Outriggers

[sstew]

Looking for outriggers for my 2005 300 Marlin. What do you think of the hard top mounted Taco's vs. traditional mouted outriggers. Pros and cons please.

Thanks.

 

[Enough Already]

Top mounted - up and out of the way but difficult to deploy, especially in rough seas. Also need to confirm the top can handle the mounting. Side mount easier to deploy but makes access to the front of the boat more difficult. I went top mount with backing plates, collapsible/removable poles. Everyone has an opinion, so you'll probably find one to support whatever way you are leaning.

 

[jfmagana]

I have Lee's outriggers. Quality-wise, IMHO, Lee's is the best quality outrigger on the market. I looked at all of them side by side and can clearly see that Lee's is by far the best constructed, most rugged unit out there. I have them on my hardtop 228g and have to agree with the previous comment regarding deployment in rough seas...it's kind-of hairy to be standing on the gunwale when the boat is pitching and rolling like roller coaster. That said, for my little boat, side mounts aren't practical...if side mounts work for your boat, I'd highly recommend that option.

 

[ocnslr]

Taco Grand Slams, with 15-ft heavy-duty poles.

I installed them over five years ago. They have only been removed from the boat briefly each year, for maintenance and waxing.

Always run fully extended, and never a problem. Keep the rigger lines taut so there is a little bow in the riggers, and then they don't whip. And we have been out in a lot of snotty weather.

Never stood on the gunwale to deploy the riggers. Just pull the lever down, turn the rigger to the desired angle, and push the lever up to lock it.

Brian