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Which Fish Measuring Board Do I Choose?
As anglers, there will always be an opportunity where you'll want to verify the length of your catch. Whether you're trying to meet the legal length for a mess of crappie, logging your latest kicker largemouth during a kayak tournament, or when you want to prove to your buddies that you did, in fact, catch a bluegill the size of a dinner plate. There are a lot of great Fish Measuring Boards on the market that will help you log and verify the length of your catch, but do you know which one will fit your specific needs and budget? Let's look at some of your options.
The Hawg Trough Measuring Board was created with the kayak angler in mind. It provides a convenient, lightweight, and affordable measuring option for kayak tournaments. The Hawg Trough is the original measuring board that was featured in many kayak bass tournaments. Each board is pre-lined, easy to read, lightweight, floats, and easy on the wallet.
The measurements start at 8" and read up to 30" in 1/4" increments, providing an easy view for CPR (Catch. Photo. Release). Each Hawg Trough is created utilizing injection-molded, high-impact polystyrene with a UV protector for a lightweight construction. Each board floats using foam inserts. For added strength and flotation, the Hawg Trough is also available with dowel rods to enhance the rigidity of your board. Simply put, the Hawg Trough provides easy-to-identify measurements in a lightweight, affordable package.
Learn more about the Fishing Online Hawg Trough HERE!
Cost: $21.99-$29.99
Material: Hi-vis yellow, injection-molded, high-impact polystyrene with UV Protector
Features: Pre-lined measurements. Holes at each end for tethering. Floating with dowel rod option for added strength. Options to include a Tourneytag for tournament anglers.
Measurement: Measures from 8"-30" in 1/4" increments
Portability: Standard weighs just 10.7oz. Dowel weighs 13.1oz
Durability: The ultra-lightweight construction comes at a cost for overall durability, only being able to withstand light use and abuse.
Tournament Compliance: Not compliant with Bassmaster Kayak Series, Hobie BOS, or KBF tournament trails. Check with your local club or trail for compliance.
Ketch Karbonate Measuring Board
The Ketch Karbonate Measuring Board is a lightweight and durable board that meets the needs of a wide variety of anglers. The Karbonate bridged the gap between the ultra-lightweight construction of the Hawg Trough and the super durable and dense construction of the Ketch X. Whether you're a kayak angler needing a board that is approved across virtually all trails and circuits (be sure to verify with your organization to confirm) or the traveling angler that wants a lightweight board that will withstand the use and abuse of an angler on the move. With various boards available in 16", 26", and 32", the Karbonate accommodates tournament anglers and anglers looking to meet a slot size.
The Karbonate utilizes durable, lightweight, and UV-resistant polycarbonate. Its yellow coating and blue 1/4" measurements provide easy visuals. At the same time, the board's deep cradled design ensures your catch lies flat and still for longer, providing ample opportunity to photograph and verify your catch. Whether you're a hardcore kayak angler or walking the banks, you won't find a better blend of lightweight, durable construction and affordability than the Ketch Karbonate.
Kayak anglers, don't forget your Ketch Keeper or Ketch ID for easy mounting and tournament identification.
Cost: $29.99-$49.99
Material: Yellow, polycarbonate material with UV-resistant coating
Features: Stamped on measurements. Built-in cradle. Tether holes on both ends. 100% Made in the USA.
Measurement: Three sizes- 16", 26", 32". Measurements start at 5" and increase in 1/4" increments.
Portability: 16" weighs approximately 10 oz. 26" weighs 1.2 lbs (19.2 oz). 32" weighs 1.7 lbs (27.2 oz).
Durability: Built for rugged use without the added weight. Overall, it is a durable and lightweight board. The edges and back may be susceptible to damage as these are the flimsier areas of the board.
Tournament Compliance: Compliant with Bassmaster Kayak Series, Hobie BOS, KBF, and many regional and local tournament trails. Always check with your organization to confirm.
Ketch X Board
If you're looking for a durable and reliable measuring board that can also be used for self-defense, the Ketch X has you covered! There is no way to put it; the Ketch X is one of the most complete measuring boards available. The anodized aluminum board is rugged, reliable, and built for the tournament angler, providing a no-hassle design with engraved measurements and a large cradle.
