Lee’s Tackle 18ft Center Rigging Pole Review

Let’s Dive into Lee’s Tackle 18ft Center Rigging Pole

The Lee’s Tackle 18ft Center Rigging Pole is a specialized piece of equipment designed to elevate the fishing experience, particularly for serious anglers targeting large pelagic species. Manufactured by Lee’s Tackle, a renowned name in the marine hardware industry, this rigging pole promises to enhance bait presentation and improve your chances of a successful catch. It features a bright silver finish and comes standard with a black Spike.

For years, I’ve struggled with effectively presenting multiple baits at varying depths while trolling offshore, often resorting to clumsy, improvised solutions. The tangle of lines and inconsistent bait placement has cost me valuable fishing time and, frankly, some impressive fish. I needed a dedicated rigging pole to streamline the process, offering better control and presentation.

Upon unboxing, the Lee’s Tackle 18ft Center Rigging Pole immediately impressed me with its sturdy construction and sleek design. The bright silver finish gives it a professional look, and the black Spike appears robust and ready for action. Its lightweight feel belies its apparent strength, hinting at a well-engineered product.

Compared to homemade rigging setups or less sophisticated outrigger poles, the Lee’s Tackle 18ft Center Rigging Pole stood out because of its dedicated design and the reputation of Lee’s Tackle. Cheaper options often lack the necessary strength and durability for serious offshore fishing, while DIY approaches rarely achieve the same level of polish and functionality. I chose this pole for its professional grade and promises of improved performance.

My first impression was one of excitement. This felt like a tool that could genuinely transform my offshore trolling game. The sleek design and sturdy feel instilled confidence that this rigging pole would live up to its promises and become an essential piece of my fishing arsenal.

Real-World Testing: Putting Lee’s Tackle 18ft Center Rigging Pole to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Lee’s Tackle 18ft Center Rigging Pole was during a three-day offshore fishing trip targeting tuna and marlin in the Gulf Stream. The weather was relatively calm, with moderate winds and clear skies, providing ideal testing conditions. The pole was mounted on my center console boat using existing outrigger bases.

The pole’s 18-foot length allowed me to spread my baits effectively, creating a wider trolling pattern and minimizing tangles. The smooth action of the pole made it easy to deploy and retrieve lines, even with heavy lures and baits. It took a short time to adjust to the increased reach, but after a couple of hours, the pole became second nature.

Initially, the pole performed flawlessly, enhancing the presentation of my trolling spread. However, one minor issue arose when a large tuna struck a bait near the center rigger, causing significant strain on the pole. There was no structural failure, but some concerning flexing made me realize the importance of proper line tension adjustments.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Lee’s Tackle 18ft Center Rigging Pole has proven to be a reliable and valuable addition to my fishing setup. The pole has held up well against the harsh marine environment, with no signs of significant wear and tear. Its bright silver finish still shines, and the black Spike remains sharp and corrosion-free.

The pole requires minimal maintenance – a simple rinse with freshwater after each trip keeps it clean and prevents salt buildup. I also occasionally apply a light coat of corrosion inhibitor to the moving parts to ensure smooth operation. Durability has not been an issue, although I’m careful to avoid excessive strain or impacts.

Compared to my previous makeshift rigging solutions, the Lee’s Tackle 18ft Center Rigging Pole is a game-changer. It offers superior bait presentation, improved line management, and enhanced overall fishing efficiency. The pole’s performance has exceeded my expectations, making offshore trolling a more enjoyable and productive experience.

Breaking Down the Features of Lee’s Tackle 18ft Center Rigging Pole

Specifications

• The Lee’s Tackle 18ft Center Rigging Pole boasts an impressive 18-foot length, allowing for a wide bait spread and enhanced trolling patterns. This extended reach is crucial for targeting wary pelagic species.
• Its bright silver finish not only gives it a sleek, professional appearance but also offers increased visibility on the water. This makes it easier to monitor the pole’s position and any potential issues.
• The pole comes standard with a durable black Spike, providing a secure and reliable anchor point for rigging lines and baits. The spike’s robust design ensures it can withstand the rigors of offshore fishing.
• Manufactured by Lee’s Tackle, a trusted name in marine hardware, the pole is built to withstand the harsh marine environment. This ensures longevity and reliable performance.

