TACO Marine Maine Grand Slam 390 With Forward Facing Arm Review

Let’s Talk About TACO Marine Maine Grand Slam 390 With Forward Facing Arm

For the serious angler looking to dominate the offshore fishing scene, the TACO Marine Maine Grand Slam 390 With Forward Facing Arm is a serious contender. TACO Marine has built a reputation for durable, high-performance outrigger systems, and the Grand Slam 390 aims to be their most robust yet, designed for larger center console boats tackling rougher seas. This system boasts enhanced strength, smoother operation, and the ability to handle longer, heavier outrigger poles, potentially giving you a significant advantage in covering more water and enticing more strikes.

Having spent years battling pelagic giants, I’ve always been on the hunt for the ultimate outrigger system; one that could withstand the brutal forces of offshore fishing without compromising performance or reliability. Cheaper systems often flex and vibrate, scaring fish and limiting trolling speed, while others simply can’t handle the strain of larger poles in heavy seas. I was looking for a system that would give me the confidence to run my spread effectively, even when conditions turned nasty.

The TACO Marine Maine Grand Slam 390 With Forward Facing Arm arrived securely packaged, showcasing the attention to detail that TACO Marine is known for. My initial impression was one of immense solidity; the stainless steel and machined aluminum components exuded quality, promising a robust and reliable platform. The weight was substantial, confirming the heavy-duty construction designed to withstand serious offshore abuse.

Compared to the previous generation Grand Slam 380, and similar offerings from Rupp and Lee’s, the Grand Slam 390 immediately stood out with its reinforced gusset and thicker arm. While I appreciated the compact design of the 380, the 390’s beefier build instilled more confidence for handling longer outrigger poles. The Lee’s system felt similarly robust, but lacked the smooth elevation crank and user-friendly horizontal rotation of the TACO Marine design.

I was immediately impressed, but also a little anxious. Could this system truly live up to the hype and justify its premium price tag? Only real-world testing would tell.

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Real-World Testing: Putting TACO Marine Maine Grand Slam 390 With Forward Facing Arm to the Test

First Use Experience

My first opportunity to put the TACO Marine Maine Grand Slam 390 With Forward Facing Arm through its paces came during a three-day tuna trip off the Outer Banks of North Carolina. The seas were moderate, with a consistent 3-4 foot swell and occasional whitecaps. I paired the Grand Slam 390 with a set of TACO Marine Deluxe Aluminum Tele-Outriggers, rigged with a standard offshore trolling spread.

The first thing I noticed was the effortless deployment. The elevation crank handle provided smooth and controlled lift from under the T-top, allowing me to quickly position the outriggers at the desired angle. Horizontal rotation was equally fluid, enabling precise adjustment of the trolling spread without any binding or resistance. Even in the choppy conditions, the Grand Slam 390 remained rock-solid, exhibiting no noticeable flex or vibration.

Initially, I fumbled slightly with the offset handle, but quickly adapted to its design, which offered improved hand clearance under the T-top. One minor surprise was the increased drag on the outrigger lines caused by the slightly larger diameter of the forward-facing arm; however, this was easily addressed with minor adjustments to the lure placement.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the TACO Marine Maine Grand Slam 390 With Forward Facing Arm continues to impress. The finish shows no signs of corrosion, despite constant exposure to saltwater and harsh sunlight. The mechanisms remain smooth and responsive, requiring only occasional lubrication to maintain optimal performance.

I’ve deliberately subjected the system to some brutal conditions, including several trips in 6-8 foot seas, and it has handled everything with ease. The enhanced gusset support and thicker arm have proven their worth, providing unwavering stability even when running a full spread of heavy lures. Maintenance is straightforward: a quick rinse with fresh water after each trip and occasional greasing of the moving parts is all that’s required.

Compared to my previous outrigger setup, a less robust system from a competing brand, the Grand Slam 390 is in a different league. Where my old system would flex and rattle in heavy seas, the TACO Marine system inspires confidence, allowing me to focus on fishing, not equipment. It has exceeded my expectations in every way.

