Braid Products Trolling Harnesses Review

First Impressions of Braid Products Trolling Harnesses

The Braid Products Trolling Harnesses promise a quick and effective way to rig high-speed trolling lures. As someone who’s spent countless hours on the water chasing pelagic giants, I’m always searching for gear that simplifies the rigging process without sacrificing strength and reliability. My initial hope is that these harnesses will save valuable time when preparing for a day of offshore fishing and reduce the likelihood of tackle failure when battling a trophy fish.

I’d grown frustrated with the time it takes to manually create trolling rigs, especially when dealing with heavy gauge wire and large hooks. The complexity and time commitment often meant less actual fishing time, and the inconsistent nature of hand-tied rigs created a potential weak point. I was seeking a pre-made solution that offered consistency, durability, and ease of use for high-speed trolling applications.

Upon receiving the Braid Products Trolling Harnesses, I immediately noticed their simplicity. The multi-strand cable felt robust, and the McMahann style swivel appeared to be of good quality. The rubber sleeve seemed like a practical addition, likely intended to protect the cable and provide a cleaner connection to the lure.

I’ve used similar pre-made trolling rigs from Offshore Angler and Tournament Cable in the past. The Braid Products Trolling Harnesses stood out due to its combination of cable length (4 feet) and the inclusion of the rubber sleeve, a feature often absent in other brands. This detail hinted at a thoughtful design that prioritized both functionality and lure presentation.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The simplicity was appealing, but I needed to see how the Braid Products Trolling Harnesses would perform under the strain of a screaming reel and a stubborn tuna or wahoo. The promise of quick rigging was attractive, but durability and strength were my ultimate concerns.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Braid Products Trolling Harnesses to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Braid Products Trolling Harnesses during a three-day offshore fishing trip targeting wahoo and tuna in the Gulf of Mexico. The conditions varied from calm seas to moderately choppy waters with a strong current. I used the harnesses to rig a variety of skirted trolling lures, ranging in size from 8 to 14 inches.

The ease of use was immediately apparent. Connecting the harness to the lure and the main line was significantly faster than rigging with traditional methods. The McMahann swivel allowed for smooth rotation, preventing line twist, even when trolling at higher speeds. I did notice that the rubber sleeve could slide a bit on the cable if not positioned properly, requiring occasional adjustment.

During the first day, we hooked into several wahoo, ranging from 20 to 40 pounds. The harnesses performed flawlessly. The multi-strand cable held up without any signs of fraying or stretching, and the swivels rotated smoothly, even under heavy load. No immediate issues arose from using the product.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use and multiple offshore trips, the Braid Products Trolling Harnesses have held up remarkably well. While some minor cosmetic wear on the rubber sleeves is noticeable, the cable and swivels remain in excellent condition. I have caught numerous wahoo, tuna, and even a small marlin using these harnesses, and they have consistently performed without fail.

The harnesses have proven to be highly durable. Despite being subjected to saltwater, sun, and the immense pressure of large fish, the cable shows no signs of corrosion or weakness. The swivels still rotate freely, and the crimps holding the components together remain secure.

Maintaining the Braid Products Trolling Harnesses is simple. After each use, I rinse them with fresh water and allow them to air dry. I occasionally apply a light coating of corrosion inhibitor to the swivels to further protect them from saltwater exposure. I have had no issues with cleaning and maintenance.

Compared to my previous experiences with hand-tied rigs, the Braid Products Trolling Harnesses offer superior consistency and reliability. The pre-made construction ensures that each harness is equally strong, eliminating the guesswork associated with manual rigging. Furthermore, the time saved rigging lures translates to more time spent actually fishing, a significant advantage in any offshore environment.

