Let’s Talk About Panther 55-9800 Recessed Trolling Motor Foot Control Tray With Insert
The Panther 55-9800 Recessed Trolling Motor Foot Control Tray With Insert from Panther promises to elevate your fishing experience by providing a comfortable and organized deck setup. This product aims to eliminate back and foot pain associated with operating a trolling motor for extended periods. It achieves this by recessing the foot pedal flush with the boat deck.
Years of battling a sore back after long days on the water led me on a quest for a solution. The elevated position of my trolling motor pedal was the culprit, forcing an unnatural and fatiguing stance. I needed something that would level the playing field, literally, and the Panther 55-9800 seemed like the ideal answer.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed with the robust construction of the tray. The high-density polyethylene felt incredibly durable, and the included hardware seemed comprehensive. The color-molded finish gave it a clean, professional look, and I appreciated the inclusion of a cutting template for installation.
I had been considering the SeaDek Trolling Motor Pad and the Comfort Troll Recessed Tray before settling on the Panther. Ultimately, the Panther swayed me with its high-impact material and reputation for easy installation. This, coupled with the integrated drain system, made it a more appealing choice for my needs.
My initial excitement was high – the Panther 55-9800 appeared to be a well-engineered solution to a persistent problem. I was eager to get it installed and put it to the test on my next fishing trip.
Real-World Testing: Putting Panther 55-9800 Recessed Trolling Motor Foot Control Tray With Insert to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Panther 55-9800 was on a local lake known for its largemouth bass population. I spent a full day fishing from sunup to sundown, navigating a variety of conditions from calm, sunny skies to a brief afternoon rain shower. The recessed tray immediately made a difference in my comfort level, allowing me to stand more naturally and reducing strain on my back and ankles.
Even during the rain, the forward taper design effectively drained water away from the foot pedal, preventing any slippage or discomfort. The ease of use was impressive; after a few minutes, operating the trolling motor felt completely natural within the recessed space. There were no unexpected surprises, only a significant improvement in comfort and control.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Panther 55-9800 has proven to be a valuable addition to my boat. The high-density polyethylene shows no signs of wear and tear, even after being exposed to sun, rain, and the occasional accidental stomp with muddy boots. The tray is surprisingly easy to clean, requiring only a quick rinse with a hose to remove any dirt or debris.
Compared to my previous experiences of constant foot and back adjustments, the Panther significantly outperforms my expectations. The fatigue I used to feel after a day of fishing is now dramatically reduced, allowing me to focus more on catching fish. The investment has proven to be well worth it for the enhanced comfort and improved fishing experience.
Breaking Down the Features of Panther 55-9800 Recessed Trolling Motor Foot Control Tray With Insert
Specifications
The Panther 55-9800 Recessed Trolling Motor Foot Control Tray With Insert is constructed of high-impact, UV-resistant, high-density polyethylene. This ensures longevity and resistance to the harsh marine environment.
It features a forward taper design to facilitate faster water drainage, keeping the foot pedal dry and slip-free. The tray includes a 3/8″ ID x 8′ flexible vinyl tube for drainage.
The tray fits all Minn Kota and MotorGuide foot-control trolling motors, offering universal compatibility. The package comes complete with installation instructions, a cutting template, the drain tube, and all necessary hardware.
These specifications are crucial for performance because they directly contribute to the tray’s durability, functionality, and ease of installation. The UV-resistant material prevents fading and cracking, while the drain system ensures a safe and comfortable fishing experience. The universal compatibility ensures that the tray will work with most common trolling motor models.
Performance & Functionality
The Panther 55-9800 excels at its primary function: improving angler comfort and boat deck organization. It effectively levels the foot pedal, reducing back and foot strain, and its efficient drainage system keeps the pedal area dry.
Its strengths lie in its robust construction, easy installation, and noticeable impact on reducing angler fatigue. One minor area for improvement could be a slightly larger drain opening to prevent potential clogging from larger debris, though I haven’t encountered this issue yet. Overall, it meets and exceeds my expectations for a recessed trolling motor tray.
Design & Ergonomics
The Panther 55-9800 boasts a simple yet effective design. The high-density polyethylene feels solid and well-made, and the color-molded finish prevents chipping or fading.
The tray is user-friendly with a manageable installation process. It has a minimal learning curve in terms of operation after installation.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust construction and UV-resistant material, the Panther 55-9800 is built to last for many fishing seasons. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with soap and water to remove any accumulated dirt or grime.
Proper installation ensures that the drain tube remains clear and functional, preventing water buildup. The tray appears to be highly resistant to damage from typical wear and tear.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Panther 55-9800 comes as a complete kit with all necessary installation hardware and a drain tube. While there are no specific customization options offered by Panther, anglers can explore aftermarket non-slip pads for the tray’s surface to further enhance grip and comfort.
The universal design makes it compatible with virtually any Minn Kota or MotorGuide foot-control trolling motor. This broad compatibility ensures that most anglers can integrate the Panther 55-9800 seamlessly into their existing setup.
Pros and Cons of Panther 55-9800 Recessed Trolling Motor Foot Control Tray With Insert
Pros
- Significantly reduces back and foot fatigue, allowing for longer and more comfortable fishing trips.
- Easy installation with included template and hardware, making it a DIY-friendly upgrade.
- Durable, UV-resistant polyethylene construction ensures longevity and resistance to the elements.
- Forward taper design effectively drains water, keeping the foot pedal area dry and safe.
- Universal compatibility with Minn Kota and MotorGuide foot-control trolling motors provides broad applicability.
Cons
- Drain opening could be slightly larger to prevent potential clogging from larger debris.
- Requires cutting into the boat deck for installation, which may be intimidating for some users.
Who Should Buy Panther 55-9800 Recessed Trolling Motor Foot Control Tray With Insert?
The Panther 55-9800 is perfect for avid anglers who spend long hours on the water using a foot-controlled trolling motor. It’s especially beneficial for those experiencing back or foot pain due to the elevated pedal position. It is also ideal for anyone looking to streamline their boat deck and create a more organized fishing environment.
This product might not be necessary for anglers who only occasionally use their trolling motor or those who primarily fish from a seated position. Individuals uncomfortable with cutting into their boat deck should also consider professional installation or explore alternative comfort solutions.
A must-have modification could include adding a non-slip pad to the tray surface for enhanced grip, especially in wet conditions. Another option would be to install a quick-release fitting on the drain tube for easy removal and cleaning.
Conclusion on Panther 55-9800 Recessed Trolling Motor Foot Control Tray With Insert
The Panther 55-9800 Recessed Trolling Motor Foot Control Tray With Insert is a well-designed and highly effective solution for improving angler comfort and boat deck organization. At $133.99, the price is justified by the significant reduction in fatigue and the enhanced fishing experience it provides.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this product to any serious angler looking to alleviate back and foot pain associated with prolonged trolling motor use. The Panther 55-9800 delivers on its promise of a more comfortable and enjoyable day on the water.
Don’t let back pain ruin your fishing trips any longer! Invest in the Panther 55-9800 and experience the difference a recessed trolling motor tray can make. Order yours today and start fishing in comfort!