The Lowrance Elite 5 HDI was released on Friday September 20th 2013. I was able to get my order in right away! I have long awaited a Fish Finder that was a Dual DSI and Sonar with the capability of overlaying the two. This is what HDI means Hybrid Double Imaging. I am able to see the structure with the overlayed sonar echos of fish!. The chart plotting feature of this device is also a great addition as previously i had a device for sonar and a separate handheld GPS unit. The addon SD card slot also lets you have the options of using 3rd party Charts.

I opted for the Navionics as they have a good name and very detailed charts! I hope this was the right choice. Now to figure out where to mount the large transducer. It will not mount in the scupper like my current setup. I am thinking of using the RAM Mount flexible transducer arm kit until i figure out a permanent mount. As this is a DSI unit also it the transducer needs to be in the water. A shoot through hull approach with the transom transducer will not display a clear picture.

Also Purchased the RAM Mounts compatible mount for the head. I really like how it clips right in with no hardware! Easy to mount and remove the head when loading and unloading.

The install will follow soon!

To gain more space under the center hatch of the Jackson Cuda 14 I’v decided to rewire the location of the battery box. Using a piece of plexy glass I had lying around in the garage i cut a plate that would make a shelf. Then using Lexel I basically glued it in. This shelf will keep my battery centered and stowed. This way its not flopping around.

I let that set with the battery box sitting on it for a day. Then left it alone for a few weeks to see if it getting wet would break the Lexel bond to the kayak. As we know not much sticks to the poly.

I used an existing install and my existing battery box. All i did was extend the wires for the power to the stern.

Using some adhesive velcro I mounted the box to the plexy glass and now its removable!

This install will work on pretty much any kayak with an open hull and a rear hatch.

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Looking for a way to keep your fishing reels out of the salt water when using a factory installed flush mount rod holder?

Image From RAMMounts.com

Well finally the solution is here! The Ram Mounts Wedge Adapter Ball adapts to flush mounted rod holders in all kayaks!

This new setup allows you to use any of RAM’s compatible rod holders to keep your expensive reels up and out of the harmful salt water. Personally I use the RAM 2008 tube rod holders on my Jackson Cuda!. The RAM 2008 rod holder has a leash point which allows you to clip your rod leash right to the rod holder!

The wedge will fit into flush mounts that are 1 1/2″ to 1 7/8″ inner diameter. It installs easily simply slide the wedge in the flush mount tube.  With a Philips head screwdriver adjust the screw inside the ball until the wedge snugs up.

Now you have a ball to mount your favorite RAM Mounts rod holder on. I prefer the 2008 tube rod holder as it keeps the rod & reel high out of the water while being fully adjustable to any angle for trolling. I will have to try the new RAM Mounts Rod tube style Rod Holder next!

For more information please see the Ram Mounts Website Here.