1. Humminbird HELIX 5
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Specifications & features:
- Depth capability: 1500’
- Sonar: Dual-beam capable, 83/200 kHz
- Display type: Color TFT
- Display size: 5”
- GPS:
- Water temperature sensor:
- Depth alarm:
- Waterproof: IPX7
- Power: Rechargeable 12V battery
- Warranty: 1 year
On the
5-inch color 800x480p TFT display, you can see where you must head to be successful in your fishing trips. Other useful info shown on the display include the temperature, depth, coordinates, time, and speed. It features a micro SD card slot where you can put the card to save waypoints or load additional maps.
The down imaging lets you see a clear image beneath the boat, while the CHIRP digital sonar shows you details other sonars cannot provide. The AutoChart Live feature is one of its main highlights as it lets you create real-time maps of the fishing spots you hit up. The SwitchFire technology lets you switch between two display modes to choose how much detail you want the display to show – the two modes are Max mode and Clear mode.
It allows you to zoom in when needed, features a temperature alarm, wide/narrow cone lock split screen, selective fish ID+ to lock onto your targets easier, and the software is upgradeable so that it won’t become outdated a few months after you purchase it. Furthermore, Humminbird backs it on parts and labor with a 1-year warranty.
PROS
- Internal GPS with built-in Anima cartography allows chart plotting
- All the needed mounting hardware is included with the acquisition
- Down imaging lets you see a clear view beneath the boat
- On the 5” color display, you can even see the time, depth, temperature, coordinates, and speed
- Backed by a 1-year warranty
CONS
- Lacks the depth alarm feature
- Limited waypoint memory
VERDICT
The sonar technology it features helps you locate and see fish clearly so that your fishing trips are constantly successful. With a plentiful list of features and quite intuitive operation even for first-time users, it’s an acquisition you are bound to be satisfied with.
2. Deeper PRO+
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Specifications & features:
- Depth capability: 260’
- Sonar: Dual-beam capable, 15° or 55° beam angle, 290 kHz or 90 kHz
- Display type:
- Display size:
- GPS:
- Water temperature sensor:
- Depth alarm:
- Waterproof: IPX7
- Power: Rechargeable lithium-polymer 3.7V battery
- Warranty: 1 year
The generous casting range and scanning depth of the Deeper PRO+, alongside the numerous features make it a must-have for the modern angler. It even features an
inbuilt GPS that makes mapping and other actions possible, while the Wi-Fi access point grants connectivity between the fishing device and your smartphone or tablet. Sure, it might be a tad expensive, but seeing how it comes with all of the modern features you could ever ask for, it’s a price worth paying.
Scanning
As it can scan down to over 260 feet, deeper than what most wireless models are capable of providing, you are sure to increase in fish catching proficiency. What makes it so effective at scanning is the powerful dual-beam transducer it comes with which sends up to 15 scans per second to ensure an updated overview of the situation underwater. There’s the target separation feature that helps as well, the 0.5-inch separation provided ensuring that even the smallest catch won’t escape you.
Bathymetric Mapping
Bathymetric maps are maps that you can access offline and that make underwater exploration a cinch as, through gradually shaded color changes, they help identify depth transitions. With this device, all offline maps can be archived so that you may later access them whenever needed in order to improve your efficiency as you try to locate good angling points. They also help you create your own maps and make countless layers of unlimited information.
Mention-Worthy Features and Specs
- Puts 4 modes at your disposal – Standard, Ice Fishing, Onshore GPS, and Boat.
- There are 3 different display color options that you can choose between.
- Helps you plan your trips beforehand as it features 3 useful functions – Maps, Weather Forecast, and Solunar Calendar.
- Can be used for fresh, as well as salt water angling.
- Features an internal Wi-Fi access point that you can connect to your smart device.
All-Year Fishing
It helps you catch fish professionally all year long, regardless of the season. You can utilize it to mark fishing spots, find structures of interest, and it even provides a good scanning depth, so you can see why we consider it a perfect companion for anglers. The flexible mounting arm even makes it suitable for installation on a kayak if you prefer kayak fishing.
It can be cast out to scan areas that are normally hard to reach, all without disturbing the targets as it is lightweight and won’t make much splash when it hits the water. Lastly, it can be used even for ice fishing, its 0.5-inch target separation and the zooming function enabling it to track lure that is incredibly small in size.
