Promar NE-701 Bait Motel 17inx18in 18 Gallon Capacity Review

First Impressions of Promar NE-701 Bait Motel 17inx18in 18 Gallon Capacity

The Promar NE-701 Bait Motel 17inx18in 18 Gallon Capacity promises a convenient solution for keeping live bait fresh and readily available. As someone who spends a considerable amount of time fishing, both recreationally and for sustenance during longer wilderness trips, I’ve struggled with maintaining lively bait. This “bait motel” concept intrigued me as a potential game-changer, moving beyond flimsy buckets and inadequate aeration systems.

For years, I’ve relied on makeshift solutions: aerated buckets prone to spills, expensive coolers too bulky for solo expeditions, or even just hoping for the best with a stringer. The Promar NE-701 Bait Motel 17inx18in 18 Gallon Capacity looked like it might offer a reliable, portable, and appropriately sized solution.

Upon unboxing, the Promar NE-701 Bait Motel 17inx18in 18 Gallon Capacity felt surprisingly robust. The plastic construction seemed durable enough to withstand the rigors of transport and the inevitable bumps on a boat or riverbank. The 17inx18in size felt manageable, while the 18-gallon capacity seemed generous enough for a day’s worth of minnows, shrimp, or other live bait.

I considered several other options, including aerated bait buckets from Frabill and larger, insulated bait tanks from KeepAlive. I chose the Promar NE-701 Bait Motel 17inx18in 18 Gallon Capacity because it seemed to strike a good balance between capacity, portability, and price. Initial impressions were positive; I was eager to put it through its paces.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Promar NE-701 Bait Motel 17inx18in 18 Gallon Capacity to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Promar NE-701 Bait Motel 17inx18in 18 Gallon Capacity was on a weekend fishing trip to the local lake. I primarily targeted crappie and bass, relying on live minnows as bait. I filled the Promar NE-701 Bait Motel 17inx18in 18 Gallon Capacity with approximately 15 gallons of lake water and several dozen minnows.

The temperature was mild, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and the water was relatively clear. The Promar NE-701 Bait Motel 17inx18in 18 Gallon Capacity sat securely in my boat, with no signs of tipping or leaking, even when navigating small chop. Setting up the aeration system (not included) was straightforward and after a full day of use, the minnows were still active and lively.

There were no immediate issues, although I did notice that the dark color of the Promar NE-701 Bait Motel 17inx18in 18 Gallon Capacity seemed to absorb sunlight, potentially raising the water temperature. Adding frozen water bottles mid-day seemed to remedy the temperature increase.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Promar NE-701 Bait Motel 17inx18in 18 Gallon Capacity has proven to be a reliable tool. The plastic construction has held up well, with no cracks or significant scratches, despite being tossed around in my truck bed and subjected to various weather conditions. The color still looks new.

There are minor scuff marks on the bottom, but these are purely cosmetic. Cleaning the Promar NE-701 Bait Motel 17inx18in 18 Gallon Capacity is easy; a quick rinse with a hose is usually sufficient to remove scales, mud, and other debris. The smooth interior prevents gunk from building up.

Compared to my previous aerated bucket setup, the Promar NE-701 Bait Motel 17inx18in 18 Gallon Capacity offers a significant improvement in bait survival rates. The larger volume of water and more stable environment contribute to healthier, more active bait, which translates directly into more fish caught. I am impressed with its reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Promar NE-701 Bait Motel 17inx18in 18 Gallon Capacity

Specifications

The Promar NE-701 Bait Motel 17inx18in 18 Gallon Capacity is designed for keeping live bait alive and in good condition. Its key specs are:

• Dimensions: Approximately 17 inches in length and 18 inches in width. This is important for stability on boats and portability.
• Capacity: 18 Gallons. Provides adequate space for a large quantity of baitfish, shrimp, or other live bait.
• Material: Durable Plastic. This material contributes to the tank’s longevity and ability to withstand outdoor use.
• Color: Typically dark colors, often black or dark blue. While functional, this can lead to heat absorption in direct sunlight.
• Aeration Compatibility: Designed to be used with an external aeration system (not included). Essential for maintaining oxygen levels in the water.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the effectiveness of the bait tank. The volume of water affects temperature stability and oxygen capacity. The dimensions play a role in portability and ease of storage.

Performance & Functionality

The Promar NE-701 Bait Motel 17inx18in 18 Gallon Capacity performs its primary function of keeping bait alive reasonably well, provided an adequate aeration system is used. Without aeration, the bait will quickly deplete the oxygen in the water and perish. It is vital to have aeration.

The Promar NE-701 Bait Motel 17inx18in 18 Gallon Capacity strengths are its generous capacity and durable construction. Its weakness is the lack of insulation, which can be problematic in extreme temperatures. I find that water temperature can change quickly in direct sun.

Overall, with proper aeration and temperature management, the Promar NE-701 Bait Motel 17inx18in 18 Gallon Capacity meets expectations for a basic live bait tank. Keeping the tank out of direct sun or adding ice is vital.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Promar NE-701 Bait Motel 17inx18in 18 Gallon Capacity is simple and functional. The rectangular shape maximizes space utilization, and the smooth interior makes cleaning easy. The plastic feels durable, but it is not particularly stylish or ergonomic.

There is no built-in handle, which can make carrying a full tank somewhat awkward. I have to use both arms to move it. The lack of insulation is also a design flaw, especially for anglers fishing in hot climates.

The Promar NE-701 Bait Motel 17inx18in 18 Gallon Capacity offers a straightforward, no-frills design that prioritizes function over aesthetics. The unit would benefit from handles or an insulated shell.

Durability & Maintenance

The Promar NE-701 Bait Motel 17inx18in 18 Gallon Capacity is built to last, thanks to its sturdy plastic construction. With proper care, it should withstand years of regular use. The plastic does not seem prone to cracking or fading, even after prolonged exposure to sunlight.

Maintenance is minimal; simply rinse the tank after each use to prevent the buildup of algae and debris. The absence of complex components means there is little that can break or require repair. I have had no issues with maintenance.

The Promar NE-701 Bait Motel 17inx18in 18 Gallon Capacity offers excellent durability and requires very little maintenance, making it a reliable option for anglers. It is nice to have equipment that lasts.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Promar NE-701 Bait Motel 17inx18in 18 Gallon Capacity itself comes with no accessories. The main customization option is the selection of an appropriate aeration system. There are several models that would work well, depending on your specific needs.

Some anglers may also choose to add a thermometer to monitor water temperature or an insulated cover to help regulate it. The smooth plastic surface is easily modified to add your own fittings. Choosing the right aerator is vital for success.

The Promar NE-701 Bait Motel 17inx18in 18 Gallon Capacity offers limited accessories or customization options, but compatibility with standard aeration systems allows for some personalization. Be certain to choose the proper fittings.

Pros and Cons of Promar NE-701 Bait Motel 17inx18in 18 Gallon Capacity