What is a Drotto? A Drotto is an automatic boat loading and boat launching system made for v front boats. The original name is the Drotto Catch and Release Boat Latch. It was originally designed to help speed up the process of loading and launching a boat. Many people have troubles getting in and out of the boat ramp in a timely matter. This can be for many reasons such as long lines at the ramp causing high pressure mistakes, slippery docks, heavy boats, weather, equipment failure and on and on. Whatever the issue may be, the Drotto helps to drastically shorten the time spent loading and launching. After installing the Drotto a single person is typically able to load a boat by themselves faster than a 2 person team loading.
The Drotto simplifies the boat loading and boat unloading process. It’s very easy to install. It simply replaces the front roller on your trailer. There is nothing to install on your boat and does NOT replace your winch. The Drotto only replaces your front roller and is typically a 1 bolt install.
Drotto Sizes
The Drotto comes in only 2 models and fits most trailers.
3″ Model – The 3″ model is built to replace a roller that measures 3″ – 3 1/4″ wide. Simply remove your existing roller and slide the latch in it’s place. It is a one bolt install.
3 3/4 Model – The 3 3/4 model is built to replace a roller that measures 3 1/2″ – 4″ wide.
Boat Loading
Install the Drotto on your trailer. Once installed you have the ability to load your boat incredibly fast. Simply drive your boat up the trailer. Drive up until the front bow eye reaches the Drotto. Once the eye touches the back of the latch mechanism the latch automatically snaps shut on the eye. When the Drotto snaps shut on the eye it secures the boat to the trailer. Now that it is secure you may exit the boat. Walk to the vehicle and drive forward to get the boat and trailer out of the water to the water’s edge. Now that the boat is on dry land and easy to access, simply attach your strap and chain for safe travel.
Boat Launching
You have a number of ways you may launch the boat using the Latch. The best way to launch the boat with the Latch is this. Prep your boat and remove your tarp in the pre-launch area. Gather your gear and get ready to head out. Back the boat down the ramp to the water’s edge. Unhook your safety chain and strap. The Drotto still has the boat secure. Now back the boat down into the water. Once you have the trailer at the correct depth, simply pull the release lever to release the boat. Once you pull the release lever the jaws will open and release the boat into the water. Since the Drotto has a handle and extension that comes with it, this can be done from within the boat or outside the boat. For more info or to watch videos on this check out this link Drotto Videos.
2 comments on “Drotto”
Marty
August 28, 2019 at 12:00 amCan you use winch to manually pull the bow eye close enough to activate the latch system rather than powering on?
boat2trailer
August 28, 2019 at 8:26 amYes you can still use your winch the same as you did before if needed.