PROS
- Watertight design ensures it won’t get damaged if water falls on it
- Delivers a generous wireless operating range of up to 330 feet
- Battery level is displayed to announce you when it is time to recharge
- Can operate in temperatures ranging from -4 degrees Fahrenheit to 104 degrees Fahrenheit
- Allows you to even use it when you go ice fishing
CONS
- Not the most intuitive to use model on the market
- Doesn’t feature an actual display
VERDICT
Small, light, and easy to use, the PRO+ is the ideal angling companion out there, even helping you find prey with ease when you go ice fishing. A modern device that is feature-rich, we recommend it to anyone looking to make their angling trips go smoother and never again return empty handed at home.
3. Garmin Striker 4
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Specifications & features:
- Depth capability: 1600’ in freshwater, 750’ in saltwater
- Sonar: Dual-beam capable, 50/77/200 kHz, 15° or 45° beam angles
- Display type: HVGA Color
- Display size: 3.5″, 5″, 7″
- GPS:
- Water temperature sensor:
- Depth alarm:
- Waterproof: IPX7
- Power: Rechargeable 12V, 7-amp battery
- Warranty: 1 year
Garmin really surprised everyone with the manufacturing of the Striker 4, a device that comes in handy regardless of your angling destination, whether it involves fresh or salty water. What makes it one of the more convenient apparitions on this market is the fact that it comes in 3 different variations depending on the size of the HVGA color display –
a 3.5-inch model, a 5-inch model, and a 7-inch model.
Another mention-worthy highlight is the fact that it is IPX7 rated for its resistance against water, so any accidental slip in the water would not be the end for this smart gadget. The maximum depth it can provide readings for in freshwater is 1600 feet, while in saltwater it’s 750 feet. Furthermore, you can switch between feet and meters, depending on the unit you are best accustomed to.
The AutoGain technology ensures it is one of the more intuitive devices to work with, this feature reducing clutter on the screen while maximizing the targets which interest you. Additionally, to aid you even further when trying to locate specific fish, it puts the Fish Symbol ID tech at your disposal which helps with fish identification.
PROS
- Comes in 3 different display size options – 3.5”, 5”, or 7”
- IPX7 waterproof rating makes it resistant to contact with water
- Maximum depth of 750 feet in saltwater and 1600 feet in freshwater
- A-Scope displays fish in real time as they pass through the transducer beam
- Fish Symbol ID feature helps you more easily identify different species
CONS
- Instructions should be more detailed
- Moisture tends to build on the screen
VERDICT
As this is our second pick, it is obvious that it is a feature-rich device. Some of its biggest highlights include the Fish Symbol ID which helps with species recognition, the tilt/swivel mount, the convenient split-screen zoom, and the AutoGain technology which helps maximize targets and reduce clutter on the screen.
4. HawkEye Fishtrax 1C
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Specifications & features:
- Depth capability: 240’
- Sonar: Dual-beam capable, 83/200 kHz, 14° or 26° beam angles
- Display type: VirtuView TFTN
- Display size: N/A
- GPS:
- Water temperature sensor:
- Depth alarm:
- Waterproof: IPX7
- Power: 4 x AAA batteries
- Warranty: 2 years
As it provides a high-definition fishing experience, it makes for a great companion to experienced anglers looking to learn the best fishing spots. The full-color display it features ensures clarity, and it provides 3 operating modes to pick between depending on your specific needs –
Fish Finder, Data, and Ice-Mode DigitalFlasher.
You can even adapt it to your personal style through fine-tuning if you choose so. As there are a total of 100 sensitivity levels to pick from, customization is at its fullest. It sends off audible alarms for fish and depth that come in handy as you are alerted to when you need to check the device, giving you the possibility to mind your business without keeping a close eye on the tracker. The intelligent sonar it features provides depth readings up to 240′ at a 1/10 accuracy rate.
You can fine-tune the readings depending whether you are fishing in a body of water that is shallow or deep as it is a dual-frequency model. You can either mount it to your boat or carry it in your hand. Other great features you enjoy with it include auto-zoom bottom tracking and multi-level depth ranges.
