Portable Fish Finder

While fishing might be your favorite pastime as you get to relax, all while inhaling fresh, clean air, admiring the beauty of nature, and even getting the chance to cook healthy food you worked on procuring yourself, it is undeniable that there are some downsides to this activity. Obviously, the major downside is having to wait for hours to catch a fish, or ending up finishing your fishing expedition without a single catch. To exponentially increase your chances of actually returning home with a full bag of fish, you need the help of a convenient portable fish spotter that finds groups of fish for you. Next, we will show you what are the fish finding devices you can confidently rely on, so stick with us if you are interested in making this purchase.

Top 5 Portable Fish Finders Comparison

	1. Deeper PRO+	2. Garmin Striker 4	3. Venterior VT-FF-002	4. Lucky FFW-718	5. Venterior VT-FF001
	BEST MODEL	OUR CHOICE			BEST PRICE
	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price
General Info
Manufacturer	Deeper	Garmin	Venterior	Lucky	Venterior
Dimenions	2.5″ Ø	3.6″ x 5.9″ x 1.6″	9.3″ x 3.9″ x 2.6″	5.12″ x 2.95″ x 1.18″	9.6″ x 2.2″ x 5.9″
Weight	3.5 Oz.	8.1 Oz.	0.3 Oz.	5.47 Oz.	17.6 Oz.
Battery Type	Rechargeable Lithium Polymer 3.7V	Rechargeable 12V, 7Amp	Rechargeable Lithium-Ion 3.7V	3V CR2032	4 x AAA
Specifications
Display
Type	N/A	HVGA Color	Dot Matrix LCD	Dot Matrix FSTN LCD	LCD
Size	N/A	3.5″, 5″, 7″	1.97″ x 1.77″	1.61″ x 1.89″	N/A
Resolution	N/A	480 x 320px	128 x 96px	128 x 64px	N/A
Backlight
Performance
Waterproof Rating	Watertight	IPX7		IPX4
Sensitivity	Adjustable	Adjustable	10-Level Adjustable	5-Level Adjustable	5-Level Adjustable
Zoom			N/A
Temperature
Operating Range	-4°F – 104°F	5°F – 131°F	14°F – 158°F	14°F – 122°F	-4°F – 158°F
Unit	Celsius, Fahrenheit	Celsius, Fahrenheit	Celsius, Fahrenheit	Celsius, Fahrenheit	Celsius, Fahrenheit
Depth
Maximum Depth	260 Feet	1600 Feet, 750 Feet	120 Feet	135 Feet	328 Feet
Unit	Feet, Meters	Feet, Meters	Feet, Meters	Feet, Meters	Feet, Meters
Sonar&Radio
Wireless Operating Range	330 Feet	N/A	328 Feet	394 Feet	N/A
Dual-Beam Capable
Frequency	290 kHz, 90 kHz	50/77/200 kHz	125 kHz	125 kHz	N/A
Beam Angle	15°, 55°	15°, 45°	90°	90°	45°
Features
Water Temperature Log and Graph
Water Temperature Sensor
Depth Alarm
Integrated GPS				N/A
Additional Features
	Battery Level Display	AutoGain Technology	Bottom Contour	4-Level Chart Speed	Anti-UV Coating
	Self-Adjusting Depth Scale	A-Scope	Depth Scale	Live-Update Water Bottom Contour	Battery Save Mode
	Real-Time Bathymetric Mapping	Split-Screen Zoom	Display Fish Icon	Battery Indicator	Removable Transducer Float
	Unlimited Data History	Fish Symbol ID	10-100% Adjustable Display Contrast	Display Fish Icon	25-Foot Transducer Cable
	Sleep Mode	Ultrascroll	Saltwate and Freshwater Compatible	Anti-Clutter System	Fish Alarm
	Classic and Day/Night Screen Color Modes	Adjustable Depth Line		Built-In Smart Chip	Bottom Contour
	Ice Fishing Mode	Mark Waypoints		Simulation Mode
	Solunar Forecast Calendar	Course Over Ground
	Fishing Notes	Tilt/Swivel Mount
	Depth, Temperature, Fish, Bottom Structure Location	Supports CHIRP Frequencies
	WiFi Powered Connectivity
Warranty&Support
Product Warranty	1 Year	1 Year	1 Year	1 Year	1 Year
User Manual
Customer Support
Telephone Support	1 904 204 4808	44 (0) 23 8052 4000
E-Mail Support	[email protected] buydeeper.com	N/A	[email protected] hotmail.com		[email protected] hotmail.com
Online Chat Support