The Ketch X Board is not light, with the 26" weighing approximately 3.3 lbs and the 32" weighing 3.6 lbs, meaning this board does not float. However, the purpose of this design is for durability and stability. Whether the Ketch X is in your boat or kayak, the board's weight ensures it's not slipping or sliding while you photograph your catch. With the Ketch X available in four colors, you can find a board that is easier for you to read and matches your vessel. If you want longevity and durability, there is no other way to go than the Ketch X.
Don't forget your Ketch Keeper for easy mounting on your vessel or the Ketch ID for easy tournament identification in your next CPR event.
Cost: $69.99-$74.99
Material: Extracted aluminum with an anodized finish. Corrosion resistant from fresh and saltwater.
Features: Laser engraved measurements. Built-in cradle. CNC machined tether holes on both ends. 100% Made in the USA. Four color options.
Measurement: Two sizes- 26" and 32". Measurements start at 1" and increase in 1/4" increments.
Portability: 26" weighs 3.3 lbs (52.8 oz). 32" weighs 3.6 lbs (57.6 oz).
Durability: The standard for rugged and reliable measuring boards. Overall, this board will not break or bend and will last a lifetime. The only drawback would be the overall weight of the board.
Tournament Compliance: Compliant with Bassmaster Kayak Series, Hobie BOS, KBF, and many regional and local tournament trails. Always check with your organization to confirm.
YakAttack LeaderBoard Fish Measuring Board
Just when you thought, what else could a fish measuring board offer besides what's already available? The YakAttack LeaderBoard has found a way with next-level engineering and design. The LeaderBoard is a 28" measuring board constructed of durable polyethylene, giving anglers a lightweight and durable board that floats utilizing EVA foam laid on the board's underside. The oversized design offers anglers a large, structured cradle accommodating even larger catches. By weighing in at 2.4 lbs, measurements start at 1" and increase at 1/4" increments; this board excels all the basic needs of a measuring board.
What sets the LeaderBoard apart are the newest features, such as the Culling Tabs. These three culling tabs slide along the board, giving you a reference point for your recent catches and making you proficient during any catch, photo, or release tournament. Built right into the LeaderBoard is an Integrated Tournament ID Holder. This holder features dual flip-out holders to hold your tournament IDs, allowing you to quickly deploy and stow your ID, providing a great view while logging your catch. Lastly, the LeaderBoard features a DoubleTake Visual Indicator; simply put, this is a mirror located on the bump of the board that will help eliminate the gap between the fish's nose and the vertical fence, meaning you are provided with the most accurate measurement and eliminating any potential doubt or debate when placed in a tournament scenario.
The YakAttack LeaderBoard is the tournament anglers' dream measuring board. It meets the standards of other boards by offering a reliable, floating board but utilizes the features others don't have to help enhance your tournament experience. Plus, shop for additional LeaderBoard Accessories Here!
International anglers, don't forget about the 71cm Metric Board!
Cost: $59.95
Material: Marine-grade UV-stabilized polymers
Features: Culling Tabs. Integrated Tournament ID Holder. DoubleTake Visual Indicator. EVA inlay for flotation. Large built-in cradle. Tether hole. Made in the USA. Four color options.
Measurement: One size - 28". Measurements start at 1" and increase in 1/4" increments.
Portability: 28" weighs 2.4 lbs (38.4 oz)
Durability: Built for the tournament angler to provide a durable floating board that can handle everyday use and abuse on the tournament trail. While loaded with features, the board feels a bit clunky and less sleek in design.
Tournament Compliance: Compliant with Bassmaster Kayak Series, Hobie BOS, KBF, and many regional and local tournament trails. Always check with your organization to confirm. Click HERE to view the growing approval list.
- Stan Miketa
What is the Power-Pole C-Monster Control System?
The Power-Pole C-Monster Control System is the wireless control platform found in Power-Pole's most advanced marine products, from the Sportsman, Pro Series II, BLADE, and Micro shallow water anchors, their accessories, the Wireless Remote Control Transmitter, Surface Mount Dash Switch, the Wireless Foot Switch, and also the Charge Marine Power Management System.
