clamp on downrigger base

[Gunflint Guy]

1) Does anyone have any experience with a clamp on downrigger base? example: http://www.cabelas.ca/product/64305/big-jons-base-clamp-on-mounting-base

2) Do you, the experienced downrigger angler, have an opinion about the stability, reliability, etc. of a clamp on downrigger base with a 10lb ball down?

3) Should I be worried about tearing the gunnel if I was using a clamp on downrigger base and the ball got snagged?

[Surface Tension]

If your going to be using it on the same boat then I'd go with a permanent solution and not the clamp.

Make a bracket. Its going to cost next to nothing to make and work a lot better then the clamp. Need a place for light switches or accessory plug? Put them on the bracket. Use stainless bolts and leave it on or take it off.

If you need something to put on rentals then the clamp is your only choice. IMO 10lbs is too much weight for it. If this is for Inland Lake Trout Lakes then use an 8lb ball. That should get you by to 100'. Not that the clamp can't handle it but your boat is going to oil can or flex at every crank. If you must use it then use a backing plate.

[Gunflint Guy]

Good stuff there. Thanks for the advice, just what I needed.