Best Fish Finder Reviews in the Market 2020

Hi there, welcome to the most comprehensive guide for the best fish finder of 2020. There are numerous kinds of fish finder reviews available online. There are lots of models available with several features offered by so many brands. For this reason, it is easy to get confused. Especially when you want to pick the best finding locator gadget for yourself. Also, choosing the right equipment for your needs can be a tedious task. I know this because I have been through this task a while ago. I have reviewed each fishing product thoroughly. Therefore I can show you the top fish detecting devices (2020) for your ultimate fishing adventure.

When I was going through the similar phase, I researched almost all the top fish and depth finder reviews for the money. Then I came to know that there are some fishing sonar devices on the market, that are just awesome and work like a charm. There are several popular names of these gizmos. Like marine depth finder, 3D fish detector, fishing radar/sounder, etc. These products come with all kinds or features and price ranges. Only the ultimate devices are shortlisted to be featured on this page.

Here I have showcased only the top and the best fish finder reviews of 2020 for the money. All the products mentioned here are the latest 2019 editions. All are great and all have got a good set of features. I personally inspected and analyzed each and every element of these fishing sonar devices. The most noteworthy thing is, you can utilize my experience and pick the perfect product.

Just pick anyone from below and be ensured that you’re getting the top-rated fish finder equipment of 2019 for yourself.

How Does a Fish Finder Works?

The Fish/Depth detector works on sound wave technology which is known as sonar technology. The fish/depth finding marine devices have a transducer which sends the sound waves (sonar) and then listens to the sound waves that return back. This way it can get an idea of the structures below the surface. It’s similar to what bats use to see in pitch dark. The sonar wave is simply a sound wave at a particular frequency that can travel inside water (river, shallow water, sea, saltwater, etc.). These products can show what is happening underneath the water. They are pretty much accurate and fast, depending on the capabilities of the product.

How To Choose the Best Fish Finder?

First of all, when you decided to purchase this equipment, then you want to look at some genuine and best guide which could help to choose the right device. The moment you have made the decision to get a fish finder, you own the game 99%. You will able to locate fish with ease. No longer waiting time! If you want a compact device then I have a separate page for best portable fish finder for kayak, have a look. Otherwise, see the products reviewed below.

Now, you need to consider a few factors while choosing the product. For example, how much frequency does it operate? What is the screen size and type? Is it waterproof? Etc. Below you will find all these kinds of factors with their answers (of course).

Benefits of a Fish Detector Device

The advantages of these products are much more than just catching fish. First of all, you will not have to wait for fish to come to you. You can see the underwater structure including vegetation, rocks, fish, seabed, etc. These devices show more critical information like the speed of your boat, water depth, temperature and lot more. Some of these also come with a built-in navigation system. Therefore you will never lose the path and always know the best fishing spots.

• Provides Better Control on Fishing
• It Saves Lot of Time
• Shows Underwater Structure
• Helps To Locate Fishes
• Gives More Details of Atmosphere
• Provides Navigational System (optional)
• Maps Detailed Information
• Shows Water Temperature, Depth, Speed, etc.

Best Fish Finder Comparison Table

Image	Fish Finder	Sonar Type	Screen	Maximum Depth	Price
	Garmin Striker 4	Dual-Channel Beam	3.5 inch	800 – 1600 feet	Check
	Raymarine Dragonfly 7 Pro	Dual Beam	7 inch	600 – 900 feet	Check
	Lowrance Hook 5	Dual-Channel Beam	5 inch	1000 feet	Check
	Humminbird PiranhaMax 197C	Dual Beam	3.5 inch	600 feet	Check
	Humminbird HELIX 5 SI	Dual Beam	5 inch	1500 feet	Check
	Deeper PRO	Dual Beam	N/A	130 feet	Check
	Garmin 7sv	Dual Beam	3.6” x 6” – 7”	2300 feet	Check
	Simrad GO7 XSE	Dual-Channel (Side Imaging)	7 inch	1000 Feet	Check
	Lowrance Hook 3X	Dual Beam	3 inch	800 feet	Check

Best Fish Finder Reviews – Top Picks

Now let’s dive into each product and take a much better view of their features. These are all products shortlisted from lots of fish discovery devices. You can say that these are simply the best 2019 edition fish finders. These are all available for sale so if you like anyone you can go and get it easily. I have covered the critical aspects below which I think are pretty essential. If you are new to these technical terms, then you can take a look at the bottom side of this page. Down below I have explained all the technical features and their working. So also go through them for more understanding. The list below can be considered as fish finder reviews 2019.

