Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount Review

The Honest Truth About the Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount

For anyone serious about fishing, especially trolling for larger game fish, the downrigger is an indispensable tool. It allows for precise depth control, placing your bait or lure in the strike zone where the fish are biting. Mounting these powerful devices securely and efficiently is paramount, and this is where the Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount comes into play. My own journey with this particular mount began when I was outfitting a new fishing boat, aiming for a setup that was both robust and optimized for the limited space available. I needed a way to integrate my downriggers seamlessly with existing rod holders without compromising stability or creating a tripping hazard.

The need for a gimbal mount became apparent when I realized that standard flush-mount rod holders, while versatile, weren’t designed to handle the significant side-load and torque generated by a downrigger, especially during retrieval or when fighting a strong fish. Simply clamping a downrigger base to the gunwale felt precarious and prone to damage. I briefly considered custom fabrication or other brand-specific mounting systems, but the allure of a dedicated, stainless steel solution from a reputable name like Cannon was strong. My initial impression of this gimbal mount was one of solid, no-nonsense engineering. It felt substantial in the hand, and the polished stainless steel finish spoke of durability and marine-grade resilience.

Upon receiving the Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount, there was an immediate sense of relief. This wasn’t just another piece of hardware; it felt like a solution to a very specific and common problem faced by anglers. The promise of efficient space utilization and secure mounting was exactly what I was looking for to complete my trolling setup.

Real-World Testing: Putting Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount to the Test

My initial testing of this gimbal mount took place on my saltwater fishing vessel, a modest but well-equipped center console. The primary scenario involved mounting a Cannon downrigger onto a pair of 30-degree flush-mount rod holders situated on the aft gunwales. This placement is ideal for trolling baits behind the boat, and the gimbal mount’s angle was designed to work with these common rod holder configurations. The conditions were typical for my area: intermittent sun, occasional spray from the wake, and the ever-present possibility of saltwater intrusion.

During that first outing, the mount performed flawlessly. The downrigger felt incredibly secure, with no discernible wobble or flex, even when I manually tested the stability. Deploying and retrieving the weight was smooth, and the mount held its position without any shifting. I encountered no issues with corrosion or sticking despite being exposed to saltwater and sunlight for several hours. The intuitive design meant there was virtually no learning curve; it slid into the rod holder and the downrigger base attached with ease.

After several months of consistent use across numerous fishing trips, the reliability of this stainless steel gimbal mount has been exceptional. It has endured countless deployments and retrieves, often under significant load from tuna and wahoo. Despite being regularly exposed to harsh marine environments, including brackish water and direct sun, there are no visible signs of wear and tear beyond minor scuff marks from regular handling. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick rinse with fresh water after each trip is usually sufficient, and a more thorough scrub with a mild detergent can be done periodically. Compared to budget alternatives I’ve used in the past, which often rusted or developed play within a season, this Cannon unit has proven its worth. It holds its own against more expensive, integrated systems by offering robust performance and longevity.

First Use Experience

The installation was straightforward, involving sliding the mount into my existing rod holders and then securing the downrigger to the mount. The 30-degree angle of the mount was a perfect match for my rod holders, ensuring a clean, functional setup. I tested it in calm to moderate seas, where the boat was subjected to rolling and pitching, but the mount kept the downrigger stable.

Extended Use & Reliability

Weeks turned into months, and the gimbal mount remained a steadfast component of my fishing gear. It’s seen action in both freshwater lakes and saltwater bays, enduring everything from light breezes to choppy conditions. The stainless steel construction has held up admirably, showing no signs of rust or degradation despite constant exposure to the elements.

Breaking Down the Features of Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount

Specifications

The Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount is constructed from high-quality stainless steel, ensuring excellent corrosion resistance essential for marine environments. It features a 1.5-inch outer diameter tube, a standard size that fits most common flush-mount rod holders designed for downriggers or large fishing rods. This diameter is crucial for ensuring a snug and secure fit, preventing excessive play that could compromise stability. The primary function of this gimbal mount is to allow the user to mount their downrigger in 30-degree flush mount rod holders, effectively utilizing available deck space. This angled design is intentional, providing the optimal pitch for downrigger operation when mounted in such holders.

