Tempress 71450 Fish On! Rod Holder Surface-Mount Review

Let’s Dive into Tempress 71450 Fish On! Rod Holder Surface-Mount

The Tempress 71450 Fish On! Rod Holder Surface-Mount offers a simple solution for adding rod storage to your boat without extensive drilling. This surface-mount design from Tempress aims to provide an elevated and secure rod holding point. It’s a budget-friendly option that promises to keep your rods safe and accessible while on the water.

My old boat, affectionately nicknamed “The Tub,” suffered from a severe lack of rod storage. Rods were constantly getting tangled, stepped on, and generally abused during fishing trips, leading to broken guides and frayed lines. I needed a solution that was easy to install and wouldn’t require me to drill massive holes in my already questionable hull.

Upon unboxing the Tempress 71450 Fish On! Rod Holder Surface-Mount, my initial thought was that it was surprisingly compact. The plastic construction felt robust enough for the price point. I appreciated the simplicity of the design.

I considered other rod holders, including flush-mount options that would sit more seamlessly with the gunnel. I also looked at rail-mounted systems for greater adjustability. I ultimately chose the Tempress 71450 Fish On! Rod Holder Surface-Mount for its ease of installation and low profile.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It seemed like a practical solution, but I was eager to see how it would hold up to the rigors of real-world fishing.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Tempress 71450 Fish On! Rod Holder Surface-Mount to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Tempress 71450 Fish On! Rod Holder Surface-Mount during a weekend fishing trip on Lake Serenity. This lake is known for its choppy waters and unpredictable weather. I mounted two of the rod holders on the gunnels of my boat using stainless steel screws (not included).

The conditions varied from sunny skies to light rain, with moderate wind creating some significant waves. The rod holders kept my rods secure even during the choppier periods. They kept the rods elevated and preventing them from getting tangled with other gear.

Installation was straightforward. I simply positioned the mount where I wanted it and secured it with screws. I didn’t need to spend hours wrestling with complex hardware. After the first use I did wish I had used a sealant when screwing them down.

No major issues arose during the initial use. I noticed a slight wobble in one of the holders after a particularly strong wave, but nothing concerning.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Tempress 71450 Fish On! Rod Holder Surface-Mount is showing some signs of wear, but is still functional. The black plastic has faded slightly from sun exposure. There is a small amount of play in the connection to the boat.

The plastic, while durable, shows some minor scratches from repeated use and accidental bumps against other equipment. I’ve been careful to rinse the holders with fresh water after each trip to prevent salt buildup. So far, I’ve had no issues with corrosion.

Compared to previous DIY rod holding solutions involving bungee cords and duct tape, the Tempress 71450 Fish On! Rod Holder Surface-Mount is a significant improvement. It’s not the most robust option on the market, but it gets the job done at an affordable price.

Breaking Down the Features of Tempress 71450 Fish On! Rod Holder Surface-Mount

Specifications

The Tempress 71450 Fish On! Rod Holder Surface-Mount boasts simple but effective specifications. Its dimensions are 2 inches in height, 4 inches in width, and 2 inches in depth. The surface mount design allows for installation without needing to drill large holes.

• Material: Constructed from durable black plastic, designed to withstand marine environments. The black color helps to minimize sun glare.
• Mounting Style: Utilizes a surface mount, attaching to horizontal surfaces with screws. This allows the rod holder to be secured without major modification to the boat.
• Elevation: Raises the rod holder 2 inches above the gunnels. It provides additional clearance and prevents rod tips from dragging.
• Locking Feature: Offers a locking mechanism to secure the rod in place. Preventing accidental loss.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the functionality and user experience. The surface mount makes installation accessible for most boat owners. The elevation helps to keep rods safe.

Performance & Functionality

The Tempress 71450 Fish On! Rod Holder Surface-Mount performs its primary function adequately. It holds fishing rods securely in most conditions. It keeps them off the deck and out of harm’s way.

Its strength is its simplicity. It’s easy to install and use. The locking mechanism is simple but effective.

The main weakness is its plastic construction. It’s not as robust as metal alternatives. It might not withstand extreme conditions or heavy abuse.

It meets my basic expectations for a budget-friendly rod holder. It keeps my rods safe and organized without breaking the bank.

Design & Ergonomics

The Tempress 71450 Fish On! Rod Holder Surface-Mount features a simple and functional design. The black plastic construction is lightweight and resistant to corrosion. The raised platform helps to keep rod tips clear of the gunnel.

The build quality is adequate for the price point. The plastic feels durable enough for light to moderate use. I would rate it a 7/10.

There’s virtually no learning curve involved. You simply mount the holder. Then you place your rod inside.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Tempress 71450 Fish On! Rod Holder Surface-Mount should last for several seasons of regular use. However, the plastic is susceptible to fading and cracking with prolonged sun exposure. Regular rinsing with fresh water and occasional cleaning with mild soap can help extend its lifespan.

Repairing the holder is not particularly feasible. If the plastic cracks or the locking mechanism fails, replacement is the most practical option. At its affordable price, replacement is not a major concern.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Tempress 71450 Fish On! Rod Holder Surface-Mount does not come with any additional accessories. Users will need to supply their own mounting hardware. There are no official customization options available for the Tempress 71450 Fish On! Rod Holder Surface-Mount.

It is compatible with a variety of standard fishing rod sizes. You may consider adding a leash to secure your rod to the boat in case of accidental dislodgement. You may also want to look into adding a rubberized sleeve to the rod holder to protect the rod finish.

Pros and Cons of Tempress 71450 Fish On! Rod Holder Surface-Mount