As like hunting gear such as from deer hunting crossbow to rubber hunting boots the fish finder has become more of a necessity than a luxury. In fact, going fishing without a fish finder today is like going surfing without a surfboard. In this post, I will be reviewing 16 of the best fish finder models available in the market.
Furthermore, I will be highlighting some of the important factors that are to be considered when shopping for a fish finder.
Currently, there are hundreds of fish finder models available, and new models are being released almost every day. With such a wide selection of fish finders, pin pointing the best fish finders can be a tedious endeavor.
This is especially since there are a lot of variables involved when identifying a good fish finder. Therefore, different fish finders are designed to suit the needs of various fishers.
In this regard, what works for you, might not work for someone else. Below I have compiled a list of 16 best fish finder reviews that I hope will be of great assistance to you.
Factors To Consider When Buying a Fish Finder
If you are contemplating purchasing a fish finder, there are some factors you need to consider. These factors are
Frequency
In most instances, fish finders will offer either dual, multiple or single spectrum. Most fish finders will have frequencies of between 50 and 200 KHz.
As a basic rule of thumb, high-frequency fishfinders work best in shallow waters while lower frequency finders work best in deep waters.
Thus, the fish finder frequency you select should depend on the kind of water body you will be fishing from.
Display
Different fish finders have screens of varying resolution and sizes. A display’s resolution will determine how detailed the images shown are.
Thus a display with a high resolution will display more detailed content compared to one with lower resolution.
It is important to note that fish finders with high-resolution displays are costlier than those with lower resolution. Thus, you should check the resolution of a fish finder vis-à-vis its price.
Transducers
Sensors relay and receive sonar readings. In this regard, the transducer on a fish finder will relay sonar waves that hit objects and bounce back to the transducer.
Most fish finders come with transom transducer. The popularity of these transducers can be attributed to their ease of use and installation.
If your boat is more advanced, I would recommend going for fish finders with thru-hull transducers.
Power
The power of your transducer will influence its maximum depth. In this regard, if your transducer has a power output of 100 watts it can reach maximum depths of up to 600 ft.
Thus, the more the power, the deeper the fish finder can reach. Since salt water absorbs more energy more power is required when fishing in saltwater.
Apart from these factors there are important factors that you need to consider
- The brand will be a major factor to consider; I recommend buying from reputed and known brands such as Lowrance and Garmin
- In some instances, portability will be an important element to consider, especially if you want a fish finder for your kayak or small boat
- Additional features such as back-lit screens, freeze frame and many more will be another important factor to consider.
Best Fish Finders For The Money
In this first category, I will be reviewing two fish finders that I believe are the best fish finders for the money. In other words, these two devices offer great value for money and will be worth every penny you spend on them.
Lowrance 000-11793-001 HDS-9 GEN3 Insight Fishfinder
No products found.
The 000-11793 HDS-9 Gen 3 Insight fish finder is a high-tech gadget from Lowrance that is equipped with a plethora of impressive features including CHIRP Sonar, Broadband Sounder, Structure Scan and Downscan imaging.
All information is displayed on a 9 inch LED back-lit screen. The color scheme of this display is subtle and detailed, so you do not miss anything when using this sophisticated and advanced gadget. For ease of use, this Lowrance model features multi-touch and full keypad controls.
Thus, you can select how you control the fishfinder either by touch or by using the keypad buttons; it is all up to you. The structure scan is a feature that allows you to view structures, contours, and fish in 3D. There is also an integrated 10Hz GPS.
Pros
- The display is backlit for easy viewing even in low light
- Features both multi-touch and full-keypad controls
- Comes with an internal GPS antenna
- Has built in coastal and inland US waters
Cons
- It is quite expensive but worth the money
Specification
- 9 inches LED back-lit display
- Structure Scan HD sonar imaging
- Built-in wireless connectivity
- Spotlight Scan Sonar
- Insight Genesis maps
- Dual Ethernet ports
- Micro-C connection
Who Is It For?
This Lowrance fish finder is an excellent gadget that is designed to last for years. And while it is not the cheapest unit out there, it offers high-tech sonar technologies, is fast and provides accurate GPS positioning as well as wireless connectivity. This is a fish finder that will serve you for a long time.