C-Monster technology provides wireless accessory control specifically designed for marine applications by eliminating the limitations of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technology. This technology allows anglers to control multiple products simultaneously, delivering a user-friendly and efficient anchoring experience that lets you focus on what matters: fishing!
CM1 vs CM2
Since 2010, Power-Pole has transformed the marine industry by introducing their proprietary C-Monster Control System that gives anglers wireless control of their Power-Pole shallow water anchor. The first generation of the C-Monster technology is referred to as CM1. C-Monster 1.0 technology was used on all Power-Pole Sportsman, Pro Series, BLADE, and Micro anchors from 2010 until 2016 and operates on a 400 Mghz signal. All CM1 products, such as the Dash Switch, Wireless Remote, and Wireless Foot Switch, feature white and grey accents.
In 2017, Power-Pole introduced the latest C-Monster technology, C-Monster 2.0, which controls your Power-Pole shallow water anchors and Charge units today. CM2 gives users even faster processing time and two-way communication between the hydraulic pump and controller. Operating on a stronger 900 Mghz signal means quicker response times, producing precision control at even farther distances. CM2 technology is the industry standard for wireless control of your vessel. All CM2 products, including the Dash Switch, Wireless Remote, and Wireless Foot Switch, feature black and orange accents.
C-Monster App
The Power-Pole C-Monster App gives anglers complete control and customization of their Power-Pole shallow water anchors on their smartphones. This mobile connects to your CM2-powered technology via Bluetooth to transform your smartphone or tablet into a convenient control center. You can precisely control anchor deployment speed and depth through the app, effortlessly manage single or dual anchor setups, and fine-tune various settings.
Beyond essential control, the C-Monster App provides valuable system monitoring capabilities. With instant troubleshooting diagnostics, you can dissect and diagnose any issue in no time. It allows you to track the status of accessories, including battery levels and system health, ensuring optimal performance and proactively identifying potential problems. The app also facilitates software updates, ensuring your Power-Pole system remains up-to-date with the latest features and improvements. By integrating these advanced functionalities, the C-Monster App elevates the Power-Pole experience, offering anglers a more streamlined, efficient, and enjoyable time on the water.
Watch this video to learn more about the Power-Pole C-Monster App!
Conclusion
The Power-Pole C-Monster Control System is a sophisticated wireless system that enhances the functionality of your favorite Power-Pole products' functionality by combining wireless technology, customization, and integration over anchor deployment that supports single or dual anchor setups. From the beginning with CM1 to the latest and greatest CM2 technology, Power-Pole has continually strived to stay on the cutting edge of marine industry technology. Power-Pole's innovation gives recreational and fishing enthusiasts complete control for a productive outing on the water.
Are you looking to transform your vessel for total boat control? Shop Power-Pole today!
- Stan Miketa
Improve Your FFS Performance With The Z-Man Graph ShadZ
It's no secret that the latest bait trends have been tools to enhance your on-the-water performance while utilizing forward-facing sonar (FFS). With live sonar technology sweeping the fishing world over the past few years, it's become an essential learning tool for anglers to catch more fish and a necessary tool for the tournament angler to stay on the cutting edge of the sport on the tournament trail.
Looking at some of the most popular baits utilized on FFS, Z-Man ElaZtech plastics have become well-represented in the jighead minnow community with the Jerk ShadZ. It is a quintessential minnow-style bait for Moping, Strolling, and Hover Strolling techniques while utilizing FFS because of its baitfish profile, subtle action, availability in sizes from 3.5" to 7", a wide variety of colors, and long-lasting ElaZtech construction.
Z-Man understands that different baits and profiles are needed for each scenario, and it is time to bring something new. Dialing baits to fit the minnow-shaking craze can be daunting, as a wide variety of soft plastics and jig heads are on the market. Z-Man intends to remain on the cutting edge, producing baits that catch fish and take innovation to a new level; with that in mind, in steps, the Z-Man GraphShadZ.
The Graph ShadZ was created to provide anglers with a streamlined pre-rigged jig that accurately mimics the size and profile of baitfish throughout the country. It is engineered specifically for use with forward-facing sonar, and here's how.
