Ever felt that sinking feeling when your fish finder wobbles just as you spot a promising school of fish? Or maybe you’ve spent more time fiddling with a loose mount than actually fishing! Choosing the right fish finder mount can be tougher than reeling in that trophy catch. There are so many different types, and it’s hard to know which one will keep your valuable electronics secure and at the perfect angle.
You want a mount that’s strong, easy to adjust, and won’t break the bank. But sifting through all the choices can be confusing, leaving you wondering if you’re picking the best option for your boat and your fishing style. We get it! That’s why we’ve put together this guide.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll understand the different types of fish finder mounts available, what makes a good one, and how to pick the perfect fit for your needs. Get ready to say goodbye to wobbly screens and hello to a more enjoyable and successful fishing experience!
Our Top 5 Fish Finder Mounts Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Fish Finder Mounts Detailed Reviews
1. VAZESWIN Aluminum Alloy Fish Finder Mount with C Size 1.5″ Ball Rectangle Plate & Round Base
Rating: 9.0/10
The VAZESWIN Aluminum Alloy Fish Finder Mount is a sturdy and reliable way to secure your marine electronics. This mount is designed for the tough conditions of the water, offering a strong hold for your fish finder or GPS. Its adjustable arm and versatile plate make it a great addition to any boat or kayak.
What We Like:
- Made from strong 6061-T6 aluminum alloy for durability.
- The 9.1-inch long arm offers plenty of reach and adjustability.
- Features a 360° adjustable rotation for the perfect viewing angle.
- The rectangular plate has many pre-drilled holes for easy compatibility with various devices.
- The round base is ready for direct installation on flat surfaces.
- It’s compatible with many popular brands like Garmin and Lowrance.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product is not compatible with certain Humminbird models (Helix 5, 7, 10, 12, 15 and Solix 10).
This VAZESWIN mount offers a robust and adaptable solution for your on-the-water navigation needs. It’s a solid investment for any angler or boater looking for a dependable way to mount their electronics.
2. Helix Universal 360 Rotation Fish Finder Bracket
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready to upgrade your fishing adventures with the Helix Universal 360 Rotation Fish Finder Bracket! This sturdy mount is built to keep your fish finder securely in place on any watercraft, from kayaks to pontoons. Its strong construction and flexible design mean you’ll always have the perfect view of your fish-finding screen, no matter where the fish are biting.
What We Like:
- It fits almost any fish finder, and you can even drill new holes if needed.
- You can easily adjust the angle of your fish finder in every direction thanks to the dual 360° swivel ball mounts.
- It’s made from tough nylon and stainless steel, so it can handle the salty air and water without rusting.
- Setting it up is a breeze, and you can attach the base first, then the bracket later.
- The company offers a great warranty, so you can buy with confidence.
What Could Be Improved:
- The specific list of compatible Garmin models is quite long, which might be a bit overwhelming for some users.
This Helix bracket is a solid choice for any angler looking for a reliable and versatile way to mount their fish finder. Its durable build and easy adjustability make it a valuable addition to your boat.
3. Aluminum Alloy Fish Finder Mount with C Size 1.5″ / 38mm Ball
Rating: 8.6/10
Upgrade your boating experience with the robust Aluminum Alloy Fish Finder Mount. This mount features a sturdy 2.4-inch round base, a 5.9-inch arm, and a rectangle plate. It’s built tough with high-quality aluminum alloy to handle rough seas. The 1.5-inch rubber ball provides a super secure grip for your fish finder or GPS, letting you turn it a full 360 degrees. Plus, the easy-to-mount drill base lets you attach it to any boat.
What We Like:
- Built from strong aluminum alloy for lasting durability in marine environments.
- The 1.5-inch rubber ball offers a firm grip and 360-degree rotation for perfect viewing angles.
- Supports up to 15.5 lbs when resting and 4.5 lbs when moving, so it holds your electronics securely.
- It works with many popular brands like Garmin, Humminbird, and Lowrance, making it super versatile.
