Fisherman echo sounders are representatives of the middle price segment; they occupy an intermediate position between cheap Chinese echo sounders and more advanced devices. Their functions include: finding the depth, determining the relief and nature of the bottom, searching for places where small fish and individual specimens of large fish accumulate. They do not have any specialized echolocation functions. Despite the minimum required functionality, Fisherman echo sounders have proven themselves to be reliable devices with fairly high sensitivity that can be used in almost any body of water, both fresh and salt water.
Depth gauges
These Fisherman products are among the simplest devices that can only determine depth; Such echo sounders cannot search for fish. Currently, there are JJ-CONNECT Fisherman 120 and 130 models. They are hand-held depth finders, made in a cylindrical body, reminiscent of a flashlight body.
Echo sounder-depth meter Connect Fisherman 130
In addition to the depth detection function, these devices can measure water and air temperature. The devices are equipped with a sensor operating at a frequency of 125 KHz. This echo sounder is capable of measuring depths up to 36 m. Scanning can be done through the hull of the boat or through a layer of ice.
The echo sounders are all-weather; The operating temperature range of the device is from -30°C to +50°C. They use conventional LED indicators as an indication device. The device is powered by four AA batteries.
Currently, such echo sounders are difficult to obtain, since many sellers are removing them from sale. However, if desired, they can be found in Moscow for about $45.
Early models
One of the first models of echo sounders capable of not only determining depth, but also searching for fish, was the Fisherman 110 model. This is a simple echo sounder that uses a single-beam transducer in the form of a float with a minimal set of functions. Emitter frequency – 350 KHz, radiation angle – 45°.
The Fisherman 110 model is equipped with a float sensor with a 10 m cable, a set of 4 AA batteries and instructions
The scanning depth of the 110th model is only 30 m. The device is equipped with a black-and-white display with a diagonal of 2.4 inches and a resolution of 128 by 64 pixels.
The Fisherman 160 model is a later echo sounder and, as a result, more advanced. The model uses a more powerful transducer, which allows scanning at a depth of up to 60 m. The remaining parameters of the device remain exactly the same.
Echo sounder Fisherman 160
The design of the model has changed slightly, the size and type of display have not changed. The user menu has changed slightly and sound alarm functions have been added.
Fisherman 200
The model that began, if not the brand’s triumphant march, then at least its recognition among fishermen. Despite the fact that technically this device differed slightly from the 160th model, many people immediately liked it.
Fisherman 200 Includes Ice Scanning Transducer
The reason for its popularity was that the most important functions of the echo sounder were significantly improved:
- the algorithm for determining the bottom topography has been optimized;
- added the ability to detail its structure;
- the algorithm for determining the position of the fish has been improved;
- The design has been improved and the menu has been simplified.
At the same time, the hardware of the device has undergone virtually no changes: it used the same operating principle, but a more powerful transducer (frequency 350 KHz, viewing angle 45°, float-type sensor), allowing scanning at a depth of up to 75 m.
An important role was also played by the fact that the device has become even more economical - when using 4 AAA batteries, it can operate continuously for up to 38 hours.
On a note! The “winter” version of the device is equipped with an additional sensor; its scanning depth is 30 m.
Using a fish finder
To use the device, you must turn it on correctly. To do this, you need to install AA batteries in a special compartment. Then press and release the “Menu” key. When the echo sounder is activated, the monitor will temporarily display the starting “Right” and “Left”.
The owner independently chooses the operating mode. The unit offers a choice of two: “Normal” and “Simulator”. The first is recommended for standard use on a pond, and the second is for informational purposes only. The “simulator” demonstrates the operation of the device on water and shows all its capabilities.
After turning it on, you need to go to the options menu. To do this, press the “Menu” button once. Then use the same key to navigate. However, to change parameters, you should use the “Left” and “Right” buttons. After a few seconds of inactivity, the menu will automatically disappear from the display.
If you need to turn off the device, then press and hold the same key.
Fisherman 220 duo
The Fisherman 220 duo echo sounder is a dual-beam device that allows scanning at depths of up to 73 m. At its core, this is a seriously improved and redesigned 200th model. Changes in the design and operating principle affected almost all components and systems of the device.
First of all, the changes affected the operation of the transducer. In the 220th model, a transition was made to “standard” radiation frequencies of 200 and 83 KHz, which took the first step towards unifying the types of sensors used by the device. The transducer radiation angle has not changed – 45°.
