanuals.com. All Manuals Search And Download.  

Bizfon Telephone BizTouch User Manual
Brother Sewing Machine BAS 411 User Manual
Cal Spas Hot Tub Saunas User Manual
Campbell Hausfeld Air Compressor WL650103 User Manual
Campbell Hausfeld Nail Gun IFN00300 User Manual
Canon Camera Accessories 5247B002 User Manual
Canon CRT Television LV 7565F User Manual
Casio Watch MA1001 EA User Manual
Char Broil Gas Grill LP Gas Grill User Manual
Chromalox Electric Heater ADH 005 User Manual