My Journey with the Cannon Standard Mounting Base
For anyone who fishes from a boat, the reliance on dependable equipment is paramount. My own journey into the world of downriggers began with a desire to precisely control lure depth, and with that came the need for robust mounting solutions. The Cannon Standard Mounting Base entered my life not as a luxury, but as a necessity when I upgraded my downrigger system. The immediate impression was one of solid, no-nonsense construction. It felt substantial, promising to hold firm under the stresses of fishing. I’d been considering generic alternatives, but the thought of compromising the stability of my expensive downrigger made me stick with the manufacturer’s intended solution. My first reaction was a sense of quiet confidence, knowing that this base would provide a secure foundation for my fishing adventures.
Real-World Testing: Putting Cannon Standard Mounting Base to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial deployment of this mounting base was on a moderately choppy lake. The setup was straightforward; it mounted securely to my boat’s gunwale, providing a solid platform for my downrigger. Throughout a full day of fishing, through multiple deployments and retrievals of heavy weights, the base held its position without any noticeable slippage or movement. Even with the occasional spray from waves, the composite material showed no signs of degradation or compromise. It was immediately intuitive, with a clear mechanism for attaching and detaching the downrigger unit. No surprises or quirks presented themselves, which, in my experience, is the best kind of first use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including a few trips in more challenging coastal conditions, the Cannon Standard Mounting Base continues to perform admirably. It’s endured numerous hours of sun, salt spray, and the vibration of a boat in motion. There are no visible cracks, stiffness, or any other signs of wear and tear on the heavy-duty composite construction. Maintenance has been minimal; a quick rinse with fresh water after saltwater excursions is all that’s needed, and it dries quickly. Compared to some flimsier plastic bases I’ve seen or used in the past, this one feels built to last. It easily outperforms budget options that tend to warp or crack over time.
Breaking Down the Features of Cannon Standard Mounting Base
Specifications
The Cannon Standard Mounting Base is designed with simplicity and strength in mind, featuring heavy-duty composite construction. This material choice is crucial for its intended purpose, offering excellent corrosion and UV resistance, which are vital for marine environments. The base is a one-size-fits-all design, intended to be universal for Cannon downrigger models, specifically mentioning compatibility with Optimum, Magnum, Uni-Troll, and Easi-Troll units. This universal design simplifies the process for users with various Cannon downriggers, eliminating the need for model-specific mounts. Its primary function is to provide a strong mount while also allowing for the easy removal of the downrigger, a key convenience feature.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of its core function, the Cannon Standard Mounting Base excels at providing a stable and secure connection point for downriggers. It reliably keeps the downrigger unit firmly in place, even under significant load during trolling. The strong mount it creates inspires confidence, ensuring the downrigger won’t shift unexpectedly. Its ability to allow for easy removal of the downrigger is also a significant functional advantage, making it simple to take the unit off the boat for storage or maintenance. This ease of use does not come at the expense of stability; it strikes a good balance.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this base is focused on utility and durability. The heavy-duty composite construction gives it a robust feel, suggesting it can withstand the rigors of marine use. Its corrosion and UV resistant properties mean it won’t degrade quickly when exposed to the elements. The ergonomic aspect is primarily related to its ease of attachment and detachment. The design facilitates a quick and secure lock-in, and conversely, a straightforward release, which is essential when you need to quickly remove equipment. There’s no complex locking mechanism, just a solid, dependable interface.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its composite material and its rating for corrosion and UV resistance, the Cannon Standard Mounting Base is expected to last for many seasons. The construction appears solid, with no obvious weak points that would suggest premature failure. Maintenance is refreshingly simple: a basic rinse after use, especially in saltwater, is generally sufficient to keep it in good condition. There are no moving parts to seize up or require lubrication, making it a low-maintenance component of any fishing setup.
Accessories and Customization Options
The primary “accessory” for the Cannon Standard Mounting Base is the downrigger unit it supports. It’s designed to integrate seamlessly with specific Cannon downrigger models. While there are no additional included accessories, its strength lies in its direct compatibility. This integration ensures a perfect fit and function with the intended downriggers, avoiding the potential issues that can arise from using generic mounting systems.
Pros and Cons of Cannon Standard Mounting Base
Pros
- Heavy-duty composite construction for superior strength and longevity.
- Corrosion and UV resistant materials ensure performance in harsh marine environments.
- Provides a strong mount that inspires confidence during operation.
- Allows for easy removal of downrigger units for convenient storage and transport.
- Universal compatibility with a wide range of Cannon downrigger models.
Cons
- While durable, the composite might not offer the same aesthetic appeal as some metal alternatives for certain users.
- The price, while reasonable for a specialized component, might be a consideration for those on a very tight budget.
Who Should Buy Cannon Standard Mounting Base?
The Cannon Standard Mounting Base is ideal for any angler who owns a Cannon downrigger and values a secure, reliable mounting solution. It’s perfect for boat owners who frequently fish in saltwater or are exposed to significant sun and weather. Anyone looking for a dependable and easy-to-use system for attaching and detaching their downrigger unit will find this base to be an excellent choice. Those who should probably skip this are individuals using downriggers from brands other than Cannon, as compatibility is specific. For optimal performance, ensure your downrigger model is listed within the compatible range.
Conclusion on Cannon Standard Mounting Base
The Cannon Standard Mounting Base is a straightforward, highly effective component that does precisely what it’s designed to do: provide a rock-solid platform for your Cannon downrigger while allowing for effortless removal. Its heavy-duty composite construction and corrosion and UV resistance make it a wise investment for anyone serious about trolling. The $51.99 price point feels justified for the peace of mind and reliability it offers, especially considering its robust build quality and ease of use. I would personally recommend this mounting base to any Cannon downrigger owner who wants a dependable and long-lasting solution for their boat. It’s a functional piece of gear that simplifies the fishing experience without any unnecessary fanfare.