Fishing gets better when you know where the fish are hiding. Fish finders help you see underwater so you can catch more fish. These devices use sonar technology to show you fish, structures, and the bottom of the lake or ocean on a screen.
The great thing is that you don’t need to be a fishing pro to use a fish finder. Today’s models are easier to use than ever before. They come with features like GPS navigation, detailed maps, and touch screens.
Some even connect to your smartphone so you can control them with an app. There are many types and brands on the market, making it more challenging to pick the right one for your needs.
In this guide, you’ll find the 5 best fish finders for your boat, budget, and fishing style.
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Rating
- TOP PICK: Garmin STRIKER Vivid 4cv Fish Finder
- BEST RATED: Garmin Striker 4 Fish Finder
- ALSO GREAT: Humminbird HELIX 5 Fish Finder
1# Humminbird HELIX 5 Fish Finder
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The Humminbird HELIX 5 offers excellent fish-finding capabilities with its dual-beam sonar and crisp 5-inch display, making it a great value for casual anglers and weekend boaters.
Pros
- Crystal clear 5-inch widescreen display visible even in bright sunlight
- Customizable SwitchFire sonar modes for different water conditions
- Easy to install and use right out of the box
Cons
- Smaller screen size may be challenging for some users
- No GPS functionality in this base model
- Mount hardware could be more durable
You’ll be immediately impressed by the HELIX 5 with how crisp the display looks even under direct sunlight. The 5-inch screen might seem small compared to pricier models, but it’s perfectly usable for spotting fish and structures during a day on the lake.
What really stands out is the DualBeam PLUS sonar technology. You can switch between a narrow beam for precise detail or a wider beam for greater coverage.
The ability to view these beams separately or blended together gives you complete control over how you “see” underwater.
The SwitchFire feature is a game-changer for different water conditions. One of the users said that when he was fishing in murky water after a storm, he could adjust the settings to filter out noise and focus on what matters.
Installation is straightforward, taking about an hour from start to finish. While this model doesn’t include GPS or mapping features, it nails the fundamentals of fish finding with reliable performance and intuitive controls. For the price point, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better entry-level fish finder from such a trusted brand.
2# Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5″ Fish Finder
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The Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5″ is the perfect starter fish finder for casual anglers who want reliable performance without complicated settings.
Pros
- FishReveal technology makes fish easy to spot
- Simple autotuning sonar requires minimal adjustment
- Bright display visible even in direct sunlight
Cons
- Basic 5-inch screen might be too small for some users
- X model doesn’t include maps or support add-on mapping
- Plastic build feels less premium than higher-end models
This fish finder is great for small boats, and will definitely impress you by how quickly you can get it up and running.
The SplitShot transducer gives you two views below your boat – regular sonar plus DownScan imaging that shows structure in impressive detail. When you combine both with the FishReveal feature, fish literally light up on your screen!
The autotuning sonar is a game-changer if you’re new to fish finders. Instead of fiddling with settings while fish swim away, the HOOK Reveal automatically adjusts as conditions change.
A user reported that during his morning trip, it handled both shallow and deeper water without him touching a button. The 5-inch SolarMAX display is surprisingly clear even under the midday sun.
GPS navigation is straightforward with this model. You can mark waypoints, create routes, and track where you’ve been. Keep in mind this is the “X” version, so it doesn’t include maps – just a basic plotter.
For lakes and ponds you know well, this works fine. The whole unit feels built to last, though not as rugged as pricier models.
If you’re a weekend warrior looking for a reliable fish finder without fancy extras, this HOOK Reveal hits the sweet spot of performance and value.
TOP PICK
3# Garmin STRIKER Vivid 4cv Fish Finder
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The Garmin STRIKER Vivid 4cv is a solid investment for any boater who wants a reliable, easy-to-use fish finder with excellent visibility and GPS features at a reasonable price.
Pros
- Bright, colorful 4-inch display works well even in sunlight
- Built-in GPS for marking fishing spots and tracking speed
- Creates custom maps with Quickdraw Contours feature
Cons
- Smaller screen size may be difficult for some users
- Button-only controls take time to learn
- Mount can loosen over time on rough water
The STRIKER Vivid 4cv displays vibrant color. The new color palettes make it much easier to spot fish hiding near structures compared to older models according to many users.
You’ll appreciate how the unit shows your boat speed right on the screen – super helpful when trolling at the perfect pace for walleye.
Based on many reviewers, setting up the transducer took about 30 minutes on their transom. The scanning sonar shows amazingly detailed images of underwater structures.