PROS
- Alarms are sent off when fish are encountered, as well as for specific depths
- You can zoom in for a closer look at the imaging it provides of the water bottom
- 100 levels of sensitivity that you can picks between
- Info and imaging provided with clarity on the display
CONS
- Small-size display
- Batteries don’t last for long
VERDICT
Perfect for experienced who want to know what the best spots for fishing are, the compact HawkEye is an affordable device you should be receptive to purchasing.
5. ReelSonar iBobber Bluetooth Smart
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ReelSonar iBobber Bluetooth Smart
Specifications & features:
- Depth capability: 135’
- Sonar: Dual-beam capable
- Display type:
- Display size:
- GPS:
- Water temperature sensor:
- Depth alarm:
- Waterproof: IPX7
- Power: Rechargeable battery
- Warranty: 1 year
Just place the iBobber in water and synchronize it with your smartphone or tablet where you have already installed the companion app of the device, and you can now rest assured knowing that your fishing trip won’t be a flop. Success is guaranteed as the iBobber is light enough to be cast across long distances and
it maps the waterbed down to 135 feet.
You can switch between raw sonar and fish tagging depending on what you need from the device at that moment. With it, you can map the underwater terrain and add spots to your trip log so that you know where you should return on your next fishing trip in the area and what spots you should avoid. It sends out fish and strike alarms, and it even tags fish according to their size and the depth at which they are found.
The 2 snap swivel connections let you use it either as a remote fish tracker or as a bobber. It featured a LED beacon that makes it easy for you to spot the iBobber regardless of how dark it is outside. The battery is rechargeable and it provides up to 10 hours of runtime when it is full.
As there is a charge indicator light, you are made aware when it needs to be recharged on time so that you won’t get caught off-guard in the middle of your fishing session. Furthermore, it is backed by a 1-year warranty against defects.
PROS
- Provides accurate sonar readings up to 135 feet in depth
- Tags fish by their size and the depth at which they are found
- Batter lasts up to 10 hours before it needs to be recharged
- Features LED beacon lights on the sensor
- Backed by a 1-year warranty against defects
CONS
- Provides sonar readings at a much smaller depth than more expensive models do
- Lacks an actual display
VERDICT
A light tracker that you can cast over large distances, with the iBobber at your disposal you can find fish easier than ever as it maps the waterbed down to 135 feet. Thus, you won’t ever return home empty handed after a fishing trip.
6. Vexilar SP200 T-Box
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Specifications & features:
- Depth capability: 240’
- Sonar: Dual-beam capable, 83/200 kHz, 20° or 40° beam angles
- Display type:
- Display size:
- GPS:
- Water temperature sensor:
- Depth alarm:
- Waterproof: N/A
- Power: 12V DC power
- Warranty: 1 year
This model is definitely a stand-out on its market as it is actually a permanent mount system that
turns your smartphone or tablet into a fully functional sonar system that you can use to find the best fishing spots and return home victorious after each fishing trip.
It relies on Wi-Fi signal technology to transmit the data to the smart device of your choice and makes it rival any high-end sonar when it comes to tracking capabilities and accuracy. Moreover, you don’t actually need cell phone coverage to use it as the Vexilar transmits from any region in the world, and it creates its own Wi-Fi hotspot, thus enabling you to share the signal with whomever you desire.
It is compatible with devices that use the iOS 4.3 and Android 2.0 and later operating system versions. It indicates water temperature and depth so that you know everything about your surroundings, and it can actually reach a depth of up to 240’ due to its 200kHz dual-beam transducer and temperature sensor.
One of its more convenient traits stands in the audible alerts it sends out when you are approaching an area with fish, when the battery starts to run low, and when the water becomes shallow. When it comes to backing, it is covered by the manufacturer against defects for the first year after you acquire it.
PROS
- Can provide readings for depth of up to 240’
- Fish icon intuitively indicates what are the best fishing spots
- Sends out audible alarms for shallow water, fish, and low battery
- Compatible with iOS 4.3 and Android 2.0 and newer versions
- Backed by a 1-year warranty
CONS
- Low resolution graph doesn’t show many details
- Lacks down and side imaging
VERDICT
This neat device actually turns your smartphone or tablet into a fish tracker, the fully functional sonar system it becomes providing you with the possibility to find the best fishing spots so that you always return from your trips victorious.
