Corky,
I just happened to have a Ram Mount from a previous set up and decided to use it…..because I had it. I have a Ram mounted on each “step” in the front graph area on the bow. I thought I was going to like being able to swivel the mounts to get different viewing angles, but honestly……I pretty much just lock them down and leave them alone. I think I will eventually use one of the longer arms available to put a graph up higher (closer) so I can see it better while dropshotting. But , honestly, I rarely dropshot.
I have friends that use forward facing sonar a lot, and they have a mount where the unit slides up and down a “pole” and that’s a pretty cool setup. They use it primarily for crappie fishing. If I was going to be fishing while seated, I’d give something like that strong consideration.
You could also just mount each unit straight to the built in steps without any mount at all. In hindsight, I think that would be a good way to do it. It would keep the graphs more flush with the front of the boat, and keep them out of the way of casting. If it didn’t mess up the placement of the cover, I’d seriously consider just doing that. (I haven’t moved my Ram mounts at all yet……so why even have them?)
All kinds of choices out there. I say, have fun with it (you’ve earned it)…..and choose what pleases you. Set it up knowing that you won’t need to worry about climbing over it (get the trick step or something similar).
With your health considerations, I would make things as easy/safe as possible and not look back. I provide anesthesia at a trauma center here in the Midwest, and I see cases all the time where someone gets their feet tangled up and falls……needs surgery for broken bones or worse, and pretty much changes things for the rest of their life. Don’t be that guy if you can help it.
Enjoy the process.
Good luck, Tim
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