Fish finders offer a whole new perspective on how it is to catch some really nice targets. Aside from saving time, the opportunity to get a nice view on what's available below can help you plan out some nice strategies to lure and catch fish. The options above offer some nice devices to use in certain situations - learn and experiment on how to use these tools to get those fish biting!
- Images may blur when not properly mounted
- No SD port to install new maps
- May be hard to set up
- Small screen
- Big screen
- Easy to install
- Plenty of technical data
- Popular choice from the brand
- Syncs with boat speed
- Great reading considering ice factors
- Excellent waypoint system to set up fishing route
- Tough construction
- Sunlight readability display
- Good sonar usage
- Simple yet efficient usage
- Nice portable setup
- Transducer is designed to attract fish
- Images may blur when not properly mounted
- Big screen
- Easy to install
- Plenty of technical data
- Popular choice from the brand
- No SD port to install new maps
- Syncs with boat speed
- Great reading considering ice factors
- Excellent waypoint system to set up fishing route
- Tough construction
- May be hard to set up
- Sunlight readability display
- Good sonar usage
- Simple yet efficient usage
- Small screen
- Nice portable setup
- Transducer is designed to attract fish
Best Fish Finder GPS Side Scan Under 500: Humminbird Fish Finder Helix 5 Review
Bottomline, this fish finder is worth your money - maybe even more! The nice interface goes well with the built-in information that comes with it, allowing you to get a nice perspective on how to approach your fishing strategy. The alarm system also helps you keep your bearings while in the water, giving you the heads-up in case you need to change your approach. Just make sure to secure this device properly to actually see the information you need!
Humminbird Helix 5 G2 Fish Finder Specs
- Screen size: 5"
- Map type: nautical
- Mount orientation: front
Humminbird Helix 5 G2 Fish Finder Details
Let's find out what makes this fish finder a practical, yet efficient, fishing option:
Humminbird Fish Finder Helix 5: How to Use
Although considered to be a basic model, one of the Humminbird Helix 5's best features is just how easy it is to use. This mainly revolves around its redesigned display, which shows all available options to use it in a user-friendly approach. In fact, the most important details (upon bootup) are readily seen on the screen. Temperature, depth, voltage, time, and speed are some of the most important values seen on the screen, in large and visible font.
What makes this fish finder a great catch would be its side imaging and down imaging features. Compatibility is excellent as well when loading mapping cards and self-mapping programs. Of course, getting used to the actual flow or process of the fish finder may take some time - which is why it's nice that there are nice tutorials and a great collection of Humminbird fish finder Helix 5 manual and guides on the official site!
Construction and Durability
The Helix 5 Chirp is made out of sturdy material, which does make sense considering you're bound to use it in wet situations! The screen is a wonder - no matter the light condition, you can be sure of getting a clear view on important information on it.
Additionally, installing this fish finder is a breeze. A gimbal mount comes with the Humminbird Fish Finder Helix 5, making it easy to install on a boat.
Practical Fishing Usage
This fish finder saves you time on getting to the perfect spot to catch fish. With some nice extra features (such as alarm systems, such as a depth and battery alarm), you'll be able to properly plan out and find where to cast your rod. If anything, it'll take some time getting used to the interface when using this choice.
Why the Humminbird Helix 5 is Recommended
Check out these reasons to get this fishing essential:
Great Display
Even beginners can learn pretty quickly on how to use this fish finder. It may seem intimidating at first, but the easy readouts and user interface allow for a quick learning curve.
Good Built-In Basemap
Even if you don't have a specific mapping card, the basemap that comes installed in this device does cover a wide variety of lakes and coastal regions in the USA!
What is the Best Humminbird Fish Finder?
We're actually considering this as a benefit - the Helix 5 Chirp is actually one of the most popular variants of this brand, given its reliability and ease of use!