Learn more about FFS and the Z-Man baits that will put more fish in the boat with this great article: Not Another Forward-Facing Sonar Story.
Line Through Jighead
One of the biggest conundrums when fishing a jig and minnow is the line tie and knot. One of the key components of a good jig and minnow setup is the 90-degree line tie, which allows your bait to sit vertically in the water column and produce the most realistic quivering action with subtle shakes of the rod tip. However, often, due to force applied to the knot while fishing the bait, that knot angle will shift, causing the action of the bait to suffer.
The Graph ShadZ combats this with a line-through jighead design, where the line tie is located on the chin of the head. This design ensures that your knot does not become displaced while also being abrasion-resistant as it is protected by the line-through channel of the head, all while staying horizontal at a consistent 90-degree angle. The perfect horizontal head balance ensures that the bait provides consistent action in the strike zone for the most lifelike presentation.
Body
As we move back to the business end of the bait, the goal of the Graph ShadZ was to create a profile that blended seamlessly with the jighead for the most natural presentation and to mimic various baitfish accurately. The 10X Tough ElaZtech construction of the Graph ShadZ provides the action, durability, and buoyancy needed in a minnow-style bait that appeals to various predatory game fish. With every kick, the forked tail utilizes a thick lower lobe that displaces more water for a more realistic quivering motion.
The action, profile, and buoyancy of the Graph ShadZ are all for nothing if the bait is not properly fed onto the jighead. Z-Man's solution for the perfectly rigged bait is simple: the Graph ShadZ features a hook guide channel. This channel is molded into the body of the ElaZtech plastic during production, and when you feed it onto the line-through jighead, you will have a perfectly straight bait secured by the durable lead keeper.
No good jighead is complete without the proper hook. The Graph ShadZ features a custom 3/0 medium wire black nickel sickle-shaped hook. This hook complements this bait by providing a hook gap that matches the bait profile while ensuring an exceptional hook-up ratio.
FFS Optimization
The Graph ShadZ has the profile and design of an excellent jighead minnow bait for vertical presentations, but how does this bait improve performance on FFS?
It's a great question, and the main components that ensure a better return are density and how much air the bait produces. Starting with density, the harder the material of the bait you're using on FFS, the stronger the return you will see. That's why the head of this bait utilizes a combination of precision alloy metals to strengthen that return. The Graph ShadZ features an integrated air bladder that produces air within the ElaZtech body. This bladder traps air bubbles in the bait and slowly releases them as the bait is worked through the water column. The molded-in scale pattern along the bait also releases additional air bubbles, ensuring the most prominent sonar visibility.
Check out the full Z-Man Fishing Pro Seth Feider breakdown: GRAPH SHADZ in Depth.
Conclusion
The Z-Man Graph ShadZ takes the standard jighead minnow design to the next level. Anglers are offered a highly proficient pre-rigged bait that is enhanced for the FFS fisherman. Utilizing feedback from anglers to create a bait that produces the latest innovation for a market loaded with minnow-style baits. The Graph ShadZ is available in eight color-matched bodies and heads in 3/16oz, 1/4oz, and 3/8oz. These colorways have been chosen to accurately mimic any baitfish near you, whether it's Goby Sauce for smallmouth on the Great Lakes or Electric Shad chasing spotted bass on the Coosa River. If you want to improve your efficiency utilizing FFS, the Z-Man Graph ShadZ checks all the boxes for a deadly combo!
- Stan Miketa
Native Watercraft Slayer Propel 10 LTE - Everything You Need to Know
Just when you thought the Native Watercraft Slayer Propel lineup couldn't get any better, in comes the Native Watercraft Slayer Propel 10 LTE. The Slayer 10 LTE is the latest evolution of the previous Slayer Propel 10 fishing kayak. However, the LTE is hardly a shadow of the previous generation as the LTE is now the ultimate "grab and go" pedal-driven fishing kayak. Combining a lightweight and portable design on a platform that allows you to incorporate the latest cutting-edge technology and accessories, the Native Watercraft Slayer Propel 10 LTE provides the best value and access for a fishing kayak!