Lowrance HDS-9 Gen2 Touch Insight fish finder
- Lowrance HDS-9 Gen2 Touch Insight Display with 83/200 & LSS-2 Transom Mount Transducers
Last update on 2024-04-16 / Please note that Prices and Availability Are Subject To Change /Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Another top of the line Lowrance fish finder that is worth a look at is the HDS-9 Gen 2 Touch Insight fish finder. Fitted with a 7-inch High-Def touch screen, this fish finder has a sonar scanner offering 455 or 800 kHz of operating power. This gadget also features structure scan technology and Lowrance’s patented broadband technology. With these two technologies, you get a detailed and clear image for depths of up to 300 ft.
Additionally, you get a radius scan distance of 328 meters. Another great feature that comes with all Lowrance models is the integrated GPS antenna. The built-in antenna on this device is a 5 Hz antenna. In addition to the GPS Lowrance also throws in detailed maps of up to 3000 North American lakes.
Pros
- The images appear clear and detailed
- Offers split screen functionality
- Is fitted with a large 7-inch display with a 480 by 480 resolutio
- Is equipped with built-in temperature sensors
Cons
- This unit can seem advanced and sophisticated to use
- It is a pricey unit
Specification
- 7 inch display
- Structure Scan HD sonar imaging
- Broadband Sounder
- Structure Map HD
- Internal 5 Hz antenna
- Go Free wireless enabled
Who Is It For?
Needless to say, this Lowrance model is a complete unit offering everything a modern day angler would need. However, due to its seemingly advanced and somewhat complex functionality, it might seem a bit advanced for inexperienced anglers.
In this regard, this is a unit for experienced fishermen who wants to get detailed and clear views of water bodies.
Humminbird Helix 9 SI GPS KVD fish finder
- 9 inch WVGA display
- Side imaging
- Dual beam sonar
Last update on 2024-04-16 / Please note that Prices and Availability Are Subject To Change /Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Before Humminbird’s 900 series of fish finder was discontinued in 2015, I used to own a 999ci HD SI Combo. With the discontinuation of this series, I thought it wise to upgrade to the Helix 9 SI GPS KVD fish finder.
The latter finder was a significant improvement to my HD SI Combo, not only was it faster, but it also came with a wider 9 inch LED back-lit colored display. The display is clear, detailed and bright, making it easy to view in low lighting.
The 360 degree Humminbird imaging that offers clear views of everything around the boat proved to be a useful feature. Another feature, which I absolutely love, is the zoom feature, which lets you zoom in on an image for a better look.
Pros
- Offers both side and down imaging
- Has an incredible depth capability of 3000 ft
- It is a waterproof device
- Comes with an upgradable internet software
- Boasts of a dual micro SD reader
Cons
- It is not easy to master but after some period it will become handy.
- Does not have a CHIRP sonar
Specification
- 9-inch colored display
- 8000 Watts power output
- Dual SD card reader
- Dual beam sonar
- 1.35 pound weight
Who Is It For?
This fish finder is a far much better gadget that the earlier 900 series devices. Furthermore, it offers great price to quality ratio. And with three sonar types, side, down and 2D imaging, this fish finder is a great tool for any angler.
Raymarine a78 Multi-Function fish finder
- CHIRP Down Vision lets you see fish and bottom structure like never before by delivering stunning images of underwater structure, fish, wrecks and more with photo-like clarity
- The a78 includes the CPT-100 transom mount transducer for fish targeting, Down Vision and temperature sensing
- Resolution: 800 x 480(WVGA)
Last update on 2024-04-16 / Please note that Prices and Availability Are Subject To Change /Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
One of the priciest Raymarine fish finders is the Raymarine a78 multi-function fish finder. This simple fishfinder is built around Raymarine’s Lighthouse user interface.
If you are familiar with this interface, then you know that is amazingly easy to use. The lighthouse interface comes with 20 features including multiple screen features, and the zooming feature. Navigating through the finder’s settings is done using touchscreen controls displayed on a crystal clear and wide 7-inch multi-touch display.
For Sonar this finder is equipped with CHIRP sonar and the CHIRP down vision. With these two sonar technologies, this finder can reach up to depths of 600 ft. You also get a chart plotter built in as well as Wi-Fi connectivity.
Pros
- It is an easy to use fish finder
- Comes with CHIRP sonar technology
- With a depth capability of 600 ft, it is one of the best depth finder models
- Has a zoom feature for zooming in on images for a more detailed view
- The wide 7-inch display is bright and crystal clear
Cons
- It lacks a built-in antenna
Specification
- 7-inch touchscreen
- Lighthouse operating system
- GPS sensor
- CHIRP down vision technology
- Customizable touchscreen display
Who Is It For?
