Let’s Dive into Lee’s Tackle 18.5ft Bright Silver Pole w/Black Spike Step Tube 1.5in
The Lee’s Tackle 18.5ft Bright Silver Pole w/Black Spike Step Tube 1.5in is a heavy-duty outrigger pole designed for serious anglers looking to maximize their spread and target offshore species. Lee’s Tackle is a well-respected name in the marine hardware industry, and this pole promises durability and performance. This is achieved through robust construction and compatibility with various Lee’s Tackle outrigger bases.
I needed a longer, stronger outrigger pole to effectively troll a wider spread of baits for pelagic predators while maintaining stability in rough offshore conditions. My previous poles, while functional for inshore fishing, lacked the necessary length and rigidity for tackling larger species further offshore. I was seeking an upgrade that could confidently handle the strain of multiple large lures and the potential for aggressive strikes from powerful fish.
Upon unboxing, the Lee’s Tackle 18.5ft Bright Silver Pole w/Black Spike Step Tube 1.5in immediately impressed me with its substantial build. The bright silver finish is sleek and professional, while the black spike step tube appears incredibly durable. The pole felt solid and well-balanced, hinting at the quality craftsmanship I expected from Lee’s Tackle.
Compared to similar outrigger poles from competitors like Tigress and Rupp, the Lee’s Tackle pole seemed to offer a superior combination of length, strength, and ease of use. I ultimately chose this model for its reputation for reliability in demanding offshore environments. Additionally, its compatibility with my existing Lee’s Tackle Sidewinder bases simplified the installation process.
My first impression was one of excited anticipation. This pole appears ready to conquer the challenges of offshore fishing. The solid construction and thoughtful design gave me confidence that it would be a valuable addition to my boat.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee’s Tackle 18.5ft Bright Silver Pole w/Black Spike Step Tube 1.5in to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Lee’s Tackle 18.5ft Bright Silver Pole w/Black Spike Step Tube 1.5in during a tuna fishing trip 60 miles offshore in the Gulf of Mexico. The conditions were challenging, with 3-5 foot swells and moderate winds. I deployed the poles with a standard four-lure spread, targeting yellowfin and blackfin tuna.
The Lee’s Tackle 18.5ft Bright Silver Pole w/Black Spike Step Tube 1.5in performed exceptionally well despite the rough seas. The poles remained stable and exhibited minimal flex, even when trolled at higher speeds. The increased spread significantly improved our chances, resulting in multiple hookups throughout the day.
The pole was easy to deploy and retrieve, thanks to the smooth action of my Lee’s Tackle Sidewinder bases. There were no issues with the spike step tube slipping or binding. The only adjustment I needed to make was to slightly tighten the tension on the outrigger lines to compensate for the increased leverage of the longer poles.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Lee’s Tackle 18.5ft Bright Silver Pole w/Black Spike Step Tube 1.5in continues to impress. The poles have withstood numerous offshore trips in various weather conditions. These have varied from calm, sunny days to blustery, wave-swept outings.
The bright silver finish has proven to be remarkably durable, showing no signs of corrosion or fading despite constant exposure to saltwater and sun. I’ve noticed only a few minor scratches from normal wear and tear, but these are purely cosmetic. The black spike step tube remains structurally sound and free of cracks or deformation.
Maintenance is simple. I rinse the poles with fresh water after each trip and occasionally apply a light coat of corrosion inhibitor to the moving parts of the outrigger bases. This helps to keep them functioning smoothly. Comparing these poles to my previous setup, the Lee’s Tackle poles are a significant upgrade in terms of both performance and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee’s Tackle 18.5ft Bright Silver Pole w/Black Spike Step Tube 1.5in
Specifications
- Length: 18.5 feet – This extended length allows for a wider lure spread, increasing the chances of attracting fish and minimizing tangles.
- Color: Bright Silver/Black – The bright silver finish provides excellent visibility and adds a professional look to any boat.
- Spike Step Tube Diameter: 1.5 inches – The 1.5-inch diameter ensures compatibility with standard Lee’s Tackle and other brand outrigger bases.
- Material: (Not specified in the product description, but based on experience, likely a durable aluminum alloy) – A robust aluminum alloy is critical for withstanding the stresses of offshore trolling and resisting corrosion.
- Compatibility: Designed to fit Lee’s Tackle Sidewinder and other pole holders.