Breaking Down the Features of TACO Marine Maine Grand Slam 390 With Forward Facing Arm

Specifications

The TACO Marine Maine Grand Slam 390 With Forward Facing Arm boasts the following specifications:

• Construction: Cast stainless-steel Type-316L and machined aluminum. This combination provides exceptional strength, corrosion resistance, and long-term durability in harsh marine environments.
• Elevation Angle: 45 upward lift angle. This angle allows for optimal lure presentation and avoids interference with the boat’s T-top or other overhead structures.
• Horizontal Rotation: Allows for horizontal rotation from under the T-top. This feature allows for precise adjustment of the trolling spread and easy line retrieval.
• Compatibility: Pairs with TACO Marine Deluxe Aluminum or Carbon Fiber Tele-Outriggers. This compatibility ensures seamless integration and optimal performance with TACO Marine‘s range of outrigger poles.
• Secure Locking: Strong locking head allows perfect positioning. This feature ensures that the outriggers remain securely in place, even in rough seas.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the performance and reliability of the system. The robust construction ensures that it can withstand the stresses of offshore fishing, while the smooth operation and precise positioning capabilities allow anglers to optimize their trolling spread for maximum effectiveness.

Performance & Functionality

The TACO Marine Maine Grand Slam 390 With Forward Facing Arm excels in its primary function: providing a stable and reliable platform for deploying and managing outrigger poles. Its accuracy in positioning, reliable locking mechanisms, and user-friendly operation make it a joy to use. The system’s strength and rigidity translate into smoother trolling and a more confident fishing experience.

The system’s strengths lie in its robust construction, smooth operation, and precise positioning capabilities. A minor weakness might be its premium price point, which could be a barrier to entry for some anglers. Overall, the Grand Slam 390 meets and exceeds expectations, delivering exceptional performance in demanding offshore conditions.

Design & Ergonomics

The TACO Marine Maine Grand Slam 390 With Forward Facing Arm features a thoughtfully designed and ergonomic build. The use of high-quality materials and precise machining creates a product that is both aesthetically pleasing and functionally superior. The weight of the system conveys a sense of solidity and durability, while the smooth operation of the crank handle and locking mechanisms makes it comfortable to use.

The system is largely user-friendly, although some anglers may require a short learning curve to familiarize themselves with the offset handle and fine-tune their deployment techniques. The intuitive design and clear markings make it easy to adjust the outrigger position with precision.

Durability & Maintenance

The TACO Marine Maine Grand Slam 390 With Forward Facing Arm is built to last, with its stainless steel and aluminum construction designed to withstand the harsh marine environment. With proper care and maintenance, this system should provide years of reliable service. The system’s simple design makes it relatively easy to maintain and repair. Occasional lubrication of the moving parts and regular cleaning with fresh water are all that’s typically required to keep it in top condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The TACO Marine Maine Grand Slam 390 With Forward Facing Arm is primarily designed to be used with TACO Marine Deluxe Aluminum or Carbon Fiber Tele-Outriggers. The system is also compatible with a range of other outrigger poles that meet the industry standard mounting specifications.

While the Grand Slam 390 doesn’t offer extensive customization options in terms of aesthetics, anglers can personalize their setup with a variety of line release clips, rigging kits, and lure holders. The compatibility with standard outrigger poles and accessories from other brands provides ample opportunity to tailor the system to individual preferences and fishing styles.

Pros and Cons of TACO Marine Maine Grand Slam 390 With Forward Facing Arm

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Who Should Buy TACO Marine Maine Grand Slam 390 With Forward Facing Arm?

The TACO Marine Maine Grand Slam 390 With Forward Facing Arm is perfect for serious offshore anglers who demand the highest levels of performance and reliability from their equipment. It is ideally suited for those fishing from larger center console boats (25-40 feet) in challenging conditions. This system is also an excellent choice for charter captains and tournament anglers who rely on their outriggers to put them on fish consistently.

Anglers on a tight budget or those who primarily fish inshore or in calm waters may find this system overkill. The Grand Slam 390 is a significant investment, best justified by the demands of serious offshore fishing.

A must-have accessory is a high-quality set of TACO Marine Deluxe Aluminum or Carbon Fiber Tele-Outriggers, rigged with premium line release clips and swivels. Regular lubrication with a marine-grade grease is also essential for maintaining smooth operation.

Conclusion on TACO Marine Maine Grand Slam 390 With Forward Facing Arm

The TACO Marine Maine Grand Slam 390 With Forward Facing Arm is a top-of-the-line outrigger system that delivers exceptional performance, durability, and ease of use. While the price may be a deterrent for some, the investment is justified for serious offshore anglers who demand the best.

The value proposition is clear: this system is built to withstand the rigors of offshore fishing and provide years of reliable service, potentially leading to more fish in the boat and a more enjoyable fishing experience. I would wholeheartedly recommend the Grand Slam 390 to any angler looking to upgrade their outrigger setup and gain a competitive edge on the water.

If you’re serious about offshore fishing and demand the best, the TACO Marine Maine Grand Slam 390 With Forward Facing Arm is an investment you won’t regret. Upgrade your spread, dominate the offshore scene, and experience the difference that quality equipment can make.