Now that the perch fishing is ramping down, I can give a review of one of the scalers on the market, because I took a little drive down to Bass Pro Shops in Rossford and picked one up. Called the Tumble Drumm, it retails for $199.99.
I asked around, looked around before going out and buying this model and brand. $150 cheaper than some comparable machines, I have to say, “I like it”. Well made and got the job done.
I was told that it would take about 20 minutes for about 20 perch, well you know how salesman are. It actually takes about 30 minutes, and it is very important to put fish in that are close to being the same size. That way they all get done at the same time. It takes 2 gallons of water to fill the base before putting the drum with fish in onto the drive assembly.
You might have a few, and I only mean four or five, that might have a few small patches of scales left on them. A couple of flicks with an old steak knife takes care of that. By the time I had the second batch of fish done out of the scaler, I was already done slicing up the first batch. Plenty of time to put in the freezer and get the next bag ready to fill up.
Easy to clean too, just rinse and leave dry. I just hosed down the drum section, and set it aside to dry. Carried the water with the scales to the garden and dumped them in. Be careful when hosing down the drum section, and keep the water away from the motor. Again, just let dry, no wiping, no fuss.
Thumbs up on the Tumble Drumm. Cannot wait to try it out on bluegill and crappie this winter. Supposedly it takes less time for these two species, than it does perch. When I find out, will write it down!