Rig Rite 2000 Rooster Tail Tamer 12in x 6in Review

The Rig Rite 2000 Rooster Tail Tamer 12in x 6in: Final Thoughts from Me

My quest for a more organized and less spray-prone transom led me to the Rig Rite 2000 Rooster Tail Tamer 12in x 6in. This marine-grade plastic spray guard is designed specifically to mitigate spray originating from transducers, a common nuisance on any boat. It promised a simple solution to a persistent problem, aiming to keep my stern deck drier and my electronics cleaner.

The catalyst for this purchase was a particularly rough outing where a combination of choppy water and a poorly positioned transducer resulted in a constant, annoying rooster tail of spray being whipped directly onto the back of the boat. This not only made the deck slippery but also threatened to corrode exposed components over time. I had considered DIY solutions and generic fender attachments, but none offered the focused design and ease of installation that this Rig Rite product seemed to promise.

Upon unboxing, the initial impression was one of sturdy, no-nonsense functionality. The marine-grade plastic felt robust, and the included black powder-coated L-bracket and stainless steel hardware suggested a thoughtful assembly process. My immediate reaction was a hopeful curiosity, a feeling that this might just be the tidy fix I was looking for.

Real-World Testing: Putting Rig Rite 2000 Rooster Tail Tamer 12in x 6in to the Test

First Use Experience

I installed the Rig Rite 2000 Rooster Tail Tamer 12in x 6in on the transom of my small fishing boat, a 17-foot center console. The installation was straightforward, attaching the L-bracket to the transom and then securing the spray guard itself. I tested it during a moderately choppy day on the lake, where boat speeds ranged from idle to about 25 mph.

Performance was immediately noticeable; the characteristic rooster tail spray from the transducer was significantly reduced, almost entirely eliminated in most conditions. The unit effectively deflected the water downwards and outwards, away from the boat’s stern. There were no immediate issues or surprises, and its operation was intuitive – it simply does what it’s designed to do without requiring any user input once installed.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, including a few longer runs in more challenging sea conditions, the Rig Rite Tamer has held up remarkably well. It has endured repeated exposure to saltwater spray, sun, and the occasional bump from docking without any visible signs of degradation. The plastic remains solid, with no cracks or signs of becoming brittle, and the mounting hardware shows no corrosion.

Maintenance has been minimal; a simple rinse with fresh water after each outing is all that’s needed to keep it clean and free of salt buildup. Its simplicity is a major advantage here, as there are no complex parts to worry about or maintain. Compared to some more elaborate splash guards I’ve seen, this simple design seems to offer superior longevity with far less fuss.

Breaking Down the Features of Rig Rite 2000 Rooster Tail Tamer 12in x 6in

Specifications

The Rig Rite 2000 Rooster Tail Tamer 12in x 6in is constructed from marine-grade plastic, a material chosen for its durability and resistance to the harsh marine environment. Its dimensions are a practical 12 inches in length and 6 inches in width, providing ample coverage for most transducer spray issues. The unit comes complete with a black powder-coated 3″ x 3″ L-bracket for mounting, ensuring a secure attachment point. Crucially, it includes stainless mounting hardware, which resists corrosion and ensures a long-lasting installation.

These specifications translate directly into user benefits. The marine-grade plastic guarantees it won’t degrade under prolonged sun and saltwater exposure, unlike cheaper alternatives. The generous 12″ x 6″ size effectively captures and redirects spray from a wide range of transducers, preventing that annoying rooster tail from soaking the transom. The included L-bracket and stainless hardware simplify installation, removing the need for separate purchases and guaranteeing a robust, rust-resistant setup that will endure the elements.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Rig Rite 2000 Rooster Tail Tamer 12in x 6in is to knock down spray from transducers, and it excels at this task. During my testing, it significantly reduced the amount of water being whipped up and over the stern, especially at higher speeds. This spray suppression contributes to a cleaner, drier boat deck and can help protect sensitive electronic components from constant moisture.

Its main strength is its simple effectiveness; it does exactly what it’s advertised to do without any fuss. It’s a set-and-forget kind of accessory that solves a common problem efficiently. I didn’t encounter any performance issues, as its design is straightforward and relies on basic physics to redirect water. It fully meets expectations for its intended purpose.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this spray guard is purely functional, eschewing any unnecessary aesthetic embellishments. The marine-grade plastic has a semi-gloss finish that holds up well to the elements and is easy to wipe clean. Its shape is optimized for deflecting water, with a gentle curve that guides spray away from the boat.

While there are no “ergonomic” considerations in the traditional sense for a static piece of equipment, its design allows for easy handling and installation. The smooth surfaces make it easy to grip and maneuver during mounting. The integrated mounting points on the bracket are well-placed, facilitating a secure and flush fit against the transom.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction from marine-grade plastic and the inclusion of stainless mounting hardware, the Rig Rite 2000 Rooster Tail Tamer 12in x 6in is built for longevity in a saltwater environment. I anticipate this unit will last for many seasons with minimal degradation. Its solid construction suggests it can withstand minor impacts without issue.

Cleaning is as simple as hosing it down with fresh water, which effectively removes salt and any grime accumulated from the water. There are no moving parts or complex mechanisms that could fail. The only potential concern would be extreme physical impact, which could cause the plastic to crack, but under normal operating conditions, it appears exceptionally durable.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Rig Rite 2000 Rooster Tail Tamer 12in x 6in comes with a black powder-coated 3″ x 3″ L-bracket and stainless mounting hardware. These are essential for installation and are of good quality, complementing the main unit.

This particular model doesn’t offer extensive customization options in terms of color or size variations, as it’s designed for a specific function. However, its compatibility with standard marine mounting practices means it can be adapted if a different bracket style is preferred, though the included one is perfectly functional. The strength lies in its straightforward, out-of-the-box utility.

Pros and Cons of Rig Rite 2000 Rooster Tail Tamer 12in x 6in

Who Should Buy Rig Rite 2000 Rooster Tail Tamer 12in x 6in?

This spray guard is ideal for any boat owner who experiences annoying spray from their transducer, particularly those with smaller boats where spray can easily reach the cockpit. It’s perfect for anglers, recreational boaters, and anyone looking to improve comfort and reduce water ingress at the stern. If you’re tired of the constant mist from your transducer dampening your gear or making your fishing platform slick, this is a worthwhile investment.

Those who prioritize a clean, minimalist aesthetic on their boat might want to consider if this functional component fits their visual preferences. It’s not a decorative item, so if that’s a primary concern, other solutions might be more appealing. For optimal performance, ensure your transducer is mounted within a reasonable distance of the transom that this guard can effectively cover.

Conclusion on Rig Rite 2000 Rooster Tail Tamer 12in x 6in

The Rig Rite 2000 Rooster Tail Tamer 12in x 6in is a highly effective and practical solution for a common boating problem. Its marine-grade plastic construction and included stainless mounting hardware promise durability and ease of use. For its price of $35.89, it offers exceptional value by significantly reducing bothersome transducer spray and contributing to a drier, more pleasant boating experience.

I would readily recommend this spray guard to any boat owner who is dealing with unwanted water being whipped up by their transducer. It’s a straightforward, no-frills accessory that delivers on its promise, making it a smart and sensible addition to any vessel. If you’re looking for a simple fix to a persistent spray issue, this Rig Rite Tamer is definitely worth considering.