thinking of buying a shallow water anchor . does anyone have experience in seeing both in action one vs the other.

 

Power pole weighs less, isn't in the way when deployed and has a practically indestructible blade. only negative is there's a hydraulic motor you'll have to find a space for.

I have a Gen 1 Talon. It's not as pretty as the Gen 2's or the powerpoles but I like it. It's been trouble free for 2 years. The new ones come with a 5 year warranty. Not too shabby

I am very pleased with my 12' Talon. I wouldn't have had room for the Power Pole pump in my boat.

I have two new 8' sportmans in my boat.  The new pumps are smaller, they are wireless, and are fast.  My old sportsman, an 07 model still works fine on my nephews boat.  I have no experience with the Talons, but I've had nothing but good experience with Power Poles.

I think they're pretty much the same. They're both good products and I haven't heard too many negatives on either. Overall I think the power poles are slightly more versatile than the Talons thanks to the drift paddle attachment, but then again the Talon offers a shorter stature while reaching the same depth. They're fairly comparable on weight and price so it really comes down to which features are right for you. 

Power Poles are strong, maintenance free, straightforward installation, long warranty, and they look great.  I've had the blades for several years now. I can hold my boat in very strong, direct current in the Columbia River where I otherwise would have my trolling motor on full just to hold steady - on rock bottom no less! They hold really well because the "spread out" a bit to the sides, giving you a wider stance and holding your boat better, rather than simply straight down.

 

People have told me the Talons are louder than the Power Poles, but I don't have any experience with Talons, so I can't say for sure.