The Cannon Downriggers Aluminum Mounting Track: A Review After Real Use
As a seasoned gear and equipment specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across diverse environments, from the demanding conditions of outdoor adventures to the precise settings of workshops and laboratories, I approach new equipment with a critical, experienced eye. The Cannon Downriggers Aluminum Mounting Track promises to be a versatile solution for customizing trolling spreads, a claim that immediately piqued my interest. My pursuit of streamlined, adaptable fishing setups led me to this particular track system. A persistent issue I’ve faced with existing downrigger setups is the lack of truly modular attachment points for various fishing accessories. The need for a robust, flexible system to manage rod holders, planer boards, and other trolling essentials became paramount, especially during extended fishing trips where adaptability is key. My initial impression upon handling the Cannon Downriggers Aluminum Mounting Track was one of solid construction; the aluminum construction felt robust, and the locking groove mechanism seemed intuitively designed. While I briefly considered generic aluminum extrusions, the specific design and manufacturer reputation of Cannon steered me towards this dedicated option. My first thought was one of practical optimism – a potential end to the tangled mess and fumbling adjustments that had plagued past outings.
Real-World Testing: Putting Cannon Downriggers Aluminum Mounting Track to the Test
First Use Experience
I primarily tested the Cannon Downriggers Aluminum Mounting Track on my fishing boat, specifically focusing on its integration with my existing Cannon downriggers and various trolling accessories. The track was mounted securely to the gunwale, a process that required standard tools and was straightforward enough for someone with moderate DIY experience. Its performance was immediately apparent; the locking grooves provided a solid, non-slip grip for my rod holders and planner board releases, preventing the frustrating twisting that often occurs with less sophisticated systems. I found the system intuitive to use; sliding accessories into the track and locking them into place was a simple, one-handed operation. The most pleasant surprise was how easily components could be repositioned mid-fishing, allowing for quick adjustments to my spread based on changing conditions or fish behavior.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, including trips in both saltwater and freshwater environments, the Cannon Downriggers Aluminum Mounting Track has held up exceptionally well. Despite regular exposure to spray, sun, and the occasional bump against dock pilings, there are no noticeable signs of corrosion or structural degradation, a testament to its aluminum construction. The locking grooves remain snug, showing no signs of wear that would compromise their grip. Maintenance has been minimal; a simple rinse with fresh water after saltwater excursions and an occasional wipe-down are all that’s needed to keep it in pristine condition. Compared to previous setups I’ve used, like basic T-track systems that sometimes allowed for minor play or older, less refined mounting plates, this Cannon track feels significantly more secure and user-friendly.
Breaking Down the Features of Cannon Downriggers Aluminum Mounting Track
Specifications
The Cannon Downriggers Aluminum Mounting Track is constructed from durable aluminum, ensuring longevity and resistance to the harsh marine environment. It is offered in a one size configuration, specifically an 18in length, providing a substantial base for mounting multiple accessories. The track features locking grooves designed to prevent accessories from twisting, a critical feature for maintaining consistent lure presentation and preventing equipment damage. This track is sold individually, with a quantity of 1 per purchase, and comes in a classic silver finish.
The 18in length is a practical size, offering enough space for a few key trolling accessories without becoming overly cumbersome on most boat transoms or gunwales. Its aluminum construction is a significant advantage, as it won’t rust or corrode like steel alternatives and is less prone to cracking than some plastics under stress or extreme temperatures. The locking grooves are the core of this system’s versatility; they provide a secure interface that prevents accidental rotation of mounted items, which is crucial for keeping planer boards tracking correctly or ensuring rod holders remain stable.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Cannon Downriggers Aluminum Mounting Track is to provide a secure and adaptable mounting platform for a variety of downrigger and trolling accessories, and it excels at this task. The system’s locking grooves do an admirable job of keeping everything firmly in place, preventing the annoying slippage and rotation that can plague less robust systems. This ensures that my downriggers, rod holders, and other attachments stay precisely where I position them, offering a stable base for my trolling spread.
Its main strength lies in its modularity and the security of its attachment mechanism. I found it exceptionally easy to slide various Cannon-compatible accessories into the track and secure them with a simple tightening of their respective knobs or levers. The system’s reliability was evident even during rough water conditions, where accessory mounts remained locked without any hint of movement.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Cannon Downriggers Aluminum Mounting Track is both functional and understated, prioritizing usability. Its aluminum construction gives it a solid, premium feel, and the smooth, brushed silver finish looks clean and professional on the boat. The track itself is precisely extruded, ensuring that accessories slide in smoothly but also engage securely with the internal locking mechanism.