Fish Finders Reviews

Deeper PRO+

1. Deeper PRO+

As it is our top pick, it should be more than obvious that the PRO+ delivers an unsurpassed performance. This 2.5-inch diameter fish finder boasts a futuristic design, all while maintaining a relatively simple operation. Its watertight design makes it safe to be on water when using the fishing device, not having to worry it might suffer any damage. One of its biggest highlights performance-wise is the fact that it can withstand operating in temperatures ranging from -4 degrees Fahrenheit to 104 degrees Fahrenheit, so no matter how cold or hot it gets, you will receive an accurate operation.

The wireless operating range it boasts is 330 feet, exceeding industry standard from this point of view. As expected, it comes with all the must-have features, including an integrated GPS, a water temperature sensor, and a depth alarm. Other important features include the unlimited data history which allows you to revisit old and important info from fishing trips, and the sleep mode that saves battery power.

Another mention worthy highlight is the fact that the PRO+ delivers WiFi powered connectivity, thus making it easy for you to integrate your smartphone in the fishing expedition. One of the aspects which greatly enhance its convenience in use is the ice fishing mode that obviously enables you to use it when you go ice fishing. In addition, the manufacturing company trusts this product so much that it has backed it with a 1-year warranty for parts and labor.

Garmin Striker 4

2. Garmin Striker 4

Garmin really surprised everyone with the manufacturing of the Striker 4, a fish finding device which comes in handy regardless of your fishing 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 with.

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.

Venterior VT-FF-002

3. Venterior VT-FF-002

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 fishing 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.

Lucky FFW-718

4. Lucky FFW-718

If you want to not only feel lucky, but actually catch fish every time you go on a fishing 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 which 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 of this fish finding device 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.

Venterior VT-FF001

5. Venterior VT-FF001

Last, we have the VT-FF001, which not only comes at an incredibly low price which makes it a real bargain, one you would be a fool to skip on, but that features enough functions to make your fishing 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 which 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 fishing 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.

Troubleshooting a Portable Fish Spotter

Although modern electronics are quite impressive, to say the least, this does not mean that they are free of flaws. When it comes to portable fish spotters, just like all other modern techs, they can succumb to functional issues. When these issues arise, it is your duty to fix the situation. We will immediately list some troubleshooting tips for different malfunction situations, so read carefully to know how to remedy an unwanted situation when it comes up.

Frozen display:

• Fix #1 – Perform an electrical system check.
• Fix #2 – Verify if it powers up.
• Fix #3 – Check for another portable fish finder 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 fish finder 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 fish finder in close proximity.
• Fix #4 – Perform a basic cavitation check.

Sonar Technologies Anglers Must Know About

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 of them 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 jumping to 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 downscanning 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 though 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.

Finding fish has never been made easier than with the use of the Deeper PRO+, a fish finder that was an obvious choice for our number one spot as it features WiFi powered connectivity, being compatible with Android and iOS smart devices. This makes it highly convenient and intuitive to use, modernizing the art of fishing and providing you with the chance of accurately and easily finding groups of fish in the body of water you are in. Another element that convinced us to rank it so high is its plethora of features, its 330-foot wireless operating range, and the 260-foot maximum depth.

A fish finder that really caught our eye, so we ultimately ranked it high as a result of its overall performance is the Garmin 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. Another entry we view as mention worthy in the conclusion of this article is the Venterior VT-FF001 that features a 5-level adjustable sensitivity and boasts a maximum depth rating of 328 feet, all while managing to remain budget-friendly.