Let’s Dive into Scotty Post Mount Laketroller Downrigger
The Scotty Post Mount Laketroller Downrigger is a compact, manually operated downrigger designed for anglers who need a reliable and affordable way to present their lures at specific depths. Manufactured by Scotty, a trusted name in fishing gear, this downrigger offers a blend of simplicity and functionality. Its key features include a 12″ stainless steel boom, 100′ of 150lb test stainless steel cable, and a manual brake system.
I was looking for a compact downrigger that wouldn’t break the bank for kayak fishing. Existing options were either too bulky or lacked the durability I needed for saltwater use. I wanted something simple and effective.
Unboxing the Scotty Post Mount Laketroller Downrigger, I was immediately impressed with the build quality. The fiber-reinforced nylon body felt robust, and the stainless-steel boom appeared sturdy. The weight felt appropriate for its size, suggesting a good balance of portability and durability.
Compared to electric downriggers, the Scotty Post Mount Laketroller Downrigger is significantly more affordable and requires no battery. Compared to other manual downriggers I considered, this Scotty model seemed to offer a better balance of features and price. The choice came down to its simplicity and reputation.
My first impression was positive; it seemed like a well-made, no-frills downrigger that would get the job done. I was excited to put it to the test and see how it performed in real-world fishing conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Scotty Post Mount Laketroller Downrigger to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Scotty Post Mount Laketroller Downrigger on a kayak fishing trip in Puget Sound, targeting salmon. The conditions were typical for the area: choppy water, moderate winds, and a slight current. The Scotty downrigger was mounted to the kayak using the included No. 241 Combination Side/Deck Mount.
The Scotty Post Mount Laketroller Downrigger performed well in these challenging conditions. It was easy to crank the line up and down, and the manual brake provided good control over the lure’s descent. The 1′ per turn spool made it simple to adjust the depth precisely.
The Scotty Post Mount Laketroller Downrigger was quite easy to use, requiring minimal setup. I just attached the No. 241 Combination Side/Deck Mount and then locked the downrigger in place. Initially, I was a little concerned about the manual brake, but it was intuitive to operate.
The only surprise was how quickly I could get the lure down to the desired depth. It only took a few seconds to get to 20 feet.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Scotty Post Mount Laketroller Downrigger has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the nylon body or the stainless-steel boom. The Scotty downrigger has become a staple in my fishing setup.
The only maintenance I’ve performed is rinsing it with fresh water after each use to remove saltwater residue. This simple step seems to be enough to keep it in good working order. The simplicity of design also suggests parts could be replaced easily if needed.
Compared to previous experiences with cheaper downriggers, the Scotty Post Mount Laketroller Downrigger far outperforms them in terms of durability and ease of use. This is due to the build quality of the Scotty downrigger.
Breaking Down the Features of Scotty Post Mount Laketroller Downrigger
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Scotty – Scotty is a reputable brand known for producing quality fishing gear. Their proven reputation adds confidence in the product’s reliability.
- Color: Black – The black color is practical for marine environments and blends well with most kayak or boat setups. A simple color choice.
- Fabric/Material: Fiber Reinforced Nylon – Fiber-reinforced nylon provides a good balance of strength, weight, and corrosion resistance. This makes the Scotty Post Mount Laketroller Downrigger suitable for saltwater use.
- Application: Kayaking – Designed for kayaks, this downrigger is compact and lightweight, making it easy to manage on smaller vessels. The size makes for easier deployment and storage.
- No. 241 Combination Side/Deck Mount – Included for versatile mounting options. This ensures compatibility with most kayak and boat setups.
- 100 ft of Premium 150lb test Stainless Steel Cable – The stainless-steel cable is strong and corrosion-resistant, providing reliable performance. 150lb test is suitable for most freshwater and inshore saltwater fishing.
- 12 in Fixed Stainless Steel Boom – The stainless steel boom is durable and resistant to corrosion. Its 12-inch length provides adequate clearance for most fishing setups.
- Manual drag brake – Provides smooth and controlled lure descent. The manual operation provides greater control and reduces the risk of runaway lures.
