Best Transducer Mounting Spots For Triton Bass Boats

When it comes to Triton bass boats, there are a few options for mounting a transducer. The type of transducer and the material of the boat are important factors to consider when choosing a mounting location. Transom mount transducers, for example, are typically mounted on the transom of the boat and are a good choice for smaller boats as they are versatile and easy to install. For fiberglass boats, bronze or plastic transducers are recommended, while stainless steel transducers are used for aluminum boats. Thru-hull transducers, on the other hand, are mounted through the hull of the boat and are considered by many to be the best option in terms of clarity and performance, despite being more expensive and challenging to install. In-hull transducers, which are installed inside the hull, offer better resolution and are another option for fiberglass boats.

Transom mount transducer

When mounting a transom transducer on a Triton bass boat, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, it is important to find a low-turbulence area on the boat where the transducer can be effectively installed. This will ensure accurate readings and optimal performance. Secondly, the transducer should be mounted securely to avoid any damage to the boat and to ensure it stays in place during use.

One recommended location for mounting a transom transducer on a Triton bass boat is the starboard side, away from the strakes. This location provides a flat area on the hull for mounting, which is important for a secure installation. It is also recommended to keep the transducer at least 12 inches away from the outboard, as this will allow it to be deeper in the water and potentially improve its performance.

When installing the transducer, it is important to use a mounting system that is specifically designed for Triton bass boats, such as the Stern Saver Mini Glue-on transducer mounting system. This system allows for easy transducer adjustments to find the optimal location for the best performance. It is also important to use a mounting system that does not require drilling holes in the boat, as this can cause damage and reduce the boat's resale value.

The Stern Saver Mini Glue-on transducer mounting system is made from marine-grade polyethylene plastic and forms a strong mechanical bond to the boat. It can be used with a variety of fish-finder brands, including Lowrance, Garmin, and Humminbird. This mounting system also helps to prevent costly repairs associated with transom rot and water-logged foam cores, making it a durable and reliable option for mounting a transom transducer on a Triton bass boat.

Thru-hull transducer

To install a thru-hull transducer, you will need to choose a location on the centerline of the hull and drill a hole from the inside. It is important to ensure that the transducer is mounted in an area free of external strakes, intakes, or other hull features that could cause aerated water to flow over it. The transducer must also be kept away from the engine's water intake or opening to prevent turbulence and maintain a smooth water flow.

Once you have selected the location, apply a marine sealant to the sanded mounting hole. Thread the transducer's cable through the mounting hole and then push the transducer's stem through the hole. Finally, slide on the washer, spacer, and nut, and tighten them with pliers.

It is worth noting that thru-hull transducers are not suitable for boats with cored fiberglass hulls without special modifications. They also do not include a sea-temp or speed sensor, which will need to be added externally if desired.

In-hull transducer

An in-hull transducer, also known as a shoot-through transducer, is a convenient option for Triton bass boat owners as it can be mounted without drilling holes in the hull of the boat. This type of transducer is attached to the inside of the hull and transmits and receives sonar signals through fiberglass. This means that there will be no protrusions under the boat, and you won't need to remove the boat from the water during installation.

However, in-hull transducers do have some limitations. Firstly, they can only be mounted on solid fiberglass, and they will not work with cored fiberglass hulls without modifications. Additionally, in-hull models do not include a sea-temp or speed sensor, so these will need to be added externally if desired. Despite these drawbacks, a well-positioned in-hull transducer provides excellent performance in finding fish and bottom features, with only a minimal loss in range at deeper depths.

When choosing a location for your in-hull transducer, it is crucial to avoid any external strakes, intakes, or other hull features that could cause aerated water to flow over the transducer's location. The optimal location depends on the type of hull and propulsion system of your Triton bass boat. For inboard planing hulls, the best spot is just ahead of the engines and prop shafts, while displacement hulls allow for positioning further forward. For outboards and sterndrives, a rear location is usually best, except for step hulls, which require the transducer to be placed forward of the steps.

To ensure a successful installation, it is important to test the transducer's performance before finalising its position. Start by connecting the transducer to the fish finder and hanging it overboard in at least 25 feet of water to observe the bottom return. Then, test the transducer inside the hull at the selected location by placing it inside a thin plastic bag partially filled with water and pressing it against the hull. Compare the bottom return to the baseline reading taken earlier. If the reading is similar, the mounting location is suitable. If not, you will need to find another location and repeat the test.

In addition to testing, it is crucial to measure and adjust for the deadrise, which is the angle of the boat's V-shaped hull. You can use a free app called iNstall to determine the deadrise angle or create a straightedge to measure the angle with a protractor. Once you have identified the correct angle, use a carpenter's square to draw a line perpendicular to the centreline through the centre of the mounting location. This line will help align the transducer base correctly.