Breaking Down the Features of Braid Products Trolling Harnesses

Specifications

The Braid Products Trolling Harnesses boast the following specifications:

• Length: 4 feet of multi-strand cable. This provides ample length for rigging a variety of trolling lures and allows for some customization depending on the desired presentation.
• Connector: McMahann style swivel. This swivel ensures smooth rotation, preventing line twist and reducing the risk of the fish throwing the hook.
• Protection: Rubber sleeve. The rubber sleeve offers added protection to the cable connection and provides a cleaner, more streamlined appearance.
• Weight: 0.03 lb. This is a very lightweight design.
• Manufacturer: Braid Products.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the harness’s performance and longevity. The cable’s strength determines its ability to withstand the pressure of large fish, while the swivel’s quality affects its resistance to line twist. The rubber sleeve, while seemingly minor, contributes to the overall presentation and prevents chafing at the connection point.

Performance & Functionality

The Braid Products Trolling Harnesses excels at its intended job: providing a reliable and efficient connection between the main line and the lure. Its primary strengths are its ease of use, smooth swivel action, and durable construction. However, the sliding of the rubber sleeve and the inability to adjust the cable length on the fly represent minor weaknesses.

These harnesses are reliable in preventing line twist. They’re also very reliable in connecting your main line to your lure.

The Braid Products Trolling Harnesses largely meet expectations. While I initially anticipated the rubber sleeve being more securely fixed, the overall performance and durability of the harness have exceeded my initial assessment. The harnesses consistently perform their task, instilling confidence when trolling for trophy-sized gamefish.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Braid Products Trolling Harnesses is straightforward and functional. The use of multi-strand cable, a robust swivel, and a protective sleeve reflects a focus on durability and performance. However, the weight is negligible, making it easy to handle.

The Braid Products Trolling Harnesses are user-friendly with almost no learning curve. Anyone familiar with trolling techniques can quickly and easily integrate these harnesses into their rigging process. The quick connection significantly reduces preparation time, allowing anglers to get their lures in the water faster.

Durability & Maintenance

The Braid Products Trolling Harnesses are designed for longevity. The use of high-quality materials and robust construction suggests that these harnesses can withstand the rigors of offshore fishing for an extended period. I expect them to last multiple seasons with proper care.

Maintenance is minimal. A simple rinse with fresh water after each use is typically sufficient. Periodic application of corrosion inhibitor to the swivel can further extend its lifespan.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Braid Products Trolling Harnesses come without additional accessories. However, anglers can customize the harness by adding weights, beads, or other attractors to the cable. The harness’s simple design makes it compatible with a wide range of trolling lures and terminal tackle from various brands. No further customization is advised.

Pros and Cons of Braid Products Trolling Harnesses

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Who Should Buy Braid Products Trolling Harnesses?

The Braid Products Trolling Harnesses are perfect for serious offshore anglers who frequently troll for wahoo, tuna, marlin, and other pelagic species. The harnesses are particularly beneficial for those who value efficiency and consistency in their rigging process. This product would also benefit charter captains.

Anglers who primarily fish inshore or target smaller species may not find the Braid Products Trolling Harnesses necessary. Similarly, those who prefer to custom-build their own rigs from scratch may not appreciate the pre-made nature of these harnesses. This may not be the product for beginners.

A must-have accessory when using the Braid Products Trolling Harnesses is a good pair of crimping pliers. This will help to create secure connections when adding hooks or swivels. A selection of high-quality trolling lures is also essential to maximize the harness’s effectiveness.

Conclusion on Braid Products Trolling Harnesses

In summary, the Braid Products Trolling Harnesses offer a reliable, efficient, and durable solution for rigging high-speed trolling lures. While the rubber sleeve’s tendency to slide and the fixed cable length represent minor drawbacks, the harness’s overall performance and convenience outweigh these shortcomings. Its simplicity and robustness are a winning combination.

At a price of $17.99-$18.99, the Braid Products Trolling Harnesses represent a good value for the money. The time saved and the peace of mind knowing that the rig is up to the task of battling a trophy fish justify the cost.

I would personally recommend the Braid Products Trolling Harnesses to any angler seeking a quick, dependable, and hassle-free way to rig their trolling lures. Ditch the wire, save the time, and get ready to hook into the fish of a lifetime. Give the Braid Products Trolling Harnesses a try and experience the difference for yourself!