Does the Cannon Flush Mount w/Cover f/Rod Holder Live Up to Its Name?
When you’re out on the water, every piece of gear needs to be reliable and functional, especially when it’s directly supporting your fishing efforts. I’ve spent over a decade wrestling with equipment in every imaginable environment, from saltwater spray to the gritty realities of a workshop, and I’ve learned that seemingly small components can make or break an experience. This led me to the Cannon Flush Mount w/Cover f/Rod Holder, a component designed to integrate seamlessly with other fishing tackle. My need arose from a desire for a cleaner, more permanent installation for my rod holder setup on a smaller skiff, where every inch of deck space is precious and tripping hazards are a constant concern. My initial impression was one of simple utility; it’s a black plastic piece with a cover, unassuming but promising a tidier solution. I briefly considered universal mounting plates, but the specific design of my existing rod holder pointed me towards a dedicated solution for optimal fit and function. Unboxing it, I felt a quiet satisfaction, a sense that a small, persistent annoyance might soon be resolved.
Real-World Testing: Putting the Cannon Flush Mount w/Cover f/Rod Holder to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested this flush mount in its intended environment: aboard my 18-foot bay boat, primarily in coastal saltwater conditions. The installation process itself was straightforward, requiring basic tools and a bit of careful measurement to ensure a clean cut into the deck surface. It immediately provided a much lower profile compared to a surface-mounted alternative, reducing the likelihood of snagging gear or feet.
Performance in conditions was also evaluated, and exposure to saltwater spray, moderate sun, and occasional light rain didn’t seem to affect its structure or finish. The cover, when in place, offered a welcome layer of protection for the mount itself when the rod holder wasn’t attached. Ease of use was paramount; the Cannon Flush Mount w/Cover f/Rod Holder was intuitive. Inserting and removing the rod holder felt secure and straightforward after the initial installation. No immediate surprises or major quirks presented themselves, which, for a mounting component, is precisely what you hope for.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, this mounting solution has held up remarkably well. It’s been through numerous fishing trips, enduring vibrations from the engine and the occasional bump from tackle boxes. The Cannon Flush Mount w/Cover f/Rod Holder shows no significant signs of wear and tear; there are no cracks, no noticeable fading, and the mounting mechanism remains as secure as day one.
Maintenance has been minimal, typically just a rinse with fresh water after saltwater excursions. The cover fits snugly, preventing debris from accumulating in the mount when not in use. Compared to other flush mounts I’ve encountered over the years, this unit performs reliably. It doesn’t flex or creak under load, and the connection to the rod holder remains solid.
Breaking Down the Features of the Cannon Flush Mount w/Cover f/Rod Holder
Specifications
The Cannon Flush Mount w/Cover f/Rod Holder is designed with simplicity and practicality in mind, and its specifications reflect this. It is a one-size component, intended to pair with the Cannon Three-Position Adjustable Rod Holder. The material appears to be a durable, marine-grade plastic, which is crucial for resisting saltwater corrosion and UV degradation.
The primary function of this mount is to allow the rod holder to be installed flush with the boat’s deck or gunnel. This provides a clean, low-profile installation, minimizing clutter and potential tripping hazards on deck. The included cover serves a dual purpose: protecting the mount’s interior from debris and water when the rod holder is removed, and offering a smoother surface when the mount is exposed.
Performance & Functionality
The core job of the Cannon Flush Mount w/Cover f/Rod Holder is to securely and discreetly hold a compatible Cannon rod holder. In this regard, it performs its function admirably. Once installed, it provides a stable base that doesn’t wobble or flex, even when a rod is under load from a fighting fish or the boat’s movement.
Its main strength lies in its ability to provide that crucial flush mounting solution. This significantly improves deck space and safety, a major advantage for smaller vessels. A potential area for improvement, though minor, could be in the ease of removal of the cover itself; it can sometimes be a bit stiff to pop off, though this also ensures it stays put during rough conditions. For its price point and intended use, it meets and often exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Cannon Flush Mount w/Cover f/Rod Holder is purely functional, with no unnecessary embellishments. It’s constructed from what feels like a robust, injection-molded plastic, which gives it a good perceived sturdiness without adding significant weight. The finish is a simple, matte black that blends well with most boat interiors.
Ergonomically, it’s designed to be unobtrusive. The flush profile means there’s nothing to catch on, and the cut-out for the rod holder is precise. The included cover fits snugly over the mount, providing a smooth, uninterrupted surface when the rod holder is not attached. There’s no real learning curve here; its design is intuitive and straightforward.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my extended use, this flush mount appears built for longevity in a marine environment. The plastic material is resistant to the harsh conditions of saltwater, and I anticipate it will last many seasons. There are no obvious points of failure; the construction is solid, and the cover mechanism seems robust.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick rinse with fresh water after each use is usually sufficient to keep it clean and free of salt residue. The cover also protects the internal mounting mechanism, reducing the need for more intensive cleaning. I haven’t encountered any issues with stiffness or degradation of the material.
Accessories and Customization Options
The primary “accessory” included with the Cannon Flush Mount w/Cover f/Rod Holder is its dedicated cover. This cover is essential for protecting the mount when the rod holder isn’t engaged, keeping out water, salt, and debris. Beyond that, this unit is a mounting component, not something typically customized with additional accessories itself.
However, its compatibility is entirely dependent on the specific Cannon rod holder it is designed for. It is not intended to work with rod holders from other manufacturers. The “customization” here comes from where you choose to install it on your boat, offering flexibility in rod placement.
Pros and Cons of the Cannon Flush Mount w/Cover f/Rod Holder
Pros
- Provides a clean, flush installation, significantly improving deck space and safety on smaller boats.
- The included cover offers excellent protection for the mount when the rod holder is detached.
- Constructed from durable, marine-grade plastic that resists saltwater and UV exposure.
- Simple and intuitive design requires no special tools or expertise for use once installed.
- Offers a secure and stable mount for compatible Cannon rod holders, even under load.
Cons
- The cover can be stiff to remove, occasionally requiring a bit of force.
- Limited to use with specific Cannon rod holders; not a universal solution.
- Installation requires cutting into the boat’s structure, making it a semi-permanent modification.
Who Should Buy the Cannon Flush Mount w/Cover f/Rod Holder?
This flush mount is an ideal solution for boaters seeking to optimize their deck space and create a tidier, safer fishing platform. It’s particularly well-suited for owners of smaller center consoles, bay boats, or skiffs where every square inch counts. Anglers who prioritize a clean aesthetic and want to avoid surface-mounted hardware will find this very beneficial.
Anyone who needs to frequently remove and reattach their rod holders would appreciate the secure, flush fit this mount provides. However, individuals looking for a universal rod holder mount or those who prefer not to make permanent modifications to their boat’s structure should probably skip this product. Those who primarily use non-Cannon rod holders will also need to look elsewhere. A good quality sealant is a must-have accessory during installation to ensure a watertight seal.
Conclusion on the Cannon Flush Mount w/Cover f/Rod Holder
The Cannon Flush Mount w/Cover f/Rod Holder is a well-designed, practical piece of fishing equipment that delivers on its promise of a clean, secure, and flush installation. Its durable construction and the inclusion of a protective cover make it a valuable addition for any angler looking to enhance their boat’s functionality and safety. The initial effort of cutting into the deck is well worth the long-term benefits of reduced clutter and a more integrated setup.
Considering its price point and the quality of materials and design, it offers excellent value for money. For those specifically using compatible Cannon rod holders and aiming for a streamlined deck, I would highly recommend this flush mount. It’s a small component that makes a significant difference in the overall fishing experience.