Let’s Dive into Lee’s Tackle 13ft Bright Silver Center Rigger Pole w/Black Spike 1-3/8in
The Lee’s Tackle 13ft Bright Silver Center Rigger Pole w/Black Spike 1-3/8in is designed to elevate your trolling game, literally. Manufactured by Lee’s Tackle, a trusted name in the marine industry, this center rigger pole promises to keep your bait in the strike zone, acting as the highest outrigger on your boat. Its sleek bright silver finish and durable black spike offer both style and resilience against the harsh marine environment.
Having spent years struggling with tangled lines and baits that get lost in the wake, I needed a solution to keep my center bait consistently in the prime position. I was seeking a rigger pole that offered the right height, was easy to deploy, and, most importantly, could withstand the rigors of offshore fishing. The Lee’s Tackle center rigger pole seemed like a promising solution.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the pole’s build quality and finish. The bright silver anodized aluminum shone brilliantly, and the black spike felt solid and robust, ready to plunge into the step tube. The 13-foot length seemed ideal for achieving the necessary height for effective bait presentation.
Compared to some other center rigger poles I’ve used, such as those from Tigress and Rupp, the Lee’s Tackle version appeared more streamlined and less bulky. I chose it over others because of Lee’s Tackle’s reputation for quality and the specific design of the black spike, which I believed would provide a more secure fit in my existing step tubes. My initial excitement was definitely high, hoping this would finally solve my center bait presentation woes.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lee’s Tackle 13ft Bright Silver Center Rigger Pole w/Black Spike 1-3/8in to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Lee’s Tackle 13ft Bright Silver Center Rigger Pole w/Black Spike 1-3/8in during a deep-sea fishing trip off the coast of Florida targeting marlin and tuna. The conditions were mixed, with some periods of calm seas interspersed with choppy waves and strong winds.
The pole was surprisingly easy to deploy, sliding smoothly into the 1-3/8″ step tube. Even in the rougher conditions, the rigger felt stable and secure, providing confidence that it would hold up during a strike. The bait presentation was excellent, with the center bait running cleanly behind the boat, well clear of the other lines.
Initially, I had no issues, and after a full day of trolling, the rigger performed flawlessly, holding its position and exhibiting no signs of stress.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Lee’s Tackle 13ft Bright Silver Center Rigger Pole w/Black Spike 1-3/8in has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of bending or corrosion despite constant exposure to saltwater and sun.
The bright silver finish has held up well, with only minor scratches from normal use, and the black spike remains firmly attached. Cleaning is simple; a quick rinse with freshwater after each trip keeps it in pristine condition. It significantly outperforms the cheaper, generic rigger poles I’ve used in the past that bent or corroded within a few months.
Breaking Down the Features of Lee’s Tackle 13ft Bright Silver Center Rigger Pole w/Black Spike 1-3/8in
Specifications
The Lee’s Tackle 13ft Bright Silver Center Rigger Pole w/Black Spike 1-3/8in boasts a 13-foot length, constructed from bright silver anodized aluminum. It includes a black spike designed for secure placement in a 1-3/8″ MX step tube, and the absence of a spreader keeps the design simple and lightweight. These specifications are crucial for achieving optimal height and stability, ensuring the center bait remains consistently in the strike zone.
The 13-foot length provides ample height to clear other lines and wakes, allowing for better bait presentation. The durable aluminum construction and secure spike connection provide the strength and reliability needed for offshore trolling, even in challenging conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Lee’s Tackle 13ft Bright Silver Center Rigger Pole w/Black Spike 1-3/8in excels in its primary function: keeping the center bait in the optimal position. Its height and stability ensure the bait runs cleanly, increasing the chances of a strike.
The pole’s strengths lie in its robust construction and easy deployment. One notable improvement would be the addition of some type of indexing mark or collar to ensure consistent height settings across different deployments. Overall, it far exceeds my expectations for a center rigger pole in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The pole’s design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The bright silver finish adds a touch of class to any boat, and the black spike provides a sleek contrast.
The weight is manageable, making deployment and retrieval relatively easy, even for a single person. The smooth finish prevents line snags and ensures hassle-free operation.
Durability & Maintenance
The durable aluminum construction ensures a long lifespan. Regular cleaning with freshwater is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition.
The simple design minimizes potential failure points, and the high-quality materials resist corrosion. I expect this rigger pole to last for many seasons of heavy use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lee’s Tackle 13ft Bright Silver Center Rigger Pole w/Black Spike 1-3/8in comes as a standalone pole designed for use with existing outrigger bases. While there are no specific customization options directly offered by Lee’s Tackle for this model, it is compatible with a variety of aftermarket rigging kits and release clips.
Many anglers choose to add different types of release clips to fine-tune the tension and presentation of their center bait. Additionally, some users may opt to add a small flag or marker to the top of the pole for increased visibility, especially in rough seas.
Pros and Cons of Lee’s Tackle 13ft Bright Silver Center Rigger Pole w/Black Spike 1-3/8in
Pros
- The durable construction ensures long-lasting performance even in harsh marine environments.
- The bright silver anodized finish adds a professional look to your boat setup.
- Easy to deploy and retrieve, even single-handedly.
- The 13-foot length provides optimal height for effective bait presentation.
- Secure black spike ensures a stable and reliable fit in the step tube.
Cons
- Lacks a spreader, which some anglers may prefer for additional line control (though this keeps it simple).
- The $509.99 price point may be a barrier to entry for some anglers on a budget.
Who Should Buy Lee’s Tackle 13ft Bright Silver Center Rigger Pole w/Black Spike 1-3/8in?
The Lee’s Tackle 13ft Bright Silver Center Rigger Pole w/Black Spike 1-3/8in is perfect for serious offshore anglers who want to improve their bait presentation and increase their chances of catching fish. It’s also suitable for charter captains looking for a reliable and durable center rigger pole that can withstand the rigors of daily use.
Anglers who primarily fish inshore or prefer simpler trolling setups might not need this product. Anyone looking for a complete outrigger system (pole, bases, rigging) will need to purchase those components separately.
A must-have accessory would be high-quality release clips to fine-tune the tension on the center line. Additionally, a dedicated outrigger cleaning kit can help maintain the pole’s finish and prevent corrosion.
Conclusion on Lee’s Tackle 13ft Bright Silver Center Rigger Pole w/Black Spike 1-3/8in
The Lee’s Tackle 13ft Bright Silver Center Rigger Pole w/Black Spike 1-3/8in is a well-built and effective tool that will undoubtedly enhance your trolling experience. While the price is a bit steep, the durability and performance justify the investment for serious anglers.
The pole delivers on its promise of keeping the center bait in the prime strike zone, increasing your odds of landing trophy fish. I would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking to upgrade their outrigger system and take their fishing to the next level. Don’t let tangled lines and missed opportunities hold you back – invest in the Lee’s Tackle center rigger pole and experience the difference!