Humminbird Helix 5 Problem
On the other hand, here is a possible issue you may need to deal with:
Consider Replacing Mount
Although it comes with a mount, certain fishing situations may call for a better replacement. The plastic mount may not be sturdy in turbulent water conditions - having to deal with the vibration may result in blurred images, which does defeat the purpose of having a fish finder in the first place!
Best Ice Fishing Fish Finder for the Money: Garmin Striker 4
This is one amazing fish finder, especially when it comes to tackling special conditions, such as ice fishing. Tough and easy to use, this can be a treat even among novice anglers. However, the lack of an SD card port and some technical issues may be a frustration to deal with in the open waters!
Garmin Striker 4 Fish Finder Specs
- Screen size: 4.3"
- Map type: nautical (incorporates CHIRP tech)
- Mount orientation: multiple
Garmin Striker 4 Fish Finder Details
Looking for the best ice fishing depth finder? Let us find out why the Garmin Striker 4 is a great contender:
How to Fish with Garmin Striker 4 Fish Finder
Dubbed as one of the best fish finders in the market, the Garmin Striker 4 comes packed with nice features that are also easy to use. Here are the basics you need to know to make the most out of this fish finder:
Garmin Striker 4 Features
Here are some of the key features of this fish finder:
- Sync with Boat Speed - the Garmin 4 Striker keeps tabs on your boat's speed, to get an accurate reading on trolling for fish.
- Waypoint Map - plan your route efficiently by setting waypoints. This way, you'll be able to accurately find out the best spots to cast and troll!
- CHIRP Transducer - sharp and clear images to find fish. The multiple output of frequency output by this tech gives you a clear view on fish - excellent for ice fishing, considering you can get a clear interpretation on what's going on below.
Garmin Striker: 4 How to Read
Here are the essentials you need to know to interpret the details found on this fish finder's screen:
- Know the Water Column - at the right part of the screen would be the water display. This should show the depth of what is currently found on the screen. For reference, the zero reading would be the starting point, which should be the boat.
- Know Where the Floor's At - the solid line signifies the current depth's floor. Alternatively, the left portion of the screen shows what was below the boat a few minutes before. This should keep you bearings, especially when you need to consider ice.
- Determine the Best Approach - the Garmin Striker 4 also gauges the best returns to take. Yellow should mean a high return, while blue and red are the weak ones. Fish, of course, would be a high return.
Garmin Striker 4: How to Set Up
Customization is also excellent in this fish finder. The backlight feature allows you to get the proper visibility - you can choose from low, medium, and high levels. Setting up parameters is mainly done with the echo button. Additionally, adjusting the transducer's frequency output can also be done, which should help in getting accurate readings even in icy conditions. Luckily enough, a Garmin Striker 4 Manual can be found on the official site, to help you set this fish finder properly.
Construction and Durability
The Garmin Striker 4 has a rugged appeal that both beginners and pro anglers would enjoy. The tough shell of this device works well even in cold temperatures, a nice thought to consider during ice fishing. Additionally, this device's battery is excellent - the 12v battery can actually last up to three days!
Garmin Striker 4 Assembly
Setting this fish finder is easy as it gets, given as well that it comes with a user-friendly manual to guide you all the way. The basics do fall on the following factors:
- Mount - make this part even simpler by having a Phillips screwdriver handy before setting it up.
- Transducer - two available options are offered in setting this essential part. Either have it installed on the side of your boat or have it configured on a float.
- Cable Connections - the Garmin Striker 4 also comes with a nice guide on how to properly hook and store the cables that come with it.
Garmin Striker 4 Accessories
Some of the accessories that come with this fish finder are:
- Transducer
- Float (foam type)
- AC battery charger
- Mounts
- Manual
- Portable kit/bag
Practical Fishing Usage
Perhaps what makes this fish finder a nice ice fishing choice is its reputation. Garmin has always been a reliable fishing brand, able to manufacture some of the best tools in the market. The Garmin Striker 4 is a fine example of an excellent tool, with its usability, toughness, and portability.