1. Garmin Striker 4 Review

This is the top-rated choice among the customers who are looking for the best portable fish finder in 2019. Additionally, it’s a no-compromise product and features all the latest technologies with a comparatively lower price tag.

It features a built-in GPS navigation system but there are no maps. You need to install a memory card to download maps. There are 5000 spots that can be saved on maps. The performance is excellent, especially when compared to the price of the product. It is quite easy to install and handle. The transducer has DownVu with CHIRP sonar beam that outputs most realistic and photo-like images. Supports a multi-window for more data to be always present on the display. This best fishfinder GPS combo is very convenient to operate even with one hand. Completely waterproof, so handle it without any extra care. There are numerous features like water temperature, zooming in-out, in-built classic flasher, fish ID, etc. just think of any feature and the chances are it will be present on this device. Overall, I feel it’s a brilliant product for fishing adventures in any situation (Shoreline, Ice, Boat Fishing).

It did not disappoint me anyway. It is a solid well-constructed fishing radar and works like a charm. By reviewing this fish finder I can say it is surely the best product!

Garmin Striker 4 Specs:

Price Tagged: best fish finder under 200 

2. Raymarine Dragonfly 7 Pro Review

The surprisingly mind-blowing product from Raymarine. This device has it all and I mean it. The display is just marvelous, the 7-inch glory of full color at 800 x 640 pixels. Henceforth, everything looks super crisp and sharp with vibrant colors. At the same time, it has an optically bonded display which will work in any weather conditions. For this reason, I have given my 5 stars in the display department.

Above all, it also comes equipped with a built-in precision GPS. This can be used to save 3000 points that interest you so that when you come next time for fishing you know the best spots without delay. You can also register the whole track into it. Although it can save a maximum of 150 of those. Prior to that, it has CHIRP radar with down imaging which delivers real photo-like rendering of underwater structures. This best fish finder can analyze 600 feet depth of water body depending on the water conditions. It also comes with Navionics plus chart plotting right out of the box. In addition, it features a memory card slot for further expansion. Moreover, it also has built-in Wi-Fi connectivity. Hence you can connect your phone/tablet and get the data readings.

Moreover, this device is completely waterproof and passes the IPX6 and IPX7 standards. Overall this product has all the latest fish-finding technology and features. Great product to consider!

Raymarine Dragonfly 7 Pro Specs

Price Tagged: best fish finder under 500

3. Lowrance Hook 5 Review

Mid budget range fish locator from Lowrance. This device shows all the reading on its 5-inch square display. The LED backlit screen is colored with 256 shades at 480 x 480 pixels. It has a CHIRP transducer that operates on 455 kHz and 8oo kHz dual beam. It is able to cover 1000 feet depth of water. It produces an underwater scenario with a clear image-like structure on the output screen.

It has a built-in GPS with 3000 lake maps of the USA (at 1000′ contour details). Furthermore, it also has a memory card slot for map up-gradation in the future. There are lots of details that can be seen like water temperature, depth, current speed and direction and much more. It supports multi-window feature, therefore you will never have to switch between screens to get the information. You can see the sonar + other information in predefined layouts. If you want a custom layout then you can also customize it (according to your preference). TrackBack technology from Lowrance makes a record of ongoing scanning data, so you can rewind and see the fishing information in history.

Hence, I can say it’s a top-rated fish finder in the market. I will end up the fish finder reviews 2019 by telling you that it is a fantastic product that you can have without breaking the bank. It will never let you down.

Lowrance Hook 5 Specs:

Price Tagged: best fish finder under 1000

4. Humminbird PiranhaMax 197C Review

This is a successor and upgraded variant from its predecessor. Features a 256 shade color display of 3.5 inches. The resolution is 320 x 240 pixels which will deliver pixel-perfect details. The LED backlighting screen provides incredible visibility even in direct bright sun and also in the night. It’s able to inspect 600 ft. below the water with its dual-frequency transducer. The operating frequency is 200 kHz to 455 kHz for maximum underwater scanning clarity. Power output is 300W RMS and goes up to 2400W Peak to Peak. It’s a quite compact and convenient product from Humminbird. The beam sends sonar waves at a 28-degree angle for superior coverage. Multiple zoom settings are available in this depth finder for the boat.

Features fish ID to mark fish with a specific number, this makes fish tracking a breeze. Also incorporates fish, depth, temperature, alarms to make an audible sound to get you informed. Overall this product has all the basic fish location features within an affordable price range.