The Quickdraw Contours feature lets you map your favorite fishing spots with surprising accuracy. During a weekend of fishing, you can create detailed maps showing depth changes that you’ll use on future trips.
BEST RATED
4# Garmin Striker 4 Fish Finder
Get it on Amazon ->
The Garmin Striker 4 is a real game-changer for casual anglers who want to find fish without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Crystal clear imaging with ClearVu scanning technology
- Simple button interface that’s easy to use
- GPS waypoint mapping to mark your favorite spots
Cons
- Small 3.5-inch screen can be hard to see in bright sunlight
- Basic features compared to pricier models
- Mounting hardware could be more durable
The Garmin Striker 4 is also a fantastic fish finder that you’ll love taking on your weekend fishing trip and is easy to set up. The buttons are straightforward and responsive, making it easy to navigate even with wet hands. Its compact size fits perfectly on small bass boats without taking up too much space.
The ClearVu sonar technology really shines when you’re trying to spot fish hiding near structures. The unit can reach depths of about 1,200 feet in the water, which is more than enough for most fishing situations. The CHIRP sonar creates crisper fish arches than traditional sonar, helping you tell the difference between small and large fish.
What makes this fish finder stand out is the built-in GPS. You can mark your hot spots and return to them later without guessing. This saves you tons of time when you find a productive area and want to come back the next morning.
The built-in flasher view is also perfect for ice fishing or vertical jigging. For under $150, you’re getting a reliable fish finder that handles the basics exceptionally well. It’s ideal if you’re new to fish finders or have a smaller boat.
5# Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv
Get it on Amazon ->
The Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv is worth every penny for anglers who want clear fish detection, easy navigation, and a large display that works well even in bright sunlight.
Pros
- Vibrant 7-inch display with high-contrast color options
- Simple interface that beginners can master quickly
- Built-in GPS with waypoint marking capability
Cons
- No pre-loaded maps (you create your own)
- Mount can be a bit wobbly on choppy water
- Menu navigation takes some getting used to
The Striker Vivid 7cv has a 7-inch screen, which is large enough to see clearly from the helm, and the new vivid color palettes make it super easy to spot fish. You’ll especially like the ability to adjust the contrast depending on whether you are fishing in bright sunlight or overcast conditions.
Setting up waypoints is extremely simple. When you find a great fishing spot, you just press a button to mark it and that’s it. The GPS tracking is accurate within a few feet, which means you can return to the exact location after drifting away. The boat speed display helps you maintain the perfect trolling pace for the lures you are using.
The Quickdraw Contours feature impressed buyers the most. When you are on the water, you can create a detailed map of your local lake with 1-foot contour lines. Connecting to your phone through the ActiveCaptain app is straightforward, and you can easily share your waypoints with friends.
While it doesn’t come with pre-loaded maps like some pricier units, the ability to create your own custom maps actually makes this fish finder more valuable over time as you build a personal library of your favorite fishing spots.
Fish Finder Buying Guide
Finding the right fish finder can make your fishing trips more successful. So, here are some key features to look for when shopping.
How Do Fish Finders Work?
Fish finders work by sending sound waves into the water through a component called a transducer. When these waves hit objects like fish, vegetation, or the bottom, they bounce back. The fish finder interprets these returning signals and displays them on a screen.
Most modern fish finders use either traditional sonar or CHIRP (Compressed High-Intensity Radiated Pulse) technology. Traditional sonar sends a single frequency, while CHIRP sends a range of frequencies for clearer, more detailed images.
The transducer is the most critical part of your fish finder. It converts electrical energy into sound waves and vice versa. Think of it as the “eyes and ears” of your system.
Key Features to Consider
Display Quality: Look for a high-resolution screen with a good pixel count. Larger screens (5-9 inches) are easier to see, especially in bright sunlight.
Frequency Options: Higher frequencies (200kHz+) give better detail in shallow water, while lower frequencies (50-83kHz) penetrate deeper water better.
GPS and Mapping: Built-in GPS helps mark productive fishing spots. Many units come with preloaded maps or accept map cards like Navionics.
Power Output: Higher wattage means better depth penetration and clearer returns.
Mounting Options: Consider whether you need a permanent installation or a portable unit.
Network Support: Higher-end units from brands like Simrad and Furuno can connect to other devices on your boat.
How to Choose the Right Transducer
Selecting the proper transducer is key to getting the most from your fish finder. The right choice depends on your boat type, fishing style, and the waters you navigate.
Transducer Options and Their Applications
Transducers come in several types, each with specific strengths:
Traditional sonar transducers work well for general fish finding and depth reading. They’re affordable and good for beginners.
