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The Best YakAttack GridLoc MightyMount Track Mount for Kayaks on the Market
- Juan Villegas
- Oct 10
- 8 min read
In the world of kayaking—whether you’re a tournament angler, a wildlife photographer, or just enjoy a quiet paddle across the bay—your vessel is an extension of your gear and your lifestyle. The key to maximizing your experience lies in customization and accessibility. You need your fishing rods, fish finders, cup holders, and action cameras exactly where you need them, securely and firmly.
This is where the brilliant engineering of YakAttack comes into play, particularly the GridLoc MightyMount XL 9” Track Mount. More than a simple rail, it is the backbone of a mounting ecosystem meticulously designed for the modern kayak enthusiast. This article will not only guide you through why this track mount is being crowned as the "best" option on the market, but we’ll also break down its features, explore its applications, and honestly compare it with the competition.
The Foundation of Your Rigging Arsenal: The GridLoc MightyMount XL 9”, track mount for kayaks
Forget bulky mounting solutions that require complicated, permanent modifications to your hull. The YakAttack GridLoc MightyMount XL 9” encapsulates the brand's philosophy: robust functionality, simple installation, and seamless integration with all their hardware.
Detailed Product Description
Here is the gear you are considering, summarized:
VERSATILE 9” KAYAK TRACK MOUNT
Provides 7.5" of usable track length for attaching rod holders, paddle holders, cup holders, and other kayak accessories—perfect for expanded rigging options on longer surfaces.
COMPATIBLE WITH GRIDLOC & STANDARD SYSTEMS
Designed around YakAttack’s GridLoc Mounting Platform and works seamlessly with BlackPak Pro crates and most rotomolded or thermoformed kayak track setups.
DURABLE & MARINE-GRADE CONSTRUCTION
Built to endure harsh marine environments with a textured surface for added grip and security when mounting kayak gear.
EASY INSTALLATION HARDWARE INCLUDED
Comes complete with #10 stainless steel self-threading screws; installs quickly with a Phillips screwdriver or 1/8" drill bit for surface mounts on kayaks.
NOTE
For better results and better grip, I replaced the screws that come with the YakAttack GridLoc MightyMount with 48 Pairs M5 Neoprene Well Nuts with Stainless Steel Crosshead Bolts Well Nuts Kit for Kayak
MADE IN USA WITH LIFETIME GUARANTEE
Proudly crafted in the USA and backed by YakAttack’s Built for Life Guarantee, ensuring long-term reliability for kayak anglers and paddlers.
Analysis of Its Core Strengths
The 9-inch MightyMount XL is not just a longer version of a standard rail; it's a strategic rigging tool.
Usable Length and Expanded Rigging Options (7.5")
The real game-changer here is the length. While shorter rails force you to mount accessories side-by-side in cramped quarters, the 7.5 inches of usable length on the XL allows for strategic mounting.
Dual Mounting: You can position a rod holder and a fish finder display mount (like an FPV-Base) right next to each other, ensuring both are within easy reach.
Cable Management: The extra length helps manage transducer and battery wiring when using an electronic accessory mounting plate.
Adjustment Flexibility: It offers the necessary range to slide your gear to optimal positions for paddling and then quickly slide it back to the ideal positions for fishing.
GridLoc Integration: A Smart Ecosystem
Compatibility with the GridLoc platform is what elevates this product above generic competition. GridLoc is a precise hole pattern found on top of the popular YakAttack BlackPak Pro crates. This means accessories designed for GridLoc (including the MightyMounts themselves) fit perfectly, ensuring the mounting is not only secure but also aligned and aesthetically pleasing. If you are already a BlackPak Pro user, this rail feels like a natural extension of your organization and mounting ecosystem.
Stress-Free Installation and Robust Construction
The inclusion of #10 stainless steel self-threading screws is an often-overlooked detail that greatly simplifies the installation process. You don't need complex tapping tools or well nuts for every surface installation. On the water, the marine-grade construction with a textured surface ensures the rail won't degrade under constant exposure to UV rays, salt, and humidity. This texture isn't just for durability; it adds an extra layer of friction to keep your accessories firmly in place, even during choppy conditions.
