Kristian Ferrell
Transducers are an essential component of modern fishing, helping anglers locate fish and identify the underwater structure. Transducers can be mounted in various locations on a bass boat, and the optimal position depends on several factors, including the type of boat, the transducer model, and the desired functionality. The most common installation methods include transom mounting, trolling motor mounting, shoot-thru hull mounting, and thru-hull mounting. When deciding where to mount a Lowrance transducer on a bass boat, it is crucial to consider the boat's hull construction and length and the presence of any obstacles or projections. Additionally, the transducer should be positioned to ensure a smooth water flow and minimise interference from noise or vibration.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Mounting Options | Transom Mount, Thru-Hull, In-Hull, Pod, Pocket/Keel, Trolling Motor |
| Transom Mount Transducer Installation Tips | Use a straight edge to locate the transducer so it sits slightly lower than the hull; fix the mounts so that the screws are midway in the slots; look for an area of least turbulence when underway |
| Thru-Hull Transducer Installation Tips | Use a fairing block to keep the transducer face parallel with the sea floor and improve high-speed operation; don't mount in areas prone to noise or vibration; be aware of hull lifting points or roller points if the vessel is trailered |
| In-Hull Transducer Installation Tips | Contain the transducer in a tank cut to match the deadrise of the vessel, filled with propylene glycol (marine antifreeze), and bonded to the hull using fibreglass resin; use one of three methods to find the best place to put it before fixing the tank: flood the bilge area, put the transducer into a bag and fill it with water, or use a water-based lubricant to temporarily 'stick' the transducer in place |
| Pod Transducer Installation Tips | Designed to be fitted on trolling motors via a large clamp assembly to the motor housing; leave enough free cable at the top of the motor to ensure it can turn freely |
| Pocket/Keel Transducer Installation Tips | Mount towards the front of the boat around the second bow wave |
| General Mounting Tips | Mount on the starboard side of the vessel if the prop is clockwise-turning; never mount inline with a hull projection like a water intake; have a small amount of kickdown on the transducer, around 2-5 degrees; before mounting, take the boat for a run and look for a smooth flow area at the transom of the boat |
What You'll Learn
Transom-mounted transducers
To optimize the performance of a transom-mounted transducer, careful installation is necessary. Here are some tips to ensure proper installation:
- Use a mounting plate: Consider using a commercially available screw-on or stick-on mounting plate, or create your own out of Starboard or expanded PVC. This minimizes the need to drill holes directly into your transom.
- Tape your drill bit: When drilling holes, measure the length of your screws minus the thickness of the mounting bracket. Mark the necessary depth on your drill bit with painter's tape to avoid drilling too deep.
- Avoid electric drivers: When tightening self-tapping screws into fiberglass, resist the urge to use an electric drill or driver. Instead, tighten the screws by hand to prevent stripping.
- Chamfer and seal your holes: To avoid gelcoat cracking, run your drill in reverse until the bit reaches the fiberglass. Then, use a countersink to chamfer the edges around the hole carefully. Seal the installation by coating screws and filling pilot holes with a quality marine sealant approved for below waterline use.
- Level your transducer: Ensure that the bottom of your transducer is parallel to the bottom of your hull. Use a long straight edge to match the fore-aft angle of the transducer to the bottom of your boat. Additionally, use a horizontal guideline on your transom to ensure that your side-imaging transducer is level from side to side.
- Adjust the height: If you experience performance issues, try lowering the transducer in small increments (1/8" at a time) until it reads well at speed. Lowering the transducer too much can increase drag and expose it to strikes from floating debris, so find the right balance.
By following these tips and guidelines, you can effectively mount a transom-mounted transducer on your bass boat, optimizing its performance and minimizing potential issues.
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Thru-hull transducers
When installing a thru-hull transducer, it is crucial to ensure that the transducer is not positioned behind a structure on the hull, such as a thru-hull fitting, which could disrupt water flow. Additionally, a fairing block is used to ensure smooth water flow over the transducer. This block is cut to match the deadrise of the hull, which is the angle of the hull in relation to the horizontal plane below the keel of the boat.
