Fish Finder Mounts for Kayak
A reliable fish finder mount for your kayak fishing guide for beginners is crucial for clear sonar readings and efficient fishing. Proper mounting ensures your device stays secure while navigating rough waters and maintains optimal viewing angles for how to use a fishfinder on a kayak.
Installing the right fish finder installation on your kayak can significantly improve your fishing experience. Various mounting options are available, so you can customize the setup based on your kayak’s design and your specific fishing needs.
Top-Rated Fish Finder Mounts for Kayaks
Quality fish finder mounts are essential for protecting your valuable electronics and maintaining stability during fishing kayak adventures. Here are the top 5 mounts that offer durability, adjustability, and easy installation. Let’s examine each mount’s key features and benefits.
1. RAM Mounts Universal Electronics Mount
After testing the RAM Mounts Universal Electronics Mount for over 6 months on various sit-on-top fishing kayaks, it has proven to be a reliable solution for mounting fish finders. This mount is particularly popular among anglers using Humminbird, Lowrance, and Garmin devices. Check out its versatile features below.
Technical Specifications:
Specification | Detail |
Material | Marine-grade aluminum |
Ball Size | 1.5-inch diameter |
Arm Length | 6 inches (adjustable) |
Weight Capacity | Up to 8 lbs |
Compatible Devices | Humminbird, Lowrance, Garmin |
Mounting Base | 2.5-inch diameter |
Warranty | Limited lifetime |
Adjustability Features
The double-socket arm offers 360-degree rotation and multiple viewing angles. The rubber ball and socket system prevents slipping while reducing vibration. Want stable viewing angles on your kayak? This mount maintains its position even in choppy waters.
Installation System
Tool-free adjustment with a single knob makes for quick setup and removal. The mounting base fits most kayak surfaces and track systems. Ready to install your fish finder mount for your kayak? The universal mounting plate adapts to various device sizes.
Durability Construction
This mount is built with marine-grade aluminum and stainless steel hardware, which resists corrosion and UV damage. The rubber ball system absorbs shock and prevents wear over time.
Pros and Cons:
Pros | Cons |
Strong build quality | Higher price point |
Universal device compatibility | Longer arm can cause slight wobble |
Easy tool-free adjustment | |
Excellent vibration control | |
Weather-resistant materials |
2. YakAttack Fish Finder Mount
Based on our 3-month testing period, the YakAttack Fish Finder Mount stands out for its compatibility with Garmin devices and track mounting systems. This kayak fish finder mount offers excellent adjustability and stable positioning for kayak fishing. Read on to discover its mounting capabilities and features.
Technical Specifications:
Specification | Detail |
Material | Marine-grade composite |
Base Diameter | 4 inches |
Arm Length | Adjustable up to 8 inches |
Track Compatibility | Most kayak track systems |
Device Compatibility | Universal, Garmin-optimized |
Weight Capacity | 5 lbs |
Mount Type | LockNLoad system |
Track Mounting System
The LockNLoad mounting system provides quick attachment and removal from kayak tracks. The base locks securely into position without tools. Need to transport your kayak? The mount detaches in seconds while maintaining your preferred setup position.
Adjustability Range
Features multiple adjustment points for height and angle customization. The extending arm brings your fish finder closer for better viewing. Looking for the perfect viewing angle? This fish finder mount for kayaks offers 360-degree rotation and tilt adjustment.
Device Integration
Pre-drilled holes match common Garmin mounting patterns. The universal base plate adapts to other major fish finder brands. The mounting hardware includes stainless steel components for lasting durability.
Pros and Cons:
Pros | Cons |
Tool-free installation | Limited to track mounting |
Quick release system | Some hardware compatibility issues |
Excellent Garmin compatibility | |
Stable in rough water | |
Multiple adjustment points |
3. Scotty 141 Kayak/SUP Transducer Arm Mount
Over a year of testing of the Scotty 141 Transducer Arm Mount reveals its versatility for kayak fish finder installation. This fish finder mount for kayak works with various fish finder brands including Garmin, Lowrance, and Humminbird. Let’s examine its features and performance details.
