Cannon 12in Gimbal Mount Review

Let’s Talk About Cannon 12in Gimbal Mount

The Cannon 12in Gimbal Mount is a deceptively simple piece of equipment with the potential to drastically improve your downrigger fishing experience. Made by Cannon, a trusted name in fishing gear, this mount promises to offer a secure and space-efficient way to install your downriggers, especially on boats with limited mounting options or those preferring the flexibility of rod holder integration. It’s essentially a sturdy aluminum tube designed to fit snugly into a standard 30-degree flush mount rod holder, transforming it into a downrigger base.

I’ve always struggled with finding the perfect downrigger mounting solution on my smaller boat. Clamping options often felt bulky and insecure, while dedicated mounting pads required drilling and permanent modifications. The Cannon 12in Gimbal Mount seemed like an elegant solution – a way to utilize existing rod holders for a clean, temporary downrigger setup.

Upon unboxing, the mount felt solid and well-made. The aluminum construction gave it a reassuring heft without being overly heavy, and the finish seemed resistant to corrosion, a crucial factor for saltwater use. It’s a simple tube, but the quality was immediately apparent.

I considered other options, including clamp-on mounts and universal mounting plates. However, the gimbal mount’s simplicity and ability to utilize existing infrastructure swayed me. It promised a less cluttered deck and easier installation, making it an ideal choice for my needs.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. It seemed well-built and fit my needs on paper, but I was eager to see how it would perform under real-world fishing conditions. I hoped it would live up to its promise of secure and convenient downrigger deployment.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Cannon 12in Gimbal Mount to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Cannon 12in Gimbal Mount on a recent salmon fishing trip on Lake Michigan. The conditions were fairly typical: moderate chop, a light breeze, and the ever-present threat of rain. I used it with a Cannon Mag 10A downrigger, a fairly standard size for this type of fishing.

Installation was incredibly straightforward. The Cannon 12in Gimbal Mount slid easily into my boat’s existing 30-degree rod holder and felt secure. I then attached the downrigger base to the top of the mount, tightening the bolts firmly.

The mount performed surprisingly well, even under the strain of a 10-pound downrigger weight. There was minimal wobble or flex, and the downrigger felt stable throughout the day. I was especially impressed by how little space it occupied compared to traditional clamp-on mounts. There were no issues, and the mount did exactly as promised.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Cannon 12in Gimbal Mount has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even after being exposed to saltwater and repeated use. The aluminum finish still looks pristine.

Maintenance is incredibly simple. After each trip, I rinse it with freshwater and apply a light coat of corrosion inhibitor. It’s a testament to the simple design and quality materials.

Compared to previous downrigger mounting methods, the Cannon 12in Gimbal Mount is a clear winner. It’s far more convenient, less intrusive, and surprisingly robust. It has completely changed my approach to downrigger fishing on my boat.

Breaking Down the Features of Cannon 12in Gimbal Mount

Specifications

The Cannon 12in Gimbal Mount boasts a few key specifications that contribute to its performance. It is made from durable, corrosion-resistant aluminum, which is essential for marine environments. The mount is 12 inches in length, providing ample leverage and stability for most downriggers. The outer diameter of the tube is 1.5 inches, ensuring a snug fit in standard 30-degree flush mount rod holders.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the mount’s strength, stability, and compatibility. The aluminum construction ensures longevity and resistance to the harsh marine environment. The 12-inch length provides leverage for the downrigger, reducing wobble and strain on the rod holder. Finally, the standard diameter guarantees compatibility with a wide range of boats and rod holder setups.

Performance & Functionality

The Cannon 12in Gimbal Mount excels at its primary function: securely mounting a downrigger in a rod holder. It provides a stable platform for deploying and retrieving downrigger weights, minimizing wobble and ensuring precise depth control. The simple design ensures ease of use and reliable performance.

However, it’s not without limitations. The mount’s stability is dependent on the quality and strength of the rod holder it’s inserted into. If the rod holder is loose or poorly installed, the mount may not perform optimally. It meets my expectations and has no issues.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Cannon 12in Gimbal Mount is straightforward and functional. The aluminum construction is lightweight yet robust, making it easy to handle and install. Its simple cylindrical shape ensures a clean and uncluttered look on your boat.

There’s virtually no learning curve. It’s a simple “insert and tighten” process that anyone can master in minutes. The design is simple and effective.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its aluminum construction and simple design, the Cannon 12in Gimbal Mount should last for many years with proper care. The corrosion-resistant finish minimizes the risk of rust and degradation, even in saltwater environments.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional rinsing and lubrication. The simple design also means there are few parts to break or wear out, ensuring long-term reliability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Cannon 12in Gimbal Mount is a fairly straightforward piece of equipment and doesn’t have a ton of customization options. One could add aftermarket rod holder extenders to increase the height of the downrigger, however.

The mount is inherently compatible with any downrigger that uses a standard mounting base. This compatibility makes it a versatile addition to any angler’s toolkit. It is compatible with Cannon downriggers, of course.

Pros and Cons of Cannon 12in Gimbal Mount

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Who Should Buy Cannon 12in Gimbal Mount?

The Cannon 12in Gimbal Mount is perfect for anglers who want a simple, portable, and space-efficient way to mount downriggers on their boats. It’s ideal for those with smaller boats, limited mounting options, or those who prefer the flexibility of using existing rod holders. It is a great choice for pro anglers.

This product may not be suitable for anglers who require an extremely heavy-duty or permanently mounted downrigger setup. Someone who fishes exclusively in very rough conditions may want a more robust option.

Must-have accessories include a high-quality corrosion inhibitor and a good set of wrenches for tightening the mounting bolts. A quality rod holder is also required, but most boaters already have these.

Conclusion on Cannon 12in Gimbal Mount

The Cannon 12in Gimbal Mount is a well-designed and executed product that delivers on its promise of providing a simple and effective downrigger mounting solution. Its durable construction, ease of use, and space-saving design make it a valuable addition to any angler’s arsenal.

At $115.59, the price is justified considering the quality of materials and the convenience it offers. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to simplify their downrigger setup.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Cannon 12in Gimbal Mount to fellow anglers seeking a hassle-free and reliable downrigger mounting solution. If you’re tired of bulky clamps or permanent modifications, give this mount a try. You won’t be disappointed!