Here's an overview of Fishfinder features to help you make the right choice.
The Fishfinders tool allows anglers to see a graphical representation of what is underneath their boats so they can identify fish. To choose a fish finder, consider the type of unit—whether it includes GPS and forms part of a boat-wide network, the size of the fish finder's area, its display resolution, how much transmit power it needs, and what frequencies it will work best at. Inland, coastal or deep water environment where you fish.
Standalone, Combo or Fishfinder Network
There are three options available for the fish finder; Stand-alone fish finders that perform no other function, combination products that also include a chartplotter, and fully networked systems that offer a variety of potential functions, can all be viewed through one or more multi-function displays. Some reasons for selecting each type:
Standalone Fish Finder:
If you just want to see what's below, our custom fish finders for boats offer the greatest exposure and maximum performance at the lowest cost. If you have a small boat that you use to fish small inland lakes or are on a tight budget, a stand-alone fish finder is for you.
Conversely, if your cockpit has space for multiple displays, or if you've just bought a new GPS, get a large-screen GPS. You can usually add a GPS sensor later to multiple units, turning them into sets of chartplotters.
Fish Finder/Chartplotter Combo:
Combo units make sense for most medium sized boat owners. Use GPS to navigate to fishing spots, view both on a split screen, or view the fish finder only. These "black box" audio modules can turn multiple mapping devices into combo units, with the power adapter installed.
Networked System:
Fully networked systems are available from all major vendors and typically support a wide range of data sources including GPS radar, raster and vector charts, video and SiriusXM satellite radio. Many of them allow Bluetooth/Wi-Fi technology, and you can control them from your iPhone or Android smartphone. Your fish finder, which is often an outdoor "black box" unit, is just one of these data sources. Multi-screen networking systems are great for medium or large ships. The capabilities get more amazing every year.
Screen Size
Most monitor sizes listed refer to the diagonal distance in inches across the screen. Widescreen displays allow you to see more meaningful information when you split the screen to display more than one type of data, view your GPS chart, a radar screen, or returns from more than one transducer.
Transmission Power (watts) and Frequencies
The power of the fish finder - the "ping" power - is expressed in watts (RMS). Power is directly related to how well you can see in silted water, see down to greater depths, and successfully resolve discrete targets and understructure. This 500 watt RMS fish finder should have ample power for most coastal applications. Serious Bluewater fishermen should look for 1000 watts or more. Inland lake anglers can see shallow bottom with only 200 watts.
Frequency Converter
Fishfinders operate using a single frequency converter, dual frequencies, multiple frequencies, or a broadband CHIRP system. In general, higher frequencies provide the best resolution of detail, least background noise on your screen and the best viewing from a fast-moving boat, but they don't penetrate as deeply as lower frequencies. Shallow water anglers generally choose the higher frequencies of 200 kHz, 400 kHz, or 800 kHz. To get maximum depth, use low frequencies. We recommend 200 kHz or higher (up to 800 kHz) for water depths up to 200 feet and 80 kHz or 50 kHz for deeper water.
Style and Shape of the Transformer
Through Chassis: Most difficult to install, but likely provides the best signal quality. Displacement power for sailboats is generally used by hulls. The tri-motor has depth and temperature sensors, plus a paddle wheel for speed.
Crossbar Mount: An adjustable angle bracket that is bolted or bolted to the crossbar, with the transducer suspended below and behind the chassis. Simpler installation, but may experience more turbulent water flow.
In-hull: “Through-hull” transducers do not need direct water contact. It is glued to the inside of the structure with silicone or epoxy. It does not work on drilled hulls or steel hulls, only with solid fiberglass. Both in-hull and transom-mounted styles are very popular on trailer able boats.
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