Humminbird PiranhaMax 197C Spec

Price Tagged: best fish finder under 400

5. Humminbird HELIX 5 SI Review

This is 500W RMS and 4000W Peak to Peak device from Humminbird. It features a Frequency range of 83 kHz, 200 kHz, and 455 kHz. It’s able to detect 1500 feet below the fresh water in 2D. It also has side imaging technology which will search up to 100 feet depth. The display is 5-inch with 256 shades of colors and 800 x 480 for superior clarity (HD quality). It’s LED backlight screen means better visibility in direct sunlight and in the night.

This unit has an in-built GPS system with LakeMaster maps. It has memory card expansion support for map upgrades. It is the best fish finder radar for the money in the market. You can save 2500 waypoints spots that you find interesting. And it can record up to 45 pathways. On the other hand, Humminbird also has another costlier version which has a 7-inch screen, other specifications are the same.

It has a new mounting mechanism which is better than its previous version. The interface is user-friendly and easy to operate especially for beginners. That is to say, I would recommend to choose this 5-inch version and save some bucks as both devices are almost the same. Overall this is an excellent product for your fishing adventures!

Humminbird HELIX 5 SI Spec

6. Deeper Smart Sonar PRO+ Review

The top-selling and most admired fish finding product of 2019. This product will work with your mobile or tablet to show the underwater analysis readings. You can pair any IOS or Android mobile/tablet to this via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Yes, this is a Bluetooth and Wi-Fi enabled product. Isn’t it fantastic?

This is a brilliant product from Deeper for every angler and fisherman. Those who want to go Ice-fishing or fishing from shore will be loving it. Just cast the device under the water and it will provide all the info underneath the water. It is able to scan 130 ft. depths via its side imaging scanning. The output produced is well understandable structures. It works on a rechargeable battery which is built into the device. No more jiggling through the power cable to turn on the fish finder. This product has just 3.5-ounce weight which means it will be super handy. It’s a compact product with an awesome feature set. It comes with a free app that is incredible. The app can utilize the navigation of your mobile phone (or tablet) and integrates it with this best fish finder.

I highly recommend this deeper fish finder product. There is nothing which comes close to this device within a similar price range. Excellent Fishing Product!

Deeper Smart PRO Spec

Price Tagged: best fish finder under 300

7. Garmin 7sv Review

This one is without any doubt the best depth finder for the money in 2019. An excellent product from Garmin. It features Garmin CHIRP ClearVü™ and Garmin CHIRP SideVü™ technology from its manufacturer which is able to scan water at 2300 feet depths. After all the transducer it has a power of 500W RMS. The transducer works at the wide spectrum of frequencies (from 50 kHz to all the way 200 kHz).

The screen is horizontally fixed on the device which I think is a neat idea as it saves space. This size of the screen is 3.6” x 6” (9.1 x 15.2 cm); 7” diag (12.7 cm) with 800 x 480 pixel (full color). It shows the current water temperature as well as depth and other significant info. It has a fish detection alarm for reminding you of the opportunity. Not only that, it is completely waterproof so that you can focus on fishing rather than taking care of it. Mounting this device is a piece of cake, it can be mounted anywhere on your boat (transform or trolling motor). The images produced are quite photo-like thanks to its dual beam transducer. The output is detailed with the full structure shown below the water. Just supply 12-volt power to run this gear in any location and under any condition.

It comes with mounting brackets (Swivel & Tilt), 20-feet power cable and user manual + some documentation. This product offers the same features at a lesser price than Lowrance and Humminbird. Isn’t it is nice?

Garmin echoMap 7sv Spec

8. Simrad GO7 XSE Review

The most feature-packed, I must say this is the best fish finder product that I have ever seen. Since it’s a total scan product which has down imaging as well as side imaging sonar that can scan water up to 1000 feet depth by all means. The CHIRP sonar with structure scan gives real life-like images on the display.

The 7-inch screen is vivid with full color at 800 x 480 pixels. To my surprise, it’s a touchscreen. At the same time the unit is completely waterproof, so no worries while using it with wet hands. It can handle splashes of water easily. This product comes with its own battery with a capacity of 4000 mAh. Altogether the Li-Po rechargeable battery of six cells is packed in one. The chart-plotter has a built-in detailed USA map and basic world map also. To enumerate, it has more than 3000 lake maps with depth contours and shoreline details. Not only the chart-plotter but it can also be upgraded to Navionics plus and more.

