RAM Mount for Fish Finder: 5 Best Picks Compared (2026)

Updated November 2026

Finding a reliable ram mount for fish finder use can make a real difference on the water. A good mount holds your display steady in chop, keeps the screen at a readable angle, and lets you move the unit between a bow, console or kayak without tools. The picks below were chosen by comparing specifications such as ball size, arm length, base style and compatibility with common marine electronics, along with patterns in owner feedback. Each option is a standard marine mount type, so you can match it to your vessel and screen size.

Our Top Picks

Before comparing models, it helps to know what the selection criteria were. We looked at ball system size (B, C and D sizes are the most common in marine mounts), arm length and rigidity, base type (drill-down, round plate or AMPS plate), the screen size each mount is rated for, and how widely each unit is reported to fit major brands such as Garmin, Lowrance and Humminbird. Mounts that combine a stable base with a ball joint sized to the display are generally the ones owners describe as holding up best.

Quick Comparison

Product	Best for	Key feature
RAM MOUNTS Fish Finder and GPS Mount with Medium Arm	Most boat and kayak setups	AMPS plate with B Size 1″ ball system
Scotty 0163 Ball-Mount Fish Finder and Universal Mounting Plate	Large 7 to 9 inch displays	Universal mounting plate
RAM MOUNTS Universal Heavy-Duty Fish Finder Mount for Boats	Rougher water and heavier units	D Size 2.25″ ball system
xik 1.5″ Ball Medium Arm Fish Finder Mount	Budget-conscious anglers	Aluminum marine mount with 1.5″ C Size ball
RAM MOUNTS Heavy-Duty Fish Finder Mount with D Size 2.25″ Ball	Fish finders and chartplotters	11″ x 3″ drill-down plate

RAM MOUNTS Fish Finder and GPS Mount with Medium Arm, Drill-Down Base

Best for: Most boat and kayak setups

This mount suits anglers who want one flexible option across several vessels. The medium arm gives enough reach to clear a console or gunwale, and the ball joint lets you tilt the screen out of glare.

Key specs

• Marine electronics mount with AMPS plate
• B Size 1″ ball system
• Medium arm length
• Drill-down base

Pros

• Versatile AMPS plate compatibility
• Medium arm balances reach and stability
• Well suited to a range of boats and kayaks

Cons

• B Size ball may not suit heavier displays
• Drill-down installation requires mounting hardware access

Bottom line: A strong first choice for anglers who want one mount that works on several vessels and fits common mid-size fish finders.

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Scotty 0163 Ball-Mount Fish Finder and Universal Mounting Plate, Black

Best for: Large 7 to 9 inch displays

Anglers running larger screens often find that a small base or short arm flexes under load. This Scotty model is built around a universal plate intended for bigger units, and it suits those who want a dedicated setup for a larger display.

Key specs

• Designed for 7 to 9 inch fish finders
• Universal mounting plate
• Black finish
• Ball-mount design

Pros

• Sized for larger displays
• Universal plate fits many unit shapes
• Established marine brand

Cons

• Less adjustable than a long-arm design
• May need a separate base depending on your mounting surface

Bottom line: Best for anglers with a large screen who want a plate-based mount rather than a long arm.

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RAM MOUNTS Universal Heavy-Duty Fish Finder Mount for Boats

Best for: Rougher water and heavier units

This short-arm, drill-down design keeps the mount close to the console, which reduces leverage on the joint. It is a practical choice for offshore or choppy-water anglers who want a rigid setup.

Key specs

• Short arm design
• Round plate
• D Size 2.25″ ball system
• Drill-down installation

Pros

• Short arm resists vibration
• Larger D Size ball handles heavier loads
• Drill-down base is secure once installed

Cons

• Limited reach for wide consoles
• Requires drilling, so it is less suited to temporary setups

Bottom line: A good fit for boat owners who want maximum rigidity and plan a permanent installation.

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xik 1.5″ Ball Medium Arm Fish Finder Mount

Best for: Budget-conscious anglers

This aluminum mount uses a 1.5 inch, C Size ball with a medium arm, a combination that suits many common fish finder sizes. It is a sensible option for anglers who want a functional marine mount without a premium price focus.

Key specs

• Aluminum construction
• 1.5″ / 38mm / C Size ball
• Medium arm
• Round base

Pros

• Lightweight aluminum build
• Medium arm offers reasonable reach
• Budget-friendly option

Cons

• Less proven track record than long-established brands
• Smaller ball may limit very heavy displays

Bottom line: Suitable for anglers with a mid-size unit who want a basic, serviceable mount for a kayak or small boat.

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RAM MOUNTS Heavy-Duty Fish Finder Mount with D Size 2.25″ Ball

Best for: Fish finders and chartplotters

The 11 by 3 inch drill-down plate spreads load over a wider footprint, which is useful when mounting heavier chartplotter units. Owners who run multi-display setups often look for this kind of base.

