Predator 13 Hummingbird Mounting?

So I've searched this form and got some answers but also now have more questions.

I'm looking at buying the Hummingbird 688CI HD COMBO.

Is there a best place to mount the screen? I don't want to drill to many holes.

If I mount the transducer through the scupper hole, I need an extra bracket?

I saw somewhere about a special kayak transducer? Do I need that or will the one that comes with it be fine?

If I do need one, what type? I see 3D Plus, Compact, Down imaging.

I also need a battery.

Anything else I need?

Any other helpful info?

I had to go thru a little of pain when I got mine.

Here is the thread - http://www.norcalkayakanglers.com/index.php?topic=52436.0

I also was looking at the Hummingbird 688CI HD COMBO

then I started doing some reading of on line reviews and saw the start up time mentioned and the overcast days  causing re-booting deal mentioned...not sure now

Is there a best place to mount the screen? I don't want to drill to many holes.

If I mount the transducer through the scupper hole, I need an extra bracket?

I saw somewhere about a special kayak transducer? Do I need that or will the one that comes with it be fine?

If I do need one, what type? I see 3D Plus, Compact, Down imaging.

I am with you, I didn't want to drill any holes. I also wanted to keep mine off the Mod Pod so I came up with this setup.

I made a SS bracket that screws into the stand up strap bracket holes. I ran the cable under the hatch cover and secured them inside the hull via a adhesive zip tie tabs over to the battery bag. For mounting the transducer I used a piece of PVC with a threaded cap. When the fish finder is not on the Humminbird mount it folds down towards the hatch.

Here are a couple pictures to give you some ideas.

I know a couple guys that use the 688 and they like it.

I have a 688 with the lake master chip and it is working fine . No down imaging though. Navionics  chip will most likely be better offshore in the salt.

I should have asked for reviews here.....I liked the unit and wanted to be able to see if was drifting near the no no zones around monterey and stillwater...if folks here have not had problems then I am for sure looking for one

It sounds like mounting the transducer in the scupper hole is a total PITA? Isn't the purpose of having the special scupper hole to make mounting easy?

Is there an easy way? Is there a different model or manufacture that makes it easy?

Basically I'm looking for a 5" color screen with GPS less than $500.

I have the 688 color combo. I like it but what I like better is the 597 color combo. They are out of production but you can still find them new if you search. the screen is bigger

I was reading and it said that bigger screens get in the way on a kayak?