7. Venterior VT-FF-002
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Specifications & features:
- Depth capability: 120’
- Sonar: 125 kHz, 90° beam angle
- Display type: Dot Matrix LCD
- Display size: 50x45mm
- GPS:
- Water temperature sensor:
- Depth alarm:
- Waterproof: N/A
- Power: 3.7V lithium battery
- Warranty: 1 year
Capable of providing readings for a maximum depth of
120 feet underwater, the Venterior is one of your best picks in terms of fishing buddies. The 10-level adjustable sensitivity makes it one of the most versatile and complex devices in this niche. Unfortunately, there is a prominent downside to this product, more precisely the fact that it is not water resistant at all. Thus, you have to be careful and not splash it.
It provides you with a convenient and useful water temperature log and graph which help more easily determine what your chances are of catching fish. The bottom contour feature allows you to see not only where the bottom of the aquatic body is, but what its shape is so that no incidents occur. The display fish icon feature helps you more easily identify where your targets are for your angling trips to be more fruitful.
The display contrast can be adjusted to your liking ranging from 10 to 100 percent so that you will have an easy time reading off the display. It is compatible with use in freshwater as well as saltwater, so you are not limited when it comes to the type of environment it can be used in. Furthermore, it is backed by a 1-year warranty for defects in parts and labor.
PROS
- Water temperature sensor for a more ample understanding of the aquatic environmental conditions
- Boasts an impressive wireless operating range of up to 328 feet
- Can provide readings up to a maximum depth of 120 feet
- Display contrast can be adjusted from 10 to 100 percent
- Compatible with use when you are sailing on freshwater, as well as saltwater
CONS
- It is not water resistant
- Some users reported inaccuracies
VERDICT
A complex device that, despite the plethora of features which accompany it, remains a user-friendly option to go for, it comes as no surprise that it ranked so high in our top. The affordable asking price does not hurt either, making it one of the more accessible selections on the market right now.
8. Venterior VT-FF001
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Specifications & features:
- Depth capability: 328’
- Sonar: 45° beam angle
- Display type: LCD
- Display size: N/A
- GPS:
- Water temperature sensor:
- Depth alarm:
- Waterproof: IPX7
- Power: 4 x AAA batteries
- Warranty: 1 year
The Venterior VT-FF001 not only comes at an incredibly low price that makes it a real bargain, one you would be a fool to skip on, but that features enough functions to make your angling trip a fruitful one. We start off by emphasizing its most important highlight, the
fish alarm. What it basically does is alert you when you encounter fish so that you don’t miss your target ever.
It features the useful Anti-UV coating that ensures it will be a long-lasting investment, so even if it is cheap, it does not mean that it is constructed in a cheap manner. The battery save mode is another mention-worthy feature as it ensures battery juice won’t be spent uselessly, reducing chances for you to end up without being able to use the device when you most need it during the angling trip.
The maximum depth for which it can provide readings is 328 feet, and you can customize the unit in which it displays the current depth it is providing readings for, having your pick between feet and meters. Unfortunately, there are a few downsides to this product, the most prominent being the lack of water resistance and the lack of GPS technology.
PROS
- Fish alarm announces you when you have stumbled upon catch
- Anti-UV coating ensures a long-lasting durability of the device
- One of the cheapest devices on the market right now
- Battery save mode helps reduce battery power waste
- Maximum depth rating of 328 feet
CONS
- Does not feature an integrated GPS, nor a depth alarm
- It mistakes other underwater items for fish at times
VERDICT
If you value making smart investment, than this is the right acquisition for you. Sure, it might not provide with a complete list of features and functions, but it does provide with a trustworthy operation and more than enough features to ensure your trip when fishing will be fruitful. Furthermore, it comes at an incredibly cheap price you cannot say no to.