Downscan transducers point straight down and create detailed images of what’s directly below your boat. They’re great for seeing structure and fish near the bottom. You’ll get clearer pictures of rocks, logs, and schools of fish than with traditional sonar.
Sidescan technology lets you see what’s on either side of your boat, not just below it. This is super helpful for covering more water and finding fish that aren’t directly under you. Some modern units combine sidescan with downscan for maximum coverage.
Frequency matters too. Lower frequencies (50-83 kHz) penetrate deeper but show less detail. Higher frequencies (200+ kHz) work better in shallow water and show more detail.
Mounting Transducer for Optimal Performance?
Where you put your transducer affects how well it works.
Transom mounts are common and easy to install on smaller boats. They work well when you’re not moving too fast.
Through-hull mounts provide the best performance at higher speeds but require drilling a hole in your boat. They’re worth considering for serious anglers with larger vessels.
Trolling motor mounts are popular because they keep the transducer away from engine noise and turbulence. This setup works great for bass boats and others using electric motors.
Where and How to Fish?
Your fish finder setup should match where you fish and how you catch fish. Different waters and fishing styles need different equipment and settings.
Freshwater Vs. Saltwater Settings
If you fish in freshwater lakes and rivers, you’ll need different settings than saltwater anglers. Freshwater fish finders work best with frequencies between 200-800 kHz. These higher frequencies give you detailed images in shallower water.
For saltwater fishing, lower frequencies like 50-83 kHz work better. These penetrate deeper water and give you wider coverage. Many saltwater anglers choose fish finders with CHIRP sonar that sends multiple frequencies at once.
Some fish finders let you switch between freshwater and saltwater modes. This is perfect if you fish in both environments. If you opt for this type of fish finder, always make sure to change your unit’s settings when moving between fresh and saltwater for the best results.
Which Fish Finder Matches Your Fishing Style?
Your fishing style should guide your fish finder choice. For trolling, look for GPS mapping and temperature readings to track productive areas. These features help you follow underwater contours where fish hang out.
If you fish vertically (like ice fishing or drop-shotting), choose a fish finder with strong down imaging. This gives you a clear picture of what’s directly below your boat.
Bass anglers often prefer side imaging to scan around structure. This helps you spot fish hiding near logs or rocks without driving over them with your trolling motor.
For inshore fishing, compact units with good shallow water performance work best. These help you navigate flats and identify channels where fish hang out.
Note that most modern fish finders offer customizable display options to match your technique. You can split the screen to show both sonar and mapping at once.
How to Install Your Fish Finder
Start by choosing the right location for your display unit. Mount it where you can easily see it but where it won’t get in your way while fishing. Most units come with a mounting bracket that attaches to your boat’s dashboard or console.
Next, install the transducer – this is the most critical part of the setup. For most boats, you’ll mount it on the transom (back of the boat). Make sure it’s below the waterline but not where it will be affected by turbulence from the propeller or hull.
Connect the power cables to your boat’s battery. Use a fuse to protect your fish finder from power surges. Some advanced models might need additional connections for networking with other devices.
Test your fish finder before heading out. Turn it on in shallow water to make sure it’s reading depth correctly.
Tips for Maintaining Your Device for Longevity.
- Clean your fish finder display with a soft, damp cloth after each trip. Avoid harsh chemicals that might damage the screen. Salt and grime can build up quickly, especially in saltwater environments.
- Check your transducer regularly for debris or barnacles. Even small growths can reduce its effectiveness. Gently clean it with mild soap and water.
- Protect your fish finder from extreme temperatures. Always remove the display unit when not in use if you store your boat outside in very hot or cold conditions.
- Update your fish finder’s software periodically. Manufacturers often release updates that improve performance or add features. Check their websites for the latest versions.
- When storing your boat for long periods, disconnect the fish finder battery connections to prevent drainage or corrosion.
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Final Words!
In conclusion, picking the right fish finder can really up your fishing game by helping you spot fish and navigate the waters more easily. The article covers some great options, like the Garmin STRIKER Vivid 4cv and Humminbird HELIX 5, which are super user-friendly and perfect for both newbies and experienced anglers. When choosing a fish finder, think about things like screen quality, sonar tech, GPS features, and your fishing style. Investing in a solid fish finder that fits your needs can make your fishing trips way more successful and enjoyable!
Daniella has been passionate about travel, the sea, and nature for many years. As a child, she frequently traveled throughout the Mediterranean and continued with her journeys throughout her adult life.
Her experiences have created the desire within her to share her love for traveling with other passionate and adventurers who want to discover beautiful horizons and new cultures.
