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It's always best to get the antenna as high as possible and of course an 8 foot antenna gives more height than a 4 foot. I would think that with time the screws used to secure the antenna in an area with no wood will eventually pull free. An 8 foot antenna whipping around will cause that to happen sooner. There are stainless steel ratchet mounts made for rail mounting and the console rail would offer a secure site and give more height than the gunnel. If you have a Bimini you may be able to use a 4 foot antenna that will clear the top. you could also mount it to the side of the console and would have access inside the console for a substantial backing plate.