9. Lucky FFW-718
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Specifications & features:
- Depth capability: 135’
- Sonar: 125 kHz, 90° beam angle
- Display type: Dot Matrix FSTN LCD
- Display size: 1.61”x1.89”
- GPS:
- Water temperature sensor:
- Depth alarm:
- Waterproof: IPX4
- Power: 3V CR2032 battery
- Warranty: N/A
If you want to not only feel lucky but actually catch fish every time you go on an angling trip from now on, this Lucky gadget is the right one for you. Reasonably priced, easy to use, and accurate in regards to the readings it provides, it is a highly desirable addition in the collection of any ambitious angler. It features a
Dot Matrix FSTN LCD display which measures 1.61 inches by 1.89 inches and is easy to read off.
Due to the fact that it is IPX4 waterproof rated, you can breathe easy if splashes of water land on it as it won’t be damaged by them. It boasts a 5-level adjustable sensitivity which enhances its versatility in use and allows you to customize more aspects than usual when it comes to its operation. It features a handy battery indicator that lets you know how much juice you have left until the device’s batteries need to be recharged.
The live-update water bottom contour keeps you up to date with the way the bottom of the water body looks to prevent any unwanted incidents. Furthermore, the anti-clutter system feature makes it all the more interesting as it ensures the display won’t be filled with unimportant details which will make it harder for you to spot what really interests you – fish.
PROS
- Can provide readings for a maximum depth of 135 feet
- Versatile 5-level adjustable sensitivity
- IPX4 rated for its resistance to contact with water
- Anti-clutter system makes it easier for you to see what is displayed on the screen
- Battery indicator keeps you updated with the current status of the battery power
CONS
- Is not dual beam capable
- Lag issues at times
VERDICT
Although it lacks a few features which pricier entries are accompanied by, the impressive 394-foot wireless operating range, 90-degree beam angle, battery indicator, display fish icon feature, and the rest of the long list of features and functions it boasts make it a definite must-have!
Operational Tips
Although using a fish tracker can make your life a whole lot easier, especially if your goal is to bring home as much catch as possible after your expedition, this does not mean that a fish spotting device is the most intuitive to use product out there. As a matter of fact, most first-time users tend to have a hard time figuring out what is displayed on the screen and what settings they must choose. If you are a first-time user yourself, check out this section of our article to get some much-needed insight regarding the device’s operation.
- Read the manual: Fish finding devices differ from each other in terms of design and settings, so regardless of what model you choose, you must carefully analyze the explanations provided in the user manual. Your main interest points should be the explanations of functions and how to proceed with changing and adapting its settings to your needs.
- Get acquainted with the display: There is some basic information displayed on all fish finder screens, and we recommend you first get acquainted with this info before diving into operational procedures any deeper. These basic pieces of information usually include measuring depth, current temperature, and boat speed, and your target is to get accustomed to their location on the display.
- Learn to read the info correctly: When you are using the down imaging mode or sonar, always read the info on the display from right to left. If you are using the side imaging mode, then you must read the information provided on the display from top to bottom.
- How to proceed when pursuing small fish: In case you are trying to target small fish like perch or bunker, then you should look for small blobs or patches on the screen. If you are using the side imaging mode, these small fish will appear in the form of small dots.
- How to proceed when pursuing large fish: Larger fish like salmon and catfish appear as large dots in case you are using side imaging, or arched shapes if you are using the sonar mode.
- Identifying the terrain type: On the display, along its bottom, you will notice a thick line. This line indicates the bottom of the water body you are in at that moment. In case images are displayed below the line, it means that you are above sand or mud, and if nothing appears beneath it, it means that you are above a hard, rocky surface.
- Zooming in on target areas: It is important to make it a habit out of zooming in on target areas when you are fishing as you get an in-depth look at the water body section that interests you.
- Adjusting the display color to maximize your reading abilities: If you have trouble reading info off of the display, then you should try changing the background color to either black, white, or a certain color option which is put at your disposal.
Troubleshooting Tips
Frozen display:
- Fix #1 – Perform an electrical system check.
- Fix #2 – Verify if it powers up.
- Fix #3 – Check for another device to not operate in close proximity to yours.
- Fix #4 – Perform an interference test.
Display malfunction:
- Fix #1 – Perform a basic electrical system check.
- Fix #2 – Perform some basic interference tests.
- Fix #3 – Perform a basic cavitation check.
No image on the display:
- Fix #1 – Perform an electrical system check.
- Fix #2 – Inspect the pins and connectors for any type of damage.
- Fix #3 – Check the circuit connections.
