Cannon Stainless Steel Mounting Base Review

The Cannon Stainless Steel Mounting Base: Is It Really That Good?

For those who rely on their downriggers for serious fishing, the foundation upon which they sit is as critical as the reel itself. My search for a robust, reliable mounting solution led me to the Cannon Stainless Steel Mounting Base. This isn’t just a piece of metal; it’s a commitment to stability and longevity in demanding marine environments. I needed a base that could withstand the constant stress of deployment and retrieval, the relentless salt spray, and the general wear and tear that comes with being on the water. My previous setup, while functional, had begun to show its age, and I was looking for something that offered greater peace of mind.

Upon unboxing, the immediate impression was one of serious construction. The Cannon Stainless Steel Mounting Base felt substantial and impeccably finished. The smooth, cool touch of the stainless steel hinted at the quality that would hopefully translate into performance. I had briefly considered a more generic, less expensive option, but the allure of 316-grade stainless steel and the Cannon brand reputation ultimately swayed me. My first reaction was one of quiet confidence; this looked like it was built to last.

Real-World Testing: Putting Cannon Stainless Steel Mounting Base to the Test

My testing grounds for this base were decidedly aquatic: the choppy waters of Lake Erie, known for its unpredictable conditions, and the more sheltered bays where lighter winds prevail. I mounted my Cannon downrigger onto the base and secured it to the boat’s gunwale, a process that was surprisingly straightforward. The real test came with repeated use over several fishing trips, involving numerous deployments and retrievals of heavy lures and weights, often in moderate to rough seas.

The performance in these conditions was consistently excellent. Even with significant wave action and the dynamic forces exerted by the downrigger cable, the base held its ground without any discernible shift or flex. Its 316-grade stainless steel construction proved its worth against the constant barrage of salt spray; after each outing, a simple rinse with fresh water was all that was needed to keep it looking pristine, with no signs of pitting or corrosion.

Ease of use was another significant plus. While it’s a permanent fixture once installed, the design facilitates the easy removal of the downrigger itself, which was a key requirement for me. This allows for secure storage of the downrigger when not in use and quick re-attachment when needed. No surprising quirks or issues surfaced during this initial phase; the mounting base simply performed its job flawlessly, providing a rock-solid platform.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full season of consistent use, the Cannon Stainless Steel Mounting Base has held up remarkably well. It has become an indispensable part of my fishing setup, providing a level of security and confidence I hadn’t previously experienced. There are absolutely no signs of wear and tear on the steel itself; it remains free from cracks, significant scuffs, or any degradation of its protective finish.

Maintenance has been minimal, consisting solely of occasional cleaning with a soft cloth and fresh water. The inherent corrosion and UV resistant nature of the material means I don’t have to worry about it deteriorating under the harsh sun or in the salty air. Compared to previous aluminum or coated steel mounts I’ve used, which inevitably showed signs of oxidation or peeling paint, this stainless steel unit is in a league of its own for durability. It truly feels like a component designed to last for decades.

Breaking Down the Features of Cannon Stainless Steel Mounting Base

Specifications

The Cannon Stainless Steel Mounting Base is constructed from 316-grade stainless steel. This specific grade of stainless steel is renowned for its superior resistance to corrosion, pitting, and rust, especially in marine environments. It’s also significantly more durable than lower grades of stainless steel, making it ideal for high-stress applications like supporting a downrigger.

This material choice directly translates to exceptional corrosion and UV resistance, ensuring the base will not degrade or weaken when exposed to the elements. Its “One Size” designation indicates a universal fitment designed to accommodate various Cannon downrigger models. The silver color is the natural finish of the stainless steel, contributing to its clean aesthetic.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of the Cannon Stainless Steel Mounting Base is to provide a strong, stable platform for a downrigger, allowing for secure operation and easy detachment. It excels at this core function. The base provides an incredibly secure mount, and I’ve experienced zero lateral or vertical movement even when heavy weights are deployed and subjected to boat wakes.

Its biggest strength lies in its unrivaled protection against rusting, pitting, and corroding, which is crucial for any equipment used on the water. This means I can trust it to perform consistently season after season without degrading. While there aren’t complex functional elements to critique, its robust design and material contribute to its overall reliability. It meets and exceeds expectations for a mounting base, especially considering its intended harsh environment.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Cannon Stainless Steel Mounting Base is intentionally utilitarian and robust. The 316-grade stainless steel construction gives it a solid, premium feel, and the finish is smooth and professional. It’s not a flashy piece of equipment, but its strength is evident in its construction.

Ergonomically, it’s designed to be installed and then largely left to do its job, facilitating the easy removal of the downrigger. This dual functionality – strong mounting and simple detachment – is its key design advantage. There are no complex controls or hand grips, as its purpose is primarily structural.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction from 316-grade stainless steel, the longevity of this mounting base is expected to be exceptionally high. Under normal use in a marine setting, I anticipate it lasting for many years, potentially decades, without significant degradation. Its corrosion and UV resistant properties are its primary defense against wear and tear.

Maintenance is incredibly simple. A quick rinse with fresh water after each use is sufficient to remove salt and grime. There are no moving parts or complex components to clean or lubricate. The only potential concern might be scratching the surface if subjected to abrasive cleaning tools, but this would be purely cosmetic and not affect its structural integrity.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Cannon Stainless Steel Mounting Base is designed to be a core component, and as such, it doesn’t typically come with extensive accessories beyond the base unit itself. Its primary “accessory” is the downrigger it supports, and it is compatible with all Optimum, Magnum, Uni-Troll and Easi-Troll models from Cannon. This broad compatibility is a significant advantage, allowing users with different Cannon downriggers to utilize the same robust mounting solution.

There are no real customization options for the base itself, as its design is fixed to ensure maximum strength and compatibility. However, the ease with which downriggers can be attached and detached makes it highly adaptable to different fishing scenarios.

Pros and Cons of Cannon Stainless Steel Mounting Base

Who Should Buy Cannon Stainless Steel Mounting Base?

This Cannon Stainless Steel Mounting Base is an excellent choice for serious anglers who rely heavily on their downriggers for trolling, particularly in saltwater or brackish environments. If you fish frequently and demand reliability and longevity from your gear, this base is a worthwhile investment. It’s perfect for those who appreciate quality materials and are willing to pay a bit more for equipment that won’t corrode or fail under pressure.

Conversely, casual anglers who use their downrigger infrequently or primarily in freshwater might find a less expensive, non-stainless steel option sufficient. Those who require an ultra-lightweight setup for a small boat might also want to consider alternative solutions, though the weight is a direct consequence of its robust build. For optimal use, ensure you have the appropriate tools and knowledge for secure boat mounting.

Conclusion on Cannon Stainless Steel Mounting Base

The Cannon Stainless Steel Mounting Base delivers on its promise of a strong, durable, and corrosion-resistant foundation for your downrigger. Its 316-grade stainless steel construction is the standout feature, providing exceptional longevity and peace of mind in the challenging marine environment. While the initial investment is higher than many alternatives, the performance and resistance to the elements make it a compelling value proposition for dedicated anglers.

I would personally recommend this mounting base to anyone who values robust gear and wants to invest in a component that will last for years without showing signs of wear from rust or corrosion. If you’re looking for a secure, reliable, and long-lasting solution for your Cannon downrigger, this base is undoubtedly the way to go. It’s a testament to quality engineering that makes fishing just that little bit more hassle-free.