Cannon Downriggers Vinyl Flash Weight Review

Meet the Cannon Downriggers Vinyl Flash Weight: First Thoughts

The Cannon Downriggers Vinyl Flash Weight promises to be more than just a hunk of lead dragging your line deep. This weight aims to protect your boat while attracting fish. The Cannon brand is known for reliable downrigging equipment.

I’ve spent countless hours trolling for salmon and lake trout. I was tired of the black streaks and scratches left by traditional, uncoated downrigger weights banging against my boat’s hull. I needed a solution that offered both protection and a little extra fish-attracting flash.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the smooth, black vinyl coating. It felt thick and durable, promising a gentle buffer against my gel coat. The reflective prism tape on the fin adds a noticeable shimmer, definitely more eye-catching than plain lead. Compared to a standard, uncoated lead weight and a competitor’s rubber-coated version, the Cannon Downriggers Vinyl Flash Weight felt like a worthwhile upgrade. Its design suggested a better balance between protection and fish attraction.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The price point ($67.99-$102.89) is higher than basic weights. However, if it truly protects my boat and attracts more fish, it’s a worthwhile investment.

Real-World Testing: Putting Cannon Downriggers Vinyl Flash Weight to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Cannon Downriggers Vinyl Flash Weight on Lake Michigan during a salmon fishing trip. Conditions were moderate, with a slight chop and partly cloudy skies. Deploying the weight was straightforward.

The Cannon Downriggers Vinyl Flash Weight tracked straight and true. I ran it at various trolling speeds ranging from 2.0 to 3.5 mph. There were no unusual vibrations or wobbles. After a full day of trolling, I pulled the weight up. I was relieved to see no new scratches or marks on the boat’s hull.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Cannon Downriggers Vinyl Flash Weight has held up remarkably well. The vinyl coating shows no signs of cracking or peeling. The prism tape remains securely adhered to the fin, maintaining its reflective properties.

Cleaning the weight is simple. A quick rinse with fresh water removes any lake grime or algae. Compared to my old uncoated weights, the vinyl coating prevents the lead from oxidizing and leaving a chalky residue. This Cannon weight is definitely outperforming my previous downrigger weights. It is easier to maintain and protects my boat better.

Breaking Down the Features of Cannon Downriggers Vinyl Flash Weight

Specifications

The Cannon Downriggers Vinyl Flash Weight boasts several notable specifications:

• Vinyl Coating: The durable vinyl coating protects the boat’s finish from scratches and dings. This is a crucial feature for boat owners.
• Reflective Prism Tape: The prism tape on the fin reflects light. This is designed to attract fish from a distance.
• Tapered Design: The tapered design ensures straight tracking at various trolling speeds. This prevents unwanted line twists and keeps your presentation on target.
• Black Color: The black color provides a stealthy presentation in the water. It won’t spook wary fish.
• One Size: The product details only list one size option. This may limit its versatility for different fishing depths and trolling speeds.
• Quantity: Each purchase includes one weight. Anglers needing multiple weights for multiple downriggers will need to purchase accordingly.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the effectiveness and longevity of the downrigger weight. The vinyl coating safeguards the boat. The prism tape aims to improve the fishing success.

Performance & Functionality

The Cannon Downriggers Vinyl Flash Weight performs its job admirably. It effectively keeps the fishing line at the desired depth. The straight tracking design prevents tangles and ensures a consistent presentation.

The strength of this weight is definitely the boat protection and consistent tracking. The prism tape’s effectiveness is harder to quantify, but any extra attraction is a bonus. One potential area for improvement would be offering different weight options to better suit varying fishing conditions.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality feels solid and well-constructed. The vinyl coating is evenly applied. The weight’s overall design is simple yet effective.

The weight is easy to handle, although the absence of a specific grip point could be a minor inconvenience. The weight is ready to go out of the box, no assembly required.

Durability & Maintenance

The Cannon Downriggers Vinyl Flash Weight appears to be built to last. The durable vinyl coating should withstand years of use. Routine maintenance is limited to a simple rinse after each fishing trip.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Cannon Downriggers Vinyl Flash Weight doesn’t come with any accessories. There aren’t any customization options available. However, anglers can easily add their own swivels or clips to the weight for attaching to downrigger cables. The Cannon Downriggers Vinyl Flash Weight is intended to be used as is. It is designed for a specific purpose, and customization isn’t really necessary.

Pros and Cons of Cannon Downriggers Vinyl Flash Weight

Who Should Buy Cannon Downriggers Vinyl Flash Weight?

The Cannon Downriggers Vinyl Flash Weight is perfect for boat owners who want to protect their boat’s finish. It’s also good for anglers looking for any extra edge in attracting fish. Pro anglers seeking a durable, reliable downrigger weight will appreciate its performance.

Anglers on a tight budget or those who don’t mind the occasional scratch on their boat can skip this product. Those who exclusively fish in shallow water, where downriggers aren’t necessary, also wouldn’t benefit. A must-have modification would be a high-quality snap swivel for easy attachment and detachment.

Conclusion on Cannon Downriggers Vinyl Flash Weight

The Cannon Downriggers Vinyl Flash Weight is a worthwhile investment for serious anglers who value their boat’s appearance. Its protective vinyl coating, fish-attracting prism tape, and stable tracking design make it a top-performing downrigger weight. While the price is higher than basic lead weights, the added features and boat protection justify the cost.

I would definitely recommend the Cannon Downriggers Vinyl Flash Weight to anyone looking to upgrade their downrigging setup. It has exceeded my expectations. Protect your boat, attract more fish, and enjoy your time on the water. Invest in the Cannon Downriggers Vinyl Flash Weight today!