Echo sounder for trolling. What characteristics should it have? What is the most important thing in an echo sounder? Which companies and specific models should you prefer? We will talk about all this in this review; read about suitable models of echo sounders for trolling at the end of the article.
Trolling is one of the most productive types of fishing; fishermen call it trophy fishing among themselves. Trolling came to us from America and is fishing from a boat or boat equipped with motors.
It is worth noting that there is another similar method - fishing on the track, which is carried out in a similar way only from a rowing boat. Read about echo sounders for fishing from a boat in a separate article at the link.
Trolling is designed to catch large fish and therefore you need to use strong gear, namely reliable spinning rods with good test, a multiplier reel, or a large, inertia-free and durable fishing line (cord).
Also for trolling, special baits are used that are designed for this type of fishing. Read more about trolling in a separate article at the link.
A very useful and often simply necessary when trolling is an echo sounder, the capabilities of which we will talk about later.
There are many benefits to using a fish finder when trolling. For example, it can be used to determine the topography and structure of the bottom, the depth of the reservoir, and the presence of fish. This concerns the basic capabilities of echo sounders.
The most advanced echo sounders for trolling allow you to monitor the bait, whether it has fallen to the bottom, at what depth it is, whether algae has clung to the bait, and you can also control the movement of the bait over deep places where predatory fish can hide. An example of such a fish finder is the Lowrance HDS line.
Also, with the help of some echo sounders, you can determine the water temperature at different depths, various objects (including fish) both at the bottom and in the water column, which are moving or stationary.
It is worth noting that some echo sounders can detect a thermocline - a zone where cold and warm water meet, which is a very promising place for trolling.
Based on the above data, the fisherman draws conclusions in what place and at what depth it is better for him to place baits.
Structurally, the echo sounder consists of a display with control buttons on which the received information is displayed and a sensor that is immersed in water and transmits the received information to the display.
Useful article on the topic: the best budget echo sounders for fishing
What types of echo sounders are there?
All presented models of echo sounders can be divided into two types:
- Stationary. They have a special mount for fixing on the side or transom of the boat. They are distinguished by their large size and high power. It is convenient to choose such a model for the vessel.
Stationary sonars can easily reach the bottom with a signal, even in deep bodies of water - Portable. Echo sounders are characterized by medium power and compact sizes, easily fitting into a pocket. Choosing a device of this type is convenient for fishing from the shore.
A portable sonar can be chosen for ice-hole fishing
Stationary and portable devices can be equipped with many useful additional functions. For example, there are echo sounders with GPS, which allow you to mark fishing spots along the route, and devices with a chartplotter, which provide detailed information about the structure of the reservoir.
How to choose an echo sounder for fishing and which one shows fish better
To successfully select a fish finder, you need to pay attention to several key parameters. In addition, it is recommended to think in advance where and how it will be used.
Power
Values of 300-500 W are considered optimal; such models are suitable for both shallow and medium depths. If fishing is planned in large bodies of water, you can buy an echo sounder with a high power rating so that the signal is guaranteed to reach the bottom.
Sensor sensitivity
The sensitive sensor gives a better image on the device screen. However, such a sensor is highly susceptible to interference. Therefore, it is better to choose a device with average sensitivity indicators - this will allow you to achieve balance.
Display options
When purchasing a fish finder, you need to pay attention to the screen size, image quality and the amount of information provided by the device. The more data the device displays and the better the picture, the more comfortable the practical use will be.
Important! It is advisable to give preference to echo sounders with a large contrast screen; the image will remain visible even in bright light.
Which echo sounder frequency is best?
The choice is mainly represented by models with frequencies of 50 and 200 kHz. In the first case, the echo sounder scans more widely, but operates at a shallower depth, and the picture on the screen is less clear. Devices operating at high frequencies explore bodies of water up to 300 m deep, and the viewing angle is up to 60 degrees. It is optimal to choose a device that supports two modes at the same time; it can be configured according to circumstances and needs.
How to choose an echo sounder for shore fishing
For shore fishing, it is best to choose a portable device. It is important to pay attention to the range of the sensor; it should be at least 30-70 m. It is convenient if the echo sounder is equipped with a sound warning system for detecting a fishing object and a special fastener for fixing it on the hand or on the fishing rod.