The Raymarine 178 fish finder is a worthwhile investment. This is especially when you consider that it offers features that are mostly found in high-end models.
This is, therefore, an affordable alternative to some of the pricier high-tech fish finders available on the market.
Raymarine Dragonfly 7 Pro
- A leap into the future of sonar Dragonfly 7 Pro employs true wide Spectrum CHIRP Technology where sonar signals are transmitted into the water allowing Dragonfly to interpret more detail target more...
- CHIRP DownVision will change your underwater view with incredibly clear photo like sonar images that surpass ordinary imaging sonars with superior deep water performance to 600ft (180M) and reliable...
- Dragonfly 7 Pro has GPS built in and comes with navioncs + by navionics for charts. Waterproofing Standard: IPX6 and IPX7
Last update on 2024-04-16 / Please note that Prices and Availability Are Subject To Change /Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Another Raymarine fish finder that has always been a class above the competition is the Dragonfly 7 Pro. I got to test this fish finder while on fishing in the Devils Lake in North Dakota.
Having used the a78 finder from the same manufacturer, I was curious to know how this model would compare to the former. Interestingly, although the dragonfly is cheaper than the a78, it proved to be a match for its pricier sibling. The 7-inch display on the dragonfly was clearer and had a better resolution. Similar to the a78, this dragonfly model came with a CHIRP sonar technology for both Downvision and 2D viewing. A 72 channel internal GPS added to the dragonfly’s amazing features.
Capable of operating in Chinese, English, Croatian, Finnish and a host of other languages, this finder features a micro SD slot and is powered by a 12-volt battery.
Pros
- Comes with dual sonar capabilities for both 2D and down vision viewing
- Has a depth capability of up to 900 ft
- Is Wi-Fi enabled
- Features a fast and accurate built-in GPS
- Easy to install
Cons
- Does not have an integrated sonar recording feature
- Lacks an NMEA port
Specification
- 7 inch TFT display
- two channel CHIRP sonar
- 900 ft depth capability
- CPT-60 transducer
- 50 channel internal GPS
- One Micro SD card slot
Who Is It For?
The Dragonfly is an affordable fish finder that offers a cool set of features. This fish finder features a Wi-Fi connectivity for easy streaming and recording of sonar feeds onto smartphone devices.
Bottom line, the dragonfly fish finder is another great finder fit for anglers looking for high quality yet affordable fish finder.
Humminbird 409620-1 HELIX 5 DI Fish Finder
No products found.
I have used a wide variety of fish finders throughout my fishing career and of all the fish finders I have used the Humminbird 409620-1 HELIX 5 DI Fish Finder is still one of my favorite. While its price is enough to earn it a spot on my list of the best fish finder, it is its features that made me buy it.
The first thing I noticed about this fish finder is that it is quite small. The display is a 5-inch screen with a 480 X 800 resolution. This finder uses high-frequency sound waves to give you a picture perfect view of what is happening beneath your boat up to a depth of 350 ft.
This finder also comes with a traditional Dual Beam Plus function that provides sonar imagery for up to depths of 600 ft.
Pros
- Features both down vision and dual beam sonar technology
- Equipped with freeze frame and sonar recording capabilities
- Is an affordable finder considering its features
- The 5-inch display is bright and detailed
Cons
- The display is a bit smaller compared to that of other fish finder models
Specification
- 5 inch TFT screen
- 480 by 800 screen resolution
- CHIRP down vision and 2D sonar
- 200 kHz sonar frequency
- 600 ft maximum depth
Who Is It For?
Designed for use in both fresh and salt water bodies, this fish finder is a great gadget for anglers looking for affordability without compromising on quality. It is a small fish finder that can be used in a wide array of conditions.
Garmin Echo 551dv Worldwide
- Includes: echo 551dv, 4-pin all-in-one 77/200 kHz HD-ID / DownVu transducer with transom mount and trolling motor mount, tilt/swivel quick-release mount, Power cable, documentation
- Color Display
- Display Resolution 480 x 640(VGA)
Last update on 2024-04-16 / Please note that Prices and Availability Are Subject To Change /Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
One of the best portable fish finder models is the Echo 551 dv worldwide from Garmin. A premier fish finder with a pocket-friendly price tag, this Garmin finder has an advanced transducer capable of both down vision and standard dual beam sonar. With this transducer, this fish finder can reach impressive depths of up to 2300 feet. For this reason I would say this finder is one of the best depth finder in this fish finder list.
