Let’s Talk About Tigress Medium Rod Holder Backing Plate
The Tigress Medium Rod Holder Backing Plate – it might seem like a small, unassuming piece of equipment, but for serious anglers, it’s an essential component for secure and reliable rod holder mounting. From Tigress, a trusted name in marine hardware, this backing plate promises to reinforce your boat’s gunnel or other mounting surface, preventing damage and ensuring your prized fishing rods stay put when that trophy fish strikes. I’ve seen too many rod holders ripped clean out of boats from inadequate reinforcement, so a robust backing plate is always a must-have in my book.
My search for the Tigress Medium Rod Holder Backing Plate began after a disastrous fishing trip last year. A feisty tuna nearly tore my favorite rod holder (and a chunk of my boat’s fiberglass) right off the gunnel. I knew I needed a more robust solution to distribute the load and prevent a repeat incident.
Upon receiving the Tigress Medium Rod Holder Backing Plate, I was immediately struck by its solid, no-nonsense design. The black finish is clean and professional, and the plate feels incredibly sturdy. It’s surprisingly lightweight considering its apparent strength, a plus for minimizing added weight on the boat.
I considered a few other options, including fabricating my own backing plate from aluminum. However, the convenience and affordability of the Tigress plate, combined with the Tigress reputation, ultimately swayed my decision. Why reinvent the wheel when a reliable solution is readily available?
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. It looked like a well-made piece of equipment, but the true test would be in its performance under pressure. I was excited to get it installed and see if it lived up to its promise of enhanced rod holder security.
Real-World Testing: Putting Tigress Medium Rod Holder Backing Plate to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Tigress Medium Rod Holder Backing Plate came during a weekend offshore fishing trip targeting mahi-mahi. I installed the plate on my boat’s gunnel, backing up an existing medium-sized rod holder. The conditions were fairly typical for offshore fishing: choppy seas and a moderate breeze.
The installation was straightforward, thanks to the pre-drilled mounting holes. I noticed the rod holder felt significantly more secure than before. It seemed to take the play out of the fitment. I didn’t experience any issues during the initial use, and the rod holder remained firmly in place throughout the day.
The plate definitely gave me a sense of security I was lacking before. It did exactly what it was intended to do.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Tigress Medium Rod Holder Backing Plate has proven to be a reliable and worthwhile addition to my boat. It’s endured numerous fishing trips, including some challenging days with rough seas and heavy trolling spreads.
I haven’t noticed any signs of wear and tear on the plate itself. It’s maintained its black finish without any noticeable fading or corrosion. I periodically inspect the mounting hardware to ensure everything remains tight, but the plate itself requires virtually no maintenance.
Compared to my previous setup without a backing plate, the difference is night and day. The rod holders feel much more stable. There’s no flex in the gunnel when a fish strikes. The peace of mind alone makes it worth the investment.
Breaking Down the Features of Tigress Medium Rod Holder Backing Plate
Specifications
- The Tigress Medium Rod Holder Backing Plate is designed for use with medium-sized rod holders. It is intended to provide enhanced support and prevent damage to mounting surfaces.
- It features a black finish and is made from durable material. Its dimensions are tailored to fit the base of most standard medium-sized rod holders.
The black color offers a sleek, professional look and helps to resist corrosion. The plate is sized appropriately to spread the load effectively across the mounting surface.
Performance & Functionality
The Tigress Medium Rod Holder Backing Plate excels at its primary function: reinforcing rod holders and preventing damage. It provides a solid, stable base for the rod holder, distributing the force of a striking fish more evenly across the mounting surface.
The main strength is its simplicity and effectiveness. There are no moving parts or complex mechanisms to fail. The plate simply adds a layer of reinforcement where it’s needed most. The only potential weakness is that it requires proper installation to achieve its full potential.
The Tigress Medium Rod Holder Backing Plate significantly exceeds expectations in terms of its ability to protect the boat and rod holder.
Design & Ergonomics
The Tigress Medium Rod Holder Backing Plate is designed with functionality in mind. The simple, flat design is unobtrusive and doesn’t interfere with the use of the rod holder.
The build quality is excellent. The material feels strong and durable. There is no learning curve involved. Installation is straightforward, even for those with limited mechanical experience.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust construction and the absence of moving parts, the Tigress Medium Rod Holder Backing Plate should last for many years with minimal maintenance. It requires only occasional inspection and cleaning to ensure optimal performance.
The plate itself is very easy to maintain. Simply wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or grime. It’s designed to withstand the harsh marine environment, so corrosion shouldn’t be a significant concern.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Tigress Medium Rod Holder Backing Plate is a standalone product and doesn’t come with any specific accessories. However, it’s compatible with a wide range of medium-sized rod holders from various manufacturers.
There are no specific customization options for the plate itself. But you could paint it a different color to match your boat’s aesthetics. It’s also possible to modify the plate’s shape or size to fit specific mounting requirements.
Pros and Cons of Tigress Medium Rod Holder Backing Plate
Pros
- Significantly increases the stability and security of rod holders.
- Prevents damage to boat gunnels and other mounting surfaces.
- Simple and easy to install.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Affordable solution for protecting your investment in fishing gear.
Cons
- Requires drilling mounting holes.
- Might not fit all rod holder sizes perfectly.
Who Should Buy Tigress Medium Rod Holder Backing Plate?
The Tigress Medium Rod Holder Backing Plate is perfect for boat owners who frequently use rod holders and want to ensure their gear is securely mounted. It is especially beneficial for anglers who target large, powerful fish that can put significant strain on rod holders. This is a great product for anyone looking for peace of mind while out on the water.
Anyone using smaller, lighter-duty rod holders for primarily freshwater fishing might not require this level of reinforcement. Likewise, those with factory-installed, heavily reinforced rod holders may find the Tigress plate redundant.
Depending on the installation, consider adding marine-grade sealant to prevent water intrusion around the mounting holes. Upgrading to stainless steel mounting hardware can also enhance the plate’s overall durability and corrosion resistance.
Conclusion on Tigress Medium Rod Holder Backing Plate
The Tigress Medium Rod Holder Backing Plate is an essential piece of hardware for any serious angler. It provides a simple, effective, and affordable solution for reinforcing rod holders and protecting your boat.
The price is more than justified by the enhanced security and peace of mind it offers. The potential cost of repairing a damaged gunnel or replacing a lost rod is far greater than the cost of this backing plate.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Tigress Medium Rod Holder Backing Plate to anyone who values their fishing gear and wants to ensure it remains safely and securely mounted. Don’t wait until disaster strikes – invest in this backing plate today and enjoy worry-free fishing for years to come. Secure your rod holders, protect your boat, and get out on the water!