Coastal echo sounders have a shallow scanning depth and are suitable for shallow waters
How to choose an echo sounder for fishing from a boat
If fishing will be carried out from a vessel, you should choose a stationary type sonar; it can be conveniently mounted on board the boat. The device must perform deep scanning; shallow-water devices will not work.
When choosing an echo sounder for fishing from a PVC boat, the number of beams and coverage width are chosen in accordance with your preferences. Some sonars can scan areas of several hundred meters, but it can be difficult to determine exactly where fish are found.
Which echo sounder to choose for winter fishing
An echo sounder for ice-hole fishing is selected according to standard parameters, taking into account power, scanning depth and sensitivity. It is more convenient to give preference to portable models. It is important to choose a device that is resistant to extremely low temperatures. This applies to both the sonar itself and the sensor, especially if it requires direct immersion in water.
Which echo sounder is best for catching catfish?
It is most convenient to catch deep-sea catfish using a locator device. In this case, it is optimal to choose an echo sounder:
- with detailed display of the bottom surface;
- with deep scanning;
- with a high-definition color display that allows you to distinguish a catfish from an ordinary stone.
Since the fish reacts sensitively to any movements, it is advisable to buy a device that creates a minimum of vibrations during operation.
Which wireless echo sounder to choose for fishing
Wireless echo sounders consist of a receiver and a scanner in a sealed housing for submersion in water. To successfully choose such a device, before purchasing you need to make sure that the float sensor has a high degree of protection from moisture and reliable fastening.
The float must transmit the signal over a distance of at least 50 m
Security
How secure is the device?
Even the most careful fishing from a boat involves moisture and splashes on board. The echo sounder must have a maximum level of security, measured in IP or IPX. In the first case, the number should be greater than 60. This tells us that the device is not afraid of moisture, but to varying degrees. So, the IP60 parameter means that the device is not afraid of splashes, and IP68 will even allow you to immerse the device in water, after which it will not fail.
The IPX value has similar characteristics, but the number varies from 1 to 10. The higher it is, the more reliably the echo sounder is protected from moisture. In addition, the protection indicator shows the level of frost resistance, but in our case it is not needed. It is unlikely that you will decide to fish from a boat in winter.
Rating of the best echo sounders for fishing from a boat in 2021
Among the best devices for scanning reservoirs, users note quite expensive models. They require large investments, but at the same time provide the widest functionality.
Simrad GO7
Fishing sonar with a sensitive receiver and wide display provides good visibility without glare in daylight. It supports a wide range of settings and the ability to integrate with speed and fuel level sensors, so it is convenient to choose this echo sounder for a boat with a motor. Thanks to the GPS antenna, it continuously updates data on the vessel's location. The only disadvantage is the lack of a transducer in the kit; it must be purchased separately.
The average price of a Simrad echo sounder is 60,000 rubles
Deeper Smart Sonar CHIRP+
An echo sounder with support for three-beam scanning operates at several frequencies at once. It is convenient to choose for searching for concentrations of fish and for obtaining detailed information about the size and shape of specific individuals. The model provides a clear image, supports Wi-Fi and has a capacious battery.
Attention! The detail error of the echo sounder at a depth of up to 100 m is only 1 cm. The model can also be used for sea fishing.
You can buy Deeper Smart Sonar from 23,000 rubles
Raymarine Element 7 HV
An echo sounder with a RealVision 3D scanning system combines the functions of a sonar and cartograph. Allows you to create a detailed map of the bottom and mark the location of the fish on it. Works at a depth of up to 270 m, supports a viewing angle of 70 degrees.
You can buy a Raymarine sonar from 74,000 rubles
What to look for when choosing
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Rating of the best budget echo sounders for fishing from a boat
Boat echo sounders are presented not only in premium, but also in cheap models. Their capabilities are much more modest, but sonars cope with the basic functions.
Lucky FishFinder FF916
The echo sounder scans to a depth of 45 m. There is only one beam, as well as a frequency, but the device can determine the distance to the fish and supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth interfaces.
You can buy FishFinder FF916 for an average of 6,000 rubles
Humminbird Piranha MAX 4
A fairly powerful echo sounder supports depths of up to 200 m and operates at a frequency of 200 kHz. Provides a high-quality image, allows you to determine the size of the fish and the characteristics of the bottom. GPS is provided and there is a temperature sensor.
