How to Mount Big Graphs on Your Boat: Choosing the Right Mega Setup

A bigger graph gives you more screen to work with. It also makes your mounting setup more important. Before choosing a height or arranging two screens, start with the foundation: where the mount attaches, how it is supported, and whether the finished setup fits the way you fish.

At Str8-Up Mounts®, we help anglers build around their boat and electronics. Our Mega options give you different ways to position a large graph or a dual-screen setup, including extension mounts with added support and the Mega Pro Series with built-in support.

Tucker Smith’s big-graph setup

Sponsored Str8-Up Mounts® angler Tucker Smith runs a 7-inch Mega Pro Series dual mount with a Garmin 9219 housing and a 12-inch secondary graph. His setup is a practical example of pairing larger electronics with a larger mounting foundation and built-in support.

Your boat may need a different height or screen arrangement. Use Tucker’s setup as an example, then choose your mount around your own fishing position, mounting area, and clearance.

Start with a solid foundation

The mount is only one part of the installation. The deck or panel beneath it must be sound and suitable for the load. A factory bow panel should not automatically be treated as the right foundation for larger electronics. Panel attachments can loosen over time, and adding bigger screens makes it especially important to evaluate the entire installation.

The Mega Pro Series uses a larger base and built-in support. That gives anglers a different mounting foundation than simply attaching a large setup to a bow panel. The larger base still needs a secure attachment to a suitable mounting surface.

Which Mega setup fits your boat?

For a single big graph: A 5-inch or 7-inch Mega extension mount is a starting point we recommend. Choose the height that puts the screen where you can comfortably read it while leaving usable space around your feet, pedal, and trolling motor. Confirm compatibility with your graph and mounting arrangement before ordering.

For two graphs with separate support: An extension riser mount paired with a Mega Dual plate and added support brackets provides another route. Plan the plate, riser, and support brackets as a complete setup so both screens remain readable and the supports fit the available space.

For two graphs with built-in support: The Mega Pro Series brings a larger base and integrated support into the mount itself. It is an option for anglers who want that foundation without building their arrangement around separate add-on support brackets. Tucker’s 7-inch dual mount shows this approach in use.

The best height is the height that works for you

Choosing between a 5-inch and 7-inch setup should start with your viewing position. Check the view while standing where you normally fish. If you also fish seated, check that position too. More height is useful only when it improves the view and still fits the boat.

Before drilling, position the complete arrangement and check trolling-motor deployment and stowing, pedal access, compartment lids, rod movement, and room to move around the bow. With two graphs, make sure one screen does not block the other.

Through-bolt the mount securely

Our installation recommendation is clear: securely bolt the mount through the deck using stainless steel hardware, washers, and nylon-insert locknuts. Do not fasten the mount with screws driven into the deck. Screw-only attachments can loosen over time.

Check access beneath the mounting area before drilling. Confirm that the deck is suitable and that the hardware will not interfere with wiring, hoses, or other equipment. Use the hardware sizes, backing requirements, and tightening instructions specified for your mount and boat. If underside access or deck construction presents a problem, contact us or a qualified marine installer before proceeding.

Route cables and check the finished setup

Leave enough cable slack for the adjustments your installation allows, and keep cables away from pinch points and moving equipment. Follow your electronics manufacturer’s cable-routing instructions. Check that all connections remain accessible and that no cable is pulled tight by screen positioning or trolling-motor movement.

Before heading out, check the hardware, support connections, viewing position, and clearances. Continue inspecting the attachment points during use, especially after rough-water trips.

Let us help you choose

Send Str8-Up Mounts® your boat make, model, and year; the model of each graph; whether you want one or two screens; and a photo of the mounting area. Tell us whether you fish standing, seated, or both. We can help you choose between a Mega extension arrangement, a Mega Dual plate with added support, and the Mega Pro Series.

Contact info@str8upmounts.com or call 574-358-1698 to discuss your setup.

Str8-Up Mounts® is a registered trademark of Str8-Up Mounts, Inc. Product photos and descriptions are provided to help customers select and use our products. No fabrication drawings, production specifications, or permission to reproduce our original designs are provided.