Figuring out how to mount your forward-facing sonar transducer can be overwhelming, whether you are brand new to forward-facing sonar technology, or are looking for a different mounting option that better suits your style of fishing. In this article, we will cover the pros and cons of the 3 different mounting options for the front of your boat including; mounting to the trolling motor shaft, mounting to the trolling motor lower unit, and mounting to a separate pole/turret system. All of the mounts mentioned will be linked both within the text and listed below!
Mounting to the Trolling Motor Shaft
Starting off with probably the most popular and consistent mounting option for forward-facing sonar transducers among tournament anglers, mounting the transducer to the trolling motor shaft has proved to be a fan-favorite among FFS enthusiasts due to the versatility of mounting options between Forward, Down, and Perspective, maximized fishing efficiency, and better transducer protection from underwater hazards. With the versatility of mounting options comes a wide variety of after-market mounts made to greatly improve the angler’s experience on the water. These mounts range in price from higher-end mounts like the Fish Obsessed Trolling Motor mount ($145) to a more pocketbook-friendly option, the Transducer Shield and Saver L Bracket mount ($40).
Pro’s:
• Maximum efficiency when on the move and chasing down fish.
• Mounts anywhere on the trolling motor shaft or on a separate pole.
• The transducer is higher in the water column, increasing the likelihood of seeing your bait hit the water while decreasing the chances of the transducer getting damaged by underwater hazards like stumps and rocks.
• The transducer is more easily adjusted and allows for perspective mode.
Con’s:
• Can’t mount to a stow-away trolling motor, like the MinnKota Ulterra or Terrova.
• The transducer is more likely to leave the water when in rough water, limiting the transmission of signals.
• Limited use when the trolling motor is spot-locked.
Mounting to the Trolling Motor Lower Unit
Very similar to mounting your transducer directly to the shaft, mounting to the lower unit of the trolling motor is another popular mounting option among anglers. Especially effective for anglers who tend to fish in more open water, usually free of underwater hazards like rocks and stumps, mounting directly to the lower unit can provide the angler with a cleaner picture even in rougher water. However, with mounting to the lower unit, the angler does have a higher risk of damaging the transducer from underwater hazards. Options for mounting directly to the lower unit are relatively limited to the factory mounts, which come with the transducer upon purchase.
Pro’s:
• The transducer will stay submerged longer when in rough water.
• Maximum efficiency when on the move and chasing down fish.
• The cheapest option when considering how you want to mount your transducer.
Con’s:
• Increased chance of damaging the transducer when around shallow water and underwater hazards.
• Relatively no aftermarket mounts are made specifically for mounting directly to the lower unit.
• Garmin and Lowrance are limited to Down and Forward mode only.
• Can’t mount to a stow-away trolling motor, like the MinnKota Ulterra or Terrova.
Mounting to a separate Pole/Turret System
Last but certainly not least, a mounting option that has certainly gained more traction recently, mounting to a separate pole/turret system. Although this style of mounting is not typically preferred among “scopers”, utilizing a separate pole/turret mount is a great option for those who prefer to have their trolling motors freed up or don’t have a trolling motor that allows for mounting to the shaft or the lower unit. These systems are highly versatile and can be mounted to either the trolling motor itself or anywhere on the boat. The systems come in two options, motor-steered like the Humminbird Mega Live Target Lock or the DD26 Live Foot Motor Control System, or hand-steered like the Fishing Specialties Transducer Mount.
Pro’s:
• Ability to scope around while spot-locked.
• Allows for mounting either to the trolling motor or anywhere on the boat itself.
• Allows for all orientation options, Forward, Down, and Perspective.
Con’s:
• Efficiency is limited when on the move and chasing down fish.
• The most expensive option when considering how to mount your transducer.
• Increased draw on battery system(motor steered only).
Hopefully now you have an idea of which FFS transducer mounting option fits your style best and are ready to make your purchase! Be sure to check out our online inventory for the best mounting options on the market today, all of which are backed up by our electronics professionals here at BassBoatWired. All of the mounting options listed above are linked both in the article and below. Still have questions? Keep an eye out for more articles here in the future or you can reach us by clicking here.
Mounting options Listed Above:
Fish Obsessed Trolling Motor mount
Transducer Shield and Saver L Bracket mount
Humminbird Mega Live Target Lock
DD26 Live Foot Motor Control System
Fishing Specialties Transducer Mount