Technical Specifications:
Specification | Detail |
Material | Reinforced plastic composite |
Arm Length | 12 inches |
Mount Type | Track or surface mount |
Track Size | Standard Scotty track compatible |
Weight | 1.2 lbs |
Adjustability | Multi-axis rotation |
Installation Type | Tool-free removal |
Universal Compatibility
The mounting arm accepts most major transducer brands with some modifications. Users may need spacers for certain Garmin and Lowrance models. Want proper fitment? Check the transducer size before installation.
Quick-Deploy System
Features a swing-arm design for easy deployment and retrieval. The arm rotates up for shallow water or transport. You can remove this fish finder mount from its base within seconds for storage or travel.
Installation Options
Includes track mounting hardware and surface mount options. The base fits standard Scotty tracks and gear heads. The package includes mounting screws for direct installation on kayak surfaces.
Pros and Cons:
Pros | Cons |
Easy deployment system | Needs spacers for some transducers |
Multiple mounting options | Plastic construction shows flex at speed |
Quick release design | |
Year-round usage capability |
4. Scotty 163 Fishfinder Ball Mount
After testing the Scotty 163 Ball Mount for 5 months with various fish finders, we found it works best with units up to 7 inches. The dual ball system provides stable mounting for kayak fish finders. Check out the detailed features of this fish finder mount for kayak below.
Technical Specifications:
Specification | Detail |
Material | Marine-grade composite |
Ball Size | 2.15 inches |
Mount Type | Universal plate |
Compatible Screen Size | Up to 7 inches optimal |
Weight Capacity | 4 lbs recommended |
Adjustment Range | 360 degrees |
Ball Joint Type | Dual ball system |
Dual Ball System
Two adjustment points offer precise positioning control. The larger ball size provides better stability than standard mounts. Need perfect viewing angles? The dual balls allow infinite adjustment positions.
Universal Mounting Plate
Pre-drilled holes match most Garmin and Lowrance models. This fish finder mount works with Humminbird units but may require additional drilling. The mounting plate includes multiple hole patterns for various devices.
Stability Features
The locking mechanism prevents unwanted movement during use. The composite construction reduces vibration transfer. The mount maintains position even in rough water conditions.
Pros and Cons:
Pros | Cons |
Stable dual ball design | Hardware not included |
Multiple adjustment points | Limited for 9+ inch displays |
Strong locking mechanism | |
Easy angle adjustments |
5. Lowrance Fish Finder Mount
After testing the YakAttack Lowrance Mount for 3 years across multiple kayak setups, we found it works best with Hook series displays up to 5 inches. The LockNLoad system provides stable mounting for kayak fishing. Check out the detailed features of this fish finder mount below.
Technical Specifications:
Specification | Detail |
Material | Heavy-duty composite |
Mount Type | Track system compatible |
Compatible Units | Lowrance Hook series |
Weight Capacity | 3 lbs recommended |
Adjustment Range | 360 degrees |
Release Type | Quick-release system |
Install Time | Under 5 minutes |
Quick-Release System
The one-button release allows fast removal for transport and storage. The mount attaches firmly to track systems without tools. Need to adjust for sun glare? The mount tilts and rotates smoothly while maintaining position.
Track System Integration
Built-in track compatibility fits most kayak systems. Works directly with YakAttack gear tracks. The base includes a solid locking mechanism for secure mounting without additional parts.
Stability Features
No-slip locking prevents unwanted movement while fishing. The composite build handles impacts well. The mount keeps fish finders steady in choppy water and during paddling.
Transducer Arm Option
Optional arm extension for transducer mounting. Fits standard transducer sizes. The arm maintains proper depth for optimal sonar readings.
