Is it worth getting a wireless fish finder?

What to look for when choosing

1. Sound transmitter power. The more powerful the echo sounder, the clearer the picture it gives. Such models scan the situation even at great depths. Power is measured in watts - the more watts indicated in the specification, the better and more expensive the device.
2. Receiver sensitivity . In fact, devices with medium or adjustable sensitivity are good. If this parameter is too high, the picture will be noisy. Highly sensitive devices are needed for catching small fish and thoroughly analyzing the bottom.
3. Frequency mode of the converter. Low-frequency devices up to 50 kHz do not give a very clear picture, but they allow you to view great depths. High-frequency echo sounders above 200 kHz produce a clear image, but they cannot scan significant depth.
4. Display diagonal and contrast. The usability of the device depends on the quality of the screen. In sunny weather, you cannot do without a high-contrast display with high resolution. If compactness is important to you, choose models with a small screen.
5. Number of rays . The more there are, the better the picture the device produces. Budget models have one beam. The second beam expands the viewing angle, four and five beams have professional devices.
6. Availability of sensors. They can work to measure temperature, speed and side view. Some of them are attached to the fishing rod, others to the bottom of the boat, and others to the fisherman’s hand. Wireless sensors are purchased separately. They are needed by those who want to always be up to date with current information.
7. Model cost. We recommend considering options starting from 2,000 rubles - cheap Chinese echo sounders are unreliable and short-lived. It’s also better not to be seduced by the huge number of additional functions - in reality they are unlikely to be useful.

How to choose an echo sounder for feeder fishing?

The choice of echo sounder model for feeder fishing depends on its method and the characteristics of the reservoir. For small shallow lakes and ponds, you can take an inexpensive single-beam option with a black and white display. For them, a device with a viewing angle of 45° with a sensor capable of examining the bottom to a depth of 30 meters is sufficient.

When fishing in deep-sea reservoirs, you will need models with two or three beams that scan the water column at a depth of up to 100 meters. It is desirable that they have a high-resolution color display, measure water temperature and be able to store a large amount of information.

In any case, the sensors must have good protection from water, quickly find fish and demonstrate the distance to it. You should not buy too cheap echo sounders. They do not provide a clear picture and do not work well in rainy and windy weather. It is important that the sensor is quite heavy. This will allow you to throw it as accurately and far as possible. The main thing is that the signal is not lost.

Gallery: echo sounder for fishing (25 photos)

Choosing a sonar for fishing from a boat

• Choose a device with adjustable frequency and sensitivity.
• If you are a beginner, start with a simple but good fish finder. Once you become comfortable with its features and as your fishing skills become more proficient, you can upgrade to more expensive models.
• It is desirable that the device display has normal illumination, which would be suitable for fishing on the water, taking into account the characteristics of your vision.
• Not all echo sounders are universal in use - some are designed for winter fishing, others for fishing from the shore. When purchasing, find out the functional purpose of the model.

Types of echo sounders

Depending on the specific application, echo sounders for fishing from a boat are divided into several categories:

1. Coastal. The most inexpensive and simple models are suitable for identifying promising water areas, but only from the shore. They are used by experienced fishermen who want to explore a new unknown body of water without using a swimming device. Models of this class are not particularly detailed, and their display does not have a large diagonal. The range of functions is also limited.
2. Models for fishing from a boat. They surpass the previous type in quality of analysis and data transmission, as well as speed. The devices examine large areas of the reservoir, because have 2-3 rays. In most cases, they are equipped with built-in temperature indicators and are able to scan the bottom at high speeds of the vessel.
3. Universal. They are characterized by versatility and high price. They can be used for various types of fishing. Progressive editions support 3D bottom visualization, work with 4 or more beams and have a wide viewing angle. Some editions are compatible with navigation systems and on-board computers, have a shock-resistant housing and are suitable for night fishing.

Which company to choose an echo sounder

1. Lowrance . They feature an expanded range of functions. CHIRP technology allows one sensor to scan in several ranges at once. They have a Russian-language, intuitive interface.
2. Humminbird . An American brand that has been on the market for 40 years. It is distinguished by the introduction of innovations into its models, for example, all-round visibility, 3 D, SmartCast. We were the first to release a waterproof echo sounder. These are good devices for advanced users.
3. Garmin . The main difference is the large range of models. Devices of this brand have high sensitivity, thoughtful design and mounting. Equipped with high-quality displays and emitters.
4. Deeper . The brand produces high-speed wireless echo sounders with remote control. They work equally effectively in fresh and salt water, displaying the structure of the bottom in detail.
5. Practitioner . Russian echo sounders. Simple, compact and functional. They have a capacious battery and can operate at low temperatures. A good option as a first echo sounder.