Lightweight
The Slayer Propel 10 LTE is built around the concept of lightweight convenience. The 10' kayak weighs just 85 lbs fully rigged, which allows you to maneuver this vessel easily whether you're transporting on top of your vehicle or in the back of a truck. With carry handles located at the bow, stern, and each side of the kayak, there is a plethora of options available for anglers to move this kayak safely.
Layout
For some, creating a lightweight and portable kayak comes at the cost of the functionality and the overall layout of the kayak, but not the Native Watercraft LTE. The LTE offers the layout to accommodate the modern angler and ensures a smooth, dry ride on the water. Starting with the hull, featuring a narrow entry point, this design displaces more water, allowing the boat to glide through waves; as the water works its way back along the tapered design, this reduces noise and splashing. The LTE provides maximum stability for a 10' kayak as the hull has been drawn out to increase floatation along the kayak's sides, ensuring an easy opportunity to stand and fish.
The overall design of the kayak gives anglers all the essentials you want in a fishing kayak. From the large spacious bow hatch, groove tracks all along the perimeter of the kayak, and spacious tankwell that can accept a 16x16 YakAttack BlackPak Pro, even forward rod holders on both sides of the kayak that allow you to re-tie or unhook fish by keeping your rod upright and by your side. The LTE enables the angler to stay organized and efficient on the water.
Performance
A Native Watercraft Kayak is incomplete without utilizing its most significant feature, the 701 Series Propel Pedal Drive. Providing hands-free operation and effortless forward and reverse movement, the Propel Pedal Drive is the heart and soul of the LTE. For a kayak of this size, you can expect to experience the ultimate power and control of the Propel Pedal Drive.
Now standard with all Slayer Propel LTE kayaks is the Springblade Rudder System. Previously an add-on for many Native Watercraft kayaks, the Springblade Rudder deploys to enhance your tracking and control with a sleek, low-profile design that doesn't interfere with your balance. This design will withstand the wear and tear of the hardcore angler. Along with the cutting-edge design of the LTE, the Springbalde Rudder will offer enhanced tracking and effortless tuning, giving you complete control of the water.
Features
What separates the LTE from other kayaks is not just its lightweight design but its ability to accommodate today's latest technology. Utilizing today's advancements in electronics and motors helps you advance beyond your competition of the water. And the LTE enables you to get there with easy rigging and utilization of this technology.
Molded into the stern of the LTE is an elevated plate that allows you to mount a motor or your Power-Pole Micro Anchor. From there, the cables can be run through the Powerlink Plate that is located below the tankwell. This Powerlink Plate provides easy access for running wires, eliminating any need to drill unnecessary holes in your boat. The LTE is ready to accept the Wizard Foot Steering Controls with two screws located along each side wall of the cockpit.
Adding one or even two fishfinders to the LTE is easier than ever for a kayak of this size. The LTE is ready to accept the YakAttack LockNLoad Mounting Base, allowing you to add the Captain's Bridge Fishfinder Mount. From there, wires can be easily run to a battery located in the bow hatch for a clean installation. The transducer will seat neatly and safely in the transducer pocket along the hull. This pocket allows wires to easily be run through the kayak and back into the bow hatch.
Conclusion
The Native Watercraft Slayer Propel 10 LTE Fishing Kayak is the leader in lightweight fishing kayaks. The LTE has a lot to love, from its compact, portable design to its feature-rich layout and eye-catching colors. It provides endless opportunities for anglers at an excellent price point. Whether you're a beginner looking at your first fishing kayak or a seasoned angler looking for a compact vessel, the LTE has you covered!
- Stan Miketa
Must-Have Bonafide & Native Watercraft Kayak Accessories
Are you looking to rig your Bonafide or Native Watercraft kayak for the season? If so, a lot can go into the rigging process, from adding a trolling motor, navigation lights, electronics, rod holders, mounts, etc. All of this enhances your fishing experience and ability while on the water. Bonafide and Native Watercraft have crafted kayak-specific essentials for their lineup, ensuring you have everything you need to perform on the water and protect your investment. Check out some must-have accessories for any Bonafide and Native Watercraft owner.
