Overview

The TACO Marine GS-280 is a pair of Grand Slam 280 top-mount outrigger bases for 1-1/2 inch outrigger poles, built for offshore fishing boats that need controlled outrigger rotation from beneath a hardtop or T-top. The mount uses a locking head with spline lock technology for outrigger height positioning, and the outward rotation handle has detents every 22.5 degrees to help keep the arm locked in place while trolling.

This setup is suited to mid-size offshore fishing boats and is commonly used on boats in the 20 to 36 foot range. It fits hardtop and soft top applications, works with hardtops up to 2-1/2 inches thick, and uses a top-mounted base with a 4 inch by 6 inch footprint.

Cast Type 316L stainless steel and machined aluminum construction give the mount the corrosion resistance needed for saltwater use. The pair format keeps the port and starboard outrigger installation matched, which matters for spread control and a clean installation on center consoles and walkarounds.

Key features

• Sold as a pair for a matched port and starboard outrigger installation.
• Made for 1-1/2 inch TACO Tele-Outrigger poles, with 1-1/8 inch pole use supported when paired with the GSC-0025 base reducer.
• Locking head uses spline lock technology to hold outrigger height position with fewer moving parts.
• Outward rotation handle includes detents every 22.5 degrees to reduce arm movement while fishing.
• 180 degree arm swing allows horizontal rotation from underneath the T-top.
• Fits hardtops up to 2-1/2 inches thick and suits hardtop or soft top applications.
• Top-mounted 4 inch by 6 inch base fits the TACO Outrigger-Ready mounting plate layout.
• Cast stainless-steel Type 316L and machined aluminum construction for saltwater deck and top installations.
• Three-year limited warranty.

Installation and fit

The GS-280 is intended for top mounting, so the mounting surface should be checked for thickness, backing support, and access before drilling. On a T-top or hardtop, the handle can be operated from below the top, which keeps outrigger adjustment within reach at the helm or cockpit area.

Because outrigger mounts carry leverage loads from long poles and rigging, the top structure and backing plate arrangement matter as much as the mount itself. This mount matches the TACO Outrigger-Ready mounting plate pattern and is also commonly paired with TACO backing and wedge plate accessories when the installation needs extra support or a corrected mounting angle.

Compatibility and use on board

This mount is a strong match for center-console and offshore fishing boats that run a traditional outrigger spread for trolling. It is most relevant for anglers using 1-1/2 inch outrigger poles who want controlled deployment, repeatable arm positions, and under-top handle access without moving around the deck in rough water.

For boats using 1-1/8 inch outrigger poles, the GSC-0025 base reducer is required. Pole length, top strength, backing support, and the layout of antennas, lights, rocket launchers, and hardtop rails should be checked before installation.

Materials and marine environment

The stainless-steel Type 316L and machined aluminum construction is appropriate for saltwater exposure, spray, and regular washdowns. The handle combines polished stainless steel with a non-slip Santoprene grip, giving the operator a secure feel when adjusting the outriggers with wet hands or while the boat is moving.

What’s included

• Pair of TACO Marine GS-280 Grand Slam 280 outrigger top mounts.