The Story Behind the Davis Instruments lil’ Fella Trolling Plate f/Outboards 25hp or Less
For years, my smaller outboard motors, particularly those under 25 horsepower, have been a source of both joy and frustration when it came to slow-speed maneuvering. Whether I was pursuing elusive walleye in a glassy lake or meticulously navigating through tight channels, achieving that ideal slow troll speed consistently felt like a moving target. The inherent design of these smaller engines often meant they were either pushing too hard or were on the verge of stalling, a constant balancing act that detracted from the overall fishing or cruising experience. It was during one particularly challenging drift along a productive reef, where maintaining a specific speed was crucial for enticing bites, that the need for a dedicated solution became undeniable. I needed a way to truly slow things down without resorting to cumbersome makeshift solutions or sacrificing engine responsiveness.
This need led me to investigate the world of trolling plates, and among the options available, the Davis Instruments lil’ Fella Trolling Plate f/Outboards 25hp or Less stood out. Upon receiving it, my initial impression was one of robust simplicity. The Davis Instruments name carries weight in marine accessories, and this unit felt no different. Crafted from what appeared to be high-quality polycarbonates with sturdy stainless steel hardware, it projected an immediate sense of durability. It wasn’t some flimsy plastic attachment; it felt engineered for the marine environment. I had briefly considered the larger “Happy Troller” model but quickly realized its scale was likely overkill for my specific 25hp and under applications. The promise of this smaller, more focused unit was appealing.
My first reaction upon holding it was a quiet sense of anticipation, a feeling of having found a practical tool to solve a persistent problem. It wasn’t a dramatic “aha!” moment, but rather a grounded satisfaction that a thoughtfully designed piece of equipment was finally within reach, ready to address the nuances of low-speed propulsion.
Real-World Testing: Putting Davis Instruments lil’ Fella Trolling Plate f/Outboards 25hp or Less to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing grounds for the Davis Instruments lil’ Fella Trolling Plate f/Outboards 25hp or Less were the calm waters of a local reservoir known for its excellent trout and bass fishing. I attached it to the anti-ventilation plate of my 20hp Mercury outboard. The installation process itself was surprisingly straightforward, taking me less than fifteen minutes from unboxing to being ready to launch. The plate’s design allowed it to lock down securely, and I was eager to see how it would perform at low throttle settings.
During that first outing, the difference was immediately noticeable. I was able to achieve a consistent, barely-there trolling speed that I previously could only dream of with that engine. The plate effectively diverted water flow, reducing the prop’s bite and allowing the engine to maintain a slow, steady RPM without sputtering or threatening to stall. I tested it in a light chop and also in dead calm conditions. In both scenarios, the unit performed as expected, significantly enhancing my ability to control the boat’s speed for optimal lure presentation. The most pleasant surprise was how little it seemed to affect the boat’s handling when I needed to increase speed; it was intuitive to deploy for trolling and then simply raise to return to cruising.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the past several months, this trolling plate has become an indispensable part of my smaller boat’s setup. I’ve used it on numerous fishing trips across lakes and slow-moving rivers, clocking many hours of low-speed operation. The polycarbonate construction has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of significant wear, cracking, or becoming brittle, even after prolonged exposure to sunlight and varying water temperatures. The stainless steel hardware has also remained free of corrosion, a testament to its quality.
In terms of durability, I’ve noticed no performance degradation. The mechanism that locks the plate in the “down” position for trolling and “up” for cruising has remained firm and reliable. Cleaning is as simple as a quick rinse with fresh water after each use, and storage is no issue as it folds neatly against the outboard. Compared to previous experiences with less robust homemade solutions or less specifically designed devices, this trolling plate has proven to be a far superior and more reliable option. It has consistently delivered on its promise of extended slow-speed control for engines in the 25hp or less class.
Breaking Down the Features of Davis Instruments lil’ Fella Trolling Plate f/Outboards 25hp or Less
Specifications
The Davis Instruments lil’ Fella Trolling Plate f/Outboards 25hp or Less is engineered with specific design parameters to cater to smaller outboard motors. Its highest quality polycarbonates ensure it can withstand the harsh marine environment, offering resistance to UV damage and impact. This material choice is crucial for longevity and maintaining performance over time.
The unit is designed to fit all outboard motors up to and including 25hp, making it a versatile solution for a wide range of small boats. It features a clever mechanism that allows it to lock “down” for trolling and then easily flip “up” for cruising. This dual functionality is key to its practicality, as it doesn’t impede performance when higher speeds are desired. The stainless steel hardware provides strength and corrosion resistance, ensuring secure attachment and reliable operation of the locking mechanism.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of this trolling plate is to allow for much slower trolling speeds than an outboard motor of 25hp or less can typically achieve on its own. It accomplishes this admirably. By diverting water flow downwards, it creates drag and effectively reduces the prop’s speed, allowing the engine to operate at a lower RPM without stalling. This enhanced control is particularly beneficial for techniques like live bait fishing or slow-dragging lures.
