When the Humminbird Helix 9 Mega SI GPS G2N arrived on the doorstep, I wasted no time mapping out a plan to get it installed on the Tandem Hobie and ready to roll. As I planned how to attack this project I had two main rules I was determined not to break.
– Rule 1- Avoid drilling any new holes in the Hobie
– Rule 2 – Ensure portability of the Hobie wasn’t compromised with the new unit
The reason this project wasn’t straightforward was the Hobie Oasis doesn’t come with any pre moulded mounting systems to prevent having to drill holes into the hull – big challenge!
Although there are custom kits you can apply to the process they were cumbersome and not ideal for my portable requirements.
THE TRANSDUCER
This is the third time I had installed a DI fish finder on the double Hobie and the standard procedure was to install the transducer inside the hull in a foam cut out and fasten it in with GOOP to prevent it moving around.
However, I now wanted to add the Mega Side Imaging capabilities to this floating tub, so I needed another plan as mounting it inside the Hobie muffles the quality and means it kicks out a less than ideal output. We needed another solution!
Fortunately, I had a custom made RAM mount ball that is designed to fit under the two screws that hold the handles at each end of the Hobie.
I simply attached the transducer to the mount provided along with a RAM arm and extension pole. As a result, I could simply position the transducer behind the rudder of the Hobie to ensure a clear, undisturbed image.
The rear scupper hole provided the ideal insertion point for the transducer cable to ensure it would be safely out of the way – big tick!
The cable would then exit the hull via the Sail Mount Hole, along with the power cable out the back of the custom screen mount. This also allows us to fasten the power supply under the front seat so it’s not bouncing around during portages.
THE SCREEN
When deciding where to mount the screen I was fortunate enough to have a custom made mount from a previous fish finder, which would insert perfectly into the sail mount hole in the middle of the kayak.
To make one of these yourself you simply construct a small aluminium plate and some tubing, before then calling in someone with a bit of an idea with a welder. If you need help with that just pop into your local metal fabricator and they should be able to sort you out. This also removed any risk of unbalancing the Hobie.
The screen is then fastened by an elastic cable that loops around the camera mount on the back of the entire unit.
THE TRANSFER
The added advantage of this portable system is it allows us to simply remove the RAM ball and mount it onto the single Hobie or boat with minimal fuss.
The transducer will be fastened to the Minn Kota via a Transducer Shield and Saver. Simply transferring the 4 screws holding the transducer and the RAM arm will allow this sounder to be run at the front of the boat when required.
