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LEWMAR
Pro Fish Free-Fall Windlasses
Drop anchor right where the fish are with speed and precision
The Pro Fish windlasses feature the same low-maintenance, 100% stainless-steel construction as the Pro Series plus the feature of controlled free-fall. They feature controlled “lockoff” to start or stop anchor free-fall by simply pressing the “up/down” switch. This free-fall operation can also be disengaged to power down. Includes a stainless-steel fleming (stripper) that withstands heavy loads. All come complete with Switch Gear and Installation Kit. As an additional feature, in an emergency involving loss of power these windlasses can be operated manually with a standard 1/2" drive ratchet handle (sold separately).
- Style: Horizontal
- Rode Type: Rope/chain
- Case Material: Stainless steel
- Capstan/Gypsy Material: Stainless steel
- Warranty: Five years
Product Specs
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REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 6 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
33%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
Cons
- Poor design (4)
- Unreliable (4)
Best Uses
- Reviewer Profile:
- Advanced (6)
Reviewed by 6 customers
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Displaying reviews 1-6
Pros
Cons
- Poor Design
- Unreliable
Best Uses
Comments about Pro Fish Free Fall Windlasses:
Two units have become unusable within fewer than 8 uses each. Design is hopeless. Gears inside sheared on first one. Not sure what is making the second one not work yet, but it won't lift the anchor. The clutch mechanism never works well -- even when brand new. I am an engineer. This is an engineering failure.
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Holds Boat Securely
- Reliable
- Safe
Cons
Best Uses
- For Lazy People Like Me
Comments about Pro Fish Free Fall Windlasses:
Mine works perfect. I had the FX-11 anchor made by Fortress and it would not drop so I switched to a 13lb anchor and now it works perfect. I have used it for 2 plus years without a single problem. With that said, I NEVER anchor using the windlass to hold my boat. I always cleat off the rope which is what the directions say to do. Installed on a 22' fishing boat and used in San Diego bay and kelp beds.
Pros
Cons
- Free Fall clutch broke
- Poor Design
- Unreliable
Best Uses
- Garbage Can
Comments about Pro Fish Free Fall Windlasses:
Free Fall clutch broke after 6 months of minimal recreational use. Chain binds constantly. Need manual intervention to get chain/rode splice through. Nightmare for one person to attempt to operate.
Pros
Cons
- Corrodes
- Poor Design
- Unreliable
Best Uses
Comments about Pro Fish Free Fall Windlasses:
This product is junk. I have had to replace this unit 3 times in three years of ownership. Each time the free fall clutch freezes closed. Once that happens the windlass can be used to power the anchor down rather than in free fall mode. Once the free fall clutch freezes closed, you are a few weeks away from having the motor stop working. There is a design issue with this windlass. Water must be entering the motor housing. Purcahse another product.
Pros
Cons
- Corrodes
- Leaks
- Poor Design
- Unreliable
Best Uses
Comments about Pro Fish Free Fall Windlasses:
The case halves are not gasketed, they are just glued together with gobs of white caulking. Same with the power wires where they enter the bottom of the case. Just gobs of caulking inside the case to seal the holes that the power wires pass through.
This is not a design that can withstand the elements in my opinion. Mine has failed numerous times within the warranty period due to case leaks and gear failures. Even though I have been very gentle with it, it continues to disappoint.
I am now replacing it even though it is stll under warranty.
I can't trust it and to me that's a safety issue.
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Holds Boat Securely
- Reliable
- Safe
Cons
Best Uses
- Open Water
Comments about Pro Fish Free Fall Windlasses:
great
easily locate or relocate the anchor so that the boat swings over the spot
Displaying reviews 1-6
Merchant response: We are so sorry that you are not satisfied with your Pro Fish Free Fall Windlass. Please consider contacting our Customer Care Department at 1-800-262-8464 to see if we can assist you with your issue. (International customers please email catintl@westmarine.com or call 1-831-761-4800).