These specifications contribute significantly to the pole’s performance. The length provides the necessary spread, while the finish and spike ensure visibility and secure rigging. The quality of the Lee’s Tackle manufacturing makes the pole a reliable tool.

Performance & Functionality

The Lee’s Tackle 18ft Center Rigging Pole performs exceptionally well in its intended role. It excels at spreading baits effectively, minimizing tangles, and improving bait presentation. Its smooth action and durable construction make it a pleasure to use, even under challenging conditions.

The pole’s strengths lie in its simplicity and effectiveness. However, very strong currents and winds can make precise bait placement challenging. While it meets expectations, users may need to become accustomed to it to use it with the best results.

Design & Ergonomics

The Lee’s Tackle 18ft Center Rigging Pole features a simple yet effective design. Its lightweight construction makes it easy to handle, while its durable materials ensure longevity. Comfort is not a primary concern with this type of product, but the pole’s smooth action minimizes strain during use.

The pole is relatively user-friendly, although some experience with trolling and rigging is helpful. The learning curve is minimal, and most anglers will quickly become comfortable with its operation. The pole is easy to set up and deploy, making it a convenient addition to any fishing setup.

Durability & Maintenance

The Lee’s Tackle 18ft Center Rigging Pole is built to last, with high-quality materials and robust construction. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. The pole’s resistance to corrosion and wear makes it a worthwhile investment for serious anglers.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only a simple rinse with freshwater after each use. Periodic lubrication of moving parts will further extend its lifespan. The pole’s durable construction minimizes the need for repairs, ensuring it remains a reliable tool for years to come.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Lee’s Tackle 18ft Center Rigging Pole comes standard with a black Spike. While no specific Lee’s Tackle accessories are available directly for customization, users can adapt various aftermarket outrigger accessories, such as release clips and line tensioners, to optimize performance.

The pole is compatible with most standard outrigger bases and accessories, allowing for a high degree of customization. Anglers can tailor their rigging setup to match their specific fishing style and target species. Accessories include line releases, which allow for the easy release of fishing line when a fish strikes, and adjustable tensioners to fine-tune the line placement and prevent premature release.

Pros and Cons of Lee’s Tackle 18ft Center Rigging Pole

Who Should Buy Lee’s Tackle 18ft Center Rigging Pole?

The Lee’s Tackle 18ft Center Rigging Pole is perfect for serious offshore anglers who prioritize effective bait presentation and improved trolling efficiency. Professional guides, tournament fishermen, and dedicated recreational anglers targeting large pelagic species will benefit most from this product. It’s ideal for those who understand the value of quality equipment and are willing to invest in a tool that can enhance their fishing success.

Those who should skip this product include casual anglers who only occasionally fish offshore or those on a tight budget. If you’re just starting out or primarily fish inshore waters, a simpler and less expensive rigging solution may be more appropriate. Also, avoid this product if your boat is too small to safely accommodate an 18-foot pole.

Must-have accessories include high-quality release clips, adjustable line tensioners, and a sturdy outrigger base. Consider adding a reliable retrieval system for ease of use. Also, it might be wise to have a backup plan in case of any damage to the pole itself.

Conclusion on Lee’s Tackle 18ft Center Rigging Pole

The Lee’s Tackle 18ft Center Rigging Pole is a well-designed and durable piece of equipment that delivers on its promises of improved bait presentation and enhanced trolling efficiency. While the price may be a barrier for some, the pole’s performance and longevity justify the investment for serious anglers. It’s a tool that can truly elevate your offshore fishing game.

The value proposition is strong. The Lee’s Tackle 18ft Center Rigging Pole provides features that lead to greater success on the water and a more enjoyable fishing experience. I personally recommend it to any angler looking to take their trolling spread to the next level.

Ready to experience the difference a professional-grade rigging pole can make? Invest in the Lee’s Tackle 18ft Center Rigging Pole and transform your offshore fishing adventures today!