Furthermore, it has great wireless capability (both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth). This means you can connect to your phone or other devices if you want. It has in-built precision GPS technology with an internal antenna. The Simrad GO7 XSE is a marvelous product!

Simrad GO7 XSE Spec

9. Lowrance Hook 3X Review

Lowrance released this device for the anglers who are looking for an affordably priced fish finder with a good set of features. This device has a 3-inch color display with 320 x 240 pixel resolution. Nevertheless, the screen is quite okay for reading underwater data. It is visible in bright daylight and also in the night due to LED backlighting.

Since the transducer has dual channel beam frequency at 83 and 200 kHz it is able to inspect 800 feet depths below the boat. The transducer has working power output at 180W RMS. The result is shown on the screen in the detailed activity of underwater situation. This product has fish ID which assigns an ID number to each fish and tracks their location. Surprisingly, instead of showing a curved shape of fish it shows fish as an icon that I personally like. The Lowrance Hook 3x is compact and can be taken anywhere easily. The weight of the unit is just 2 pounds that makes it pretty convenient.

Above all, it is simple and easy to operate the device, you will understand its control at the very first time. It’s definitely a good product in a low price range with all the features that you need.

Lowrance Hook 3X Spec

FAQ

What is a Fish Finder?

Whenever they hit something harder than water, they are reflected and received from a station again on sonar. Based on the time it takes for the individual waves the distance can be determined very accurately. In this way, anglers know how deep the water among them is. In addition, however, other irregularities are determined. The fish finder uses the technology of sonar. This was originally invented during World War II to find enemy submarines. The device sends for ultrasonic waves, which move at more than one kilometer per second through the water.

The fish finder prepares the information on a graph, which is usually displayed on the integrated display. However, it is not obvious where exactly the fish are, but only approximate values concerning the established irregularities are provided. Larger accumulations of dense objects on the seabed may, for example, be an indication of a shoal of fish.

What is a Portable Fish Finder?

Portable fish finders are electronic devices that provide assistance in catching fish. It is not necessary anymore to spend hours on end trying your luck in waters that may be empty of any fish. With this unique and useful device, you can save a lot of your precious time in scouting for fish and can straightaway proceed to the task of fishing. This device works on the basis of radar signals that enable you to zero in on the exact position of fish in the surrounding water. You can also get a clear view of the ocean bed thus making your fishing activity even more efficient. These devices are available in a number of different shapes, sizes, and designs and come packed with diverse features. This can sometimes make it difficult to make a choice that you are satisfied with. Following are some of the guidelines that can help a discerning customer in making an informed decision that he/she will not regret later on:

1. The first thing that one needs to decide first is the amount of money that one is willing to spend on a portable fish finder device. The budget must be kept strictly in mind and only the models corresponding with the budget should be looked at so that you do not end up spending well outside your limits.
2. You should check the clarity of the display screen before you make your purchase. Many new models are now equipped with screens that offer very clear and sharp views and this aspect must be explored before you make a choice. You should not buy an electronic fish finder before asking to see the display first-hand.

Which is Right for You: Portable or Fixed?

Fishers have the choice of buying a fish finder that will be attached lastingly to their watercraft, or one that could be taken out the craft without breaking a sweat. For those that lease watercraft, ice fish, or head off to places to “fly-in” fish, the portable choice is the one to engage with. Settled fish finders unquestionably get approval for watercraft owners, as they could be mounted in the precise location they seek. The transducer can likewise be affixed to either the stern, trolling engine or hull – providing the fisher numerous choices.

How does sonar work?

Sonar works by conveying an electronic impulse from the device to the transducer. This urge is transmitted into a sound wave by the transducer, at which focus it is channeled through the water segment. The sound wave will now move into a descending manner until it achieves the lowermost structure – it is right now that it will rebound to the receiving device. The sound wave will likewise “travel” through any items discovered between the lake bottom and the surface of the water (fish or baitfish). When the indicator is gained, the device will then create its readings, at long last illustrating the outcomes on the screen.

What is a Depth Finder?

Frequency

You want fishfinders with a low frequency, which usually means 50 or 83 MHz. If you happen to be one of those lucky guys or gals who gets to fish in both shallow and deep water, get a dual frequency finder, which will work anywhere your boat goes.

Power

You need a lot of power to fish significantly more than 100 feet beneath the surface, meaning your finder should possess between 250 and 500 Watts, RMS.

Cone Angle

Deep-sea fisherman should use a narrow-angle cone because it has sufficient resolution in deep water to see your potential catch. Better yet, get a transducer with multiple cones if you can afford it.

