Downrigger Placement on 23SF with Engine Flotation Bracket

[afterhours]

Looking for comments/pictures regarding placement of downriggers on a 23SF. Particularly interested in experience with outboard engine flotation brackets. Primary use will be trolling for salmon.

I have Scotty 1106 electrics with 36"-60" extendable boom and swivel base and will be using heavy weights (15lb+) due to currents. I can mount them forward of the hawse pipes or on the corner of the stern where the bait tank lids used to be. My gunnels and stern cap are overlain with +3/4" solid teak and will be using backing plates so I am not worried about strength issues.

I like the idea putting them over the bait tank area because I can either swivel them over the transom, directly aft, or over the gunnels when not in use. My only concern is how close it places the lines to the motors when turning. I intend to get a prop guard for the kicker.

The kicker steering, tilt and throttle are controlled at the main helm so I am not worried about the downriggers getting in the way of the kicker.