SideKick
Whether rocking a Bonafide RVR119 or a Native Watercraft Titan X 12.5, transportation to and from the truck to the water is a big step. The addition of the Sidekick Wheel System helps bridge the gap when maneuvering terrain. The Sidekick Wheel System will fit all Native Watercraft Propel models, excluding the LT and Manta-Ray. Additionally, this system fits Bonafide P127, PWR129, RVR119, SKF117, and XTR130 kayaks. Each Sidekick conveniently installs onto the gear track system behind each kayak's seat.
The Sidekick Wheel System is available in two variations: Standard Kit and Sand Wheel Kit. The Standard Wheels offer a durable, rugged, and reliable design that will handle most terrain, whether transporting from the truck to the boat ramp or through any hard ground. The Sand Wheels assist in sand and softer terrain by cushioning the kayak's weight, allowing you to maneuver where denser tires can't. Additionally, no-float wheels are available as an upgrade for the Sidekick. The No Float Wheels will never go flat, built for the harshest terrain; if you're an adventurer, the No Float Wheels are for you.
Watch the full installation process straight from Native Watercraft, which provides a detailed breakdown of "How to Install the Sidekick".
Mounting Plates
Utilizing your kayak to its full potential can be done by adding a trolling motor or a Power-Pole Micro Anchor. These tools will only increase your performance and proficiency on the water. However, many Bonafide and Native Watercraft models require a specific mount to install these accessories safely. Each mount is pre-drilled for each specific kayak and includes a variety of accessory patterns, from trolling motor specific to Micro Anchor specific. From the Native Slayer and Titan models, there are a variety of Native Watercraft Motor Mounts for Bow or Stern. Similarly, Bonafide Kayak Motor Mount Plates are available for the SS127, RVR119, XTR130, and PWR129.
For PWR129 owners, there is a full lineup of PWR129 Mounting Plates to fully and effectively rig your kayak with the latest technology from the Dry Pod Plate to cover your existing dry pod, the Stern Plates that allow you to rig not one but two Power-Pole Micro Anchors, the Side Plate Kit, which adds additional mounting surfaces along the sides of your kayak for more accessories, and lastly, the Computer Plate which houses your forward-facing sonar module.
Cover
Protect your investment on the road or in storage with the proper covering. The Bonafide Kayak Covers and Native Watercraft Kayak Covers are made in the USA with marine-grade anti-wick threading that features double-stitched construction with 4-ply join seams. Each cover is secured utilizing the included tie-down straps along the sewn-in loops along the cover. These covers protect your kayak from the elements and debris on the road and help keep your kayak neat and organized when not in use.
These covers are available for your favorite Bonafide kayaks from the PWR129, RS117, SS107, SS127, P127, XTR130, and PWR129. For Native Watercraft Kayaks, covers are available for Slayer Propel, Slayer Max, Titan, and Titan X kayaks.
PRO Covers are also available for Bonafide P127, XTR130, PWR129, and Native Watercraft Titan X 12.5. The PRO Covers are slightly larger than the standard covers, allowing more accessories, including the seat (in the closed position), to stay installed on the kayak when the cover is installed.
Graph Mounts
With the advancements in today's technology, staying ahead of the game is the key to success for many competitive anglers. Utilizing your electronics allows you to find and locate fish, and there's no better way to view your graphs clearly and efficiently than with the Captains Bridge Fishfinder Graph Mount. The Captain Bridge can be mounted utilizing various techniques on various kayaks. Kayaks with gear tracks on the port and starboard sides can slide right into the tracks. For models that do not have tracks but a flat surface, anglers can add YakAttack Mighty Mounts to attach along the graph mount, allowing you to measure the width of where you would like to place this graph mount. The mounting surface features dual mounting tracks, while the side utilizes a single mounting track. This system easily installs your electronics or any various track-mounted accessories.
Available in a 26" and a 32" design, the Captain's Bridge will fit on the Native Watercraft Titan X, the Bonafide PWR129, and many more. For reference, if you want to add dual monitors over 9" to the Captain's Bridge, you will need the 32" to maximize the spacing.