The average cost of a Humminbird Piranha is 12,000 rubles
Garmin Striker Plus 4CV
A mid-priced echo sounder with GLONASS and GPS support is suitable for use on a boat at speeds up to 30 km/h. The 4.3-inch display provides high-quality images in any lighting.
You can buy a Garmin Striker sonar from 22,000 rubles
Device cost
The price of the device depends on its functionality: the wider the range of options, the higher the cost of the device. The most budget options: JJ echo sounders - Connect Fisherman 200 and 220. Positive qualities of these models: ease of use, compactness, and have a convenient foam float. Price range 3000-4000 rubles.
Average price: The Humminbird Smartcast RF25e and Humminbird Smartcast RF35e models fall into this category. Their cost is 5000-6000 rubles. Advantages: compact dimensions of the device, image clarity.
Humminbird Piranha Max 230 Portable models are equipped with a reliable case with a convenient compartment inside for the battery, and there are two sensors. Their cost is 10,000 - 12,000 rubles.
The most expensive: the Humminbird Fishin Buddy 140c tube device allows you to see the image on the screen in color format and is equipped with all sorts of additional functions. Its cost is 18,000 - 20,000 rubles. Source: "prostokaras.com"
Top 10 best fish finders for shore fishing 2021
Coastal echo sounders are especially popular because most fishermen do not have a boat at their disposal. Functional sonars allow you to detect concentrations of fish in shallow water and wisely select a place for fishing from land.
Lowrance HOOK2-4x Bullet Skimmer CE ROW
One of the best echo sounders with a wide double beam scans water bodies at a distance of 70-152 m, is also suitable for winter fishing, and has fully automatic settings. Works equally well when fishing from the shore and from a boat.
Important! It’s worth choosing a sonar if you need a fish baiting function; this model has it.
You can buy Lowrance HOOK2-4x for fishing from 19,000 rubles
Humminbird Helix 5x Chirp SI GPS G2 ACL
Multifunctional sonar for professionals and amateurs supports chartplotter functions, has a wide scanning angle and low noise level. Allows you to save tracks, routes and points in memory; you can choose a device for all types of fishing.
The average price of a Humminbird Helix is 51,000 rubles
Lucky FF1108-1
A budget echo sounder for researching water thickness up to 100 m is equipped with a sound sensor. Supports determination of the size of fish and the depth of its passage, displays the structure of the bottom. The disadvantages include the black and white screen, which makes reading the data difficult.
The average price of FF1108-1 is 3200 rubles
Practitioner ER-6Pro2
The sensitive domestic sonar is suitable for use in any season and has reliable protection from moisture and low temperatures. Operates on regular batteries for up to 150 hours, distinguishes fish movements well even in turbid water. Scans the space with a single beam and displays the structure of the bottom.
You can buy a Praktik echo sounder from 7,300 rubles
Lowrance HOOK2 5x GPS
In the review of the best echo sounders, we need to mention the American sonar for coastal and boat fishing with a dual-beam scanner. It operates at a depth of up to 152 m and reports the appearance of fish in the area under study with a sound signal.
The price of the Lowrance HOOK2 5x sonar is about 25,000 rubles
Rivotek Fisher 20
A convenient echo sounder with a scanning angle of up to 75 degrees helps to detect large and medium-sized fish, and does not give false alarms when catching sunken logs and other objects. Displays the bottom relief and the depth of the schools, can be used from the shore and from a boat.
You can buy a Rivotek sonar from 5800 rubles
Craft Echo 600 Duo
A simple echo sounder scans the area with two beams and gives an audible signal about the presence of fish. You can choose a device if you need to know information about the depth and number of underwater inhabitants. The display of the device is black and white, but contrasty and bright.
You can purchase a Craft Echo sonar from 8100 rubles
Deeper Start
A simple echo sounder with a scanning depth of 50 m is lightweight and compact in size - choosing it for coastal fishing is very convenient. Displays data on the structure of the bottom and water temperature, synchronizes with smartphones and tablets. Allows you to create marks of the most fishing spots.
The average price of Deeper Start is 10,000 rubles
Lucky FFW718
A single-beam echo sounder with a frequency of 125 kHz supports scanning 45 m deep and automatically recognizes moving objects. The appearance of a fish is announced with a sound signal, and the distance to it and the size of the individual are displayed on the screen.