- The multi-angle drill base makes installation straightforward on various boats.
What Could Be Improved:
- It is not compatible with certain Humminbird models like the Helix 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 15, and the Solix 10.
This mount is a reliable choice for serious anglers. It offers excellent stability and adjustability for all your marine electronics.
4. Scotty 0163 Ball-Mount Fish Finder and Universal Mounting Plate
Rating: 9.4/10
Get ready to upgrade your fishing adventures with the Scotty 0163 Ball-Mount Fish Finder and Universal Mounting Plate. This black, large mount is a game-changer for serious anglers. It’s designed to hold your fish finder securely, even on rough waters. You can trust it to keep your valuable electronics safe and sound.
What We Like:
- It has a big 1.5-inch ball. This means it grips your gear really tightly.
- The larger ball gives a stronger hold. This is great for bigger fish finders.
- It allows for smooth movement in all directions. You can easily adjust your screen.
- The top plate is made for large fish finders. It fits units from 7 to 9 inches.
- The mount is 6.5 inches tall. This gives you a good viewing height.
- It’s built with strong materials. It will last a long time.
What Could Be Improved:
- The base mount is 2 1/4 inches by 2 1/4 inches. Make sure you have enough space to attach it.
- While it’s designed for large fish finders, you’ll want to double-check the exact dimensions of your unit.
This Scotty mount is a solid investment for any angler who wants a reliable way to display their fish finder. It offers a secure and adjustable setup for a better fishing experience.
5. WINDFRD Aluminium Fish Finder & Chartplotter Mount
Rating: 8.7/10
Meet the WINDFRD Aluminium Fish Finder & Chartplotter Mount, a tough and versatile mount built for your boat. It holds fish finders and chartplotters from 5 to 12 inches and works with major brands like Garmin, Lowrance, and Humminbird. This mount is made to last in the rough marine environment.
What We Like:
- It’s super strong! Made of all aluminum, it can handle up to 110 lbs. static and 22 lbs. dynamic. It stays steady even when waves hit your boat.
- Built tough for the sea. It uses powder-coated marine-grade aluminum and stainless steel parts. It passed tough salt spray tests to fight rust.
- Fits many devices. The base mounts easily on flat surfaces like dashboards or decks. The mounting plate has holes that match many GPS units, radios, and other marine electronics. It also comes with screws and nuts.
- You can move your screen anywhere. With two pivot points, you get a full 360-degree rotation, so you can see your screen from any angle.
- Works with many brands. This mount is compatible with a wide range of Garmin, Lowrance, and Humminbird fishfinders and chartplotters, including specific models.
What Could Be Improved:
- The description doesn’t mention if the mount is adjustable in height or tilt angle, only rotation.
- While it lists many compatible models, it’s always good to double-check your specific device’s mounting pattern before buying.
This WINDFRD mount is a solid choice for keeping your marine electronics secure and accessible. It’s built to withstand the elements and offer great flexibility for any boater.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Picking the Best Fish Finder Mount
Catching more fish starts with seeing what’s below. A good fish finder helps you do that. But to get the most out of your fish finder, you need a strong mount. This guide will help you choose the perfect one.
Why You Need a Good Fish Finder Mount
A fish finder mount keeps your screen secure and in a good viewing spot. It stops your fish finder from bouncing around or falling off. This means you can easily see your screen and make smart fishing decisions. No more guessing where the fish are!
Key Features to Look For
1. Strong and Stable Design
The best mounts are built to last. They should hold your fish finder steady, even when your boat rocks. Look for mounts with sturdy bases and arms that don’t wobble.
2. Adjustable Angles
You’ll want to see your screen clearly from different spots on your boat. A good mount lets you tilt and swivel your fish finder. This way, you can adjust it to the sun or your seating position.
3. Easy Installation and Removal
Most anglers want to set up their gear quickly. Choose a mount that’s simple to attach to your boat. It should also be easy to take off if you need to store it or move it.
4. Durability and Weather Resistance
Boats are exposed to water, sun, and salt. Your mount needs to handle this. Look for materials that won’t rust or break down easily.
