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Outriggers For Boats - Pointsupplies.com

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How Fishing Boat Outriggers Work

Boat outriggers are a set of poles or arms that are attached to the sides of a boat to increase its stability and provide more room for fishing. They are typically used on fishing boats to improve the fishing experience by allowing anglers to spread out their lines and lures or baits, thereby increasing the chances of catching fish.

Outriggers work by extending the boat's width beyond its beam or width, which provides greater stability in rough water conditions. When deployed, the outriggers are held in place by stays or lines and create a wider base for the boat. This wider base reduces the boat's roll, making it less likely to tip over or capsize.

Outriggers also provide more room for fishing by extending the reach of the lines and allowing them to be set further apart. This reduces the likelihood of lines tangling, which can be a common problem when multiple lines are being fished at once.

boat outriggers are a valuable tool for anglers who want to improve their fishing experience and increase their chances of catching fish. They provide stability, more room for fishing, and a way to create a spread of lures or baits that can attract fish.

 

What Types of Outriggers Are Available?

There are several types of outriggers available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The most common types of outriggers are:

1. Fixed Outriggers

Fixed outriggers are permanently mounted to the boat's gunwale or transom. They are typically made of aluminum or stainless steel and are available in a range of sizes to fit different boats. Fixed outriggers are relatively inexpensive and easy to install, but they cannot be removed when not in use, which can limit the boat's maneuverability.

2. Telescoping Outriggers

Telescoping outriggers are adjustable and can be extended or retracted as needed. They are typically made of aluminum and are available in a range of sizes to fit different boats. Telescoping outriggers are more expensive than fixed outriggers, but they offer greater flexibility and can be stowed away when not in use.

3. Top Mount Outriggers

Top mount outriggers are mounted on the boat's hardtop or T-top. They are typically made of aluminum or stainless steel and are available in a range of sizes to fit different boats. Top mount outriggers are more expensive than fixed outriggers, but they offer a cleaner look and do not interfere with the boat's maneuverability.

4. Center Rigger

A center rigger is a single outrigger that is mounted on the boat's transom. It is typically used in conjunction with other outriggers to create a spread of lures or baits. Center rigger is usually the longest outrigger on the boat, and it's most commonly used for trolling large baits for big gamefish.

5. Outrigger Release Clips

Release clips are used to secure the fishing line to the outrigger. They are available in various sizes and materials, including plastic and stainless steel.

Overall, the type of outrigger you choose will depend on your specific fishing needs and the type of boat you have. Fixed outriggers are more affordable, while telescoping and top-mount outriggers provide more flexibility and options. The center rigger is the most versatile and effective for targeting large pelagic species. Outrigger release clips are essential for securing the fishing line to the outrigger, regardless of the type of outrigger you choose.

What Materials Are Outriggers Made From?

Outriggers are made from a variety of materials, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The most common materials used in outriggers are:

  1. Aluminum: Aluminum is a popular material for outriggers because it is lightweight and corrosion-resistant. Aluminum outriggers are typically less expensive than other materials and are available in a range of sizes to fit different boats. They are also easy to install and maintain.

  2. Fiberglass: Fiberglass is a strong and durable material that is commonly used in outriggers. Fiberglass outriggers are lightweight and have a high strength-to-weight ratio, making them an excellent choice for high-performance boats. They are also highly resistant to corrosion and are available in a range of sizes and colors.

  3. Carbon Fiber: Carbon fiber is a high-strength, lightweight material that is commonly used in high-performance outriggers. Carbon fiber outriggers are more expensive than other materials, but they are extremely strong and durable. They are also highly resistant to corrosion and are available in a range of sizes.

  4. Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is a strong and durable material that is highly resistant to corrosion. Stainless steel outriggers are typically more expensive than aluminum or fiberglass outriggers, but they are very durable and require minimal maintenance.

In summary, outriggers can be made from various materials, including aluminum, fiberglass, carbon fiber, and stainless steel. Each material has its own benefits and drawbacks, so the choice of material will depend on factors such as cost, performance, and maintenance requirements.

 When Is an Outrigger Needed?

An outrigger is typically needed when fishing for large game fish that require the use of multiple fishing lines and lures or baits. Outriggers are particularly useful for trolling, a technique where a boat moves slowly through the water with lines trailing behind the boat.

Here are some situations where an outrigger may be needed:

  1. Trolling for large game fish: When targeting large game fish such as marlin, sailfish, or tuna, outriggers are often necessary to spread out multiple lines and create a more significant area for bait or lures. The wider spread increases the chances of attracting a fish.

  2. Fishing in rough conditions: Outriggers can help stabilize a boat in rough water conditions by increasing the boat's width beyond its beam or width. This creates a wider base for the boat and reduces the boat's roll, making it less likely to tip over or capsize.

  3. Fishing with multiple lines: Outriggers are useful when fishing with multiple lines as they can spread the lines out to prevent them from tangling.

  4. Fishing in shallow water: Outriggers can be helpful when fishing in shallow water, as they allow anglers to keep lines away from the boat and avoid spooking fish.

outriggers are needed when fishing for large game fish, fishing in rough conditions, fishing with multiple lines, or fishing in shallow water. They provide stability, create more room for fishing, and increase the chances of catching fish.

 How to Choose The Best Outrigger For Your Unique Needs

Choosing the best outrigger for your unique needs can be a daunting task, but here are some factors to consider:

  1. Boat Size: The size of your boat is a crucial factor in determining the right outrigger. The size of the outrigger should be proportional to the size of the boat. A larger boat will require larger outriggers to maintain stability, and vice versa.

  2. Fishing Style: The type of fishing you will be doing is another crucial factor in choosing an outrigger. Consider whether you will be trolling, drifting, or anchoring when selecting your outrigger.

  3. Material: The material of the outrigger is essential for both cost and durability. Aluminum is the most common material used and is relatively inexpensive, while carbon fiber is the strongest and most durable, but also the most expensive.

  4. Type of Outrigger: There are various types of outriggers available, including fixed, telescoping, top mount, and center rigger. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so choose the one that best suits your fishing style and boat.

  5. Budget: Outriggers come at different prices, and it's essential to consider your budget. The cost of the outrigger should align with the features you need and the type of fishing you plan to do.

  6. Brand and Reviews: The brand of the outrigger can also be an essential factor to consider. Do some research and read reviews from other users to determine the quality and reliability of the outrigger.

In summary, choosing the best outrigger for your unique needs involves considering factors such as your boat size, fishing style, material, type of outrigger, budget, and brand. By doing some research and weighing your options, you can select an outrigger that will help you fish more efficiently and effectively.