You can buy Lucky FFW718 from 5,000 rubles
ReelSonar iBobber Classic
The lightweight sonar features an LED beacon for nighttime fishing, supports audio bite alerts, and syncs with Android and iOS. In comparison of echo sounders, it outperforms other models due to the fact that it automatically turns on when it gets into the water. The scanning beam passes to a depth of 40 m.
The average price of ReelSonar is 3,000 rubles
Review of the most popular models
In order to ensure high-quality operation of the mobile device from the shore, the echo sounder device includes such components as a transmitter, receiver, converter and an element for displaying search results - a screen. At the moment of contact with water, the sensor emits an ultrasonic signal.
Underwater objects, layers of water of different densities, as well as the bottom and topography of the water area reflect such signals with greater or lesser strength.
Using the converter, the pulse is returned to the echo sounder display, which displays events occurring underwater in the sensor’s coverage area, the temperature and depth of the reservoir. The most important element in the device, which determines its performance characteristics, is the converter.
It carries a double workload - it converts high-frequency pulses into ultrasonic signals and at the same time converts the vibrations back into electrical ones for supply to the monitor. The correct operation of the device as a whole largely depends on the operation of this meter.
Compact echo sounders, on the contrary, do not have a high price; their purchase is feasible for a consumer of any income, but, as a rule, their functionality is reduced.
They are in demand among novice fishermen, as they are clear and easy to use. The main characteristics of echo sounders include the size and method of mounting the display. The echo sounder can be placed:
- On the hand;
- On the ground;
- On the rod.
The choice of fastening is determined by what is more convenient for the user. Models that are attached to the arm are smaller in size and have simpler functions. Narrow-beam or single-beam echo sounders are popular among recreational fishermen.
For use in a small reservoir, such a device is quite sufficient.
Also, such a sonar can be purchased at a more budget price. Among the classic manufacturers of fishing devices, the well-known brands Humminbird and JJ-connect remain and confidently hold their leading positions.
Humminbird PiranhaMAX 230 Portable
This is a wireless device used for shore fishing. Its performance characteristics: explores depths up to 36 m, transmitter range up to 40 m. Thanks to the use of Dual Beam and Smart Cast technologies, it works perfectly regardless of the fishing method.
Advantages:
- Determines the size of the loot.
- Scans the bottom surface.
- There is a function to enlarge the picture.
One of the most famous models, it is a compact device designed for both fishing from the shore and fishing from a boat. The four-inch screen is black and white with gray elements.
The dual-beam sensor allows you to receive signals from a depth of up to 180 meters.
The moisture-resistant housing allows you to fish in any weather conditions. The average price of such a device on the Russian market is 11,000 rubles, and for its price this locator is considered one of the most multifunctional and reliable echo sounders.
Humminbird SmartCast RF35e
It has proven itself well when fishing from the shore. Performance characteristics: studies depths up to 35 m, capture angle 90 degrees, transmitter range 22 m, casting range 45 m, single-beam (capable of scanning in one plane).
If the sensor is located at one point, then the picture on the screen will be with the area of the bottom that the echo sounder was able to cover. To study the nearby area, you need to pull the sensor to the desired location.
Advantages:
- Clear picture.
- Sufficient scanning depth.
- There is a function for determining the size of fish.
A cheaper and simplified model compared to the previous model. It is a portable wrist echo sounder with a scanning range of 35 meters.
A serious drawback of this sonar is the casting range from the shore - no more than 22 meters, which significantly limits the angler’s action. However, the price of this model corresponds to the declared functions. It ranges from 5,500 to 5,900 rubles; for a novice amateur, this is a good option for testing the first echo sounder.
JJ-connect Fisherman Wireless 3 Deluxe
An excellent model of a wireless device with a sensor. Performance characteristics: explores depths up to 40 m, coverage angle of 90 degrees, range of action 40 m.
Advantages:
- Endowed with hypersensitivity to the movements of small fish.
- Clearly displays all mining activities underwater.
It is also a small-sized sonar, its range of action is up to 40 meters. This is a single-beam model, the beam coverage angle reaches 90°.