Why the Garmin Striker 4 GPS Fish Finder is Recommended
Check out the reasons to get this fish finder:
Nice Screen
Even though it's small, this fish finder's screen doesn't lose out when it comes to visibility and brightness.
Good Waypoint Setup
The Garmin Striker 4 can store up to 5,000 waypoints - more than enough for you to try out different approaches on how to tackle ice fishing.
Waterproof
Aside from the rugged construction, this device is certified IPX7 waterproof - a nice assurance that it'll work in wet conditions!
Garmin Striker 4 Problems
Although it's an amazing choice, this fish finder has its fair share of issues that you may need to know:
Garmin Striker 4 Depth Not Working
Whether it's the depth reading, transducer frequency output, or even the Garmin Striker 4 GPS not working, all these issues may boil down to insufficient power. Please make sure and check if the cables are secured and that the battery is charged.
No SD Card Port
Although packed with a nice interface and system, the Garmin Striker 4 does suffer from having no SD port. This is a missed opportunity to include new maps!
Garmin Striker 4 Not Turning On
Aside from checking the battery, you'd need to make sure that the device is getting the right voltage (recommended value is 12 Vdc).
Best Fish Finder for Pontoon: Phiradar Fish Finder
In essence, this fish finder's simplicity is its biggest trait. No need to mess with complicated programming or controls, you get what you need with this choice. On the other hand, it's simplicity can also be its downfall - it may just be too basic for some! Still, this fish finder gets the job done!
Phiradar Dual Sonar Fish Finder Specs
- Screen size: 3.5"
- Map type: sonar view
- Mount orientation: multiple
Reviewing the Different Phiradar Dual Sonar Fish Finder Details
Fishing on a pontoon offers excellent benefits - from being able to cast on different ends to actually having a relaxing time casting, everyone should at least try this type of fishing! Making the most of this activity does involve using a fish finder - let us see who the Phiradar Dual Sonar fares in this department!
How to Fish with Phiradar Fish Finder
Simple does it best with this fish finder. Offering a simple yet efficient interface, it's quite possible for even beginner anglers to learn the basics of using this tool.
Phiradar Fish Finder Instructions
Although it does come with a manual, the instructions seem to be not that easy to understand. It'll take some bit of trial and error to get the hang of this fish finder - still, once you do understand how to use it, it can be a versatile pontoon fishing tool!
Phiradar Fish Finder Manufacturer
A partial reason why using this fish finder may come as a challenge for some is that it's manufactured in China. Helmed by the Shenzhen Phiradar Technology Co., Ltd., limited information does seem to be available online. Although there are some online reviews and guides on this fish finder, it all boils down on actually seeking help from an experienced angler or a pro shop to learn the essentials of this tool!
Construction and Durability
Compact yet tough, this fish finder works exceptionally well in almost any location. When used in a pontoon, it's quite versatile considering it doesn't take up so much space at all. Additionally, its sunlight readable display means information is visible, even in really bright conditions.
Practical Fishing Usage
Built specifically for boats such as a pontoon, it's as easy as it gets when using this fish finder. However, it's basic build and actual usage may be inferior to other fish finders in the market - you wouldn't get any waypoint or mapping features with this choice! Still, the sonar functions are a thrill to use. This should serve really well in lakes, where pontoons thrive in fishing!
Why the Phiradar Fish Finder is Recommended
Here are some interesting reasons on why you ought to get this option:
Impressive Sonar Feature
It's simple but efficient - the dual sonar feature will help you spot fish quite easily on a pontoon!
Nice Visibility
It's a small but really nice benefit - the sunlight readable display assures you of getting a nice view of essential information in almost any fishing situation.
Best Fish Finder App?
Though it may have its faults, its direct-to-the-point and basic application does make the Phirader fish finder a strong contender as a versatile option!
Phiradar Fish Finder Problems
Here are some potential problems you may face when going for this fishing tool:
Limited Information
Not much information isn't available on this fish finder. Not to mention, the manual may be confusing for some anglers to use!
