Let’s Talk About Cannon Gimbal Mount
The Cannon Gimbal Mount offers a simple yet effective solution for anglers looking to optimize space and securely mount their downriggers. Manufactured by Cannon, a trusted name in fishing equipment, this mount is designed to fit into 30-degree flush-mount rod holders. Its corrosion-resistant aluminum construction promises durability in harsh marine environments.
I needed a more secure and space-saving solution for my downrigger setup on my small boat. My previous setup was cumbersome and took up valuable deck space. The Cannon Gimbal Mount seemed like a potential answer to these issues.
Upon unboxing, the Cannon Gimbal Mount felt solid and well-made. The black aluminum had a clean, durable finish, and the welds appeared strong. The 9-inch size felt right for my rod holders, and the 1.5-inch outer diameter tube seemed standard enough to fit securely.
I considered several alternatives, including clamp-on mounts and custom-built solutions. Ultimately, I chose the Cannon Gimbal Mount for its ease of installation and perceived robustness compared to cheaper clamp-on options. A custom solution would have been significantly more expensive and time-consuming.
My initial impression was positive. The mount felt sturdy and well-designed. I was excited to see how it would perform on the water.
Real-World Testing: Putting Cannon Gimbal Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Cannon Gimbal Mount on a weekend fishing trip to Lake Michigan, targeting lake trout. The conditions were moderately choppy, with a slight drizzle. I installed the mount in my boat’s flush-mount rod holders, attaching my Cannon downrigger.
The Cannon Gimbal Mount performed admirably, holding the downrigger securely even in the moderate chop. It was surprisingly easy to slide the mount into the rod holder and lock it in place. No tools were required.
There were no immediate issues after the first use. The mount remained stable and showed no signs of slippage or wear. I did notice a slight amount of wobble in the rod holder itself, which was related to my boat’s factory-installed rod holders, not the gimbal mount itself.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Cannon Gimbal Mount has held up very well. It has been exposed to saltwater spray, direct sunlight, and the occasional bump against docks and other equipment. Despite this, it remains structurally sound.
There are no significant signs of wear and tear, apart from minor scratches in the black finish. I regularly rinse the mount with fresh water after each fishing trip to prevent corrosion. This simple maintenance routine seems to be effective in preserving its condition.
Compared to my previous setup, the Cannon Gimbal Mount is a significant improvement. It’s more stable, takes up less space, and is easier to install and remove. It definitely outperforms my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Cannon Gimbal Mount
Specifications
- The Cannon Gimbal Mount is manufactured by Cannon, a well-known brand in downrigger technology.
- It has a size of 9 inches, which is the length of the portion that inserts into the rod holder. This dimension is critical for ensuring compatibility with standard flush-mount rod holders.
- The Cannon Gimbal Mount is black in color, which helps to minimize glare and provides a sleek, professional look.
- The outer diameter of the tube is 1.5 inches. This is designed to fit standard flush-mount rod holders, allowing for easy installation.
These specifications are important because they dictate the mount’s compatibility with different boat setups and its overall durability. The aluminum construction ensures resistance to corrosion, a critical factor in marine environments. The size and diameter are designed for universal fit, simplifying the installation process.
Performance & Functionality
The Cannon Gimbal Mount excels at its primary job: providing a stable and secure platform for mounting downriggers. It minimizes wobble and movement, even in choppy conditions, improving fishing efficiency. This also reduces stress on the rod holders.
The mount’s strengths lie in its simplicity and durability. It is easy to install and remove, and it holds up well under demanding conditions. A potential area for improvement could be the addition of a locking mechanism for extra security, although I haven’t experienced any issues in my usage so far.
The Cannon Gimbal Mount exceeds my expectations. Its sturdy construction and ease of use make it a valuable addition to my fishing gear.
Design & Ergonomics
The Cannon Gimbal Mount features a simple, functional design. The black aluminum construction looks clean and professional, and the welds appear to be of high quality. Its weight is reasonable, providing a solid feel without being overly burdensome.
The mount is incredibly user-friendly. No tools are required for installation. You just slide it into the rod holder and secure it. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its aluminum construction, the Cannon Gimbal Mount is expected to last for many years with proper care. The corrosion-resistant properties of aluminum are crucial in a marine environment. It holds up against saltwater, sun exposure and general wear-and-tear.
Maintenance is minimal. Rinsing with fresh water after each use is generally sufficient to prevent corrosion and keep the mount in good condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Cannon Gimbal Mount does not come with any additional accessories beyond the mount itself. There are no specific customization options available directly from Cannon.
However, the mount is compatible with any Cannon downrigger designed to fit a standard mounting plate. Anglers can also potentially add third-party rod holder extensions or adapters to further customize their setup, although this may affect stability.
Pros and Cons of Cannon Gimbal Mount
Pros
- Sturdy Aluminum Construction: Ensures durability and resistance to corrosion in harsh marine environments.
- Easy Installation: Slides directly into standard 30-degree flush-mount rod holders without requiring tools.
- Space-Saving Design: Optimizes deck space by utilizing existing rod holders for downrigger mounting.
- Secure Downrigger Mounting: Provides a stable and wobble-free platform, even in choppy conditions.
- Minimal Maintenance: Requires only rinsing with fresh water after each use to prevent corrosion.
Cons
- Basic Design: Lacks advanced features like a locking mechanism for added security.
- Reliance on Rod Holder Quality: Stability is dependent on the strength and condition of the boat’s existing rod holders.
Who Should Buy Cannon Gimbal Mount?
The Cannon Gimbal Mount is perfect for anglers with smaller boats who need a space-saving and secure downrigger mounting solution. It is also a good option for those who want a simple and easy-to-install mount that doesn’t require any modifications to their boat. Pro anglers and casual fishermen can take advantage of its robust build and user-friendly design.
This product is not ideal for anglers who require a highly adjustable or feature-rich downrigger mounting system. Those with boats that have weak or damaged rod holders may also need to consider alternative mounting options.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality downrigger designed to work seamlessly with the Cannon Gimbal Mount, like a Cannon Mag 10A. Adding rod holder reinforcement plates can also improve stability, especially on older boats.
Conclusion on Cannon Gimbal Mount
The Cannon Gimbal Mount is a simple, effective, and durable solution for mounting downriggers on boats with flush-mount rod holders. It provides a secure and space-saving alternative to traditional clamp-on mounts, making it a valuable addition to any angler’s gear. Its aluminum construction ensures years of reliable performance, while its ease of installation makes it accessible to anglers of all skill levels.
At $103.99, the price is justified by the mount’s quality, durability, and ease of use. I personally recommend the Cannon Gimbal Mount to any angler looking for a reliable and convenient downrigger mounting solution.
Upgrade your fishing experience today with the Cannon Gimbal Mount. Say goodbye to cluttered decks and unstable downrigger setups and hello to a more efficient and enjoyable time on the water!