Comparison with the Competition: How Does YakAttack Measure Up?
To understand why the GridLoc MightyMount XL is considered among the best, we must benchmark it against the industry leaders in kayak track mounts. The primary competitors in the kayak accessory market are undoubtedly RAM Mounts, Scotty, and to a lesser extent, Railblaza (though the latter uses a different star-port mounting system).
YakAttack GridLoc MightyMount XL vs. RAM Tough-Track
Feature | YakAttack GridLoc MightyMount XL (9”) | RAM Tough-Track (Generally 9" to 12") |
|---|---|---|
Usable Length | 7.5 inches | Varies, often similar to the total rail length. |
Material | Textured Marine-Grade Plastic (Exclusive design) | High-Strength Composite (often smoother) |
Mounting Ecosystem | GridLoc and standard T-Slot. Excellent BlackPak Pro integration. | Standard T-Slot only. Integrates best with RAM ball bases. |
Mounting Hardware | #10 self-threading screws included and optimized. | Usually sold separately or with T-Nuts only. |
Warranty | Built for Life (Lifetime Guarantee) | Typically limited lifetime warranty. |
Competitive Edge | GridLoc system integration and textured surface. | Greater variety of ball mounts for heavy electronics. |
Comparison Verdict: The RAM Tough-Track is a solid option, especially if you are heavily invested in their ball-and-socket system, which is excellent for heavy electronics (like large fish finders). However, the MightyMount XL beats RAM in ease of installation (thanks to the included hardware) and ecosystem integration, particularly for those using other YakAttack products like the BlackPak Pro. YakAttack's textured surface also provides superior security against accessory slippage.
YakAttack GridLoc MightyMount XL vs. Scotty Track Adaptor Systems
Feature | YakAttack GridLoc MightyMount XL (9”) | Scotty Track Adaptor (and associated systems) | |
|---|---|---|---|
Usable Length | 7.5 inches | Scotty's adaptor is short; length is defined by the base rail (if any). | |
Base System | T-Slot/GridLoc | Scotty's proprietary Gear-Head locking system. | |
Primary Purpose | Provides a long, direct mounting surface. | Adapts an existing rail to accept Scotty accessories. | |
Competitive Edge | All-in-one, long, and aesthetic solution. | Flexibility for quickly changing the angle of Scotty rod holders. | |
Comparison Verdict: This is more a philosophical comparison. Scotty is the king of geared rod holders, highly valued for their durability and locking system. The MightyMount XL is superior if you seek maximum linear versatility and the ability to use a mix of accessory brands (that use the T-Slot standard). If most of your accessories are Scotty and you want to use their rod holders, the Scotty adapter is necessary, but if you want the best overall rail base, the YakAttack is the choice.
Deep Dive into the Practical Application of the 9-Inch XL
It's not enough to know the rail is long; we must understand how those extra 7.5 inches transform the paddling and fishing experience.
Tournament Rigging (Critical Positioning)
In tournament fishing, every second and every degree of angle matters. The MightyMount XL is ideal for:
Dual Rod Staging: Mounting a pair of YakAttack Omega rod holders in a slightly offset position, allowing both rods to be within immediate reach and their tips pointed in slightly different directions to cover more water. The length allows for millimeter adjustments.
Fish Finder and Camera Combo: Placing your fish finder mount right next to your action camera mount (like the YakAttack PanFish Pro). This allows you to record your screen while capturing the action on the water, without the camera interfering with the display. The XL handles this dual duty with ease.
Comfort on Long Trips (Ergonomic Accessories)
For long kayaking journeys, ergonomics are vital to prevent fatigue:
Paddle and Drink Holders: Instead of sacrificing space for one or the other, the XL lets you mount the YakAttack Retractor for your paddle and, right next to it, a YakAttack Cupholder to keep your hydration within easy reach.
The Workstation (Adapter Plate): Being long, the XL is a perfect base for mounting larger adapter plates that serve as a small "work table" for tying knots, changing lures, or placing a phone for navigation.
