Abstract: A downrigger including a downrigger line and weight supported from a motor powered reel associated with a fishing line and fishing rod with a releasable interconnection between the downrigger line and fishing line so that when the bait connected with the fishing line is taken by a fish, the fishing line will separate from the downrigger line to enable a fisherman to play and reel in the fish in a well known manner. The motor powered reel can pivot between an outboard fishing position, an idle position above a boat cover board or gunwale and an inboard position which enables the reel, motor and associated components of the downrigger to be attached to or removed from the boat. Power is supplied to the powered reel only when the downrigger is in the outboard fishing position. The powered downrigger unit includes a removable cover for the reel, motor and other drive components to prevent accidental contact with these components.