Which echo sounder to choose for an inflatable boat?

While all three devices discussed in this review are very similar to each other and practically do not differ in price, there are a few significant differences that will help you make your choice.

• The Humminbird PiranhaMAX 197C has a power of 300 watts.
• High signal strength will help you more accurately separate fish and other underwater objects.
• Two beams allow you to view a large underwater area.
• Has 2D sonar
• You can set an alarm to sound when a certain depth is reached

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Rating of echo sounders for fishing from a boat

1. Garmin Echo 301c is a simple and reliable model. Suitable for beginners and experienced fishermen who do not want to overpay for unnecessary features. Able to determine the speed of the boat and the temperature of the water. It produces high-definition images, works even in salt waters, and has a waterproof housing.
2. Humminbird PiranhaMAX 153x is a model in the budget price category. It has proven itself well for summer fishing in any body of water. The display has several levels of backlighting and high clarity, which allows you to fish on fast rivers. The depth of echolocation can be adjusted. The device has a reverse function and can determine the water temperature.
3. The Humminbird 748x 3D is a three-dimensional echo sounder with a fish-finding system. Able to rotate an image in space and change the angle of echolocation. To view the picture in detail, it can be fixed. You can additionally connect a GPS receiver to the sonar, which together will provide a high-definition image.
4. The Humminbird Combo is a top-of-the-line fish finder/chartplotter with a powerful four-beam transducer. Scanning angle - up to 180 degrees. The device can be used as a GPS navigator. The echo sounder allows you to view the image in three dimensions. Has many additional functions.

Budget echo sounders for PVC boats

Today, for 10-20 thousand rubles ($150-300) you can purchase a working echo sounder with a high-quality color display and DualBeam technology, which involves scanning water with two beams.

Competition among manufacturers in this price category is very high, and therefore the range of such echo sounders for PVC boats is quite large.

A good price-quality ratio is typical for devices from such well-known companies as Humminbird, Lowrance, Garmin and Phiradar, and therefore we will talk about individual devices from these manufacturers further.

Using an echo sounder when fishing from a boat

Before using a fish finder, you should study it carefully. To do this, read the instructions. When you turn on the device, the default settings are activated. At shallow depths, a radiation frequency of 192 Hz and a narrow beam angle of 20-24º . A clearer picture emerges when the boat moves slowly. Objects directly below the boat are on the right side of the screen.

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When starting the device from a boat for the first time, experts advise “playing around” with the settings. Be sure to make sure that the device measures depth correctly. It is then calibrated. At factory settings, the echo sounder is good at determining the depth under the transducer, although the fisherman needs to know it under the keel or waterline.

The bottom relief is visible at the bottom of the display. Individual fish are indicated by arcs. The larger the individual, the clearer its icon will be on the screen. It is important to adjust the sensitivity of the device to suit you. You can achieve good fishing efficiency if you know what kind of fish you are going to catch and what its habitat conditions are.

Methods for attaching a sonar to a boat

1. Fastening to the inside of the boat with epoxy glue. A good option for boats made of polymer materials. The transmitter signal has to pass through the hull of the boat, which creates errors when studying the depth of the reservoir and degrades the quality of the picture on the screen.
2. Transom installation. The method is relevant for slow-moving vessels. The brackets are mounted below the water level. The movable design prevents damage to the device when it comes into contact with obstacles. This is the most affordable and convenient way to install an echo sounder. It is not suitable for motor boats as the propellers create a lot of noise.
3. Through fastening. The converter is mounted in the bottom of the boat - for this purpose a hole is made in it. This mounting method allows you to fully reveal the functionality of the echo sounder and prevent interference on its screen.

Tips for fishing with a fish finder

Before starting the device, make sure that there are no air bubbles in the water - they create serious interference. It is advisable that when measuring the depth, the boat moves slower than 10 km/h. The picture of the bottom will be good if you direct the rays into the water at different angles. If a large fish is displayed on the monitor, increase the signal sensitivity - perhaps it is a school of small fish.

Don't forget that a good echo sounder is only a tool that makes fishing from a boat easier. It cannot replace professional experience acquired over many years. Choose devices only from the ratings of trusted manufacturers. By improving your skills, you will be able to use the echo sounder correctly and please your loved ones with an excellent catch!