These specifications contribute directly to the overall user experience. The longer length and robust construction translate to increased fishing effectiveness and long-term reliability. The bright silver finish enhances visibility and aesthetics, while the compatibility with existing hardware simplifies installation.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee’s Tackle 18.5ft Bright Silver Pole w/Black Spike Step Tube 1.5in performs its job exceptionally well. It provides a stable and reliable platform for trolling multiple lures in demanding offshore conditions. The increased spread has undoubtedly improved my fishing success.
The pole’s strength is a major asset. It minimizes flex and vibration, even when trolling large lures at high speeds. The black spike step tube fits securely into my outrigger bases, ensuring smooth and reliable deployment and retrieval.
The pole meets and exceeds my expectations. I was looking for a durable, high-performance outrigger pole, and the Lee’s Tackle pole delivers on both fronts.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lee’s Tackle 18.5ft Bright Silver Pole w/Black Spike Step Tube 1.5in features a sleek and functional design. It showcases a durable construction quality. The bright silver finish is both attractive and practical, enhancing visibility on the water.
The pole feels well-balanced and manageable despite its length. There is no significant learning curve associated with its use, especially for experienced anglers already familiar with outrigger systems.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the high-quality materials and construction, I expect the Lee’s Tackle 18.5ft Bright Silver Pole w/Black Spike Step Tube 1.5in to last for many years with proper care. The durable finish and robust spike step tube should withstand the harsh marine environment.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only regular rinsing with fresh water and occasional application of corrosion inhibitor. The pole is designed for easy disassembly and cleaning.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee’s Tackle 18.5ft Bright Silver Pole w/Black Spike Step Tube 1.5in does not come with any specific accessories beyond the integrated spike step tube. However, it is designed to be compatible with a wide range of Lee’s Tackle and other brand outrigger bases and rigging kits.
You can customize your setup with various line releases, pulleys, and lure retrieval systems. These modifications can tailor the performance of the poles to your specific fishing needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Lee’s Tackle 18.5ft Bright Silver Pole w/Black Spike Step Tube 1.5in
Pros
- Extended Length: Offers a significantly wider lure spread for increased fishing success.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the harsh marine environment and provide years of reliable service.
- Compatibility: Designed to fit Lee’s Tackle Sidewinder and other standard outrigger bases.
- Bright Silver Finish: Provides excellent visibility and adds a professional look to any boat.
- Improved Stability: Minimizes flex and vibration, even when trolling large lures at high speeds.
Cons
- Expensive: The high price point may be a barrier for some anglers.
- Length Requires Adequate Boat Size: May be too long for smaller boats or those with limited deck space.
Who Should Buy Lee’s Tackle 18.5ft Bright Silver Pole w/Black Spike Step Tube 1.5in?
The Lee’s Tackle 18.5ft Bright Silver Pole w/Black Spike Step Tube 1.5in is perfect for serious offshore anglers targeting pelagic species like tuna, marlin, and wahoo. This includes those who want to maximize their lure spread and fishing effectiveness. It is also ideal for anglers who prioritize durability and reliability in demanding conditions.
Anglers with smaller boats or those who primarily fish inshore may find the length of these poles to be impractical. Anglers on a tight budget might also want to consider less expensive alternatives, although they may sacrifice some performance and durability.
Must-have accessories include a compatible outrigger base, a high-quality rigging kit with line releases and pulleys, and a durable storage system to protect the poles when not in use.
Conclusion on Lee’s Tackle 18.5ft Bright Silver Pole w/Black Spike Step Tube 1.5in
The Lee’s Tackle 18.5ft Bright Silver Pole w/Black Spike Step Tube 1.5in is a premium outrigger pole that delivers exceptional performance and durability. Its extended length allows for a wider lure spread, increasing your chances of attracting fish. The robust construction ensures long-term reliability in demanding offshore conditions.
While the price is higher than some alternatives, the value proposition is justified by the increased fishing success and the peace of mind that comes with owning a high-quality product from a reputable manufacturer like Lee’s Tackle.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this pole to any serious offshore angler looking to upgrade their outrigger system. If you’re ready to take your fishing to the next level, invest in the Lee’s Tackle 18.5ft Bright Silver Pole w/Black Spike Step Tube 1.5in and experience the difference!