Description
Davis Happy Troller Small Trolling Plate f/Outboards | Boat Supply Store
Achieve precise trolling speeds crucial for finesse fishing techniques with this specialized plate designed for outboard motors rated 20-50hp. Its stainless steel and marine aluminum construction ensures durability, featuring lockable positions for both optimal trolling and improved cruising stability. This unit directly mounts to the anti-cavitation plate, effectively reducing porpoising and cavitation while enhancing overall boat handling and ride smoothness, particularly on bow-light vessels operating in coastal waters or large freshwater bodies.
Key Features
- Reduces troll speed significantly in the locked 'down' position for precise lure presentation.
- Acts as a high-performance stabilizer in the locked 'up' position, enhancing ride quality.
- Maintains superior stability, especially beneficial for lighter bow-weight boat designs.
- Smooths out the boat's ride, mitigating the impact of choppy water conditions.
- Reduces problematic porpoising and engine cavitation during operation.
- Constructed from premium stainless steel and marine-grade aluminum for extended service life.
- Features a clear anodized aluminum finish for enhanced corrosion resistance.
- Installs efficiently in approximately 15 minutes with basic mechanical skills.
Specifications
| Product Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Davis Instruments |
| Model | Happy Troller Small Trolling Plate |
| MPN | 461 |
| Recommended Outboard Horsepower | 20-50hp |
| Material | Stainless steel and marine aluminum |
| Finish | Clear anodized aluminum |
| Lockable Positions | Yes (Up for cruising, Down for trolling) |
| Installation Time | 15 minutes |
| Mounting Hardware Included | Yes (stainless steel) |
Who This Is For
Fishermen requiring meticulous control over trolling speeds for smaller outboard motors (20-50hp) and boaters seeking to enhance overall vessel stability and ride comfort in variable water conditions.
How It Compares
| Feature | Davis Happy Troller Small Trolling Plate f/Outboards | Doel |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower Range | 20-50hp | 25-75hp, 25-150hp |
| Primary Function | Trolling speed control & stability | Stability & planing, Planing & stability |
| Lockable Positions | Yes (Up for cruising, Down for trolling) | No specific mention of lockable positions, No |
| Material | Stainless steel and marine aluminum | Marine-grade aluminum, High-impact polymer |
Common Concerns Answered
Will this truly make a noticeable difference in trolling speed?
Yes, the Happy Troller's design, when locked in the 'down' position, significantly increases the drag coefficient, effectively reducing your boat's trolling speed by an average of 20-30% over open throttle, allowing for precise lure presentation.
Are there any issues with the mounting hardware?
While generally robust, some users in exceptionally rough conditions have noted the stock hardware's limitations. Ensure proper torque during installation, and consider upgrading to marine-grade stainless steel fasteners if operating in consistently severe environments.
Is the 'lock' for cruising truly secure?
The lockable 'up' position is designed for stability during cruising. While effective for most conditions, users experiencing vibration-induced dislodging in very high chop should ensure the locking mechanism is fully engaged and consider a supplementary securing method.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Happy Troller Small Trolling Plate designed for?
The Davis Happy Troller Small Trolling Plate is engineered to provide precise control over trolling speeds and enhance boat stability for outboard motors ranging from 20 to 50 horsepower.
What horsepower outboards does the Davis Happy Troller Small Trolling Plate fit?
This specific model, MPN 461, is designed for outboard motors within the 20 to 50 horsepower range.
How does the Happy Troller Small Trolling Plate improve boat stability?
By mounting directly to the anti-cavitation plate, the Happy Troller acts as a hydrofoil, increasing the lift and downforce, which contributes to improved stability, a smoother ride, and reduced porpoising, particularly at lower speeds and in rougher water.
Can the Happy Troller Small Trolling Plate be used in both saltwater and freshwater?
Yes, the plate is constructed from stainless steel and marine aluminum with a clear anodized finish, making it suitable for use in both saltwater and freshwater environments.
How long does it typically take to install the Happy Troller Small Trolling Plate?
The installation process for the Happy Troller Small Trolling Plate is designed to be efficient, typically taking approximately 15 minutes to complete with the provided stainless steel mounting hardware and included instructions.