The disadvantage of this brand of echo sounder is the lack of a display mount; you have to hold it in your hands, but the manufacturers have sweetened this disadvantage with the presence of a rubberized body that will prevent the device from slipping out of your hands. The price for such an echo sounder ranges from 4900 to 5500 rubles.
Fish Finder ffw718 Wireless
This model belongs to the group of universal-purpose echo sounders. Performance characteristics: scans to a depth of up to 35 m, the transmitter range is up to 70 m, if used with an extended antenna, the radius reaches 300 m.
Advantages:
- The Russified menu determines the water temperature.
- There is a function for adjusting the sonar and speed chart.
- When the sensor is removed from the water, it turns off automatically.
- High-quality waterproof sensor housing.
- Battery life up to 550 hours.
The main difference between this locator model is its versatility; it can be used not only for fishing from the shore and boat, but also for winter fishing, which makes it indispensable for professional fishermen.
Its advantages also include the sensor’s reception range – up to 70 meters; among coastal echo sounders, this model is considered the longest-range.
In addition to the main functionality, manufacturers have included a number of pleasant additions in the FishFinder ffw718 Wireless, such as: drawing the bottom topography, LED backlight, and temperature sensor. The disadvantages include the insufficiently large screen. The cost of this device is no more than 4,000 rubles, which is also a significant advantage when choosing.
Fish finder luckylaker ff916
This model is the latest development from Lucky, it is easy to use, works great in any fishing conditions. Performance characteristics: explores depths up to 45 m, capture angle 90 degrees, casting range is 50 m.
A Wi-Fi function is provided, through which communication is carried out between the sensor and the receiver (smartphone, tablet).
Thanks to the software application, the echo sounder notifies the fisherman about the presence of fish in a specific place (each size of fish has its own sound signal), determines the depth with an accuracy of tenths of a meter.
- Bite activator. This pheromone additive attracts fish most strongly in cold and warm water. Discussion of the bite activator “Hungry Fish”.
- Increased gear sensitivity. Read the appropriate manuals for your specific type of gear.
- Pheromone-based lures.
The main distinguishing feature of this model, which is also its advantage, is the operation of the device via a Wi-Fi network. It is enough to have a phone or tablet computer with you, to which the signals received by the sensor will be transmitted.
With such a device you don’t have to think about an additional set of batteries or accumulators. At the same time, the phone screen is a much better and clearer display than some echo sounder models. The average price tag for this product does not exceed 7,700 rubles. Source: "prostokaras.com; poklevok.net"
Rating of the best echo sounder models for winter fishing in 2021
The main requirement for echo sounders for ice fishing is resistance to low temperatures. Many sonar models are capable of operating in severe frost.
Marcum Showdown Troller 2.0
The cold-resistant winter fish finder supports sensitivity adjustment. The scanning angle of the device is 20 degrees, which is optimal for the hole. The device has noise reduction function and backlight for night fishing. The sonar can be fixed at the selected depth.
The average price of a Marcum echo sounder starts from 21,000 rubles
Practitioner 6M
The frost-resistant echo sounder can withstand temperatures down to -20 °C and displays the movement of fish, the depth of the reservoir, the topography and density of the bottom. There is an adjustment of the transmitter power and setting filters for the image on the display.
You can choose a winter sonar Praktik 6M from 8,000 rubles
Craft Echo 200 Ice
The winter echo sounder with a depth of 24 m has a long sensor cable and notifies you of the appearance of fish with a sound signal. Highly sensitive, suitable for both fresh and salt water.
The average price of a Craft Echo sonar starts from 7,500 rubles
Methods for attaching a sonar to a boat
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Rating of the best wireless echo sounders for shore fishing
Choosing a wireless echo sounder is convenient if you want to receive information from a submersible sensor from land and remotely adjust the operating mode of the device. Although the sensor will still be connected to the receiver by a mount, it will no longer have to be removed from the water for adjustments when fishing.
Vexilar Sonar Phone SP100
An inexpensive echo sounder for a depth of 90 m can be mounted on a float and controlled via a tablet or smartphone. The sonar is waterproof, has good power and displays bottom contours in detail.
Advice! It is better to use the device to search for large fish, since it may not detect small ones.
