Let’s Talk About Panther 55-9815 Recessed Trolling Motor Foot Control Tray
As an avid angler who’s spent countless hours on the water, I’ve always sought ways to improve my fishing experience. The Panther 55-9815 Recessed Trolling Motor Foot Control Tray immediately caught my attention, promising enhanced comfort and a cleaner deck. From the Panther brand, this tray aims to address the awkward ergonomics and water accumulation issues that often plague boat decks with exposed trolling motor foot controls.
For years, I’ve dealt with foot fatigue and water pooling around the base of my trolling motor pedal. This setup wasn’t just uncomfortable; it also detracted from my focus, and the constant moisture wasn’t doing my expensive equipment any favors. I’d often find myself shifting my weight or trying to find a dry spot to rest my foot.
Upon unboxing the Panther 55-9815 Recessed Trolling Motor Foot Control Tray, I was immediately impressed with its sturdy construction. The high-density polyethylene felt robust and durable, and the included hardware seemed comprehensive. Its molded design hinted at a well-thought-out solution.
I considered other trays, particularly models from Minn Kota and MotorGuide directly, but the Panther offered a more universal fit and a more aggressive forward taper for drainage. Ultimately, I needed something that was versatile enough to accommodate different trolling motors if I chose to upgrade in the future. The price point was also a factor; the Panther tray seemed to offer similar features for a slightly more competitive cost.
My first impression was one of hopeful anticipation. I was eager to see if this tray could truly deliver on its promise of a more comfortable and functional fishing experience. I was hoping it would solve my ergonomic issues and keep my deck drier, making those long days on the water more enjoyable.
Real-World Testing: Putting Panther 55-9815 Recessed Trolling Motor Foot Control Tray to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Panther 55-9815 Recessed Trolling Motor Foot Control Tray in my 17-foot aluminum bass boat, prepping for a weekend tournament on Lake Fork. Installation, while requiring some careful cutting, was straightforward thanks to the provided template and clear instructions. The key was taking my time and measuring twice before cutting.
The lake conditions were typical for early spring in Texas: intermittent rain showers and choppy waters. I immediately noticed the difference in foot comfort. The recessed tray allowed my foot to rest at a more natural angle, reducing strain during extended trolling sessions.
The drainage system worked exceptionally well; even with rain and splashed waves, water quickly channeled away from the pedal area. Initially, there was a slight learning curve in getting used to the slightly lower pedal position, but I quickly adapted within the first hour. There were no major issues, though I did make sure to seal around the edges of the tray with marine-grade sealant for extra water protection.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Panther 55-9815 Recessed Trolling Motor Foot Control Tray has proven to be a reliable and valuable addition to my boat. The tray has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of cracking or fading, despite being exposed to the elements. It’s a welcome improvement compared to my previous setup.
Maintenance has been minimal; I simply rinse it out with fresh water after each trip to remove any dirt or debris. So far, there are no visible scratches or signs of deterioration. The tray consistently provides a comfortable and dry platform for my trolling motor pedal.
Compared to my previous experience of constantly readjusting my foot and battling water accumulation, the Panther tray has significantly improved my fishing comfort and focus. I would confidently say that it outperforms my expectations and is a worthwhile investment.
Breaking Down the Features of Panther 55-9815 Recessed Trolling Motor Foot Control Tray
Specifications
The Panther 55-9815 Recessed Trolling Motor Foot Control Tray is constructed of high-impact, UV-resistant, high-density polyethylene. This material is designed to withstand harsh marine environments and resist fading or cracking from prolonged sun exposure.
The tray features a forward taper design, leveling the foot pedal and facilitating efficient water drainage. Water drains through a 3/8″ ID x 8′ flexible vinyl tube. The kit includes installation instructions, a cutting template, drain tube, and all necessary hardware. It is designed to fit all Minn Kota and MotorGuide foot-control trolling motors.
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The polyethylene construction ensures long-term durability and resistance to the elements. The forward taper design enhances comfort and prevents water accumulation, improving the overall fishing experience. The included hardware and template simplify installation, making it accessible to most boat owners.
