Electric Planer Mast

[FISHSTALKER]

Some time ago I was reading posts about planer masts and trying to figure out what would work for me. I stumbled across a photo someone posted where he had used a modified version of a what I think is Big John. When searching the Big John website I didn't see this set up. Can anyone share some information? Here's the photo I found on these forums.

[muskybob]

That's not modified at all, just a big jon rigger he's using for his planer boards. They tip upwards instead of to the side for weight retrieval.

[FISHSTALKER]

Has he added a section to the arm? Thank you for the info Bob.

[muskybob]

No, I believe that's the standard arm. I have two big jons I picked up used & they both have them. Some do come with a 2 foot arm though so the 4' may be an option. No problem pulling my homemade planer boards with them.

[B8buket]

Ditto ,what Musky said . Only thing I have to add is these "Captains Pak" style downriggers ,are usually mounted on a swivel base , some packages come with them now I'm pretty sure. They are lockable in the up position (for use w/planer

boards) and as well as down (for use w/downrigger weights). Some buy an extra spool and spool it just with planer board

line , swap it out with wire one when its time to go deep. Also "new" these riggers come with sectional booms or arms , at

the moment I own the manual version of this rigger ($) and it comes in three sections for the arm , I only use two .

Hope this helps.

[Don Supon]

They are indeed BigJon tilt-up riggers. They lock in the up position. I have two for sale at $200 each. Call Don @ 716-282-5278 if interested.

[FISHSTALKER]

Many thanks to all for the valued information.

Don - The price sure sounds right but the time of year and circumstances aren't. I live in Calif.

[Don Supon]

Maybe they'll still be for sale if you get back around here. Save the number: 716-282-5278. Good fishing and Merry Christmas.

[jimski2]

I use my Cannons and swing the arm forward. The Otter Boards pull good with the downrigger cable and are easily reached from the deck. Push the switch up and in they come.