Some bass boat owners opt for a "shoot-thru hull" mount, where the transducer is epoxied to the floor of a fibreglass boat, transmitting through the bottom of the hull without drilling a hole. This installation method provides similar performance to a thru-hull transducer while being more affordable and avoiding potential disruptions to the boat's performance.
It is important to note that not all transducers are interchangeable, and it is recommended to consult the manufacturer for guidance on choosing the correct transducer and installation method for your specific boat and application.
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In-hull transducers
There are a few key considerations to keep in mind when choosing an in-hull transducer. Firstly, ensure that the transducer is not mounted behind any structures on the hull, such as through-hull fittings, which could disrupt water flow across its surface. This is important for maintaining optimal performance.
Secondly, while in-hull transducers provide convenience and ease of installation, they may result in some loss of signal strength. This loss is typically not noticeable in water up to 30 fathoms deep.
Additionally, in-hull transducers do not provide water temperature data. If water temperature readings are important for your fishing endeavours, you may need to consider a different type of transducer or an additional temperature sensor.
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Pod transducers
When choosing a mounting location for a pod transducer on a bass boat, there are a few options. One popular method is to mount the transducer onto the boat's deck using a pedestal system. This is especially useful for bass boats with fiberglass or aluminum hulls, as it provides a flat area for mounting without drilling extra holes in the boat's top finished edges. The height of the pedestal can be customized to fit the boat, and the baseplate size is selected based on the distance from the inside gunnel to the outside rub rail.
Another option is to use a transducer mounting system designed specifically for bass boats. This system includes a 4" riser that attaches to the top of the fiberglass bass boat's flat casting deck, allowing the baseplate arm to clear the rub rail. The transducer assembly is then secured to the mounting plate using nylon thumbscrews, and the cables are run through the downrod. This system also includes a telescoping handle that can be secured to the downrod, making it easy to adjust the transducer's direction.
Additionally, a transducer shield and saver, such as the SSC-2 model, can be used to protect the pod transducer from impact damage and reduce debris collection. This accessory features a hydrodynamic design that improves trolling motor performance and can be easily installed as a do-it-yourself project.
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Pocket or keel transducers
To keel mount a pocket transducer, you will need access to the bottom of the keel from the inside of the boat. If the engine and other items are in the way, it will be difficult. One approach is to use the transducer to make a mould for the pocket, then cut away the keel and cut the moulded pocket to fit in the keel and glass it back in.
A pocket or keel-mounted transducer can provide all the benefits of a through-hull transducer without the need for a high-performance fairing. They are available in a range of frequencies and power outputs to suit different vessels and applications. For example, the PM275LH-W Pocket/Keel Mount Transducer operates at 42-65(L) / 150-250(H) kHz and has a power output of 1,000W.
When choosing a pocket or keel transducer, it is important to consider the specifications that will work best for your vessel and intended use. Factors such as frequency, power, and compatibility with your sonar system should be taken into account. Additionally, the installation process should be carefully planned, especially if retrofitting a pocket transducer to an existing vessel.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several options for mounting a transducer on a bass boat. The most common method is to mount it on the transom, using a plastic plate to prevent drilling holes. Alternatively, you can mount it on a trolling motor using a bracket, or opt for a shoot-thru hull installation, which involves epoxying the transducer to the floor of a fibreglass boat.
The type of boat, hull construction, and length will determine the best mounting location. You should also consider the turbulence and speed of the boat when underway, as well as the direction of the hull projection and the presence of any trailer rollers or lifting points.
Mounting a transducer on the transom is a popular choice as it allows water to pass smoothly over the transducer when the boat is on plane. It is important to ensure that the transducer sits slightly lower than the hull and that it is positioned in an area of minimal turbulence.
Yes, if you have a portable bass boat such as a jon boat, canoe, or kayak, you can use a suction cup transducer mounting kit for temporary mounting. This provides a quick and easy solution for those who want to use their transducer on various boats.
