Shallow water anchor on XB21 2+2

[bASS_BLASTER]

So, a few months ago my wife asked what I wanted for X-mas. I said I would like one of those power poles or minnkota talon. Then I followed with, "but then again, I don't really want them because if the hydraulics/electrical failed, it would be a pain in the azz to get it fixed or repaired."

Well, comes Christmas I got one of these: Dig-N Shallow anchor. She's been listening and observing my alternatives. Anyway, the brackets did not fit like the company stated, universal fit. I talked to owner a few months back and he stated the "Standard Bracket" will fit your Allison, guaranteed. I don't believe the company realize my motor mount has two nuts/bolts on top and only one at the bottom.

Anyway, I have not called the company to address this issue because I figured to return a 10' pole would cost about $50 - $70. I plan on keeping this product and try it out. I don't see myself anchoring in tournaments and have not in the past so I can't justify $1000 - $2000 for powered ones. I see myself using it when taking the kids out, anchored in one spot, relax and watch them fish.

I have made the following mods (see pictures) and love it so far. The pole fits in the rod holders, strap it down and it is neat and secured without getting in your way. The plate fits with some mods but no complaints and can't wait to use it next spring.

Before any of you look into the market of one of these, consider the following mods.

[F150owner]

Great review.

[AllyFishing]

Hey Perry...I looked up that unit you showed there and it is pretty cool. You know, I asked that same question a while back about whether or not we needed the top two bolts on the motor brackets to the CMC JP and I was told it was not necessary. I may put my engine up another hole and if I do I will not be able to use the two bolts on the top holes.

I do know there are two bolts on top of each side of where the spacer plate is mounted to the transom and that is factory. That's done for extra support and safety. But to be sure and before you remove the second bolt please ask Lee here if it can be done for safety reasons.

Let us know how the install goes with pics too please!!
Thanks
Craig

[bASS_BLASTER]

Craig,

I did not remove any bolts b/c I figured they are supporting my motor so I went to a hardware store and bought two 5" bolts to replace them. I just trimmed off the bracket so it will fit the bolt patterns, then mounted the bracket on top of the bolts of the two 5" bolts. Sorry, I forget to mention that part. I find the 5" is a bit long.

Lee, chime in on this when you get a moment.


Modified by bASS_BLASTER at 9:09 AM 12/28/2011

[Props4u2]

Extra bolts are always good but in my opinion only two top engine to jack plate bolts are all that is needed.
The two extra bolts holding the jack plate to the boat are a very good idea as there is a lot more leaverage added in that area.

[bASS_BLASTER]

Thanks Lee!

Let's say you remove one of those bolts. For this project, you'll still need to trim about 1/8" off the bracket so it'll align with the bolt.

[bASS_BLASTER]

Up here in Minnesota, we're finally getting some 50's weather. Thought I post up the bracket I modified from Dig-n-anchor. We'll see how this system works out this summer. Otherwise, I will have to go with a powerpole. 10' too long and will stick up like a flag pole? Opinions?

[RoadrashPaul]

Looks good Perry. Only thing I wouldn't like is having to run to the back of the boat everytime I wanted to anchor it. I have a 17' tin boat and I am going to modify something similar to mine but on the front, where you are fishing. I am going to come off the very front beside my t-motor and use some sort of rod to anchor. I am thinking 3/4" galvanized grounding rod about 8-10' long.

[bASS_BLASTER]

I won't be doing any anchoring and staking. My partners will take care of it.

Another thing to look at are fiberglass rods. You can find them during the spring or summer, they're inexpensive and are pretty much exactly like the ones these guys sell but cost only $15-$20.

[AllyFishing]

That looks really good there Perry, nice job...let us know how it works for ya.

[Unimog]

<table width="90%" cellspacing=0 cellpadding=0 align=center><tr><td>Quote, originally posted by bASS_BLASTER &raquo;</td></tr><tr><td class="quote"> Otherwise, I will have to go with a powerpole. 10' too long and will stick up like a flag pole? Opinions? </td></tr></table>

If you can get it in your garage with a 10' PP sure why not. I think 10' might be on the high side, I like the 8 I think.

[bASS_BLASTER]

I doubt I could get it to fit into garage. Thanks guys!

[bASS_BLASTER]

Thought I bring this thread up from the grave to share some useful info. This system is a neat, alternative concept for not wanting to spend $1,400 +. Here is the problem I ran into. The aluminum bracket is poorly made. It bent the first outting from boat wakes. I had to re-weld and re-enforced the frame and angle, still it bent. I see now on their site they have re-enforced it how I did it but still, it bends. I trashed it and built a brand new thicker steel bracket. For the price, I would not recommend anyone buying it until the bracket is built stronger. If you're a DIY type of guy, build/weld your own bracket and buy these poles from grainger and you'll end up spending less then $100. If you have the doe, buy a PP or Talon. I'm looking towards a PP or Talon. Hope this helps.


DYNAFORM Rod, ISO, Natural, 3/4 In Dia x 10 Ft L - Fiberglass Rod Stock - 4ATL9|870690 - Grainger Industrial Supply


HERE IS THE NEW BRACKET FROM THERE SITE. STILL, I'M WAY AHEAD OF THEM. THE PROBLEMS IS NOT THE BRACKET, ITS THE MATERIAL AND THICKNESS USED.