Algorithms for determining depths and the nature of the bottom have been improved, and the fish search system has been improved. The device received a clearer and more contrasting display with a diagonal of 2.7 inches and a resolution of 160 by 160 pixels.
Fisherman 220 duo echo sounder complete with “summer” and “winter” sensors
As with all echo sounders released before it, fish are displayed on the display screen as icons indicating their depth.
The model is currently out of production. At the time of release (early 2015), its cost was about $150.
Model Wireless 2
Echo sounder for trolling on the river
This echo sounder is a slightly modified version of the 200 model, in which the sensor is connected to the echo sounder not using a cable, but via wireless communication. In this case, its own information transfer protocol is used.
Structurally, this is done as follows: the transducer, along with the power source and transmitter, is placed in a separate float, which can move freely along the surface of the reservoir. The maximum distance is about 40 m (for comparison, the cable length of the 200th model is about 10 m).
The restrictions imposed on the transducer in terms of the mass and amount of transmitted information significantly reduce its capabilities. It uses a single beam emitter with a frequency of 125 KHz. The scanning depth is 30 m.
Fisherman Wireless 2 echo sounder with float sensor
A more advanced model - JJ-Connect Fisherman Wireless 3 Deluxe - has a more powerful transducer capable of scanning to a depth of about 40 m.
Control and configuration of the echo sounder
Before you start fishing, the Fisherman 200 needs to be set up.
To do this, use the buttons at the bottom of the display:
- Choose the right sensitivity.
The higher the sensitivity is set, the stronger the device will respond. For example, any fish, even a small one, will appear impressive on the display, thereby misleading a person.
- Turn on the desired depth range, for example, 5 - 10 meters.
The depth range should be adjusted so that the display shows the bottom of a river or lake perfectly.
- Set the desired sound signal.
The sound alarm should be set in such a way that a person can hear a signal indicating the approach of a fish.
Operating the Fisherman 200 is quite easy, the main thing is to follow three rules:
- Use the buttons on the display to increase or decrease sensitivity in a timely manner.
- As soon as the sound signal is heard, immediately take all actions aimed at catching fish from the reservoir.
- Regularly check whether the previously set settings have been lost.
The settings may be lost due to strong wind, pitching, or insufficiently strong fixation of the echo sounder body to the boat or boat.
Fisherman 600
This is a modern representative of Fisherman echo sounders, with improved characteristics and options. This device has a single-beam sonar with a frequency of 200 KHz and a beam angle of 60°. It, unlike previous models, can be mounted on the transom of the boat. The scanning depth is 280 m.
Fisherman 600 fish finder
The echo sounder is equipped with a 4.3-inch diagonal display with a resolution of 240 by 160 pixels. The image is displayed on the screen in 16 shades of gray. The screen is equipped with a bright LED backlight, which allows you to use the echo sounder even in bright sunlight.
Like most modern echo sounders from other manufacturers, this model has a temperature sensor. Sound alarms have been implemented in various situations: detection of prey, shallow depth, low charge level, etc.
The cost of this echo sounder ranges from 120 to 130 US dollars.
There are also several modifications of this echo sounder model.
Model 600 Ice Edition
The JJ-Connect Fisherman 600 Ice Edition has the same features as the regular 600 model, but has a sensor that can operate at low temperatures. The echo sounder is equipped with a carrying case and has the ability to operate from an external power source. This model can be used in any conditions and at any time of the year. Its price is similar to the base one.
Equipment for the Ice Edition model
Model 600 Duo
The JJ-connect Fisherman 600 Duo fish finder is equipped with a dual-beam sonar with frequencies of 200 KHz and 83 KHz. The viewing angles are 20° and 50°, respectively. It has a greater scanning depth (up to 350 m). The appearance and other characteristics of the device are identical. The price of this model is about 10 dollars higher than the base one.
Installing an echo sounder
Before you can use the Fisherman 200 fish finder for its intended purpose, it must be installed correctly.
This requires:
Choose the right place where the echo sounder will be attached. When fixing this device, anglers are advised to give preference to those areas where:
- there are no bends or defects;
- there are no bulges or recesses;
- There will be minimal vibrations or shocks while the boat is moving.
- Make small holes at selected points.
- Screw on the special echo sounder platform.
- Connect the echo sounder body to the supporting platform.
