How To Install A Fishfinder? (Boat & Kayak Installation)

A fish finder is an electronic device that uses sonar to detect fish underwater.

While many boats come equipped with factory-installed fish finders, others will require the installation of aftermarket units.

However, installing a fish finder on a fishing boat or kayak can be relatively simple with the right tools and instruction.

Let’s have a look on how to install a fish finder?

How to install fish finder

Tools Necessary For Installing Fish Finder

Installing a fish finder is relatively simple and can usually be done without professional help.

But what many don’t realize is that there are several tools necessary for installing a fish finder, and if you don’t have them, your fishing trip could be over before it even starts.

There are a few tools you’ll need in order to do the job right.

First, you’ll need a drill and drill bit appropriate for the material of your boat’s hull.

This is absolutely essential for making the holes necessary to mount the transducer and fish finder unit.

A cordless drill is ideal, as it gives you the freedom to move around without being tethered to an outlet.

Second, you’ll need wire cutters and strippers to properly connect the unit’s wiring harness to your boat’s electrical system.

Other tools are,

  • Fish tape
  • Crimp connectors
  • Clamshell fitting
  • Phillips head screwdriver
  • Heat shrink tubing
  • Cable ties
  • Silicone sealant
  • Terminal connectors
  • Adhesive sealant

You’ll need some sort of saw to cut through the hull of your boat. This can be a hand saw, circular saw, or even a power drill with a special cutting attachment.

Be sure to wear gloves and eye protection while doing this.

How To Install A Fishfinder?

Installation of Fish Finder on a Fishing Boat

Every boat needs a fish finder to locate any fish in the water with accuracy and speed.

Installing one on your fishing boat requires purchasing an antenna, mounting it, and connecting it to your ship with wires or cables.

Installation of Fish Finder on Bow

Most boats don’t have room for installing a fish finder on their bow, but even if they do, they often require many wires to be run through their deck at the back due to various components like motors or GPS that would interfere with the signal.

To install one on your bow, you will need a personal mount that can hold an antenna close enough for the antenna cable length to reach from the mountain, running a wire from the house battery or power source, running a wire from the connector of trans.

Installation Fish Finder on a Kayak

Installing a fish finder on a kayak has never been easier. The best fishing kayaks are already set up with special rigging to house the transducer and route the cables to the battery and Display.

If you want to acquire a kayak with a fish finder, choose from the suppliers who make it simple to install the electronics necessary for anglers.

When choosing a spot for the Display, select a location on the kayak that is out of the way but convenient to access.

Mount the Display on a kayak track to add mobility and flexibility. Always use a permanent mount screwed into the kayak to build a strong connection.

Install the battery at or below the deck and close to the TV screen to run the power cable.

It’s better to route the cable through a hatch or drill a hole through the deck and hide its content with a wire cap.

Fish Finder Installation Cost

If you’re looking to add a fish finder to your boat, you may be wondering about the cost of installation. Here’s a look at what you can expect to pay for this upgrade.

Fish finders can range in price from around $100 to $1,000, so it’s important to choose one that fits your budget.

Installation costs will also vary depending on the type of fish finder you choose and the complexity of the installation.

Generally speaking, you can expect to pay between $200 and $500 for professional installation of a fish finder.

If you’re handy with tools and comfortable working with wiring, you may be able to save some money by doing it yourself.

However, it’s important to make sure you understand the instructions before attempting any DIY electrical work.

Things Should Consider During The Installation of a Fish Finder

When installing a fish finder, there are several things you need to take into account in order to get the most accurate results.

The first is where you will be mounting the fish finder. It is important to have a clear view of the water in order to get an accurate reading.

Make sure the transducer is properly mounted. The transducer is the part of the fish finder that sends out the sonar waves and receives the echoes.

It needs to be mounted securely so it doesn’t come loose and fall into the water.

Another thing to consider is the power source. You need to make sure that the fish finder has enough power to operate properly.

Make sure to run the wiring for the fish finder through any areas where there might be moving parts or sharp edges. This will protect the wiring from being damaged.

Lastly, you need to think about what kind of information you want the fish finder to provide.

Make sure you read all of the instructions that come with your fish finder before you start installation. This will help you understand how to properly install and use your new fish finder.

This will help you determine which features are most important to you and how much you are willing to spend on the fish finder.

FAQs

Is It Hard To Install a Fish Finder?

Whether you’re an experienced angler or a fishing novice, you’ve probably heard of fish finders.

Fish finders are electronic devices that use sonar to detect fish in the water. They’re incredibly useful for finding fish in deep water or in areas with lots of underwater debris.

Many people believe that fish finders are difficult to install, but that’s not the case! With a little time and patience, anyone can install a fish finder.

Installing a fish finder is relatively simple and only requires a few tools.

The first step is to mount the transducer, which is the part of the fish finder that sends and receives sound waves.

Where is the best place to mount a fish finder?

There are many different ways to mount a fish finder. Some people like to mount it on the front of the boat, while others like to mount it on the back.

There are also people who like to mount it on the side of the boat. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages.

One advantage of mounting the fish finder on the front of the boat is that you can see the screen easily.

You don’t have to turn your head to see it, and you can keep your eyes on the water in front of you.

Another advantage is that you can use the fish finder to navigate through narrow passages.

One disadvantage of mounting the fish finder on the front of the boat is that it can be difficult to hear the audio.

The noise from the engine can drown out the sound from the fish finder.

Some people like to put it on the front of their kayak so they can see what is happening under the water as they paddle.

Others like to put it on the side of their kayak so they can see it while they are fishing.

And still others like to put it on the back of their kayak so they can keep an eye on it while they are paddling.

So, where is the best place to mount your fish finder? That really depends on what you want to use it for and how you want to see it.

If you are just using it to find fish, then any of these locations will work fine. But if you want to use it for navigation, then you will probably want to put it on the front of your kayak so you can see where you are going.

What gauge wire do I need for a fish finder?

If you’re looking to install a fish finder, you’ll need to make sure you have the right gauge wire. So, what gauge wire do you need for a fish finder?

For most fish finders, you’ll need 14-gauge wire. This type of wire is strong enough to handle the power needs of a fish finder, while also being thin enough to easily run through your boat’s hull.

If you’re not sure what gauge wire you need for your fish finder, consult the owner’s manual or ask an expert at your local marine store.

With the right gauge wire, you’ll be able to enjoy all the features of your fish finder and make the most of your time on the water.