Cannon Rail/Side Mount, Downrigger Review

Let’s Talk About Cannon Rail/Side Mount, Downrigger

The Cannon Rail/Side Mount, Downrigger is a seemingly simple, yet crucial piece of equipment for anglers looking to maximize their downrigger setups on boats with limited mounting options. Manufactured by Cannon, this mount addresses the specific need for securing downriggers to ‘T’ joints on rails or boats with narrow gunwales. This mount promised to expand my downrigger capabilities beyond my larger boat, giving me flexibility to use a smaller vessel.

I was drawn to the Cannon Rail/Side Mount, Downrigger because I recently acquired a smaller boat with tubular rails, perfect for solo fishing trips where my larger boat felt like overkill. I needed a secure, reliable mounting solution for my downrigger that didn’t require permanent modifications or drilling into the boat’s structure. The advertised compatibility with most Cannon downriggers (excluding Mini-Troll) and its durable construction were key selling points.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the robust feel of the mount. The machined aluminum construction felt solid and well-made, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand the stresses of trolling. The powder coating appeared even and durable, suggesting good corrosion resistance – a critical factor for saltwater fishing.

I considered a few other rail mounting systems from brands like Scotty and RAM Mounts. However, I ultimately chose the Cannon Rail/Side Mount, Downrigger for a few reasons: its all-aluminum construction (some competitors used plastic components), Cannon’s reputation for quality downrigger products, and the seemingly straightforward installation process. Initial impression was positive, and I was eager to get it on the water and test its performance.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Cannon Rail/Side Mount, Downrigger to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test run with the Cannon Rail/Side Mount, Downrigger was on a calm morning in Puget Sound, targeting salmon. The mount was attached to a ‘T’ joint on the rail of my smaller boat. Installation was simple, requiring only a few wrenches, and the mount felt incredibly secure once tightened down.

The downrigger, a Cannon Mag 10A, felt surprisingly stable even under the strain of a 10-pound weight at 50 feet deep. There was minimal flex or movement in the mount, even when making sharp turns. Conditions were mild, with light chop and minimal wind, but the mount performed flawlessly, providing a stable and reliable platform for my downrigger.

Ease of use was excellent; I didn’t require any special tools or modifications to get the Cannon Rail/Side Mount, Downrigger installed and operational. The only minor issue was ensuring the ‘T’ joint on the rail was perfectly perpendicular to the water to avoid a slight lean in the downrigger boom. After the first trip, the mount maintained its solid state.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use in varying conditions, the Cannon Rail/Side Mount, Downrigger has proven to be remarkably durable. I’ve encountered rougher seas, stronger currents, and even a couple of unexpected snags on the downrigger weight, and the mount has held up admirably. There are no signs of cracking, bending, or loosening of the hardware.

The powder coating has resisted corrosion well, even after exposure to saltwater and sun. Routine maintenance involves rinsing the mount with fresh water after each trip and occasionally applying a corrosion inhibitor to the hardware. Compared to previous experiences with cheaper mounting solutions, the Cannon Rail/Side Mount, Downrigger significantly outperforms in terms of stability, durability, and corrosion resistance.

Breaking Down the Features of Cannon Rail/Side Mount, Downrigger

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Cannon
• Material: Machined aluminum
• Finish: Powder coated
• Compatibility: All Cannon Downriggers (except Mini-Troll), subject to tubing strength up to 1.5′ (40mm)
• Size: One Size
• Mounting: Designed for ‘T’ joints on rails or narrow gunwales.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the mount’s strength, durability, and compatibility with various boat setups and downrigger models. The machined aluminum and powder coating ensure long-lasting performance in harsh marine environments, while the compatibility with most Cannon downriggers provides flexibility for anglers with existing Cannon equipment. The 1.5″ tubing compatibility is important to verify against your own rail dimensions.

Performance & Functionality

The Cannon Rail/Side Mount, Downrigger performs its job exceptionally well by providing a stable and secure platform for downriggers on boats with limited mounting options. Its solid construction and tight clamping mechanism ensure minimal movement or vibration, even under heavy loads. I give it a perfect score.

The strength lies in its robust design and ease of installation. One potential area for improvement would be the addition of adjustable shims or spacers to accommodate slightly different rail diameters. Also, the mount relies on the strength of your boat’s railing system; weak rails can negate the benefits of this solid mount.

The Cannon Rail/Side Mount, Downrigger meets and exceeds my expectations by providing a reliable and hassle-free downrigger mounting solution. It’s a testament to Cannon’s commitment to quality and functionality. The mount’s performance in various conditions proved extremely satisfactory.

Design & Ergonomics

The Cannon Rail/Side Mount, Downrigger boasts a simple and functional design. The all-aluminum construction feels substantial and well-made, instilling confidence in its durability. The mount’s compact size and low profile minimize interference with other boat activities.

The design is inherently user-friendly, requiring minimal tools and effort for installation. There is virtually no learning curve involved, making it accessible to anglers of all skill levels. However, ensuring proper alignment with the rail can be slightly fiddly, requiring patience to get the downrigger boom perfectly level.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its robust construction and corrosion-resistant finish, the Cannon Rail/Side Mount, Downrigger should last for many years with proper care. I fully expect the product to last.

Maintenance is straightforward, primarily involving rinsing with fresh water and occasional lubrication of the hardware. The simple design minimizes the potential for mechanical failures, making it easy to maintain and repair if necessary.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Cannon Rail/Side Mount, Downrigger doesn’t come with a lot of accessories, as its primary function is to provide a mounting base. The powder-coated finish can be painted.

The mount is generally compatible with any Cannon downrigger that utilizes a standard mounting plate. Compatibility with accessories from other brands depends on their mounting patterns and overall dimensions. Ensure any third-party accessories are rated for marine use to avoid corrosion and premature failure.

Pros and Cons of Cannon Rail/Side Mount, Downrigger