Reviews

What is so great about modern carp fishing, is the acceptance of technology and its application to further better our results. But it also provides additional benefits such as improved safety, due to increased knowledge of our surroundings, which is most apparent when it concerns bait boat usage. With an increase in demand, RidgeMonkey has answered the calls of many to release an echo sounding version of its super-effective Hunter 750 Bait Boat. In classic style, following vigorous development and testing, the needs of the angler have been carefully considered in order to combat any eventuality when looking to set sail on any water, big or small, at home or abroad.

The success of the original Hunter 750 Bait Boat is not to be understated, as the Echo Edition simply builds on the pillars of its popularity to create the ultimate bait boat. Not only will users benefit from the stealth, presentation and precise placement, but the echo technology will allow the visualisation of the area in which you will set your traps. Yet what is most impressive and appreciated is that RidgeMonkey has consciously made the use of this particular version to be as fuss free as possible. Whilst other bait boats may require a steep learning curve for their use, the Hunter 750 Echo Edition can be used straight out of the box due to its intuitive design and features.

Everything down to the removal of the two lithium polymer batteries is incredibly effortless, having popped the cover found on each side of the boat. The run time of the boat from full charge is approximately four hours, while the recharge time from flat takes an average of two and a half hours. Both batteries are USB-C rechargeable, and can be recharged through a battery power pack, such as RidgeMonkey’s own Vault Power Packs, meaning that everything can be done on the bank. However, should you wish to check the voltage in your boat before or during operation, there is a voltage meter installed on the top.

Operation of the Hunter 750 Echo Edition is as simple as pressing the on and off switch and the remote applies the same basic principles. RidgeMonkey’s conscious effort to make deploying both bait and rig an easy process is clearly evident through the single-handed remote. This is both water and dust resistant, preventing any condensation worries. A rubberised grip and ergonomic design make for effective and precise movement of the joystick, which controls the direction of the boat. There is also an additional feature whereby auto pilot can be achieved by holding the stick forward for five seconds. What is great about the remote is that there are only three buttons. One button operates the power, the second drops the hopper and the third activates the lights. This too is rechargeable via USB-C, utilises an LED power meter and has been tested up to ranges of 200 metres.

The Hunter 750 Echo Edition can carry maximum bait quantities between 750g and 1,000g which is more than sufficient for the majority of scenarios. Fortunately, due to the precision of the echo system, more drops can be achieved over the top of the baited rig. To carry the loaded boat safely to the water’s edge, a sturdy handle has been installed to prevent any unwanted accidents. What separates this model of boat from competing brands is an industry first top loader, which incorporates a latch at the back that secures the rig in place. This makes loading of the bait boat far more user friendly without having to fiddle around underneath. A sleek design and built-in weed guards ensure that the boat moves through the water effortlessly, where the lights and the front and rear allow for successful delivery and return each and every time.

It is the echo sounder that allows the user to physically see where they are placing their bait and rigs, where RidgeMonkey has installed the technology within the boat’s hull. This therefore means that the sounder is permanently submerged beneath the surface and will prevent poor readings in choppy conditions. An echo sounding monitor is part of the package, which like the remote uses a simple design with the use of just four buttons. The monitor implements a 3.5in LCD colour screen that provides plenty of feedback detail and has been installed with a handy camera bankstick adaptor, which can be installed on a tripod or bankstick. Although, because the monitor is similar to the size of the average smart phone, you can even use a phone clamp to hold it in the desired position. The monitor is also USB-C rechargeable.

RidgeMonkey Hunter 750 Echo Edition
• Available in carbon colour effect or hi-vis
• Lightweight and compact
• Industry first top loading hopper
• Built in echo sounder
• Cruise control
• Front and rear lights
• Voltage meter
• 200m range
• Single handed remote
• 3.5in LCD monitor
• Supplied with carry bag
• 2.5kg total weight
• 1kg bait capacity
• 4 hours run time

RRP: £849.99
WEBSITE: www.ridgemonkey.co.uk