The best fish finder for ice fishing

Practitioner 7 WI-FI

A practical, inexpensive new product for winter fishing. The echo sounder is enclosed in a reliably protected case made of high-strength and environmentally friendly ABS plastic. Its diameter is 75 mm, weight is 110 g. It will easily fit into a bag, backpack or car glove compartment. The sensitivity of the device is such that it even detects a jig. In addition to ice fishing, it can be used for trolling and fishing from the shore. The minimum temperature at which the device can be used is -20, the maximum is 40 degrees. The device is single-beam, the radiation angle is 35 degrees. The maximum scanning depth for freshwater bodies is 25 m. Information is displayed on the display of a mobile gadget: smartphone or tablet. Bright coloring allows you not to lose sight of the device.

Advantages:

• stable connection with a mobile device at a distance of up to 90 m, regardless of the weather;
• the ability to obtain maximum information about the reservoir: bottom topography, depths, water temperature, location of fish;
• a highly sensitive sensor capable of detecting even jigs or fry. At the same time, thanks to special ECO technology, the device does not scare away aquatic inhabitants;
• depth measurement range 0.5-30.0 m. There is also a special mode for fishing in shallow water (0.3-3.0 m);
• an axial stabilizer that allows you to see a clear picture;
• fast battery charging (15 minutes). The energy reserve is enough for 3.5 hours of operation;
• battery charge indication;
• possibility of drawing up a depth map.

There are no disadvantages.

LUCKY FFW718

Using this budget device, you can scan the bottom of a freshwater reservoir up to 40 m deep. According to this indicator, the model is the absolute leader in its cost category. The echo sounder is single-beam, providing a viewing angle of up to 90 degrees at a frequency of 125 kHz. The device successfully scans the bottom through the thickest and darkest water; even a thick layer of ice is not an obstacle. It recognizes even small objects, and successfully distinguishes between bottom stones and fish. Information is displayed on a black and white 3-inch screen. Operating temperatures: -20 - +700C. Echo sounder weight 160 g.

Detailed review of the model - video:

The advantage of the device: functionality. The echo sounder provides comprehensive information about the presence of fish and the bottom topography. At the same time, its price is quite affordable. Disadvantage: the sensor does not always turn off when removed from the water. For this reason, you have to remove the battery.

Deeper Smart Sonar Pro

A “smart” device works in tandem with a digital gadget: a tablet or phone running Android or iOS using Wi-Fi. Data from the echo sounder is transmitted to the gadget screen. The compact dimensions (diameter 65 mm) of the device and low weight (100 g) allow it to be used for fishing from a boat, kayak or shore, as well as for ice fishing. There is an ambient temperature sensor. The case is waterproof, the power source is a battery. Operating temperatures from -20 to 400C. Number of beams - 2 (90 kHz - 550, 290 kHz - 150). The device is capable of scanning the bottom of a reservoir up to 80 m (fresh water). Using sonar you can obtain the following information:

• size and depth of fish;
• bottom structure.

The information received is displayed on the screen of a smartphone or tablet. The gadget is compatible with Android 4.4 and iOS 11.0. In addition to the echo sounder, the kit includes: a USB cable, bolt fasteners and a neoprene case. Deeper products have repeatedly won awards in the Cordless Fishing Accessories category.

Advantages:

• information content;
• versatility;
• ease of use;
• small sizes;
• ease of settings;
• minimalistic design.

Disadvantage: high cost.

FishHunter Directional 3D

Wireless echo sounder compatible with iOS and Android gadgets. The display of a smartphone or tablet is used as a screen. The maximum communication range is 60 m. The device is 3-beam (381 kHz - 200, 475 kHz - 200, 675 kHz - 120. The device is capable of scanning a fresh body of water up to 55 m deep. With its help you can determine the presence of fish and their sizes, assess the structure of the bottom There are image magnification functions and 3D mode. The set includes:

• echo sounder, instructions for it;
• USB cable;
• Charger;
• case made of waterproof material;
• cord.

Advantages:

• availability of Wi-Fi connection;
• 3D mode;
• ability to save depth map;
• If the radar is stationary, the movement of fish is clearly visible.

Minus: relatively large mass (180 g).

Vexilar Sonar Phone SP100

Sonar without a screen, which can be used with mobile devices: smartphone or tablet. Its performance is not inferior to more expensive analogues. Using the device, you can determine the depth of the reservoir and obtain information about the bottom topography. Device functionality:

• depth indication;
• water temperature display;
• symbolic image of a fish with depth indication;
• sound signal about the appearance of fish;
• battery charge indicator;
• image enlargement;
• data transfer via Wi-Fi.