Might Be Too Basic
Fair enough, the ability to spot fish can be great with this tool. But with no waypoint option, this fish finder may just be limited to certain lakes or pontoon usage only.
Best Midrange Kayak Fish Finder: Lucky Fish Finder
When it comes to fishing in kayaks, you'd need a fish finder that'll be able to troll properly, considering the circumstances and speed of the boat. This particular fish finder does a great job, considering its versatile and portable nature. And with being able to cast and spot potential catches, using this choice can be fun and efficient. Just make sure to properly secure the receiver to avoid any potential damage!
Lucky Fish Finder Specs
- Screen size: 2.9"
- Map type: varies
- Mount orientation: portable
Reviewing the Different Lucky Fish Finder Details
Let's learn more of why this option offers an innovative and versatile take on midrange kayak fishing below:
How to Use a Lucky Fish Finder
Operating this fish finder is quite different from conventional ones, mainly because of its portable aspect. Here are some important details to take note of for you to quickly learn how to make the most out of this choice:
Lucky Fish Finder Review
Get a quick guide on how to use (and what makes this a good choice) this fish finder - several reviews are available online, but this one's a treat to watch.
Lucky Fish Finder Manual
Luckily (pun intended!) enough, the official Lucky site offers a great resource on Lucky wireless fish finder operation guide downloads. You can check them out here.
How to Read a Lucky Fish Finder
A common mistake that most experience using this fish finder is misinterpreting the data displayed. For starters, always remember that the default setting is using metric values. If you're not used to this, simply shift it to imperial units to get a more accurate reading!
Construction and Durability
Considering the portable feature (aside from being conventionally mounted, it can actually be worn around your neck if you chose so!), the Lucky fish finder is made to withstand all sorts of elements out in the water. However, please take note of this important feature - only the transmitter part of this fish finder is waterproof. The receiver should always be kept in a waterproof bag, especially if you plan to wear or carry it with you.
Lucky Fish Finder Parts
Here are the Lucky fish finder accessories that come packed with this choice:
- Fish finder unit
- Lucky wireless fish finder manual
- Sonar sensor transducer (wired)
- Mounting bracket
- AC adapter (USB type)
- Micro auto charger
- USB cable
- Neck strap
Practical Fishing Usage
Practically speaking, this fish finder's best feature isn't just its portable aspect. It's simple and easy to use, with it being used immediately out of the box. Even beginners wouldn't struggle using this fish finder, making it a good gateway on knowing the benefits of using these devices when fishing.
Why the Lucky Fish Finder is Recommended
Here are some of the best reasons to get this fish finder:
Cast and Plan
A nice aspect not normally found in other fish finder's is this option's separate transducer and receiver parts. Since the transmitter can be cast on spots you want to scan for fish, you can safely avoid scaring away potential catch with this setup!s
Attracts Fish
Another nice feature that this type's transducer has is its color variation. Meant to attract fish, you're bound to spot and attract them both at the same time!
1 Year Warranty
The manufacturer also offers a 12 month warranty for this product - some nice peace of mind when fishing with this option!
Lucky Fish Finder Helix 5 Problems
Here are some potential issues you may face when using this choice:
Small Screen
Having the smallest display in this fish finders review, you may find yourself hoping for some way to get a better view on fish with this choice!
Lucky Fish Finder No Signal
Although rarely, the cast distance between the transmitter and receiver may cause some signal disruption, which may result in inaccurate readings (or worse, no signal at all).
Read More
Here are some nice resources when it comes to fish finders:
- Here’s a nice Reddit thread to help you decide if you should invest in a fish finder.
- The Hull Truth has an excellent forum in learning more about these fishing devices.
- You might be making these mistakes - Salt Strong has a nice video on some common issues anglers commit to when using fish finders!
- For the best Helix fish finder, check this article.
- If you fish for crappie, check our rod holder recommendations.
- If you fish for trout, we have line, rod and reel, and lure recommendations.
- If you are looking for baitcasters, check these reviews.