Installation of Heavy-Duty Electronics
While RAM is known for balls, YakAttack offers robust electronic mounts. The XL is key for larger electronics, such as:
Large Fish Finder Displays: 9-inch or 10-inch displays require a solid, well-distributed base. Using the XL's length helps distribute the rotational force away from a single mounting point.
GPS Antennas and Lights: A visibility light (like the YakAttack Visibility Flag) can be mounted on one end and an antenna or a transducer mount on the other, maximizing the utility of a single location.
Installation and Maintenance Guide (Maximizing Your Investment)
One of the greatest advantages of the MightyMount XL is its simple installation. However, there are key considerations to ensure YakAttack's Built for Life Guarantee and the longevity of your rail remain intact.
Hull Preparation (Rotomolded vs. Thermoformed Surfaces)
The description mentions the rail is compatible with most kayaks. This is crucial.
Rotomolded (Thick Plastic): For most polyethylene kayaks, installation is simple. Mark the holes, use a 1/8" drill bit to drill a pilot hole (this is highly recommended to prevent the screw from wandering), and then drive in the included #10 self-threading screws. Be sure to tighten firmly, but do not overtighten (you can deform the hull's plastic).
Thermoformed (Thinner Plastic): Thermoformed kayaks require more attention. Because the material is thinner, it may be necessary to use well nuts or backing plates inside the hull to distribute the tension and prevent the screw from "pulling through" over time. This ensures a vibration-proof connection.
Maintenance for Lifetime Use
YakAttack's marine-grade plastic is tough, but minimal maintenance is vital:
Freshwater Rinse: After every use in saltwater or murky water, rinse the rail and base with fresh water. This prevents corrosion of the stainless steel and salt buildup in the T-slot channels.
Periodic Inspection: Check the tension of the mounting screws every few trips. Paddling or transport vibration can slightly loosen the screws.
Lubrication (Optional): Apply a small amount of silicone-based lubricant to the T-slot groove occasionally. This helps accessories slide more easily and reduces wear and tear.
Beyond the Competition: The Value of the YakAttack Guarantee
One feature that sets YakAttack apart—and the reason their products often outperform generic, lower-cost competitors—is the Built for Life Guarantee.
What Does "Built for Life" Mean?
Essentially, it's a lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. For a kayaker investing in high-performance gear, this translates to:
Peace of Mind: You know your investment is protected. If the rail cracks or fails under normal use conditions, YakAttack stands behind it.
Commitment to Quality: A guarantee of this nature can only be offered by a company that fully trusts the durability of its materials and manufacturing processes (Made in the USA).
Long-Term Value: Instead of buying a cheaper rail that you'll have to replace in one or two seasons, the MightyMount XL is a one-time purchase that will last the life of your kayak, offering superior Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).
My Conclusion: Why the MightyMount XL 9” is the Superior Choice
If you've read this far, you understand that the YakAttack GridLoc MightyMount XL 9” Track Mount is not just a piece of plastic. It is a foundational piece of kayak customization engineering that combines length, durability, and system integration in a way that is unmatched by its competitors.
While other brands offer excellent individual components (RAM with ball flexibility; Scotty with rod holder gear solidity), YakAttack offers a complete, cohesive mounting ecosystem. The MightyMount XL is the main artery of that system.
For the angler who needs critical, flexible, and dual-purpose mounting, the 7.5" of usable length is a game-changer. For the paddler who values clean integration and simple installation, the GridLoc system and easy-to-use hardware make all the difference. And for anyone buying gear for use in harsh marine conditions, the marine-grade construction with the Built for Life Guarantee provides the ultimate security.
In the crowded market of kayak accessories, the YakAttack GridLoc MightyMount XL 9” stands tall not just as an option, but as the gold standard for expansive, versatile surface rigging. It is the foundation upon which you will build your perfect kayak rig.
Why settle for short, flimsy tracks when you can invest in the reliability of YakAttack? Secure your gear with marine-grade construction backed by a Built for Life Guarantee. This isn't just a rail; it's a lifetime investment in hassle-free fishing.
INVEST IN THE BEST: Secure your GridLoc MightyMount XL today and experience the YakAttack difference, guaranteed for life.
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