Pros and Cons:
Pros | Cons |
Tool-free installation | Premium price point |
Secure locking system | Limited to smaller displays |
Quick removal design | |
Durable construction |
Kayak Fish Finder Mount Installation Locations
Installing fish finder mounts requires planning for the best viewing angle and accessibility. The mount location affects your saltwater fishing experience and equipment safety. Check these mounting options to find the right spot for your setup.
Front Deck Mounting Options
Front deck fish finder mounts offer clear visibility while paddling. The deck space provides a stable base for various kayak accessories mounting systems. Most kayaks include pre-drilled holes or flat surfaces near the cockpit for secure mounting points. The front position keeps the display in your line of sight and protects it from paddle splashes.
Side Rail Mounting Systems
Side rail systems create flexible mounting points for kayak fish finder mounts. The rails allow quick adjustments to the display position during different fishing conditions. Most rail mounts attach directly to existing kayak gunwales and include quick-release options for easy removal. This location balances good visibility with protection from impacts.
Track System Integration
Track systems adapt fish finder mounts for kayaks to different positions. The tracks are installed along the kayak’s length and accept various mounting hardware. Standard track sizes work with most major fish finder mount brands. This system offers the most versatility for finding your ideal mounting spot.
Transducer Mounting Points
Transducer placement affects fish finder performance on kayaks. The hull provides several mounting options near the waterline for optimal sonar readings. Through-hull and side-scan transducers need specific mounting locations based on their design. The mounting point should keep the transducer in the water while protecting it from impacts.
Fish Finder Mount Materials and Durability
Quality fish finder mounts rely on specific materials for long-lasting performance in various water conditions. Marine-grade aluminum stands as the primary material due to its perfect balance of strength and weight.
Core Construction Materials
- Marine-grade aluminum fish finder mounts offer superior corrosion resistance
- Reinforced nylon components reduce overall mount weight
- Composite materials provide excellent impact resistance
Hardware Components
Most premium fish finder mounts for kayaks use 316-grade stainless steel hardware. This marine-grade steel prevents rust formation and maintains structural integrity in saltwater conditions. Nylon washers and rubber gaskets create barriers between metal parts, reducing wear and preventing unwanted noise.
Protective Features
Modern kayak fish finder mounts include several protective elements:
- Anodized aluminum surfaces for enhanced durability
- Powder-coated finishes to prevent UV damage
- Rubber seals to block water infiltration
Fish Finder Mount Compatibility Guide for Kayak
Kayak fish finder mounts come in various designs to accommodate different mounting systems. Track mounting remains the most popular option, fitting standard kayak tracks from major manufacturers.
Universal Mounting Systems
The best fish finder mounts for kayaks feature universal mounting plates that work with popular brands:
- Compatible with Garmin, Humminbird, and Lowrance units
- Standard hole patterns for easy installation
- Adjustable plate dimensions for various unit sizes
Adapter Options
When standard mounts don’t fit, adapter plates bridge the gap. These plates convert between different mounting systems while maintaining the stability needed for fish finder mounts on kayaks. Each adapter includes detailed mounting instructions and necessary hardware.
Fish Finder Mount Adjustability Features for Kayak
Modern fish finder mounts for kayaks prioritize adjustability for optimal viewing angles. A quality mount offers smooth rotation without compromising stability.
Essential Adjustment Features
- 360-degree rotation capability
- Multiple tilt positions for glare reduction
- Height adjustment range of 2-4 inches
Quick-Release Technology
Premium kayak fish finder mounts include tool-free release systems. This feature allows fast removal of your fish finder unit while maintaining secure attachment during use. The mounting base stays on your kayak, ready for the next fishing trip.
Position Locking
Spot locking mechanisms prevent unwanted movement of fish finder mounts during kayak fishing. These locks maintain your chosen viewing angle even in rough water conditions. Most systems use simple thumb screws or lever locks for quick adjustments without tools.