Ergonomically, the system is a pleasure to use. Repositioning accessories is quick and requires minimal effort, which is a huge benefit when you need to make rapid adjustments on the water. The locking grooves are easily accessed and manipulated, allowing for secure fastening even with cold or wet hands. There’s a distinct lack of fiddly parts or complex assembly required, making it very user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on its construction and my extended testing, the Cannon Downriggers Aluminum Mounting Track is built for long-term durability in a demanding marine environment. The aluminum material is inherently resistant to corrosion and the effects of UV exposure, suggesting a long service life with proper care. The locking mechanism, which relies on simple mechanical engagement within the grooves, appears robust and unlikely to fail.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick rinse with freshwater after saltwater use is sufficient to prevent salt buildup. The aluminum surface wipes clean easily, and the internal locking components require no lubrication or special attention. I haven’t encountered any wear points or potential failure areas during my use, which speaks volumes about the quality of its design and materials.
Accessories and Customization Options
While the Cannon Downriggers Aluminum Mounting Track itself is a single component, its true value lies in its compatibility with a range of trolling accessories. It is designed to work seamlessly with Cannon’s own line of rod holders, planers, and other downrigger-related gear, effectively creating a customizable trolling system. The locking grooves are specifically designed to interface with the mounting bases of these accessories, ensuring a secure and stable connection.
The real benefit here is the ability to mix and match components to create a perfect trolling spread for specific fishing conditions. You can easily swap out a rod holder for a specialty planer board mast or adjust the spacing of your setups on the fly. This level of customization is what makes the aluminum mounting track such a valuable addition for serious anglers.
Pros and Cons of Cannon Downriggers Aluminum Mounting Track
Pros
- Robust Aluminum Construction: The aluminum construction provides excellent durability and resistance to corrosion, ensuring a long lifespan even in harsh marine environments.
- Secure Locking Grooves: The integrated locking grooves effectively prevent accessories from twisting or slipping, offering a stable and reliable mounting solution for critical fishing gear.
- Versatile Customization: This track system allows for complete customization of trolling spreads, enabling anglers to easily attach, reposition, and remove various downrigger accessories.
- Easy Installation and Use: The track is straightforward to mount, and accessories slide in and lock securely with minimal effort, making it user-friendly on and off the water.
- Corrosion Resistance: Being made of aluminum, it inherently resists rust and saltwater damage, reducing maintenance needs and extending its usability.
Cons
- Limited Length: The standard 18in length, while practical for many setups, might be insufficient for anglers needing to mount a very large number of accessories in a single line.
- Accessory Compatibility: While designed for Cannon accessories, users need to ensure their existing or desired accessories are compatible with this specific track system to avoid additional adapter costs.
- Price Point: At over $100 for a single 18-inch track, it represents a significant investment for a mounting component, especially if multiple tracks are needed.
Who Should Buy Cannon Downriggers Aluminum Mounting Track?
The Cannon Downriggers Aluminum Mounting Track is an excellent choice for serious anglers who utilize downriggers and a variety of trolling accessories. It is particularly well-suited for fishermen who frequently change their spread configurations or who value the security and stability of their gear. If you are looking to upgrade from less secure mounting methods or simply want a more organized and adaptable trolling setup, this track system is a compelling option.
Individuals who should consider skipping this product are those with very basic downrigger needs who only use one or two fixed accessories. Also, anglers on a very tight budget might find the price point prohibitive, especially if they require multiple tracks. For those using non-standard accessories, careful verification of compatibility is crucial. Essential complementary items would include the specific Cannon accessories you intend to mount, such as rod holders, planer board releases, or other downrigger mounts designed for this track system.
Conclusion on Cannon Downriggers Aluminum Mounting Track
The Cannon Downriggers Aluminum Mounting Track is a well-engineered and robust piece of equipment that significantly enhances the versatility and security of a downrigger fishing setup. Its aluminum construction promises excellent durability and resistance to the elements, while the innovative locking grooves provide the crucial stability needed for demanding fishing conditions. The ability to easily customize and reconfigure your trolling spread on the fly is a game-changer for anglers who need adaptability.
While the price point is certainly an investment, the value it delivers in terms of performance, reliability, and ease of use justifies the cost for dedicated fishermen. I would confidently recommend the Cannon Downriggers Aluminum Mounting Track to any angler looking to optimize their downrigger spread, particularly those who invest in Cannon accessories. If you prioritize a secure, adaptable, and long-lasting solution for managing your trolling gear, this track system is a wise addition to your arsenal.