- Spool Diameter (Feet Per Turn): 1 ft – The 1 ft per turn spool makes it easy to accurately adjust the lure depth. Precise lure control improves your presentation.
- Mount Dimensions: 4 x 2 x 2 in – Compact mount size. Does not take up too much space on your boat or kayak.
- Bolting dimension: 1 5/16 x 3 3/16 in – Bolt pattern allows for secure and versatile mounting. The pattern fits industry standard mounting locations for kayaks.
- Locking Tilt-Up Mount sold separately – The Locking Tilt-Up Mount allows for easy storage and transport. Sold separately, so you can choose whether to purchase it or not.
- Each Scotty Downrigger comes with the Scotty limited Lifetime Warranty – Scotty’s warranty demonstrates their confidence in the product’s quality and provides peace of mind. Knowing the product is covered by the manufacturer allows you to focus on fishing.
Performance & Functionality
The Scotty Post Mount Laketroller Downrigger performs its job effectively, allowing anglers to precisely control lure depth. Its manual operation provides excellent feel and control, enhancing the fishing experience.
The strengths of this downrigger lie in its simplicity, durability, and ease of use. A slight improvement could be made in the smoothness of the spool rotation.
The Scotty Post Mount Laketroller Downrigger exceeds expectations, especially considering its affordable price. It’s a reliable and effective tool for kayak and small boat fishing.
Design & Ergonomics
The Scotty Post Mount Laketroller Downrigger boasts a sturdy build quality with durable materials. The materials used are well-suited for harsh marine conditions. The weight is manageable and doesn’t add excessive bulk to a kayak.
The design is user-friendly, with an intuitive manual crank and brake system. It requires minimal setup and is easy to operate, even for beginners.
Durability & Maintenance
The Scotty Post Mount Laketroller Downrigger is built to last, with a fiber-reinforced nylon body and stainless-steel components. Regular rinsing with fresh water should extend its lifespan significantly.
The simple design makes it easy to maintain and repair. Replacement parts are readily available from Scotty, further enhancing its longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Scotty Post Mount Laketroller Downrigger comes with the No. 241 Combination Side/Deck Mount and 100′ of 150lb test stainless steel cable. The Locking Tilt-Up Mount is available as an optional accessory for added convenience.
While there are limited customization options for the downrigger itself, it’s compatible with various releases and other downrigger accessories from Scotty and other brands.
Pros and Cons of Scotty Post Mount Laketroller Downrigger
Pros
- Affordable Price Point: An inexpensive option for both the novice and expert fisherman.
- Durable Construction: Made from fiber-reinforced nylon and stainless steel for long-lasting performance.
- Easy to Use: Simple manual operation with intuitive controls.
- Compact and Lightweight: Ideal for kayak and small boat fishing.
- Includes Mounting Base: Comes with the No. 241 Combination Side/Deck Mount for easy installation.
Cons
- Manual Operation: Requires manual cranking, which may not be suitable for all anglers.
- Fixed Boom Length: The 12-inch boom length may be limiting for some fishing setups.
Who Should Buy Scotty Post Mount Laketroller Downrigger?
The Scotty Post Mount Laketroller Downrigger is perfect for kayak anglers and small boat fishermen who want an affordable, reliable, and easy-to-use downrigger. It’s also well-suited for anglers who prefer manual operation and want precise control over lure depth.
This product may not be ideal for anglers who fish in very deep water or require the convenience of an electric downrigger. Those who need a longer boom for specific fishing techniques may also want to consider other options.
A must-have accessory is the Scotty Locking Tilt-Up Mount. This allows for easy storage and transport.
Conclusion on Scotty Post Mount Laketroller Downrigger
The Scotty Post Mount Laketroller Downrigger is an excellent value for the money. It offers a combination of durability, functionality, and ease of use that is hard to beat at its price point.
The price is more than justified by its performance, longevity, and the peace of mind that comes with owning a product from a reputable brand like Scotty. The price aligns well with the market for similar manual downriggers.
I would definitely recommend the Scotty Post Mount Laketroller Downrigger to any angler looking for a reliable and affordable way to fish at depth. Don’t just sit there reading, get out there and get yours today!