- Install the Fisherman 200 transducer to your boat using the special screws.
Fisherman 800C Duo
One of the latest fish finder models from Fisherman, which has the most advanced characteristics. The “Duo” index indicates that the echo sounder is double-beam. The transducer operates at frequencies of 83 KHz and 200 KHz (angles 60° and 20°, respectively). The design of the emitter uses Multi Pulse technology, which significantly increases the capabilities of the echo sounder; thanks to it, the device can scan the water column to a depth of 700 m.
Image on the screen of the 800 C Duo echo sounder
The device is equipped with a 4.3-inch diagonal color screen (65 thousand colors) with a resolution of 480 by 272 pixels, which significantly improves the visualization of information received from the sensor. In addition, the device is equipped with an advanced menu that allows fine tuning. This echo sounder is designed to operate in temperatures from +10° to +50°C and has a waterproof rating of IPX7.
This device is a further development of the 750 model, which has more modest characteristics (scanning depth - 350 m, black and white display, the ability to search only for large fish, etc.), but in design and settings they are almost identical.
The price of the 800 model is about $210.
Basic features of the echo sounder
The devices of the Fisherman line belong to the middle price segment. The devices occupy an intermediate position between economical versions from the Middle Kingdom and more expensive units.
The functionality of this series echo sounder is represented by the following options:
• recognition of relief and bottom structure;
• identification of schools of small fish and individual large representatives.
However, there is no specialized option in the presented unit. However, despite the required minimum of functions, the devices have proven to be reliable, with high sensitivity, which can be used on any body of water.
It is also worth emphasizing that the unit is equipped with a single-beam transducer and a float with extensive sensing, the parameter of which is 45°. Thanks to this feature, it is possible to study the water column over a large area, which has a positive effect on fishing. Because the larger the visibility area, the higher the likelihood of finding fish.
The signal from the sensor is sent to the receiver, which is equipped with a monochrome FSTN LCD monitor with a resolution of 128x64 pixels.
Reviews
Alexander I have been using the Fisherman 600 echo sounder for two years now. This is a relatively inexpensive and very practical device with all the necessary functions. The echo sounder has a good and fairly accurate depth gauge. The sensitivity in finding fish is excellent, no worse than the more expensive models of the same Lawrences or Haminbeds. The housing is quite comfortable and fits perfectly on the boat console. The screen, despite its small size, is convenient and informative. I constantly use the function of schematic images of fish on the screen indicating their depth, because it is very convenient. An excellent model in its class, I recommend it.
Sergey In my opinion, Fishermen occupy an intermediate niche between cheap Chinese echo sounders and products from reputable companies, like Lawrence and Garmin. However, they can more likely be classified as simplified branded products rather than advanced “Chinese” ones. Fisherman, unlike some “Chinese”, will work in any situation and will never let you down. It may not be as easy to use as Lawrence, but its reliability is always high and its location accuracy is also quite good. It’s better to overpay a little, but buy something that actually works and is trouble-free.
Vladimir Having tried almost all the Fishermen series for five years, I can say that this is an excellent device for its class. It quite accurately determines the depth of the reservoir, and also quickly and correctly allows you to find fishing spots. However, over time you expect something new from the manufacturer. But this is not new. In terms of functionality, the 150th, 300th or 800th series are the same devices, but with a more beautiful picture. There is no talk of any functions like Surface Scan. Side scan? No, we haven't heard. Of course, this will lead to higher prices for models, but we need to develop somehow. In addition, if the flagships of the underwater scanner business had a competitor using these functions in their devices, ordinary fishermen would only benefit.
Fisherman echo sounders are a compromise option for those fishermen who want to be guaranteed a reliable device that has all the necessary functions for comfortable fishing and has an adequate price. The range of Fisherman products, although small, allows you to choose an echo sounder that is optimally suited for each specific case.
Fisherman 200 echo sounder: description, cost, installation, reviews from fishermen
The new generation fish finder Fisherman 200 is in great demand among many anglers due to its reliability and efficiency.
With the help of such a device, each person can accurately determine the depth of a reservoir, identify all the features of the bottom topography, and most importantly, immediately understand that a fish is approaching, even a small one.
The device is sold in almost all specialized stores or websites and at a relatively low cost. However, this echo sounder must be used correctly, otherwise it will not provide the expected assistance in finding fish, and may even be misleading.
