Tempress Fish-On! Rod Holder Side Mount Review

After the Test: My Review of Tempress Fish-On! Rod Holder Side Mount

For anyone who spends significant time on the water, particularly those who rely on a well-organized setup to maximize their fishing time, the Tempress Fish-On! Rod Holder Side Mount presents a straightforward solution to a common problem. This unassuming piece of hardware, manufactured by Tempress, is designed to offer expanded mounting versatility for their line of Fish-On! rod holders. My pursuit of an optimized fishing platform, where every piece of gear has its intended, easily accessible spot, led me to seek out additional mounting points without having to drill new holes into my boat’s gunwales.

First impressions of this side mount were practical and unpretentious. It’s constructed from a durable-looking black polymer that feels solid in the hand, devoid of any unnecessary embellishments or overly complex design elements. It’s clear from the outset that this is a functional item built for utility rather than aesthetics. I briefly considered some universal clamp-on rod holder bases, but ultimately, the specific compatibility with the existing Fish-On! system and the advertised ease of installation swayed my decision. The immediate feeling was one of quiet satisfaction, anticipating a cleaner, more efficient setup.

Real-World Testing: Putting Tempress Fish-On! Rod Holder Side Mount to the Test

My primary testing ground for this side mount was aboard my modest 17-foot aluminum fishing boat, specifically focusing on the side gunnel area which is prime real estate for rod holders. I wanted to see how easily I could add another rod holder to an area that was already fairly populated with essential equipment. The conditions were typical for a freshwater lake environment – sunshine, occasional light spray from boat wakes, and the general jostling that comes with navigating through waves.

From the outset, the ease of use was evident. The mount installs using self-tapping screws directly onto any flat vertical surface, a process that took mere minutes. Alternatively, with the optional rail mount adapter, it can be secured to rails of varying diameters, offering even more flexibility. There were no surprises or quirks; the product did exactly what it promised to do right out of the box, providing a stable platform for a rod holder.

Over several months of consistent use, spanning numerous fishing trips from early spring to late fall, the Tempress Fish-On! Rod Holder Side Mount has held up admirably. It’s been subjected to the vibrations of the outboard motor, the occasional bump from gear being moved around, and the general wear and tear of a well-used fishing vessel. Despite this, there are no visible signs of cracking, significant scuffing, or degradation of the material. Cleaning is as simple as wiping it down with a damp cloth, and it stores easily alongside the other fishing accessories. Compared to some flimsy plastic mounts I’ve encountered from lesser-known brands, this Tempress unit feels significantly more robust and reliable.

Breaking Down the Features of Tempress Fish-On! Rod Holder Side Mount

Specifications

The Tempress Fish-On! Rod Holder Side Mount is a compact yet robust accessory designed for anglers who need to expand their rod holder capabilities. Its primary function is to provide a secure, additional mounting point for all Fish-On! Rod Holders. The mount features a standard 12-position mount, which allows for precise angling adjustments of the attached rod holder.

Installation is straightforward, requiring only four self-tapping screws to affix it to any flat, vertical surface. For those with rail systems on their boats, the optional Rail Mount Adapter accommodates both 7/8″ and 1″ rails. The unit itself is constructed from a durable, black polymer material, ensuring longevity and resistance to the elements. Its dimensions are a convenient 2 inches in height by 4.5 inches in width by 1.6 inches in depth, making it unobtrusive yet substantial enough for secure mounting. Importantly, this mount works with all Fish-On! Rod Holders, offering a unified system for anglers. Please note that hardware is not included, a crucial detail for potential buyers to remember before installation.

Performance & Functionality

In its primary role, the Tempress Fish-On! Rod Holder Side Mount performs exceptionally well. It provides a solid, unwavering base for my rod holders, which is paramount when dealing with active strikes or when trolling with larger lures. The 12-position adjustment is a standout feature, allowing me to dial in the perfect angle for different fishing techniques, whether I need a rod held high for trolling planer boards or lower for bottom fishing.

