First Impressions of Driftmaster Li’L Pro Series Side Mount Bases
As a seasoned angler with over a decade of experience rigging boats for everything from bass to crappie, I’ve seen my share of rod holders and mounting solutions. When I first laid eyes on the Driftmaster Li’L Pro Series Side Mount Bases, I was immediately intrigued by their simplicity and potential versatility. These bases, designed by Driftmaster, promise to solve a common problem: how to securely mount rod holders on jon boat gunnels where drilling vertical holes isn’t an option.
My old jon boat has incredibly thin gunnels, and every attempt to directly mount rod holders has ended in frustration. I was on the hunt for a solution that wouldn’t compromise the integrity of my boat while still providing a stable platform for my fishing rods. My initial thought was, “Could these be the answer to my prayers?”
The Driftmaster Li’L Pro Series Side Mount Bases arrived in a simple package, and upon unboxing, I was struck by the sturdy feel of the metal. The build quality seemed robust for such a small piece of equipment, though they are very light. Compared to bulkier, clamp-on style mounts, these Driftmaster Li’L Pro Series Side Mount Bases appeared significantly less intrusive and more adaptable.
I considered other options like welding custom brackets, but that was far too time-consuming and expensive. I even looked at some rivet-on solutions, but I was hesitant to drill too many holes. These Driftmaster Li’L Pro Series Side Mount Bases seemed to strike a good balance between functionality and ease of installation.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was excited to see if they would live up to their promise of easy installation and secure rod holder mounting, but a small part of me was prepared for disappointment.
Real-World Testing: Putting Driftmaster Li’L Pro Series Side Mount Bases to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Driftmaster Li’L Pro Series Side Mount Bases came during a crappie fishing trip on a local lake. I mounted two bases on the gunnels of my jon boat using stainless steel bolts and nylon lock nuts. The install was quick and I appreciated that I could customize the angle by bending the metal to better suit the boat’s shape.
Initially, the weather was calm, but later in the day, the wind picked up, creating choppy conditions. Despite the rocking boat, the rod holders mounted on the bases remained surprisingly stable. I quickly realized these bases were exactly what I needed.
The only minor issue I encountered was the slight flex in the bases when a larger fish hit. But, I am confident that tightening the bolts could fix that.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Driftmaster Li’L Pro Series Side Mount Bases have held up admirably. I’ve taken my boat out in all sorts of weather, and they still provide a solid mounting point for my rod holders. There are no signs of significant wear or tear, despite constant exposure to water and sun.
Cleaning the bases is straightforward; a quick rinse with fresh water after each trip is all that’s needed. Compared to my previous attempts at mounting rod holders, these bases are a game-changer. They outperform anything I’ve tried before in terms of stability, ease of installation, and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Driftmaster Li’L Pro Series Side Mount Bases
Specifications
The Driftmaster Li’L Pro Series Side Mount Bases are designed for mounting on jon boat gunnels, particularly where vertical drilling is not feasible. These bases are made by Driftmaster. They are constructed from a bendable metal, allowing for customization to fit various mounting locations.
Each base features 1/4″ mounting holes. The weight of each base is a mere 0.1 oz. The length measures 4 inches, the height is 1.2 inches, and the width is 3 inches. These dimensions and features directly impact their performance by providing a lightweight yet sturdy and adaptable mounting solution.
Performance & Functionality
The Driftmaster Li’L Pro Series Side Mount Bases excel at their intended purpose: providing a secure and adaptable mounting point for rod holders on jon boats. The ability to bend the metal allows for a customized fit, ensuring maximum stability. The 1/4″ mounting holes provide ample strength for securing the bases to the gunnels.
One minor weakness is that the light gauge metal will slightly flex under extreme load, but overall the bases meet my expectations and provide a reliable platform for fishing.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Driftmaster Li’L Pro Series Side Mount Bases is simple yet effective. The metal is easy to bend and shape, and the mounting holes are appropriately sized. They are light weight which helps to avoid weighing down the boat or any bulkiness.
The bases are user-friendly and require no special tools or expertise to install. There’s virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Given their simple construction and corrosion-resistant finish, the Driftmaster Li’L Pro Series Side Mount Bases should last for years with minimal maintenance. A simple rinse after each use is all that’s needed to keep them in good condition. They are well-built and durable enough to withstand the rigors of regular fishing trips.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Driftmaster Li’L Pro Series Side Mount Bases do not come with any additional accessories. However, they are compatible with a wide range of standard rod holders that utilize a bolt-on mounting system. Their compatibility with various rod holder brands makes them a versatile choice for any angler.
Pros and Cons of Driftmaster Li’L Pro Series Side Mount Bases
Pros
- Easy to install and customize. Bending the metal allows for a perfect fit on various gunnel shapes.
- Lightweight and unobtrusive. They add minimal weight to the boat and don’t get in the way.
- Durable and corrosion-resistant. They withstand the elements and provide long-lasting performance.
- Compatible with most rod holders. The 1/4″ mounting holes are a standard size.
- Inexpensive. At $9.99, they offer excellent value for the money.
Cons
- The light gauge metal will slightly flex under extreme load.
- No mounting hardware is included.
Who Should Buy Driftmaster Li’L Pro Series Side Mount Bases?
The Driftmaster Li’L Pro Series Side Mount Bases are perfect for anglers who own jon boats or other vessels with thin gunnels that can’t accommodate vertical drilling. These are also ideal for those seeking a simple, affordable, and customizable rod holder mounting solution. Anyone looking to add rod holders to their boat without extensive modifications will find these bases invaluable.
This product might not be suitable for those who require extremely heavy-duty mounting solutions or those who prefer clamp-on style rod holders.
A must-have accessory for these bases is a set of stainless steel bolts, washers, and nylon lock nuts for secure installation.
Conclusion on Driftmaster Li’L Pro Series Side Mount Bases
In summary, the Driftmaster Li’L Pro Series Side Mount Bases are a fantastic solution for mounting rod holders on jon boats. They offer a blend of simplicity, durability, and customization that’s hard to beat. At a price of $9.99, they are an excellent value proposition.
I would wholeheartedly recommend these bases to any angler looking for a reliable and adaptable mounting solution for their boat. Don’t let thin gunnels limit your fishing setup – grab a set of these Driftmaster Li’L Pro Series Side Mount Bases and get your lines in the water!