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Need to do a little trailer maintenance, rewire lights and such and wanted to put an automatic latch on so I can come home with dry feet. Been looking at the Drotto system, looks pretty good, just wondering if anyone has this or what other options might be out there. Any input is appreciated. Thanks
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:popcorn
I have had the Drotto for a few years, I highly recommend it
Worth every penny IMHO !! Have had one on my boat for the last couple of years & do recommend it. BUT, if you tend to fish solo often, I'd recommend getting trailer steps (with hand rail) also. If you have a truck, I'd also recommend carrying a short ladder or a milk carton to use to step out of the truck bed. (those trailering boats with a "car" ... better bring along some knee high boots or waders)
When I bought my Drotto, I also bought the keyed lock they were offering at that time. I just considered it as "insurance" that the Drotto would still be there when I came back. (Note: Drotto now has a new "lock collar", but it also requires a padlock -- Boat2trailer offers the same lock I got with my Drotto ... unfortunately they are currently "out of stock" )
:popcorn
Why are your feet getting wet Kevin?
At Smithville I just back right next to the docks and step in my boat? I don't unlatch the front hook completely but loosen it before I back in. I can reach the front hook from the deck but easier for an old man like me to step on the trailer tongue and hook or unhook.
Heck when it's real clam I'll even get the trailer tires in the water, unhook completely, back in slowly and let the boat float then just get out walk around and tie it up. I learned that trick form Gary Burton. Haven't had to swim yet????
Now other ramps like Watkins a different story............
Just looked it up and watched the video. Not sure why they say bunk trailer people prefer to unlatch everything before you get to the water, seems kind of pointless to have at that point? I'd say automatic is the only way to go?
Drotto Boat Latch Compared to Boat2Trailer Ramp N Clamp
Any who you can buy alot of waterproof shoes for 300 bucks! :biggrin
Usually only get wet feet while loading, with bad knees walking down the tongue is not a good option. Been wanting to put one of these on the boat for a while and when my rubber bumper split last Sunday figured it was time. I fish solo most of the time so this will make things easier, ordered the Drotto, looks like a nice set up. Conservation agent prefers I keep my feet out of the water anyway!! :Rofl
I have an 18' Ranger without break away tongue that barely fits in my garage. When launching, I unhook everything but the Drotto. I have a rope attached to that. I back in, climb in the boat and brace myself(there is a bump as the boat slides back) jerk the rope and flip it into the back of my truck.
Hated loading on steep ramps because when I cut the motor, the boat would slip back just that little bit that I needed. Now the Drotto grabs it and it stays where I want it.
My boat will slide back a little also if I don’t put the strap on before I move, this will be so much easier.
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I see the appeal.
I’ve tried just deploying my ultera from the ramp which always looks cool….until you look like fool.
Now I just back in slow like Keefer and use the dock, usually I’ll tie a dock line.
Recovery is the real interest. I leave my boat in gear to hold up against the roller while I hop over and winch down. Slipping feels like the most dangerous thing but still the whole thing sounds pretty dumb.
My boat looks too blunt to work with these things and I’m too cheap to try one.
I've been with people up north with v bottoms and they work great. Just be sure to use the paddle lock hole or they disappear in the parking lot! Do not think my semi v would work with one.
Not any less money but a place to stand with a handrail. Amazon has some less expensive options?
Trick Step Product | Marine Boat Trailer Steps | Brownsburg IN
Home - Easy Step System
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Not sure why it says something went wrong above? Amazon link and it works fine for me?
I love my Drotto