What does a power pole do on a boat? For fishermen, the purpose of power poles is primarily to secure a hefty catch. A power pole acts as an anchor, especially on bass boats. It works well on shallow waters, allowing the boat to be stable and catch more fish.
You may wonder how it works. From the different types of poles to their benefits and costs, this short guide on power pole fishing provides you with the necessary information.
Table of Contents
Overview of Power Pole on a Bass Boat
If you are going on fishing, a bass boat is the most suitable vessel to use. A power pole anchor can be installed in it. This is not to be confused with an electric pole anchor.
Rather, the power pole is a shallow water anchor that can be operated by pressing a button. The button activates it, deploying hydraulic and electrical power to drift slowly. There is fiberglass that spikes or burrows into the bottom of the water. With that, the power-pole blade will help anchor your boat.
Please note that bass boats don’t have integrated power poles. Therefore, it is important to determine the perfect size and type for your boat and your needs.
The deployment sizes or depth can range from eight to 10 feet (e.g., Power Pole Blade Series). Some models can go up to four feet only, like the lightweight versions. This one is ideal for recreational fishing.
Different Types of Power Poles
The types of shallow water anchors depend on the purpose or your needs. Here is a quick guide:
1. Power Poles
The pole is connected to the transom or horizontal bar of the boat. The latter reinforces the boat’s stern. It’s ideal to have a flat transom so you won’t need an adapter plate anymore.
2. Versatility
While there are pole types suitable for different bodies of water, there are also those that can do the job well no matter the kind. For this, opt for a heavy-duty one like the Sportsman 2 Series.
3. Smaller Boats
For lightweight boats, you don’t need something heavy. A Power-Pole Micro has a spike driver ideal for anchoring skiffs and kayaks. Most of them are operated by battery and controlled by a remote control for easy navigation.
4. Extreme Activities
When you want additional precision, opt for a Pro 2 Series. It is beginner-friendly but it offers different depth options to suit your needs (e.g. steal fishing). The Blade Series is also another option given its sturdy holding power.
5. Stay Put Anchor
Similar to the power pole type, a stay-put is made out of several fiberglass poles. These are usually attached to a mount or outer boards.
However, this anchor is difficult to use as you need to manually push the anchor onto the bottom of the water. This is a challenge especially if the ground is not sand but hard shells.
There are cheap power pole anchors such as DIY power poles and second hand ones. You can ask around from dealers and local stores. However, you may be purchasing ones with slight damage. So, be careful in choosing and communicating your needs to the dealers.
Advantages and Disadvantages of a Power Pole
Power poles for boats have both pros and cons. It all depends on if the equipment is useful for you and if you can afford the costs that go with them.
- It is no longer necessary to back up your boat where you cast the net. After all, this risks disturbing the fish around, and you end up losing your catch.
- Tying your boat to a dock for a long time can increase its damage from the constant rubbing. When you use a power pole, you avoid this risk and have additional space when the dock or fishing area is fully occupied by other boats.
- For those who fish alone, looking for the rope and tying your boat to a steady structure is a hassle. A power pole allows you to deploy it anywhere, whether parking or retrieving your vessel.
- A power pole is perfect for steadying your boat. It silently operates and is extremely quick. This applies when you are fishing and you need to stop drifting or when there are other boats that can agitate the waves around–and ultimately, disturb your activity.
- Installation is not much of a challenge–manufacturers or sellers do give out detailed manuals and, sometimes, mounting kits, to guide you.
- It can be damaged when you place it at a bad angle. Since you are working with shallow waters, you might put it down too low or at an awkward angle. This can result in damage to the pole.
- When you bury the pole deep, it can be difficult to pull it out. Additional pressure can risk damaging the fiberglass or other parts of the pole. So, you have to be careful when operating.
Some anchor systems are only suitable for some water types. You may ask, “What about power pole vs talon?”
Power-Poles are ideal for saltwater (corrosion-resistant), while Talon is perfect for freshwater. When you use an inappropriate pole, you may quickly wear off the equipment.
How to Install a Power Pole?
Installing the pole is best done by experts from boat dealers or manufacturers. This lessens the risk of mistakes and possible repair costs in the future. The cost ranges from $250 to $700 for a set.
However, if you are on a budget and you have the mechanical knowledge, then you can follow these steps:
- Have the correct parts and components. This includes the jack plate. Each one differs per bracket. This is why you must have the right bolt sets for your bracket first.
- Take note some boats don’t have the proper brackets to support the pump location in the back of a bass boat. So, some dealers or experts build customized brackets for certain brands of boats.
- Check if there is space for the hydraulic cables. Some transoms have tight spaces so the cables are run through the cable tubes instead.
- Make sure to line everything up. This includes the wires–taking care of how they are looped through the cables and around batteries, etc.
- If the brackets are installed between the transom and motor mount, then you only need to line everything up. If you cannot do so, drill a hole in your boat and use 3M 5200 silicone sealant to prevent water from coming in.
Frequently Asked Questions
CM1 vs CM2 anchors: what’s the difference?
CM means C-Monster Control System or the wireless marine protocol.
CM1 operates 400 Mghz signal while CM2 operates on 900 Mghz frequency.
The latter has a quicker response time since it has two-way communication between the pump and wireless controllers. Additionally, it is more durable, given its heavy-duty hydraulic hoses.
What is the difference between a power pole and an anchor method?
Fiberglass is a popular choice for boat floors, given its high strength. It is resistant to water, corrosion, and high temperatures, making it ideal for boat floors. Given the unpredictability of weather and ocean conditions, you need highly durable materials for your boat.
What is the power pole depth?
The standard is 10 feet deep. But a mini power pole can go up to four feet. This is because fishing in shallow waters requires stealth. You need to be swift and accurate as much as possible. Any deeper, and you will require a heavier unit to operate.
How much does a power pole cost?
The range goes from $100 to $2,000 per anchor. Heavier boats might require two anchors. For some, the complete set is around $1,200 to $2,000. That is why it is also a good idea to purchase second-hand power poles.
Regarding installation costs, the price is around $250 to $700. Again the actual price varies on the type and size of your anchor and boat.
Is a power pole worth it?
For anglers and fishermen, having power poles is definitely a good investment. You would increase your chances of having a hefty catch.
The power pole anchors work quietly, stealthily and on stable on rocky, grassy, and sandy water bottoms–all necessary to minimize disturbing fish–unlike with noisy and heavy equipment.
Conclusion
If you are looking to fish, you have to know what does a power pole do on a boat. This helps you understand its importance in securing a good catch. From stabilizing your boat and minimizing time and effort for docking, to stealthily catching fish, a power pole is your best fishing buddy..
Ten years of enjoying countless trips on boats never made me love them any less! So I am here to put all those experiences into good use for other boaters who want to have a safe and fun trip with their friends and families.