The sonar readings are displayed on a 5 inch VGA color display with a 480 by 640-pixel resolution. Despite its relatively small size, this display offers you the ability to view on a split screen. The screen can be split either horizontally or vertically. The display also boasts of a smooth scaling technology that allows for seamless transitioning from deep waters to shallow waters and vise verse.
Pros
- The display provides high-quality photo-like sonar images
- Features a split screen functionality with a zoom in option
- Is equipped with a water temperature sensor
- Has a high depth capability
- Has a powerful sonar
- depths of up to 2300 feet
Cons
- This fish finder lacks a GPS and a chart plotter
Specification
- 5 inches VGA color display
- Pound weight
- Down vision sonar
- Adjustable depth line
- Sonar history
Who Is It For?
As already mentioned, this fish finder has an incredible depth capability of 2300 ft. In this regard, it is an ideal device for anglers who enjoy fishing in deep waters.
Humminbird 409640-1 HELIX 5 SI Fish Finder
- 5" color TFT wide-screen LCD
- 455v x 800h resolution, 256 colors
- 200/83kHz dual beam sonar
Last update on 2024-04-16 / Please note that Prices and Availability Are Subject To Change /Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
By now it is already clear that I am a big fan of Humminbird. In fact, a large percentage of the fish finders that I have tested are Humminbird finders. That being the case, this list would not be complete without a review of the Humminbird 409640-1 HELIX 5 SI Fish Finder.
This Helix finder is fitted with a 5-inch display with a 480 by 800-pixel resolution. Much of the display’s space is taken up by the large numbers that depict water temperature, vessel speed, and depth. The internal GPS, on the other hand, proved to be more accurate than the GPS of other older Humminbird Helix models.
In addition to a GPS, this fish finder also comes equipped with a Chart plotter and a uni map cartography. The latter gives you 3D depictions of lakes and rivers in the US and the country’s coastline.
Pros
- Features an incredibly accurate internal GPS
- Comes with both a cartography and a Chartplotter
- Boasts of incredible resolution
- Has an amazing depth capability of up to 1500 ft
- Comes with both down vision imaging and side sonar
Cons
- Some users have complained that the finder takes too long to start
Specification
- 5 inch TFT screen
- 480 by 800 screen resolution
- 2D and down imaging
- Internal GPS
Who Is It For?
The Helix 5 SI fish finder comes with a wide array of useful features a great depth. Thus, it is great for fishing in deep waters.
Since it comes with a power cord, it needs to be charged. Mounting this gadget onto a boat is easy thanks to the included mounting bracket. In summary, this fish finder has everything you will need for fishing and is one of the top fish finders in its price range.
Lowrance ELITE-5 TI Med/High/ Downscan Fishfinder
- Fish finder chartplotter combo
- Built-in GPS antenna for accurate positioning
- CHIRP Sonar and Downscan Imaging for a detailed view beneath the surface
Last update on 2024-04-16 / Please note that Prices and Availability Are Subject To Change /Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Another fish finder brand that is a favorite of mine is Lowrance. While it is known more for its high-end fish finders, this brand offers some awesome mid-level fish finders.
One of the brand’s best-selling models is the ELITE-5 TI Med/High downscan fish finder. The latter finder comes accompanied by several accessories including a manual, an adapter, and a power cable. The unit itself measures about three pounds and comes with control buttons.
The finder’s skimmer transducer offers CHIRP, Broadband and StructureScan HD sonar, all of which are predominantly found in Lowrance’s high-end models. A trackback feature is also included in the package. This feature allows you to scan back and forth.
Pros
- Features CHIRP, broadband, and StructureScan HD sonar
- The downscan transducer on this finder is small
- The 5-inch display is a touchscreen
- Features an accurate GPS system
- Offers impressive depth capabilities and speed
Cons
- The touchscreen controls are awkward to use due to the screen being small
Specification
- 5 inch Touchscreen display
- Mid/High CHIRP sonar
- Micro SD slot
- Insight Genesis
- 3000 waypoints capacity
- 31 languages
Who Is It For?
This fish finder is compact and ideal for small aluminum fishing boats. Also, its small transducer makes it one of the best fish finder for kayak.
In conclusion, this is a great fish finder for anglers who use either kayaks for fishing or small fishing boats.