Its greatest strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. It does precisely what it’s designed to do: slow down your boat. The transition between trolling and cruising modes is remarkably smooth; the plate easily pivots into position. One minor point to consider, though not a significant weakness, is that at very high cruising speeds, there might be a slight hum or vibration from the plate, though this is typically negligible and disappears once it’s flipped up. Overall, it exceeds expectations for its intended application, offering a significant improvement in low-speed maneuverability.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the lil’ Fella Trolling Plate is its standout feature. It’s a clever adaptation of its larger sibling, the Happy Troller, scaled down for smaller engines. The use of high-quality polycarbonates gives it a sleek, durable appearance, and the integrated locking mechanism feels robust.
Ergonomically, it’s designed to be operated from the boat, usually with a simple pull or push action on the plate itself or by actuating the mechanism. The black color blends in well with most outboard motor cowlings. The markings for “down” and “up” are clear and easy to understand, minimizing any learning curve for new users. It feels well-balanced and thoughtfully constructed, suggesting it’s built to endure the rigors of regular use on the water.
Durability & Maintenance
Durability is a key selling point for this unit. The polycarbonate construction is inherently resistant to the elements, and the stainless steel hardware is chosen for its ability to withstand saltwater and freshwater environments without rusting or degrading. After months of use, including being occasionally exposed to minor impacts from docks or submerged debris (though care is always advised), the plate shows no signs of stress or damage.
Maintenance is refreshingly minimal. A good rinse with fresh water after use is generally all that’s required to keep it in top condition. The pivot points and locking mechanism are designed to be low-maintenance. There are no complex parts to lubricate or adjust regularly. Potential failure points are few, primarily related to the attachment hardware, but with proper installation using the provided stainless steel hardware, this is unlikely to be an issue.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Davis Instruments lil’ Fella Trolling Plate f/Outboards 25hp or Less is designed as a self-contained unit. It typically comes as a single piece, ready for installation. There are no specific “accessories” in the traditional sense that are required for its core function. However, its design is such that it integrates directly with the anti-ventilation plate of your outboard.
Customization isn’t really a factor here; the plate is manufactured to specific dimensions and functionality. It’s not a modular system. Its strength lies in its purpose-built design for a particular category of outboard motors. You won’t be adding extra plates or swapping out different sized mechanisms. The value is in the simplicity of its intended, effective operation.
Pros and Cons of Davis Instruments lil’ Fella Trolling Plate f/Outboards 25hp or Less
Pros
- Significantly reduces trolling speed for outboards 25hp and under, enabling precise lure presentation.
- Durable construction using high-quality polycarbonates and stainless steel hardware for longevity in marine environments.
- Easy to operate with a simple flip mechanism to switch between trolling and cruising modes.
- Fits all outboard motors up to and including 25hp, offering broad compatibility.
- Enhances boat control at slow speeds, improving the overall fishing or maneuvering experience.
- Minimal maintenance required, typically just a rinse after use.
Cons
- Price point may be a consideration for some, as it’s a dedicated accessory rather than a basic component.
- May produce a slight, subtle hum or vibration at higher cruising speeds when in the “up” position, though usually negligible.
- Requires a bit of initial adjustment to dial in the perfect trolling speed for specific conditions.
Who Should Buy Davis Instruments lil’ Fella Trolling Plate f/Outboards 25hp or Less?
This trolling plate is an absolute must-have for any boater who frequently uses an outboard motor of 25hp or less and needs to achieve slow, controlled speeds. It’s particularly ideal for anglers who employ techniques requiring precise boat positioning, such as drift fishing for salmon, walleye, or any species that requires a slow, natural lure presentation. It’s also a fantastic addition for those navigating tight docks, mooring fields, or narrow channels where fine control is paramount.
Anyone operating a small skiff, jon boat, inflatable, or a boat with a kicker motor in this horsepower range will find significant benefit. If you’ve ever found yourself fighting to keep your smaller outboard from over-speeding or stalling during slow drifts, this unit is for you.
Those who should probably skip this product are individuals with outboard motors larger than 25hp, as the plate is not designed for the increased thrust and speed these engines produce. Additionally, if your primary use of a small outboard involves quick trips across open water with no need for slow-speed control, then this accessory might be an unnecessary expense. For those who do opt for it, a basic set of marine-grade tools for installation and a willingness to experiment with different throttle settings to find your ideal troll speed are all you’ll need.
Conclusion on Davis Instruments lil’ Fella Trolling Plate f/Outboards 25hp or Less
The Davis Instruments lil’ Fella Trolling Plate f/Outboards 25hp or Less is a masterclass in functional marine accessory design. It tackles a common problem faced by owners of smaller outboard motors with an elegant and effective solution. The robust polycarbonate construction paired with stainless steel hardware promises longevity, and the simple yet ingenious mechanism for locking the plate in place makes it incredibly user-friendly.
For its price of $143.49, you’re investing in a significant upgrade to your boating experience, particularly if you value precise slow-speed control. It delivers on its promise of dramatically extending the usable slow-speed range of your outboard, making fishing or maneuvering more enjoyable and effective. I would wholeheartedly recommend this trolling plate to anyone with an outboard in the 25hp or less category who is looking to achieve those critical slow trolling speeds. It’s a small investment that yields a substantial return in performance and satisfaction on the water.