Erroneous depth readings:
- Fix #1 – Check the position of the transducer.
- Fix #2 – Inspect the device for water damage.
- Fix #3 – Inspect the pins and connectors for corrosion signs.
- Fix #4 – Perform a basic cavitation check.
- Fix #5 – Verify if the limits are properly set.
Erratic readings:
- Fix #1 – Check the position of the transducer.
- Fix #2 – Make sure there is no other device in close proximity.
- Fix #3 – Inspect the pins and connectors for corrosion.
- Fix #4 – Perform a basic interference check.
Bottom readings are not provided:
- Fix #1] – Check the position of the transducer.
- Fix #2 – Inspect the device for water damage.
- Fix #3 – Make sure there is no other device in close proximity.
- Fix #4 – Perform a basic cavitation check.
Sonar Technologies
There are three basic sonar technologies found in portable fish spotters, more precisely
the fixed frequency sonar technology, the StructureScan sonar technology, and the CHIRP sonar technology. Each has different traits and elements that make it a more or less desirable option for anglers, and we recommend you first learn more about each tech before you make a rushed purchase.
Fixed Frequency Sonar
As the wave emitted by the sonar strikes an object, it rebounds, this being the action through which the transducer is able to provide you with a mapping of what lays underwater. With fixed frequency sonars, the common frequencies used are
50 kHz and 200 kHz.
Characteristics of 50 kHz frequencies:
- Wide cone angle;
- Higher noise susceptibility;
- Less target dissociation;
- Deep depths.
Characteristics of 200 kHz frequencies:
- Narrow cone angle;
- Lower noise susceptibility;
- Superior target dissociation;
- Shallow depths.
Fixed frequency sonar advantages:
- Old-style tech that has been proven to work;
- Cross compatible with multiple sonar generations;
- Lower cost.
StructureScan Sonar
StuncureScan implementations incorporate sonar image down-scanning and picture-like views of the water underneath and around the boat. Their precise display of depth and distance-related information take all of the guesswork out of using the sonar. Also, they provide imagines that do not actually require any interpretation.
StructureScan sonar advantages:
- Slice yields detail-rich images of structures within close ranges;
- Endorses quick selection and identification of the target area.
CHIRP Sonar
CHIRP stands for Compressed High-Intensity Radar Pulse, and it is characterized through its transmission of long pulses across wide frequency bands. Although CHIRP used to be an expensive technology to use in devices, it is now more accessible, being widely used for recreational purposes as a result of this accessibility.
CHIRP sonar advantages:
- More accurate detailing and greater resolution;
- Accuracy at big depths of 10000 feet;
- Better bottom tracking at high speeds;
- Better signal to noise ratio;
- Large transmission pulse lengths;
- Low power consumption;
- Better shallow water performance.
Rating Our Picks
Size – Dimensions and Weight
As it is portable, it is important for the fish finder to fit comfortably in your hand. Furthermore, the size of the device influences how easily it mounts as well. Thus, you must look into its dimensions, and from this point of view, the smaller the better. The same goes for the weight of the fish tracker as you would not want a fish spotter that you cannot hold in your hands for longer than a few minutes due to getting tired. However, if you plan on mounting the device, this is not a necessarily important spec to look into.
Display – Size, Resolution, Backlight
The size of the display impacts how easily you will be able to view the info which appears on it, so it is important that you check this stat to not have to squint your eyes every time you are using it. When it comes to the screen’s resolution, this is a spec worth checking as it shows how clear and qualitative the imaging showed will be. Last, we must mention the importance of the backlight, a feature that allows you to easily see the displayed images and information even in poor lighting conditions.
Waterproof Rating
As you will most likely use the fish finder at large, you must look into its waterproof rating. At one point, regardless of how confident you are in your carefulness, you might drop the device in the water body or splash water on it. If the model you procure does is not waterproof, it will be damaged by this occurrence, leaving you obliged to make a new purchase. An IPX7 waterproof rating is an ideal option to go for, but if you do not have the money for a fish spotter with this high waterproof rating, you can go lower as well.
Depth
The depth rating indicates in what type of water body you can use the device. Commonly, mobile fish spotters boast a 328-foot or 100-meter maximum depth rating which makes them perfect for shallow water fishing. However, if you prefer fishing in the ocean or in other water bodies with larger depths, you automatically have to look for a model that delivers a higher maximum depth capability.
