First Impressions of Scotty 173 Ball Mount w/Fish Finder Plate
The Scotty 173 Ball Mount w/Fish Finder Plate from Scotty promises a robust and versatile solution for mounting fish finders and chart plotters on various watercraft. Boasting a heavy-duty 2.25″ ball mount and pre-fabricated mounting holes, it aims to provide anglers with a secure and easily adjustable platform for their expensive electronics. This isn’t your flimsy suction cup mount; it looks like something designed to withstand serious chop and relentless sun.
I’ve been perpetually frustrated with flimsy fish finder mounts that vibrate, loosen, and generally inspire zero confidence when navigating rough water. I needed a bomb-proof solution for my kayak that could handle my larger Garmin unit without fear of it taking an unscheduled swim. Tired of jury-rigging solutions with limited adjustability, I was seeking a professional-grade mounting system.
Upon unboxing, the Scotty 173 Ball Mount w/Fish Finder Plate immediately impressed me with its sheer size and heft. The fiber-reinforced nylon construction feels incredibly solid, and the stainless steel fasteners suggest a long lifespan, even in harsh marine environments. This wasn’t the cheap plastic I initially feared; it’s a serious piece of kit.
I considered a Ram Mount system and a few other adjustable mounts, but the Scotty 173 Ball Mount w/Fish Finder Plate stood out due to its larger ball size (2.25″) for enhanced stability and the pre-drilled mounting plate, promising easy installation. It seemed like the perfect balance of strength and convenience. My first impression was one of pleasant surprise and growing confidence; it appears to be worth the investment.
Real-World Testing: Putting Scotty 173 Ball Mount w/Fish Finder Plate to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Scotty 173 Ball Mount w/Fish Finder Plate on a weekend kayak fishing trip on a moderately choppy lake. The mount was installed on the gunwale of my kayak using the pre-drilled holes and appropriate hardware. The fish finder was a Garmin Echomap 95sv.
Even in some decent waves and wind, the mount remained rock solid, holding the fish finder securely in place without any noticeable vibration or slippage. Adjusting the angle was surprisingly easy, and the mount held its position firmly after tightening. There were no unexpected issues during its inaugural run.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Scotty 173 Ball Mount w/Fish Finder Plate has proven to be incredibly durable and reliable. There are no signs of wear or tear, even after being exposed to saltwater, sun, and the occasional accidental bump. Cleaning is as simple as rinsing it off with fresh water.
Compared to my previous suction cup mounts, the Scotty is a night and day difference in terms of stability and peace of mind. It significantly outperforms any other mounting solution I’ve used. The Scotty 173 Ball Mount w/Fish Finder Plate is a clear upgrade, providing confidence where other mounts failed.
Breaking Down the Features of Scotty 173 Ball Mount w/Fish Finder Plate
Specifications
- The Scotty 173 Ball Mount w/Fish Finder Plate boasts a 2.25-inch ball, providing exceptional holding power for larger fish finders and chart plotters. This is crucial for stability in rough waters.
- It is constructed from fiber-reinforced nylon, offering superior strength and resistance to corrosion in marine environments. This ensures long-term durability.
- The included fish finder plate features pre-fabricated holes, designed for easy installation of gimbal mount brackets compatible with most 10-12 inch fish finders. This streamlines setup and reduces installation headaches.
- The square base securely fastens with bolts, providing a solid and stable connection to your boat or kayak. This prevents unwanted movement and ensures equipment security.
- With a weight of 2.5 lbs, it provides a sturdy base without adding excessive weight to your watercraft. Weight is a consideration, especially for smaller kayaks.
These specifications are critical because they ensure the Scotty 173 Ball Mount w/Fish Finder Plate can reliably hold expensive electronics in demanding marine conditions. The size and materials used directly correlate to its long-term performance and value.
Performance & Functionality
The Scotty 173 Ball Mount w/Fish Finder Plate performs its job exceptionally well, providing a secure and easily adjustable platform for mounting fish finders and chart plotters. Its primary function is to hold electronics steady, and it excels in this regard.
Its strengths lie in its robust construction, ease of adjustment, and rock-solid holding power. The only area for potential improvement might be offering different base plate options for specific kayak track systems. It easily meets my expectations, significantly improving my fishing experience.
Design & Ergonomics
The Scotty 173 Ball Mount w/Fish Finder Plate features a straightforward and functional design. The fiber-reinforced nylon feels incredibly durable, and the 2.5 lb weight gives it a substantial, confidence-inspiring feel.
The mount is very user-friendly, with intuitive adjustments and a simple locking mechanism. There is minimal learning curve. The large ball and easy tightening knob make adjustments a breeze.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the robust materials and solid construction, the Scotty 173 Ball Mount w/Fish Finder Plate should last for many years. I foresee no issues with its long-term durability.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional rinsing with fresh water to remove salt and debris. Repair, if ever needed, should be straightforward due to its simple design and readily available parts.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Scotty 173 Ball Mount w/Fish Finder Plate itself doesn’t come with many accessories, focusing primarily on the mount and mounting plate. However, it’s compatible with any fish finder that utilizes a standard gimbal bracket.
The pre-drilled holes on the plate make it adaptable to a wide variety of fish finders. While Scotty offers various mounting bases and track adapters, the Scotty 173 Ball Mount w/Fish Finder Plate works perfectly with many brands of marine electronic products. This enhances its versatility.
Pros and Cons of Scotty 173 Ball Mount w/Fish Finder Plate
Pros
- Rock-Solid Stability: Provides exceptional stability for fish finders, even in rough waters.
- Durable Construction: Built from high-quality, fiber-reinforced nylon and stainless steel fasteners for long-lasting performance.
- Easy Adjustability: The large ball and tightening knob allow for quick and easy angle adjustments.
- Universal Compatibility: The pre-drilled mounting plate is compatible with most 10-12 inch fish finders using a standard gimbal bracket.
- Peace of Mind: Eliminates the worry of equipment falling overboard.
Cons
- Price: A bit more expensive than basic suction cup mounts.
- Size: The larger size may be overkill for very small fish finders.
Who Should Buy Scotty 173 Ball Mount w/Fish Finder Plate?
The Scotty 173 Ball Mount w/Fish Finder Plate is perfect for kayak anglers, boaters, and anyone who needs a reliable and adjustable mounting solution for their fish finder or chart plotter. It is ideal for those who value stability and durability in demanding marine environments.
Those who should skip this product might be anglers using only small, lightweight fish finders or those on a very tight budget who are willing to compromise on stability. It’s also unnecessary for calm, protected waters where a simple suction cup mount suffices.
A must-have accessory would be appropriate mounting hardware (bolts, nuts, washers) suitable for your specific watercraft. The Scotty 173 Ball Mount w/Fish Finder Plate is a great investment for serious anglers and boaters.
Conclusion on Scotty 173 Ball Mount w/Fish Finder Plate
The Scotty 173 Ball Mount w/Fish Finder Plate is a premium mounting solution that delivers on its promise of exceptional stability and durability. While the price is higher than basic mounts, the peace of mind and long-term reliability make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who values their expensive electronics.
The value proposition is strong; it’s a “buy once, cry once” product that will likely outlast cheaper alternatives. Yes, the price reflects its quality and performance.
I would highly recommend the Scotty 173 Ball Mount w/Fish Finder Plate to anyone looking for a rock-solid and reliable fish finder mounting solution. It’s an investment in your fishing experience and the safety of your gear. Upgrade your setup today and fish with confidence!