Garmin echoMAP CHIRP 43dv with transducer
- THE POWER OF SIMPLE - Easy-to-use, easy-to-install chartplotter/sonar combos with sunlight-readable, auto-dimming display and backlit keypad. Available in 4-inch, 5-inch square and 7- and 9-inch...
- CHIRP SONAR - CHIRP sends a continuous sweep of frequencies ranging from low to high, and interprets frequencies individually upon their return. With more information, CHIRP sonar is able to create...
- BUILT-IN MAPS AND CHARTS - Available with either U.S. BlueChart g2 charts, U.S. LakeVü HD maps or Canada LakeVü HD maps.
Last update on 2024-04-16 / Please note that Prices and Availability Are Subject To Change /Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Another amazing portable fish finder is the Garmin echoMap CHIRP 43dv. One of the newest releases from Garmin, this portable fish finder uses the highly acclaimed CHIRP sonar technology.
In the making of this fish finder, Garmin opted for a GT20 transducer that comes with a temperature sensor incorporated as well as transom mount. Also included in the package is a trolling motor mount. This unit has both traditional sonar and the CHIRP down vision sonar.
A 5Hz internal GPS is also included in this fish finder. To crown it, this fish finder has charts with a total of 17,000 US lakes, reservoirs, and rivers with depth contours.
Pros
- Features 17,000 pre-loaded maps of lakes and rivers
- Capable of both traditional dual beam sonar and down vision scanning
- Offers great value for money
- Is a portable fish finder ideal for use on small boats
- The unit is waterproof
Cons
- This unit does not have a cover
Specification
- 4.3 inches diagonal screen
- 272 by 480 screen resolution
- 5Hz internal GPS
- 1900 ft depth capability
- 500 watts output power
- GT20-TM transducer
Who Is It For?
This is a small fish finder that can do a lot. Therefore, it is the perfect fish finder for small boats. That being said, it offers all the features of a fish finder in a small and compact package.
Lowrance 000-11448-001 Elite-3X Fishfinder
- LED-backlit color display with detailed 240 x 360 resolution that's easy to see in full sunlight and from wide viewing angles
- Broadband Sounder detail easily identifies fish targets, bottom contour, structure detail, bottom hardness, thermoclines and more
- Dual-frequency 83 or 200 kHz operation helps maximize the view beneath your boat
Last update on 2024-04-16 / Please note that Prices and Availability Are Subject To Change /Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
To enjoy the thrill of fishing you need to get the right fish finder. In other words, you need to get yourself a Lowrance Elite-3X fish finder. This affordable and portable finder is excellent for newbie anglers.
This finder features a back lit color display with a 320 by 420-pixel resolution. This display appears bright in almost all weather conditions; also it can be viewed from different angles.
For sonar, the Elite-3X features a dual frequency sonar that provides 60 degrees of the coverage area. The finder also offers an additional 20 degrees of coverage area that differentiates between solid objects and vertical displays. A patented skimmer transducer is responsible for the finders’ water depth and temperature sensor.
Pros
- It is a great entry level fish finder
- Has a depth finder integrated
- Comes with rotational features
- Features two integrated fish finder mounts
Cons
- The accuracy of the device in shallow water is not good
Specification
- Colored Back-lit display
- Mount Transducer
- Re-chargeable battery
- Dual-frequency sonar
- Broadband Sounder
Who Is It For?
Unlike some of the other fish finders on this list, this Lowrance model is not sophisticated and offers the basic features you expect from a fish finder.
As such, it is the right fish finder for beginners and anglers who want to enjoy fishing as a fun activity.
Deeper Smart Sonar PRO+
- HIGH SPECS AND ROCK SOLID CONNECTIVITY: Casts out up to 330ft and scans down to 260ft. Precise 0.5in target separation. Compatible with iOS and Android devices. Syncs to phone/tablet using its own...
- BUILT-IN GPS: Create bathymetric maps from the bank, boat, canoe, kayak. Access all your scans, maps, points of interests, photos and notes on the Fish Deeper app and web platform.
- REAL-TIME DATA: Two beam frequencies with 15 scans per second. View depth, see bottom structure and consistency, vegetation and fish.
Last update on 2024-04-16 / Please note that Prices and Availability Are Subject To Change /Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Deeper Smart Sonar Pro is a fish finder that you can use in almost any environment. Measuring 2.5 inches in diameter and weighing a meager 3.5 ounces, this revolutionary smart fish finder uses Wi-Fi connectivity to connect to smartphone devices and tablets.