Rudder Kits
Whether you're utilizing your kayak's Propel Pedal Drive or your favorite Torqueedo Trolling Motor, an upgraded rudder will improve the performance and control of your Bonafide or Native Watercraft kayak. Installation is straightforward, and all the necessary hardware is included with each applicable rudder.
By installing a Hi-Performance Rudder to your Native Watercraft Slayer, Slayer MAX, or Titan kayak, you now have an upgraded rudder with 25% more surface area. This rudder provides more control in adverse conditions and a more robust construction for long-lasting performance. For Native Watercraft Kayaks, you can also purchase the Springblade Rudder, which comes standard on most Native kayaks. This rudder also makes a great addition to a previous model kayak.
For Bonafide SS107, SS127, RS117, and EX123 kayaks, you can add the Bonafide Kayak FlexWings. These wings improve your kayak's tracking and eliminate the need for a skeg or rudder. These heavy-duty stiff rubber wings are durable as they are installed underneath the dual skid plates on your kayak. For the SS107 and SS127, you can improve the performance by adding the SS Rudder Kit. This kit is custom-built for these kayaks, featuring a YakAttack SwingBlade Rudder, enabling you to deploy and retract your rudder hands-free.
- Stan Miketa
Why You Need a BerleyPro Visor for Your Fishfinder
Have you invested a lot into your electronics setup? If so, you deserve to get the most out of your fishfinder, and a BerleyPro Fishfinder Visor does just that. The BerleyPro Fishfinder Visors are an affordable way to ensure you can clearly read and use your electronics. Whether you're fishing from a boat or a kayak, the sun glare can be a detriment to anglers viewing their electronics. BerleyPro Visors reduce glare and eliminate unwanted light, allowing you to clearly interpret what you see in the water below. With the latest advancements in technology, from forward-facing sonar to side-imaging, down-imaging, and GPS, it's never been more vital that you can clearly and legibly view your electronics.
Not only do they reduce glare, but they will also significantly improve your unit's performance. If you're a kayak angler, you understand the importance of battery usage. With the addition of a visor to your unit and reduced glare, you can now lower the brightness on your unit's display, which reduces and saves valuable battery life. Additionally, your unit is now protected from the sun; this will minimize its temperature, allowing it to run efficiently to its fullest capacity.
Each visor provides additional protection from the elements, eliminating a large percentage of water spots on your display, whether it's raining or splashing over the side of your vessel. This reduction in water spots will improve the performance of your touch-screen units, eliminating the interference that water drops create.
Introducing the New BerleyPro Fishfinder Visors
Construction
All BerlyPro Fishfinder Visors are constructed of 3mm thermoformed Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) plastic. This ABS plastic is lightweight and durable, easily formed, and shaped to fit a wide variety of fish finders. Its durable construction is perfect for heavy use in marine environments, as the visor's surface finish will not fade in harsh sunlight. BerleyPro Visors have been CNC machined to fit various units from Lowrance, Humminbird, Garmin, Raymarine, and Simrad.
Installation
Installing a BerleyPro Visor may initially seem intimidating, but it is quite simple. All visors include corresponding stainless steel fasteners for your specific visor and unit. Carefully removing the trim caps surrounding your fishfinder exposes your mounting surface, where you will align your visor overtop and mount using the included hardware. You will then reattach the trim caps to the unit, and your visor is installed. All units will vary slightly in their mounting locations and hardware. For example, Humminbird Helix units utilize a mounting bracket to install each visor based on their construction from manufacturing.
Once installed, all units with visors will work in correspondence with a flush mount or a gimbal mount, as the visors are CNC machined to fit outside of the flange of your unit. This construction allows the hardware to be installed directly to the unit in most instances.
Check out the installation process for a Garmin Echomap UHD2 Touch-Visor Installation.
BerleyPro has been committed to creating innovative gear for anglers since 2014. Hailing from Melbourne, Australia, their passion for fishing and adventure has ensured some of the finest kayak fishing accessories for anglers worldwide. Utilizing the latest machinery and technology, you will find all BerleyPro products, from their Visors, Keel Guards, Transducer Protectors, and much more, are built to last. If you want to rig a fishing kayak, check out the full lineup of BerleyPro accessories!
- Stan Miketa