Tech

Review: The Best Marine GPS Accessories

Choosing the right accessories for your marine GPS and fish-finder setup matters as much as the unit itself. The right mounts, covers and hardware keep displays readable, sensors protected and systems securely fastened in saltwater conditions. These recommendations come from hands-on testing, cross-checking specs, and analyzing expert and consumer feedback to surface reliable, practical picks for anglers and boaters.

Considerations

When evaluating marine GPS accessories we prioritized real-world durability, compatibility, installation ease, corrosion resistance, and value. Our process combined:

  • Hands-on fit and feel checks (mount stability, knob ergonomics, strap security).
  • Material and technical-spec verification (aluminum grade, coating, ball size, AMPS plate patterns).
  • Long-run and environmental checks where possible (UV, salt spray, vibration resistance reported by users).
  • Aggregated expert reviews and large-sample consumer feedback to identify common failure modes.

This mixed approach ensures each recommendation balances lab-style technical verification with what actually matters on the water.

Best Budget Pick
Mounting Knobs Set

Mounting Knobs Set

A low-cost, dependable set of replacement mounting knobs that restore secure tilt and swivel adjustments on many Humminbird and Garmin-style mounts. Durable, corrosion-resistant materials and an ergonomic shape make installation and on-the-water adjustments fast and reliable for the budget-minded boater.

$9 from Amazon

These replacement mounting knobs deliver solid value for anglers who just need dependable hardware without the premium price. They’re made from corrosion-resistant plastic with metal inserts, offer an improved grip profile, and install quickly—ideal for restoring worn knobs on Humminbird HELIX and similar units. Expect straightforward fitment and noticeably better ergonomics compared with brittle OEM knobs that have seen long exposure to sun and salt.

Premium Choice
VAUBORTTI Extended Arm Mount

VAUBORTTI Extended Arm Mount

A heavy-duty, die-cast aluminum mount with a 1.5" TPU ball and 14.76" dual rod arm for maximum adjustability and corrosion resistance. Powder-coated finish, AMPS-compatible plate and oversized wingnut make it a robust choice for demanding marine use and larger displays.

$59 from Amazon

This aluminum alloy mount is built for anglers who demand a stable, long-lasting platform. The single-piece die-cast body and powder-coated finish resist corrosion better than cheap plated mounts. A 1.5" TPU ball provides durable, non-slip articulation and the 14.76" extended arm gives generous reach and ergonomic positioning—handy when you want the screen closer to eye level. The pre-drilled plate supports AMPS and multiple hole patterns so it pairs with Garmin, Lowrance and Humminbird units. Technical highlights: marine-grade aluminum, oversized wingnut for gloved operation, and universal compatibility.

Best Value for Money
Livescope Transducer Cover

Livescope Transducer Cover

A neoprene protective cover made specifically for Garmin Livescope LVS34 transducers. Thick, UV-resistant neoprene, fast single-strap closure and reinforced stitching protect the transducer during transport, storage, and ice fishing without blocking sonar performance.

$9 from Amazon

This transducer cover gives excellent protection at a low price. Its thickened neoprene resists abrasions, ice damage and impact during transport while a quick single-strap hook-and-loop keeps the cover secure. The contoured design preserves the transducer’s profile so sonar signals remain unobstructed. For anglers who move and store their Livescope units frequently—especially in harsh weather or ice-fishing conditions—this cover reduces wear at a fraction of the replacement cost of a damaged transducer.

Editors Choice
Tilt/Swivel Gimbal Mount

Tilt/Swivel Gimbal Mount

A versatile tilt-and-swivel gimbal bracket compatible with Garmin Striker and ECHOMAP series units. Durable construction, easy installation and flexible viewing-angle adjustment make it an excellent everyday mount for consoles, kayaks, and small boats.

$19 from Amazon

This gimbal-style mount is a smart middle-ground: sturdier than cheap plastic mounts but far less expensive than heavy-duty marine arms. It supports a wide range of Garmin ECHOMAP and Striker models, provides secure tilt and swivel adjustments, and installs with minimal tools. The construction holds up to repeated angle changes and stays stable in chop when tightened properly. It’s a reliable, versatile option for anglers who want a proven mounting solution that works across multiple units and boat setups.

Quick Comparison

  • Best Overall (Durability & Versatility): VAUBORTTI Extended Arm Mount — Heavy-duty aluminum build, long reach, AMPS-compatible plate. Ideal for dedicated boats and larger displays.
  • Editors Choice (Everyday Use): Tilt/Swivel Gimbal Mount — Versatile, easy to install, works across many Garmin models; great for consoles and kayaks.
  • Best Value: Livescope Transducer Cover — High-protection neoprene cover that preserves sonar performance at a low price.
  • Best Budget: Mounting Knobs Set — Affordable, corrosion-resistant knobs that restore functionality and grip.

Which to pick:

  • If you need a long-lasting, heavy-duty mounting solution for a larger display: choose the aluminum extended-arm mount.
  • If you want a reliable, easy-to-install mount for everyday use across multiple units: the tilt/swivel gimbal is the practical choice.
  • If protection of expensive transducers is a priority (transport, storage, ice fishing): the neoprene transducer cover is a small investment with big upside.
  • If you’re on a tight budget or replacing worn knobs: the mounting knobs are the fast, inexpensive fix.

Selecting the right marine GPS accessory depends on your boat type, how you use your electronics, and whether durability or price is your primary concern. Our recommendations combine hands-on checks, technical spec review and real-world feedback: choose the aluminum extended-arm mount for heavy-duty use; the tilt/swivel gimbal for flexible everyday mounting; the neoprene transducer cover for affordable protection; and the replacement knobs if you need a budget repair. These picks reduce common failure points—loose mounts, sun and ice damage, and degraded controls—so your navigation and sonar gear performs reliably on the water.