Capstan / Pot Hauler Winches

A device that provides a winch system to connect your cray pot, making retrieval faster and easier. It typically consists of an electric motor, gear box and drum or chain sprocket to which your rope is attached.

The right capstan for cray pots comes down to the weight of your pots and how often you haul them. Here is how our range lines up:

Recreational pots and lighter loads: the 900PH runs a 900W motor with 185kg of max pull, and at 6kg it is our most compact capstan.

Heavier pots, longer runs, or frequent hauling: step up to the 1100PH at 1100W and 220kg of max pull. Choose the CS™ powder coat motor for general use, or the fully 316 stainless SSS™ for the harshest conditions.

Every model is 12V, mounts vertically under the deck, and runs a 316 stainless steel capstan head. Footswitch and marine grade circuit breaker are included.

Absolutely, you can install a cray pot winch on a small boat, and plenty do! You just need the right setup.

Start by choosing a compact and lightweight winch so it won’t throw off your boat’s balance.

Look for models designed specifically for small vessels. Many come with rail or mounts that are easy to install and won’t eat up valuable deck space.

Swivel mounts are also handy if you want to swing the winch out of the way when you're not using it.

Make sure your boat’s battery system can handle the winch. Most small 12V winches will do the job, especially if you're pulling one or two pots at a time.

The 900PH is our most compact option at 6kg, with 900W and 185kg of max pull, so it adds real hauling power without upsetting a small boat's balance.

Yes, using a cray pot winch is generally legal for recreational fishing across Australia. However, specific regulations surrounding the use of cray pots vary by state and territory, so it's crucial to consult your local fisheries authority for detailed rules.

To keep your cray pot winch running smoothly, give it a service every six months. Here are a few more things to keep your cray pot winch working well:

• Remove the centre screw from the capstan drum, lift it off and lightly grease the synthetic bearings.
• Add a smear of grease to the O-ring seal before reassembling.
• Regularly inspect the motor, it's steel, so if the paint gets scratched, it can corrode.
• Keep it clean and dry. In dry setups, a water-repellent spray like WD-40 does the trick.
• In damp conditions, use a protective spray like CRC Soft Seal. Don’t forget the terminals, treat and protect them too.

Yes, the 1100W pot winch can be installed on smaller vessels, but careful consideration of weight, balance and deck space is required. It’s more powerful and heavier than the 900PH, so recreational users should ensure proper mounting and battery capacity. When correctly installed, it offers higher-grade hauling performance even on smaller boats.

The 1100W cray pot hauler delivers higher lifting capacity and faster pulling speeds, designed for heavy pots and frequent hauling. The 900PH provides moderate power and speed, making it suitable for lighter loads and recreational use. Choosing the right winch depends on the weight of your pots and how efficiently you want to retrieve them.

The 1100PH is optimised for longer rope or chain runs, thanks to its more durable motor. It maintains smooth, consistent pulling even under extended load, reducing strain on the system. The 900PH performs well for shorter runs, but may struggle with heavy or extended hauls.

The 1100PH features a fully sealed, marine-grade motor designed to resist corrosion and withstand continuous use. The 900PH motor is durable but lighter-duty, with adequate corrosion protection for lighter recreational applications. For harsh marine environments, the 1100PH’s reinforced design ensures longer lifespan and minimal maintenance.