F-Ribs And Sibs - Inflatable Boat Community

Evening all,

Just wondering if any members are using a side imaging fish finder on their SIB or RIB, and if so how you are mounting the transducer to get an unobstructed view at either side below the boat?

I guess that the transom is the obvious place for a mount, although I have heard that turbulence from an outboard can mess with the image when in close proximity. Any advice appreciated.

Anthony

Got mine on an extendable pole, being so close to the engine I have to lower it for side imaging. The plastic acts as a splash guard.

As long as you remember to move it to the side before hitting the beach, a strap around the tube will do.

Thanks for the replies.

Not a bad idea with the strap. The tranducer does need to be completey level for best results with side imagining though, and I'd be a bit worried about it displacing when moving about. Could be worth a test run. Cheers.

Nice idea Stray. When not in use and just motoring between spots do you have to remove it from the clamp entirely so that it doesnt get in the way of the outbard, or do you just leave it extended below?

It doesn't get in the way of the outboard, when motoring I just use downscan as that will read at any speeds I go. When drifting over ground I drop the transducer lower or lift the outboard (depends if I might need a quick getaway) if I want use the sidescan to spot any features that might be worth a fish.

Ok great stuff, good to know. May I ask what you used for the clamp and mounting bracket to fix the system to the transom and attach the transducer to the pole?

I have just ordered a side imaging unit. Am I right in assuming that side imaging uses a fine/narrow beam and not a large cone shaped beam like down imaging!?

I have bought mine to do a bit of wreck fishing over the winter. Should make life a bit easier when trying to find them.

What units are you fellas using.

Just do a search for transducer mounts, several types are available, get the sturdiest that you can.

If you are just getting into side imaging have a look on Utube, loads of videos that will explain how to use it much better than I can.

These are great, https://bits4boats.com/boat-mounts-syst ... r-arm.html

I bought one last year and I was surprised how sturdy it was.
Once you start with the Railblaza gear it all sinks together great.. easy to swap and place items around your boat.
Martin

Thanks Martin, will have a look.