Therefore, to use this fish finder all you need do is cast it into the water and observe from your phone or tablet.
The lithium polymer battery that powers this innovative fish finder can last up to six hours. Operating on a dual beam sonar frequency, this Smart Sonar PRO + gives you detailed images in a 15-degree cone.
Additionally, this fish finder boasts of a scanning speed of up to 15 scans per second, which is more than impressive for a fish finder, its size. That’ why I would call this finder as one of the best portable fish finder.
Pros
- Has its own built in Wi-Fi connectivity
- Features Bathymetric maps that you can download onto your tablet or phone
- Can be used offshore, on a kayak or even on a boat
- Weighs a meager 3.5 ounces
- Features a cast able GPS
Cons
- It can only be used with a singular mobile device
- Does not function well in shallow waters
Specification
- Wireless Wi-Fi connectivity
- Built-in GPS
- Dual-frequency sonar
- Rechargeable battery
- Bathymetric mapping
Who Is It For?
Given its size and the cool features that it comes with, the Smart Pro+ fish finder is a great finder for off shore fishing.
Additionally, since it does not function well in shallow water, it is recommended for use in deep waters.
Lowrance 000-12635-001 Hook-3X Sonar
- Led-backlit 3 inch color display with detailed 320 x 240 resolution that's easy to see in full sunlight & from wide viewing angles
- Broadband sounder detail easily identifies fish targets, bottom contour, structure detail, bottom hardness, thermoclines & more
- Advanced signal processing (asp) reduces the need to manually adjust settings to see fish, structure & bottom detail more clearly
Last update on 2024-04-16 / Please note that Prices and Availability Are Subject To Change /Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Almost similar to the Elite 3X in design, the Hook-3x sonar fish finder is another cheap finder that is very well made. At the heart of the finder is a 3 inch LED backlit display with a 320 by 240 resolution. Images are visible even in sunlight and from different angles.
Powering this low-cost fish finder is broadband sonar with an advanced signal processing. Similar to the Elite-3X, this Hook model has Lowrance’s patented skimmer transducer with a temperature sensor, and that supports both 83Khz and 200Khz frequencies. A down scan imaging sonar provides clear images of the area beneath your boat.
Pros
- The fish finder offers great value for money
- The display appears clear and bright in different conditions
- Uses high-tech broadband sonar
- Uses a dual frequency for improved views of what is beneath your boat
- Provides up to 20 degrees of conical coverage
Cons
- Some users have complained of the installation mount being of a poor quality
Specification
- 3.5 inch display
- 320 by 240 screen resolution
- 180 watt max power output
- 11 languages
- 12 V DC operating voltage
Who Is It For?
Similar to the Elite 3X the Hook model is an excellent fish finder for beginners and anglers who are looking for a basic fish finder for the occasional fishing trips.
Garmin 010-01550-00 Striker 4 Fish Finder
- Clear Vu scanning Sonar shows you more of what is in the water around your boat; This high frequency sonar gives near photographic images with detailed representations of objects, structure and fish
- The power of simple offers a keyed interface with dedicated buttons; The device is easy to use and easy to install; Available in 3.5, 5 and 7 inch display sizes; Water rating IPX7
- Waypoint map: Use the way point map to easily view, mark and navigate to locations such as brush piles, stumps and docks; Maximum depth 1,600 feet freshwater, 750 feet saltwater; Current draw at 12...
Last update on 2024-04-16 / Please note that Prices and Availability Are Subject To Change /Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Garmin Striker 4 is another portable fish finder that is rugged enough to be used in different conditions. As a portable fish finder, this Garmin model has a small 3.5-inch color display with a 480 by 320 resolution. While this is an affordable and portable fish finder, its sonar technology is one you would expect from an expensive finder.
To be specific, this fish finder uses the CHIRP sonar technology, which is famous for its ability to send multiple sonar frequencies for a more accurate viewing experience.
Another feature that is found more in high-end devices than in pocked friendly devices is the internal GPS. This high-sensitivity GPS allows you to easily map your preferred fishing spots.
Furthermore, this finder has a built-in flasher, meaning that it can be used for ice fishing.