Single beam model (125 kHz, 300). Dimensions 6.5x13.0x17.5 cm, weight 108 g. Minimum operating temperature is -20 degrees.

Advantages:

• excellent relief image;
• Wi-Fi connection via smartphone;
• information content;
• simple settings;
• versatility;
• ability to choose colors;
• compact sizes.

Minuses:

• depth measurement error up to 10 cm;
• smoothing bottom irregularities;
• The device does not recognize small fish.

In general, the device has more advantages than disadvantages, so it copes well with its tasks.

ReelSonar iBobber Classic

A simple and effective echo sounder float is the choice of those who want to get a good catch. All you need to do is throw the device into the water and synchronize it with your mobile device using Bluetooth. The wireless communication range is 30 m. The number of beams is 1. The radiation angle is 900, the frequency is 118 kHz. The device provides a scanning depth of up to 41 m. Weight is only 47 g, which makes the sonar ideal for ice fishing. Functional features:

• determining the size of the fish and its location;
• sound alarm;
• display of bottom relief and structure;
• image magnification.

Advantages:

• well-functioning application;
• relatively low cost;
• ease of use.

There were no negative reviews. Fishermen are almost unanimous: this miniature device forced them to radically reconsider winter fishing and greatly increase its effectiveness.

Lowrance HOOK2 4x Bullet Skimmer (000-14012-001)

Compared to other models in our review, this sonar is the simplest, but not at the expense of efficiency. Automatic settings are quite enough for successful fishing. Conveniently located buttons provide easy access to essential functions. The power source is a 12 V network. The length of the transducer electrical cable is 6 m. The degree of moisture protection of the case is IPX7. Operating temperatures from -15 to 55 degrees. Information is displayed on a 4-inch backlit screen with a resolution of 480x272 p. Scanning depth up to 152 m.

Pros:

• ease of use. It is enough to press 2-3 keys to set all the necessary settings;
• clear and precise drawing of the bottom;
• The battery is slowly draining.

Minuses:

• inconvenient mounting on the bracket;
• complex system of location marks.

Garmin STRIKER 4

A reliable assistant for winter fishing. This sonar makes finding fish a pleasure. The device has a temperature sensor and a GPS module. The functionality also includes:

• determining the location and size of fish;
• objective information. The device actually shows the state of the bottom relief;
• sound alarm.

Number of beams - 2. The greatest scanning depth for fresh water is 487 m, for sea water - 228 m. Information is presented on a 3.5-inch display measuring 49x73 mm, with a resolution of 320x480 p. Reviews about the device are mostly positive: excellent functionality in combined with a reasonable price.

Humminbird PiranhaMAX 4

One of the best modifications in its series. The device is equipped with a color TFT screen with a resolution of 480x272 p. The two-beam gadget allows you to get an objective picture of the underwater world. Main characteristics:

• maximum scanning depth – 200 m;
• built-in temperature sensor;
• backlight (allows you to fish at night);
• alarm for finding fish or reaching the required depth;
• displaying the bottom as a dark line (Bottom Black View technology);
• determination of fish size (Fish ID+);
• zoom - enlarges the picture;
• identification of bottom characteristics (Structure ID).

The gadget operates from a 12 V power supply. Information is supplied to a 4.3-inch display (272x480 p). The frequencies of the beams at which the sonar operates are 200 and 455 kHz.

Advantages:

• well made screen;
• high-quality scanning.

There are no complaints about the functioning of the echo sounder.

Rivotek Fisher 20 Dual

Double-beam portable model. According to experts and ordinary users, this is one of the best options in the Rivotek product line. Two beams with a total coverage of 60 degrees help to create an objective picture of the topography and structure of the bottom of the reservoir. The energy source is AAA batteries, which increases the comfort of using the sonar when fishing in winter or during the warm season from a boat. The housing is protected from splashes, thanks to which the echo sounder works properly even in difficult conditions. Information is displayed on a black and white 2.4-inch screen, 96x128 p, with backlight. The maximum echolocation depth for a freshwater body of water is 70 m. The device is equipped with a built-in temperature sensor. There is a sound alarm, as well as determination of the size of the fish and its depth. Can be used at any time of the year. Operating temperature limits are from -20 to +70 degrees.

Among the advantages, users note the simplicity of settings and a clear image on the screen. Even an inexperienced beginner who has never had to use such devices can use an echo sounder. There are no comments on the sonar operation.