What Fishfinder Should I Buy?

Any angler who has even an inkling of fishing knowledge knows that we need a capability fish finder while we're on the water. Trying to make an informed decision on the type of unit you need is other matter altogether. There are chartplotters, combo units, portables and on and on. So let's start from ground zero and get educated about the technology before you go out and buy.

The Basics

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Fishfinders control by an old technology called Sonar. Naturally put, the fishfinder produces a sound wave in the shape of a cone - also called a beam and when a structure or fish enters this cone, the object is "painted' or drawn on your screen. Actually, it measures the time the sound wave was sent, calculates the variation and displays it on your screen.

There are any features to think when purchasing a fishfinder and you should have at least a working knowledge of them so you buy the unit for your definite needs. Know you're equipment and the type of fishing you do.......you don't need a high end chartplotter if you're fishing small lakes.

Lcd Display

This seems like the most logical place to start because the display you choose can keep the cost down considerably. Lcd screens are measured in pixels - so the more pixels the clearer your display. This can be an leading decision for some anglers, so pay close attention to the distinct models and their definite features. Also a color display, you can get gray scale Lcd's that make it even easier to read your display and resolve what are structures and what are actual fish.

The Transducer and Cone Angles

The Transducer is attached to your fishfinder with a small cable. It turns the electrical signal from the transmitter on your fishfinder, turns it into sonar or a sound wave and beams it out in the shape of a cone. The cone angle is Naturally the wideness of coverage in the water. The wider the cone angle - the greater the coverage. Fishfinder cone angles vary from model to model so be sure to have a good look at all the features on the model you are considering.

Transducers are usually mounted in the water on the trolling motor and away from engines and obstructions. pick a transducer that suits your unique situation - specifically when it comes to installations. Some models have higher frequencies that contribute superior resolution, distinct cone angles and so on. One thing to pay close attention to is that your frequency is the same as your sonar measured in Khz.

Types of Installations

The way your unit is installed in your boat is something you'll want to pay close attention to as well. Transom Mount transducers usually connected with stern-drive and outboard powered boats. Other types are mounted through the hull and as rule needs to be a high frequency model still others are mounted on your electric trolling motor.

Sonar modernize Speed

Basically, the faster your sonar updates, the better and clearer your image and you get a more detailed report on your screen. Also be aware that the deeper your penetration the slower your modernize speed and the shallower you get a faster speed. Some models modernize the sonar at 40 times per second in about 50 feet of water.

Thermoclines

We should also mention about thermoclines because some models have this feature as well. Some fishfinders show where warmer waters caress cooler waters and as you know some fish prefer colder water as some warmer. So identifying thermoclines are an leading feature if you are finding for a definite species of fish and how they move while the day.

Conclusion

A fishfinder is an vital tool and can be an costly investment to our fishing experience. So do your explore and choose the right fishfinder for your own fishing style. Remember to put water security first and most of all have fun.

What Fishfinder Should I Buy?

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