Pros
- Has a rugged and waterproof design and construction
- Comes with a fast and impressively accurate internal GPS
- Features the CHIRP sonar technology
- Can be used for river fishing as well as ice fishing
- Comes with sonar history rewind feature
Cons
- The small display is affected by sunlight
Specification
- 3.5 inch display
- 480 by 320-pixel resolution
- Internal GPS
- 2D sonar
- 5000 waypoints
- 1600 ft depth capability
- 200 watts transmit power
Who Is It For?
The Striker 4 fish finder from Garmin has everything, from CHIRP sonar to a high sensitivity internal GPS and a portable design. This is the kind of fish finder that I recommend to anyone looking for a high-quality device that will not cost a hefty sum of money.
Best ice fishing fish finder
When you are going ice fishing, you will need a fish finder designed specifically for that kind of fishing. While there are many fish finders designed for ice fishing, not all can serve you well. Here are two ice fishing fish finder reviews.
Vexilar FLX-28 Ultra Pack
- FLX-28 Ultra Pack
- Includes Pro View Ice Ducer
- Enhanced Performance Sonar
Last update on 2024-04-16 / Please note that Prices and Availability Are Subject To Change /Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
I got to use the Vexilar FLX-28 Ultra Pack while on an ice fishing expedition to Lake Mille Lacs. I was impressed with the design of this Ultra Pack ice fishing fish finder.
To start with, this fish finder has a digital depth readout and a maximum range of ten feet.
In addition, the brightness settings are designed for night time and day time viewing. Thus, you can adjust the fish finder’s color scheme to suit your needs and preferences. The fish finder also comes with two zoom zones and an auto range.
One of the best things about this fish finder is that it comes with a demo mode, which you can use to show off, how the finder operates. Furthermore, you get low power options for shallow water fishing.
Pros
- Features battery voltage and alerts
- Has a special mode for weed fishing
- Comes with a low power option for shallow fishing
- Features a five-foot range mode settings
Cons
- The auto zone feature of this fish finder can be better
Specification
- Auto range settings
- 300 Ft Max rang
- Two Zoom zones
- Five color palettes
- Day and night mode
- 525 lines resolution
- Soft pack carry case
Who Is It For?
The FLX-28 ultra pack is a great fish finder for ice fishing. It is actually one of the best ice fishing fish finders on the market and is well worth considering if you are in search of a good ice fishing fish finder.
Marcum VX-1 Pro Ice Fishing Sonar System
- 1,000-watts of power
- 20-degree Transducer
- Bottom Lock Zoom
Last update on 2024-04-16 / Please note that Prices and Availability Are Subject To Change /Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Marcum VX-1 Pro Ice Fishing Sonar System is yet another great ice fishing fish finder. I have had an opportunity to use this fish finder and compare it with other fish finders similar to it.
In my opinion, this fish finder performed better than some of its competitors. One of the reasons why I say this is the fact that this Marcum model is easy to mount and use.
Furthermore, the zoom of this fish finder is easy to use and gives a detailed image of the bottom up to 5 ft. It also has a clear display that is backed by a battery that keeps the system powered for up to 12 hours. This system has a basic flasher ideal for the average ice angler.
Pros
- Has great battery life
- It is easy to use and mount
- The display is clear and bright
- Comes with a soft pack carrying case
- Has an easy to use zoom feature
Cons
- When zoom is turned on it is impossible to toggle back to no zoom and zoom on back again
Specification
- 13 color sonar flasher
- 1000 watts power
- 20 degrees transducer
- Bottom zoom
- 12 v rechargeable battery
- 6 level interface
- Soft carrying pack
Who Is It For?
The VX-I Pro from Marcum is a basic ice fishing fish finder and offers the basic features. Thus, it is the ideal package for the ordinary ice angler.
Conclusion
There are very many fish finder models out there. However, not all will offer you the right balance of quality and affordability. The fish finders reviewed above can be used by different kinds of anglers. Thus, it is my hope that the above reviews have been helpful.
About The Author:
Lake Streeter, A Gun enthusiast, and loves to hunt in the middle of the wood. Always check the latest hunting gears out in the market and try to share his honest opinion with the audience in Hunting Nook.
Everythіng is very open with a clear desсription of the issues.
It was definitely informative. Yoᥙr website is very useful.
Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for your appreciation 🙂
It was a very nice review article. a detailed review of fish finders…thanks HuntingNook
Thanks john.
Hey Lake Streeter, Your article is very helpful for choosing the best fish finder. I’m already using the Garmin EchoMAP its one of the best fish finders, i really like it. Thanks, man for your informative article.