Cathy,

Check out Cabelas.com and type in Downriggers. You'll find some good units by Cannon and Big Jon. I've had both brands and I like the cannon digitroll myself. The digitroll units are a bit more expensive but they are very well built and offer some nice features. However, at 12-1500 this model of cannon downriggers may not be needed. For around 375.00 you can purchase a very nice Mag 5 by Cannon. That is more than most people need. These are powered by a small electric motor that will actuate the downrigger for more ease of use. Unless you are fishing in 100 feet of water or more you can get by just fine on the hand crank up models and you can find them for under $200. You may want to wait and watch the Cabelas.com website as they always have some kind of special offer at the end of the months such as free shipping or money off on purchased around $150 or so.

As for rods you will also have to think about a good trolling rig with a nice 7-9foot trolling action rod with a good reel. Maybe even a reel that has a line counter built in. This could be useful if your husband wants to use Dipsy's or Jetdivers. As well they are great to figure out how far back you have to troll your line to get a bait to swim to a specific depth.

Good luck!