Key specs

• D Size 2.25″ ball system
• Short arm design
• 11″ x 3″ drill-down plate

Pros

• Wide base distributes weight well
• Large ball suits heavier units
• Good match for chartplotters

Cons

• Bulkier than compact mounts
• Needs a suitable mounting surface for the plate

Bottom line: Ideal for anglers mounting a heavier chartplotter or fish finder who have room for a wider base.

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Buying Guide

Ball System Size

Marine ram mounts use standardized ball sizes, commonly listed as B, C and D. Larger balls carry more weight and resist movement better, while smaller balls keep the mount lighter. Check your unit’s weight before choosing.

Good picks for this: RAM MOUNTS Universal Heavy-Duty Fish Finder Mount for Boats, RAM MOUNTS Heavy-Duty Fish Finder Mount with D Size 2.25″ Ball

Arm Length

Short arms reduce leverage and vibration, while medium arms offer more reach around consoles and gunwales. Measure the distance from your mounting point to the spot where you want the display.

Good picks for this: RAM MOUNTS Fish Finder and GPS Mount with Medium Arm, xik 1.5″ Ball Medium Arm Fish Finder Mount

Screen Size and Fit

Match the mount to your display’s dimensions and weight. Larger 7 to 9 inch units often need a universal plate rather than a small cradle.

Good picks for this: Scotty 0163 Ball-Mount Fish Finder and Universal Mounting Plate, RAM MOUNTS Fish Finder and GPS Mount with Medium Arm

Base Type

Drill-down bases are permanent and very stable. Round plates and AMPS plates can work with existing hardware on many boats. Choose based on whether you want a fixed or removable installation.

Good picks for this: RAM MOUNTS Universal Heavy-Duty Fish Finder Mount for Boats, RAM MOUNTS Heavy-Duty Fish Finder Mount with D Size 2.25″ Ball

Use Case

Kayak anglers usually need lighter, quicker-release mounts, while offshore boat owners often prioritize rigidity. Decide where and how you fish before buying.

Good picks for this: xik 1.5″ Ball Medium Arm Fish Finder Mount, RAM MOUNTS Fish Finder and GPS Mount with Medium Arm

Durability and Materials

Marine environments expose hardware to salt spray and UV. Look for corrosion-resistant finishes and sturdy joints. Owners often report that stainless or coated hardware holds up better over seasons of use.

Good picks for this: RAM MOUNTS Universal Heavy-Duty Fish Finder Mount for Boats, Scotty 0163 Ball-Mount Fish Finder and Universal Mounting Plate

Installation and Care

Tighten all ball joints after the first few trips, since vibration can loosen them. Rinse the mount with fresh water after saltwater use and check hardware before each season. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for torque and drilling guidance.

Good picks for this: RAM MOUNTS Fish Finder and GPS Mount with Medium Arm, RAM MOUNTS Heavy-Duty Fish Finder Mount with D Size 2.25″ Ball

FAQ

What is a ram mount for fish finder use?

It is a ball-and-arm marine mount that attaches a fish finder or chartplotter to a boat, kayak or console. The ball joint lets you adjust the viewing angle.

What ball size do I need?

The ball size is usually printed on the mount and matched to the head unit’s bracket. B, C and D are the most common sizes, with D being the largest and strongest.

Can a ram mount fit any fish finder?

Many models fit a range of brands, but compatibility depends on the head unit’s bracket and your mount’s ball size. Check the listing and your unit’s specifications before buying.

Should I choose a drill-down or a clamp-style base?

Drill-down bases are more permanent and stable, while clamp-style or plate bases allow removal. Choose based on how often you move the mount between vessels.

How long should the arm be?

Short arms reduce vibration and leverage, while medium arms provide reach around consoles. Measure your mounting location before selecting an arm length.

Are ram mounts safe to use in saltwater?

Most marine-grade mounts are designed for saltwater, but regular rinsing and inspection help prevent corrosion. Consult a marine professional if you have questions about electrical or installation safety.

Do I need to drill holes to install one?

Some mounts require drilling for a permanent base, while others use clamps or existing hardware. Read the installation instructions and consult a marine technician if you are unsure.

Conclusion

For most boat and kayak anglers, the RAM MOUNTS Fish Finder and GPS Mount with Medium Arm offers the most flexible starting point. Anglers with large screens should look at the Scotty 0163 plate-based design, while those fishing rougher water will benefit from the short-arm, D Size RAM MOUNTS options. The xik model suits budget-minded buyers, and the heavy-duty chartplotter mount is the right choice for larger multi-display setups. Match the ball size, arm length and base type to your unit and vessel, and your ram mount for fish finder use should hold steady for seasons to come.

Sources

• Boating safety guidance and equipment recommendations for recreational vessels (uscg.mil)
• Standards and industry information for marine electronics and boat equipment
• Practical advice on boat installation, equipment security and on-water safety (boatus.org)

Related reading

• 4 Best Mounts for Fish Finder Options for Boats and Kayaks
• Top 5 Portable Fish Finder Depth Finder Picks for Shore, Kayak and Boat
• Top 5 Fish Finder GPS Plotter Picks for Saltwater Anglers in 2026
• Lowrance HDS 12 Fish Finder: 6 Best Models Compared for 2026

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