Frequencies
The frequency shows in what type of water body the device is best for use. If you plan on fishing in shallow water, you should go for a 200 kHz frequency model. On the other hand, if you are into bigger games and catches, and you prefer deep water fishing, then you need a 50 kHz fish finder. Basically, the higher the frequency is, the more sonar waves will be sent and received by the transducer, thus details being more accurately portrayed despite the depth limitation.
Operating Temperature Range
A quality fish spotter should be able to function in harsh weather, meaning when the temperatures are either very high or very low. Thus, you have to look into this aspect if you are serious about the purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
?Why does its waterproof rating matter?
Even though you consider yourself as being careful, you never know when a wave sends off water into your fishing boat. As this happens and the water lands on the fish finding device, it will ultimately be damaged if it is not water-resistant or waterproof. Obviously, it is preferable for it to have a high waterproof rating in order to ensure that it will suffer no damage in the off-chance that water lands on it or you accidentally drop it in the aquatic environment.
?Can it be used by kayak fishermen?
Yes, all devices are suited for use on kayaks precisely due to their portable element. Kayak fishermen actually prefer these models as they can easily mount the fish tracking devices at the beginning of the fishing session, and take them out when it is done. Moreover, the compact size of portable finders makes them ideal in this environment as they occupy little space in this otherwise finite space place.
?Can it be used for ice fishing?
While all portable fish spotters can be used for shallow and deep water fishing, regardless of their design and specs, when it comes to ice fishing matters are not as simple. Due to the harsh environmental conditions that play out during an ice fishing session, you need to invest in a fish finder that can withstand the extreme cold temperatures.
Conclusion
The life of an angler is not an easy one as fish are tricky to catch. But to have the slightest hope at success, you need a device to find the fish in the first place, and luckily, you are in the right place as here we rounded up your best options so that you are ensured successful catches with each trip you take to your favorite lake or other water body for the purpose of fishing.
Best Portable Fish Finder for Sale:
Humminbird HELIX 5
Among the info that the HELIX 5 displays which inevitably come in handy during your angling expedition are depth measurements and coordinates of your exact location, as well as the speed at which the watercraft goes and the current temperature. With it, you can make your own maps in real-time as you stumble upon good fishing spots so that you know where to return when you return on an angling trip to that same area. Moreover, the fish finder with down imaging even provides clear viewing of what is underneath the watercraft.
Editor’s Choice:
ReelSonar iBobber Bluetooth Smart
With the iBobber you can switch from sonar to tagging fish so that it tailors to your shifting needs, one of the highlights that convinced us regarding its appeal to anglers being the fact that it lets you tag fish depending on their size, a feature not many entries in its niche provide. You can even add spots to the map of the underwater terrain so that you use as guidance for later trips.
Best Portable Fish Finder with GPS:
Deeper PRO+
Finding fish has never been made easier than with the use of the Deeper PRO+, a fish finder that was bound to make it in our top as it features WiFi-powered connectivity, which enables it to connect to smartphones. This makes it highly convenient and intuitive to use, modernizing the art of angling and providing you with the chance of accurately and easily finding groups of fish in the body of water you are in.
Best Portable Fish Finder with Transducer:
Garmin Striker 4
A model that really caught our eye, so we ultimately ranked it high as a result of its overall performance is the Striker 4. It is rated IPX7, so direct contact with water won’t affect it at all, and it comes with a multitude of features, the one that impressed us the most definitely being the AutoGain technology that minimizes the clutter on-screen and maximizes the targets, making it easier for you to pinpoint where the fish are. Moreover, it features a transducer beam through which the A-scope displays the fish in real-time.
Best Portable Fish Finder for the Money:
HawkEye Fishtrax 1C
Available for a reasonable sum of money, the Fishtrax ranks high despite its more advantageous asking price as it provides all the features you seek in a top-tier fish tracker while remaining a value deal. It provides depth readings of up to 240’ so that it covers as much as possible to amp its chances of actually finding schools of fish. Furthermore, the display is designed to enhance clarity and eliminate clutter so that you easily see the info that interest you.