Finally, to install the in-hull transducer, make sure the mounting surface is clean and free of any wax, paint, oil, or moisture. Lightly sand the area if necessary and clean it with isopropyl alcohol. Apply a suitable bonding agent, such as Marine-Tex Epoxy Putty or 3M 5200 Marine Adhesive/Sealant, and press the flange of the base firmly against the hull to create a watertight seal. Allow the bonding material to cure according to the manufacturer's instructions before pouring in propylene glycol (non-toxic antifreeze) and inserting the transducer into the housing.

Avoiding transducer mounting issues

When mounting a transducer on a Triton bass boat, there are a few things to keep in mind to avoid potential issues. Firstly, it is important to select the correct location for the transducer. For a fiberglass bass boat, it is recommended to mount the transducer on the starboard side, as close to the side of the boat as possible but still behind a flat area on the hull. This location provides a low-turbulence area for the transducer to function optimally.

Another consideration is the depth of the transducer in the water. Mounting the transducer closer to the centre of the boat, at least 12 inches away from the outboard, will result in a deeper placement in the water. This can be advantageous for certain applications. However, it is important to note that the chosen location should be free of air bubbles in the water stream, as their presence will hinder the system's performance.

Additionally, the type of mounting system used is crucial. A glue-on mounting system, such as the Stern Saver Mini, offers a strong mechanical bond to fiberglass and aluminium boats without the need for drilling holes. This system is easy to install, adjustable, and helps prevent issues like transom rot and water-logged foam cores. It is also compatible with various fish-finder brands, making it a versatile option.

When mounting the transducer, it is essential to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. This includes using the correct tools and hardware to ensure a secure and proper installation. Taking the time to carefully plan and execute the mounting process will help avoid issues and ensure the transducer functions as intended.

Lastly, regular maintenance and inspections are important to identify any potential issues with the transducer mounting. Checking for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage and addressing them promptly will help ensure the longevity and optimal performance of the transducer setup.

Choosing the right transducer

Mounting Options:

The first step is to determine the mounting location for your transducer. This decision largely depends on the type of boat you have and its hull design. There are three common mounting options:

• Through-Hull Mounting: This method involves cutting a hole in the bottom of the boat and mounting the transducer flush with the hull, allowing direct contact with the water. It is the most efficient option, according to experts, as it provides optimal performance by minimizing power loss. However, it may not be suitable for all hull types and can be a more complex installation process.
• In-Hull Mounting: If you prefer not to cut holes in your boat, in-hull mounting is an alternative. The transducer is mounted inside the hull, flush against the bottom, and transmits the signal through the hull. While this option may have slightly reduced performance due to power loss, it is faster, less expensive, and easier to install.
• Transom Mounting: Transom mounting is typically used for smaller boats. The transducer is hung off the transom of the boat, and it must be properly positioned away from the propeller and sources of noise, such as turbulence, bubbles, and motor noise.

Materials:

The material of the transducer housing is another important consideration, and it should be compatible with the material of your boat's hull:

• Plastic Transducers: Plastic transducers are often the most economical option. They can offer similar performance to metal transducers and are designed to withstand underwater conditions. Plastic transducers can be used with fiberglass, carbon fiber, plastic, and metal hulls but are not suitable for wood hulls as the swelling of wood when wet can crack the plastic housing.
• Bronze Transducers: Bronze transducers are long-lasting and well-suited for the marine environment. They can be used with fiberglass or plastic hulls and are required for boats with wooden hulls due to their exceptional strength. However, they should not be used with metal hulls to prevent electrolytic corrosion.
• Stainless Steel Transducers: Stainless steel transducers are recommended for steel or aluminum hulls and are compatible with all other hull materials. They may come with special installation procedures to prevent direct contact with the metal hull.

Power and Frequency:

The power and frequency of the transducer impact its performance in different water conditions:

• Power: Power refers to the strength of the sonar "ping" emitted by the transducer. Higher power increases the likelihood of receiving a return echo in deep or poor water conditions and provides better detail.
• Frequency: The frequency selected depends on the depth of the water. Higher frequencies (e.g., 200 kHz) offer greater detail and are suitable for shallow water or faster speeds, while lower frequencies (e.g., 50 kHz) are preferred for deep water as they provide a wider beam and can travel farther.

Cone Angles:

The cone angle of the transducer beam affects the area of the bottom that can be viewed. Wider cone angles provide a larger view but sacrifice resolution, while narrower cone angles concentrate the power into a smaller area, providing better detail.

When choosing a transducer, it is essential to consider your specific fishing needs, including the depths and type of fishing you plan to do. This will help determine the optimal power output, frequency, and beamwidths for your transducer.

Frequently asked questions