The average cost of Vexilar is 8,000 rubles
FishHunter Directional 3D
A powerful five-beam wireless sonar provides very high-quality detail to a depth of 50 m. The angle is up to 80 degrees, the device is capable of creating a 3D map of the bottom relief. The echo sounder connects via Wi-Fi to a smartphone and supports power and sensitivity adjustment.
You can purchase FishHunter 3D from 23,000 rubles
GSMIN WA3
A wireless sonar with a viewing angle of 105 degrees supports remote control from a distance of 50 m. It scans the water column efficiently and is suitable for fishing both from the shore and from a boat. It works without interruption for up to 5 hours, and can be controlled via an application on a smartphone.
You can buy a GSMIN echo sounder for an average of 7,000 rubles
Top 3 best echo sounders in terms of price and quality
You can choose a good sonar for productive fishing among models with an optimal balance between price and capabilities. They remain very affordable but guarantee quality water scanning.
Lowrance FishHunter Pro
One of the best fishing echo sounders in terms of price and quality with a three-frequency sensor can be chosen for fishing from a boat, in shallow water and in a hole. Supports control from a smartphone via Wi-Fi from a distance of 60 m. Scans an area up to 50 m in depth.
You can buy Lowrance FishHunter for an average of 14,000 rubles
Rivotek Fisher 10
A budget echo sounder with a viewing angle of 20 degrees and a depth of 70 m is equipped with a remote transducer on a 7.2 m cable. It is reliably protected from moisture, can work in the cold, and accurately determines moving objects and their location.
You can buy Rivotek Fisher 10 from 5,000 rubles
Garmin Striker 4
The popular boat-mountable dual-beam sonar supports not only fish detection, but also vessel navigation. It builds a detailed map of the bottom of the reservoir, allows you to mark the route and place points along the way.
You can buy a Garmin Striker for an average of 15,000 rubles
Rating of the best side-scan echo sounders
Sonars with a large number of beams are considered the most convenient to use. They examine the water column not only in the direction of travel and directly under the boat, but also in a wide radius from it.
Humminbird Onix 10CXI Si Combo
An echo sounder is a complete vessel navigation system. Equipped with a wide screen with the ability to display four separate images at once, it scans water with four beams up to 3 km in depth. It makes sense to buy a device for sea fishing from a fast boat.
The price of Humminbird Onix starts from 155,000 rubles
Lowrance Elite-5 Ti
Multifunctional side-scanning echo sounder suitable for exploring fresh and marine waters. Supports mapping, operates on five frequencies using two beams, and can be mounted on a boat's dashboard.
You can choose Lowrance Elite for deep fishing from 63,000 rubles
Samyung Enc NF 700
A powerful two-beam echo sounder operates at a depth of up to 1.5 km and is suitable for sea fishing. Equipped with a wide display that can be divided into several parts, it scans the bottom surface efficiently and looks for accumulations of fish. It is convenient to choose a device for the boat.
The average price of a Samyung sonar is 56,000 rubles
Availability of GPS
Does the echo sounder have its own GPS or the ability to install it?
A budget echo sounder will probably not have its own GPS module or even the ability to connect it. This is a feature of more expensive models. You can save a lot of money on it if the water area is well known to you and you do not plan to sail many kilometers along an unknown river or go out to the open sea. The peculiarity of GPS modules on echo sounders is not only the ability to determine the location on the map, but also to set points and remember the route. Top models are capable of recording up to several thousand points and plotting a route with a range of up to 500 kilometers.
The presence of GPS significantly increases the price of the product. If you have not yet decided which fish finder to choose, and do not know whether you will have to explore new rivers, it is better to buy a model with optional GPS connectivity. Such a device will cost less, and at any time you can simply buy an additional module and attach it to your echo sounder.
Recommendations
To choose an echo sounder that is comfortable to use, you need to consider several points:
- The real need for the device. As a first step, it is better to buy an inexpensive echo sounder, which will allow you to understand whether the device is needed for fishing in principle.
- Scope of application. When purchasing, you need to consider whether fishing will be done from the shore or a vessel; stationary models are more expensive, but it is more convenient to use them in a boat.
- Frequency of fishing trips. It is better to choose a budget device if you only need to use it a couple of times a year.
Advice! Additional options increase the cost of echo sounders, but in practice they are not always useful. They need to be carefully studied and evaluated before finally choosing a device.
