Hey Guys,
I'm researching outriggers for my 23 FT CC so maybe I can run out this Spring and Summer for the Tuna Wahoo and Mahi. I've never had a chance to use outriggers before. I thought I wanted to get some T-Top mounted ones, but to be honest I was not expecting such an hefty price tag, Not to mention I'll have to get a mounting plate welded onto my T-Top.
On the Other Hand, West Marine seems to have a "decent" Gunnel Mounted Kit including heavier Aluminum telescopic Poles for Much, Much Cheaper.

QUESTION: How well do the Side Gunnel Out riggers work?? is it a viable more affordable option or is it just a waste of time.?? Also does anyone know of T-Top Outrigger sets that are a little more affordable then Taco GrandSlams?

Thanks for the Help.

Get T Top type... the Gunwale Mount defeat the purpose of a center console.That being able to walk 360 degrees around the boat while fighting a fish.If you have gunwale mount riggers you will have to pass yourself the rod to get around the rigger each time a Cobia or what ever does a 360.Top gun outriggers are nice the new ones retract so you can trailer your boat with them.

Definitely go with the t-top ones

You can get sport slams, they are way less expensive than Grand slams.

700 bucks for riggers and mounts. Ebay

I have a set of gunnel mounted out riggers (16 footers )and hardware excellent cond. Non telescopic type ............# 478 2449

Hey thanks guys for the imput. As my Dad says "you get what you pay for" Makes sense about the need to get around to the bow. My luck if I had gunnel Outriggers I'd drop the rod trying to get around. I guess I'll just have to bite the bullet.

T Top definitely
Quality rotation/locking device or you will have to run a guy line forward from the riggers to prevent them from creeping aft,or slamming aft on a hard strike.
On installation, be sure to leave enough room for clearance between the pivot handle and your T-Top componets or you may not be able to fully deploy or lock.
Someone in the catalogues,Taco Marine (I believe) Makes a an aluminum plate that can be attatched to your T-Top tubing with allen screw clamps similar to the add on rod holder apparatus if you are looking to avoid welding. The plates can be trimmed to fit and are available pre-drilled for the Taco Riggers set up,or as blanks if you wish to use another brand. Another advantage would be the ability to adjust the position of your rigger placement if for some reason your found it interfering with other items such as antennae,or rods in the T-Top holders.
I also like the idea of an adjustable elbow rather than a fixed tube as it gives the option of trailering without having to remove and un -rig the set up, which should also be an advantage at launch time. It should also give more flexibility with rigger deployment angles depending upon conditions. Good luck. Bob B