Performance & Functionality
The Panther 55-9815 Recessed Trolling Motor Foot Control Tray excels in its primary function: providing a comfortable and dry platform for the trolling motor foot pedal. It elevates the foot pedal off the deck, minimizing strain and fatigue during extended use. The efficient drainage system effectively prevents water from pooling around the pedal.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and robust construction. The forward taper design ensures proper water runoff, and the durable materials guarantee longevity. The only minor improvement could be a slightly deeper recess for even greater water containment in extremely rough conditions.
Overall, the Panther tray meets and exceeds expectations. It delivers on its promises of improved comfort, a cleaner deck, and easy installation.
Design & Ergonomics
The Panther 55-9815 Recessed Trolling Motor Foot Control Tray features a sleek, molded design that integrates seamlessly into most boat decks. The high-density polyethylene construction feels solid and durable, yet remains relatively lightweight. The recessed design creates a more comfortable and natural foot position, reducing strain and fatigue.
The tray is user-friendly, and the provided template simplifies the installation process. While cutting into your boat deck can be intimidating, the clear instructions and template make it manageable for most DIYers. It offers a significant improvement in ergonomics compared to using the foot pedal directly on the deck.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its high-density polyethylene construction, the Panther 55-9815 Recessed Trolling Motor Foot Control Tray is built to last. The UV-resistant material resists fading and cracking, even after prolonged exposure to sunlight and water.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional rinsing with fresh water to remove dirt and debris. The color is molded throughout, so there’s no paint to chip or fade. The tray’s robust construction and minimal maintenance requirements suggest it will provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Panther 55-9815 Recessed Trolling Motor Foot Control Tray comes with all the necessary hardware for installation, including a drain tube and cutting template. While there are no specific customization options offered by Panther directly, users can enhance the installation with marine-grade sealant for a watertight fit.
The tray is designed to be universally compatible with Minn Kota and MotorGuide foot-control trolling motors. While it may fit other brands as well, confirmation is recommended. It’s a standalone product, so most customization would involve the installation process itself, such as adding extra sealant or reinforcing the edges.
Pros and Cons of Panther 55-9815 Recessed Trolling Motor Foot Control Tray
Pros
- Provides significantly improved foot comfort during long fishing trips.
- Keeps the boat deck cleaner and drier by channeling water away from the foot pedal.
- Durable construction with high-density polyethylene ensures longevity.
- Easy to install with included template and hardware.
- Universally compatible with Minn Kota and MotorGuide trolling motors.
Cons
- Requires cutting into the boat deck, which can be intimidating for some users.
- Slightly deeper recess could offer even greater water containment in rough conditions.
Who Should Buy Panther 55-9815 Recessed Trolling Motor Foot Control Tray?
The Panther 55-9815 Recessed Trolling Motor Foot Control Tray is perfect for avid anglers who spend long hours on the water and rely heavily on their trolling motor. It’s also great for anyone experiencing foot fatigue or discomfort from using a trolling motor pedal directly on the deck. Bass fishermen, crappie anglers, and anyone who values a clean, dry, and comfortable boat deck will find this tray to be a valuable addition.
Anyone who is uncomfortable with cutting into their boat deck or who primarily fishes from a larger boat with a factory-installed recessed tray should skip this product. Additionally, if you only occasionally use a trolling motor, the investment may not be necessary.
A must-have modification is the use of marine-grade sealant around the edges of the installed tray to ensure a watertight seal. This provides extra protection against water intrusion and helps to preserve the integrity of the boat deck.
Conclusion on Panther 55-9815 Recessed Trolling Motor Foot Control Tray
Overall, the Panther 55-9815 Recessed Trolling Motor Foot Control Tray is a well-designed and highly functional accessory that significantly improves the fishing experience. Its durable construction, efficient drainage system, and ease of installation make it a worthwhile investment for any serious angler.
The price of $113.19 is justified by the improved comfort, cleaner deck, and long-term durability that the tray provides. It’s a small price to pay for the added enjoyment and reduced fatigue during those long days on the water.
I would absolutely recommend the Panther 55-9815 Recessed Trolling Motor Foot Control Tray to anyone looking to enhance their trolling motor setup. If you’re tired of foot fatigue and a messy deck, this tray is the perfect solution. Take the plunge, improve your boat, and start enjoying more comfortable and productive fishing trips today!