Its strengths lie in its simplicity and effectiveness. It securely anchors the rod holder, and I haven’t experienced any slippage or instability, even with heavier rods and reels. The only minor point for improvement, which is more a matter of preference, is that the mounting screw holes are designed for self-tapping screws. While efficient, some users might prefer the option for through-bolting with nuts and washers for an even more secure, permanent fixture. However, for its intended purpose and ease of installation, it meets and exceeds expectations for its price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this side mount is purely functional, prioritizing utility and ease of integration. The black polymer construction feels sturdy and capable of withstanding exposure to sun, saltwater, and general abuse that boating equipment often endures. Its finish is matte, which is practical as it doesn’t create glare on sunny days.

Ergonomically, there’s not much to report in terms of direct interaction, as its main job is to be a stable mounting point. However, the intuitive design of the 12-position mechanism for the rod holder itself is a testament to good user-centered thinking. The overall feel is one of a well-made, no-nonsense accessory that’s built to do a specific job and do it well without fuss. The way it integrates with the Fish-On! rod holders is seamless, reinforcing the idea of a cohesive system.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my extended use, the Tempress Fish-On! Rod Holder Side Mount appears to be a durable piece of equipment built for the rigors of marine environments. The polymer material shows no signs of brittleness or degradation, even after being exposed to UV rays and temperature fluctuations. I anticipate it will last for many seasons of regular fishing.

Maintenance is practically non-existent, which is a significant advantage for busy anglers. A simple rinse with freshwater after a day on the saltwater, or a quick wipe-down, is all that’s needed to keep it in good condition. There are no complex parts to clean or maintain. Its simple, solid construction means there are very few potential failure points to worry about, contributing to its long-term reliability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Tempress Fish-On! Rod Holder Side Mount is, by its nature, an accessory designed to enhance the functionality of the Tempress Fish-On! Rod Holder system. While it doesn’t come with separate accessories itself, its primary purpose is to facilitate the use of all Fish-On! Rod Holders. This means it’s highly compatible within its ecosystem.

For those with existing rail systems, the optional Rail Mount Adapter is the only notable additional component one might need. This adapter effectively expands the mounting possibilities significantly, allowing for a highly customized setup without drilling into the boat’s hull. The 12-position mount itself is a form of customization, enabling fine-tuning of rod placement.

Pros and Cons of Tempress Fish-On! Rod Holder Side Mount

Who Should Buy Tempress Fish-On! Rod Holder Side Mount?

This side mount is an excellent choice for any angler who currently uses or plans to use the Tempress Fish-On! Rod Holder system and needs to add more rod holder locations to their boat without extensive modification. It is particularly beneficial for owners of smaller boats where space is at a premium and drilled mounting holes are a significant consideration. If you value a clean, organized deck and the ability to easily adapt your rod placement to different fishing conditions, this is a worthwhile addition.

Anglers who require a universal mounting solution that can accommodate rod holders from multiple manufacturers should look elsewhere. Similarly, those who prefer to through-bolt all their accessories for maximum security might find the self-tapping screw requirement a minor drawback, though the optional rail mount adapter offers a strong alternative. For those investing in the Fish-On! system, a must-have complementary item would be the appropriate self-tapping screws or the Rail Mount Adapter if your boat has a suitable rail system.

Conclusion on Tempress Fish-On! Rod Holder Side Mount

The Tempress Fish-On! Rod Holder Side Mount is a pragmatic and effective accessory that delivers on its promise of expanded mounting versatility. Its straightforward installation, durable construction, and seamless integration with the Fish-On! Rod Holder system make it a valuable tool for anglers looking to optimize their fishing setup. The $29.79 price point feels justified by its solid build quality and the significant functional advantage it provides in organizing and deploying fishing rods.

I would personally recommend this side mount to any angler who is already invested in the Tempress Fish-On! system and finds themselves needing additional, easily accessible rod holder positions. It’s a practical upgrade that enhances the overall fishing experience, offering a stable and adaptable solution for a common boating need. If you’re aiming for a more efficient and organized day on the water, this mount is a smart, no-fuss addition to your arsenal.