5. Compatibility with Your Fish Finder
Not all mounts fit all fish finders. Make sure the mount you pick is designed for the size and weight of your specific fish finder. Check the product details before you buy.
Important Materials
The materials used in a fish finder mount make a big difference in its quality and how long it lasts.
- Aluminum: This is a popular choice. It’s strong, lightweight, and resists rust. Many high-quality mounts are made from marine-grade aluminum.
- Plastic: Some mounts use strong plastics. These can be good for lighter fish finders and are often more affordable. However, they might not be as durable as metal in rough conditions.
- Stainless Steel: This metal is very strong and won’t rust. It’s a great material for boat accessories, but it can make the mount heavier and more expensive.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Mount Better?
- Thick Metal: Thicker aluminum or stainless steel means a stronger mount.
- Secure Locking Mechanisms: Knobs or levers that lock the position firmly prevent unwanted movement.
- Good Base Design: A wider or well-designed base will attach more securely to your boat.
- Corrosion Resistance: Materials and finishes that protect against salt and water damage.
What Can Make a Mount Worse?
- Thin or Cheap Plastic: This can crack or break easily, especially in cold weather or with heavy use.
- Rusting Metal: If the metal isn’t treated or is low quality, it will rust and weaken.
- Loose Joints: Mounts with wobbly joints won’t hold your fish finder steady.
- Poor Fit: A mount that doesn’t fit your fish finder well can cause damage or instability.
User Experience and Use Cases
A good fish finder mount makes fishing easier and more enjoyable. Anglers use them in many ways:
- Casting from a Kayak: Kayakers need mounts that are compact and secure. They often attach to the kayak’s track system.
- Fishing from a Small Boat: For bass boats or jon boats, mounts that attach to the console or gunwale are common.
- Larger Vessels: On bigger boats, you might see mounts that attach to the T-top or leaning post.
- Easy Adjustments: Imagine you’re moving from a sunny spot to a shady one. You can quickly adjust your screen angle with a good mount.
- Quick Setup: When you get to your fishing spot, you want to start fishing fast. A mount that’s easy to attach lets you do just that.
Choosing the right fish finder mount is an important step to improving your fishing experience. Look for strength, adjustability, and quality materials. Happy fishing!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Fish Finder Mounts
Q: What is the most important thing to look for in a fish finder mount?
A: The most important thing is that it is strong and stable. Your fish finder needs to stay put, even on choppy water.
Q: Can I use any mount with any fish finder?
A: No, you need to make sure the mount is designed for the size and weight of your specific fish finder. Always check the product details.
Q: What materials are best for fish finder mounts?
A: Marine-grade aluminum and stainless steel are generally the best because they are strong and resist rust and corrosion.
Q: How do I know if a mount will be durable?
A: Look for thick metal, strong plastic, and good reviews from other users. Weather-resistant finishes also help.
Q: Is it hard to install a fish finder mount?
A: Most mounts are designed to be easy to install. Some attach with screws, while others use clamps or track systems.
Q: Can I adjust the angle of my fish finder with a mount?
A: Yes, most good mounts allow you to tilt and swivel your fish finder for better viewing angles.
Q: What if I want to take my fish finder off my boat often?
A: Look for a mount that is easy to remove quickly. Some mounts have quick-release features.
Q: Are plastic mounts bad?
A: Not all plastic mounts are bad. Strong, high-quality plastics can work well for lighter fish finders, but they might not be as tough as metal.
Q: Where are fish finder mounts usually attached to a boat?
A: They can be attached to the console, gunwale, transom, T-top, or even kayak tracks, depending on the boat type and mount design.
Q: How much does a good fish finder mount usually cost?
A: Prices can vary widely, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $100 or more for a quality mount.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
I’m the recipe developer and food photographer behind Air Fryer at Tiffany’s. I’m also a wife, mom to two adventurous little boys, registered nurse, and live in the great Midwest. Join me as I show you new ways to use your air fryer that you never knew possible.