Depth Finder Features

Screen Resolution and Size

The more the merrier. Get the biggest screen with the best resolution you can afford. A beautiful, large, high-res screen will enhance your fishing experience, and isn’t that the point? Furthermore, that gorgeous fishfinder might even help you catch a few more fish. You can even use that as an excuse when your spouse confronts you with the credit card bill. Unless you are short of money or you need a more compact portable fish finder please let us know how well that works out.

Color Versus Black and White Screens

Get a color. It’ll be hard to find a black and white screen, anyway.

GPS

Most modern fish locators come with that, as well they should. This device shows waypoints, which mark navigation aids or your favorite fishing spots. They’re also compatible with charting packages, allowing for detailed mapping. Even if you have a primary GPS on your boat, a backup on your fish finder won’t hurt. Also, don’t forget that you can use two GPS units for different charting packages.

Specialty Items

You can now get fishfinders that will do everything, but take out the garbage. High-end devices will measure surface speed, water temperature, barometric pressure, and various other things. Some of this data helps anglers who troll and also drift fishermen. Before you shell out extra money for a top-of-the-line finder, however, ask yourself if it will help you catch the exact species you seek

What are the features of shallow water fish finders?

Here are some of the features you’ll need to consider.

Frequency

Transducers operate at varied frequencies, from 50 to around 200 kHz, although some go as high as 400kHz. You want one on the high end, fishfinders with 192 or 200 kHz, because you get more detail with higher frequencies.

Power

Shallow fishing requires less power, which thankfully decreases the price. Remember, though, that the more power you can muster, the better resolution you’ll enjoy. Just to confuse you even more, fish finding devices manufacturers may use one of two power measures, or maybe even both. They are RMS and Peak to Peak. It turns out that Peak to Peak equal RMS times 8. That means if a transducer’s RMS is 50 Watts, its Peak to Peak is 400. Low power transducers operate at 50 to 150 Watts RMS and high power use 250 to 500 Watts.

Cone Angle

The object projecting off the transducer looks like an upside down ice cream cone, hence its name. Cone angles range from 9 degrees to 60, but most go from 16 to 20. A wide opening containing a large number of degrees means the cone ends in a big circle. It’s best for shallow water because wide openings cover a lot of areas, but with lower resolution. When you become more advanced, and your wallet gets much deeper, you can graduate to fishfinders with dual beams transducers, triple beams and side beams. Just imagine the toys you’ll purchase after you win the lottery.

Which are the Best Fish Finder Brands?

• Humminbird
• Lowrance
• Garmin
• Raymarine
• Furuno
• Hawkeye
• Marcum
• Vexilar
• iBobber
• Deeper
• Venterior
• FishHunter
• Signstek

Humminbird Fish Finders

Humminbird fish finders are the biggest name in the business. They’ve been around for over 30 years providing top of the line fish finders, depth sounders, radios, and GPS systems. Produced and manufactured in the USA, they continue to receive top marks and reviews by fishermen everywhere. They stay on the leading edge of technology and have excellent craftsmanship.

Lowrance Fish Finders

Lowrance is a world leader when it comes to the design and manufacture of sportfishing SONAR and GPS (global positioning systems). Lowrance, a designer and manufacturer of Sonar, GPS and Aviation instruments, got its start in Joplin, Missouri in 1957. Lowrance has established a global distribution network, encompassing more than 1,500 domestic dealers, distributors, mass merchants and original equipment manufacturers in the U.S., as well as sales distribution outlets in 53 countries worldwide.

Garmin Fish Finders

They are most recognized by there products in the GPS market, but also provide top quality fish finders. Garmin International Inc. design, manufacture, and markets navigation and communications equipment for the aviation and consumer markets.

Raymarine Fish Finders

Raymarine is the worlds leading manufacturer of Recreational Marine Electronics including Marine Radar, Multifunction Displays, Fishfinders, Autopilots and more. Formerly existing as the Recreational Marine Division of Raytheon (NYSE: RTN), Raymarine was formed as a company in 2001 after a management buyout, which included the rebranding of all products. Look at their product for upper-end fishfinders.

Furuno Fish Finders

Furuno has designed, manufactured marine electronics for the past 50 years. Recreational & Commercial Monochrome and color fish finders for any size boat ranging in power output from 300 Watts to 3,000 Watts. They sell a high-grade fish finder, provide a nice range of boating accessory technology/price solutions for the fish finder shopper. Don’t forget to compare the fish finder reviews of Furuno with the other major brands.