These specifications translate directly into practical benefits for the angler. The stainless steel construction means you don’t have to worry about rust or premature degradation, a common issue with lesser materials in saltwater. The 1.5-inch diameter ensures compatibility with a wide range of existing rod holder systems, making it a versatile upgrade or replacement part. The ability to mount in a 30-degree rod holder is the core advantage; it positions the downrigger at an angle that allows for efficient cable management and reduces the footprint on your boat deck, freeing up valuable space for anglers and gear. This thoughtful design addresses a common frustration of crowded fishing platforms.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of performance, the Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount excels at its primary job: providing a secure and stable platform for your downrigger. It significantly reduces the torque and stress placed directly on the rod holder itself by distributing the load effectively. When I was fighting a feisty king mackerel, the downrigger was under considerable strain, and the gimbal mount kept everything locked in place.

The key strength here is its ability to work seamlessly with standard rod holders, transforming them into capable downrigger mounts. It prevents the downrigger from tilting or shifting during operation, which is critical for maintaining precise lure depth. A minor point of consideration is that, like any gimbal mount, it relies on the quality and fit of the rod holder it’s inserted into; a loose rod holder will still lead to some degree of movement, though the mount itself provides a solid connection point. It certainly meets, and in many cases, exceeds the expectations for a specialized mounting accessory.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this mount is elegantly simple yet highly effective. The solid stainless steel construction not only ensures durability but also gives it a premium feel. The finish is smooth, with no sharp edges, which is appreciated when working around fishing gear.

Ergonomically, it’s designed to be functional rather than overtly comfortable to hold for extended periods, as its purpose is to be a static mount. However, the smooth tube allows for easy insertion and removal from rod holders. The way it integrates with the downrigger base is typically via bolts or a clamp system, which is usually part of the downrigger itself. The primary ergonomic benefit is the space-saving design it enables by leveraging existing rod holders.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on its construction and my experience, this stainless steel gimbal mount is built to last for many seasons of heavy use. The stainless steel material is inherently resistant to the harsh elements of a marine environment, including saltwater spray, UV exposure, and temperature fluctuations.

Maintenance is minimal; regular rinsing with fresh water after saltwater use is sufficient to preserve its condition. I haven’t encountered any specific failure points, but it’s always wise to periodically check that the bolts securing the downrigger to the mount are tight, as vibrations can occur during transit or rough seas. Keeping the inside of the mount and the rod holder clean from debris will also ensure a snug fit.

Accessories and Customization Options

This product is essentially an accessory itself, designed to interface with a downrigger and a rod holder. It doesn’t come with additional accessories. However, its strength lies in its compatibility with standard 1.5-inch diameter flush-mount rod holders and a wide range of Cannon (and often other brands’) downriggers that utilize a compatible mounting plate. There aren’t many customization options for the mount itself, as its form is dictated by its function. The 30-degree angle is a fixed specification, not adjustable.

Pros and Cons of Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount

Who Should Buy Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount?

This gimbal mount is an excellent choice for boat owners who troll frequently and utilize flush-mount rod holders. It’s ideal for anglers who need to maximize deck space, especially on smaller to medium-sized vessels where every square foot counts. Anyone looking for a secure, reliable, and durable mounting solution for their downrigger without resorting to permanent modifications will find this highly beneficial. It’s particularly well-suited for saltwater environments due to its stainless steel construction.

Anglers who are on a very tight budget or who have downriggers with integrated mounting systems that don’t require a gimbal might consider skipping this. Also, those with rod holders that are significantly larger or smaller than the standard 1.5-inch diameter will need to look elsewhere. If you are primarily fishing in freshwater and corrosion isn’t a major concern, less expensive options might suffice, but for serious saltwater use, the durability is worth the investment.

Essential complementary items would simply be your existing compatible rod holders and the downrigger unit itself. Ensuring your flush-mount rod holders are in good condition and securely installed is paramount for optimal performance.

Conclusion on Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount

The Cannon Downriggers Stainless Steel Gimbal Mount is a high-quality, purpose-built accessory that solves a common problem for anglers. Its robust stainless steel construction ensures it can withstand the harsh realities of marine use, offering excellent corrosion resistance and long-term durability. The intelligent design allows for efficient use of space by integrating with existing flush-mount rod holders, providing a stable and secure platform for your downrigger. While it represents an investment, the value proposition is strong, offering peace of mind and enhanced functionality that outweighs the cost for serious trolling enthusiasts. I wholeheartedly recommend this gimbal mount to any angler who frequently trolls and wants a reliable, space-saving solution for their downrigger setup, especially if they fish in saltwater.