Let’s Talk About Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount
The Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount is designed for anglers who demand efficient use of space and rock-solid downrigger mounting. Cannon Downriggers, a leader in downrigger technology, offers this gimbal mount as a solution to free up valuable deck space while ensuring a secure downrigger setup. This mount promises a corrosion-resistant build and easy integration with standard 30-degree flush-mount rod holders.
My own fishing boat, affectionately nicknamed “The Albatross,” has always been a battle against limited space. I was constantly tripping over my downrigger bases. The bulky mounts were a constant source of frustration. I needed a solution that would secure my downriggers effectively while reclaiming some precious deck real estate, and the Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount seemed like a promising option.
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the robust feel of the stainless steel. The welds looked clean and solid. This immediately instilled confidence. The mount felt heavier than expected, suggesting a durable construction meant to withstand the rigors of saltwater fishing.
I considered other options like flush-mount plates that bolt directly to the gunwale, but those required drilling and permanent installation. I looked at clamp-on mounts, but these felt less secure and often left marks on the boat’s finish. The Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount offered a no-drill, removable solution that utilized existing rod holders, a huge selling point.
My initial excitement was tempered with a slight apprehension. I wondered if the gimbal mount would truly be stable enough to handle the torque and strain of a large downrigger and heavy weight. Time on the water would be the ultimate test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount during a salmon fishing trip on Lake Michigan. The conditions were moderately choppy, with waves around 2-3 feet. The winds were a steady 15 knots. I mounted my Cannon Mag 10A downrigger to the gimbal mount and inserted it into one of my boat’s 30-degree flush-mount rod holders.
Initially, I was impressed with how easily the mount slipped into the rod holder. There was no need for hammering or excessive force. Securing the downrigger was also straightforward. With a 10-pound weight attached, the mount felt surprisingly stable, with minimal wobble.
During the first few hours of trolling, the Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount performed admirably. It held the downrigger securely even when encountering the occasional larger wave. I appreciated not having to worry about the mount shifting or coming loose. There were no unexpected issues or surprises during that first trip.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my boat. There are no signs of significant wear and tear beyond minor surface scratches. The stainless steel construction has effectively resisted corrosion, despite constant exposure to saltwater spray.
Maintenance has been minimal. I simply rinse the mount with fresh water after each trip and occasionally apply a light coat of marine grease to the moving parts. The cleaning process is quick and easy. This keeps everything functioning smoothly.
Compared to my previous setup, which involved a bulky, clamp-on downrigger mount, the Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount is a significant improvement. It offers superior stability, saves valuable deck space, and requires far less maintenance. It has definitely exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount
Specifications
The Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount is constructed from sturdy, corrosion-resistant stainless steel. This ensures longevity in harsh marine environments. The outer diameter of the tube is 1.5 inches, designed to fit snugly into standard 30-degree flush-mount rod holders.
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The stainless steel construction provides the necessary strength and durability to withstand the stress of supporting a downrigger and heavy weight. The 1.5-inch diameter ensures compatibility with most common rod holder sizes. The snug fit minimizes wobble and maximizes stability.
Performance & Functionality
The Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount excels at its primary function: securely mounting a downrigger in a rod holder. It offers a stable platform for trolling, even in moderately choppy conditions. The absence of wobble and flex inspires confidence and allows anglers to focus on fishing.
The mount’s strength is its simplicity and ease of use. The limitation lies in its dependence on existing rod holders. If the rod holders are poorly positioned or not robust enough, the gimbal mount’s performance will be compromised. Overall, it meets and even exceeds my expectations, offering a practical and reliable downrigger mounting solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount boasts a simple, functional design. The smooth stainless steel finish is aesthetically pleasing and easy to clean. Its weight suggests robustness without being overly cumbersome.
The design is inherently user-friendly. There is no real learning curve involved. Anyone familiar with rod holders can easily install and use this mount.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel construction of the Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount suggests a long lifespan. With proper care and maintenance, it should withstand years of use in harsh marine environments. The minimalist design further contributes to its durability.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional rinsing and lubrication. The absence of complex moving parts reduces the risk of mechanical failure. The Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount is designed for longevity and ease of upkeep.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount doesn’t typically come with included accessories beyond what is needed for basic mounting. It is designed to integrate seamlessly with existing downriggers and rod holders. There are no specific customization options offered by Cannon.
The mount is generally compatible with most Cannon downriggers and standard 30-degree flush-mount rod holders. Anglers may choose to add aftermarket rod holder extensions to raise the downrigger further above the gunwale.
Pros and Cons of Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount
Pros
- Durable stainless steel construction ensures longevity and corrosion resistance. This is essential for saltwater fishing.
- Easy to install and remove, requiring no drilling or permanent modifications. Anglers can quickly adapt their boat setup.
- Maximizes deck space by utilizing existing rod holders. This is a huge benefit on smaller boats.
- Provides a stable and secure downrigger mounting platform. This inspires confidence and improves trolling performance.
- Simple design and minimal maintenance requirements. This reduces hassle and extends the product’s lifespan.
Cons
- Performance is dependent on the quality and placement of existing rod holders. Weak or poorly positioned rod holders will compromise stability.
- May not be suitable for extremely heavy downriggers or rough conditions. The rod holder itself has load limitations.
Who Should Buy Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount?
The Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount is perfect for recreational anglers who own boats with standard 30-degree flush-mount rod holders and want a convenient and space-saving downrigger mounting solution. It is ideal for those who prioritize easy installation and removal and who fish in relatively calm to moderate conditions. This product is for boaters who want to avoid drilling and permanent modifications.
Those who fish in extremely rough conditions or use very heavy downriggers (over 20 pounds) might want to consider a more robust, permanently mounted system. People with non-standard rod holder configurations should skip this product.
A must-have accessory would be high-quality, sturdy rod holders that are securely mounted to the boat. Adding a rod holder extension may be desired, depending on the height of the boat’s gunwale.
Conclusion on Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount
The Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount is a well-designed and practical solution for anglers seeking a convenient and space-saving downrigger mounting option. Its robust stainless steel construction, ease of use, and compatibility with standard rod holders make it a worthwhile investment.
The price is justified by the product’s durability, functionality, and the deck space it saves. The Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount offers excellent value.
I would personally recommend the Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount to any angler looking to simplify their downrigger setup and reclaim valuable deck space. Upgrade your fishing experience today!