The functioning of fish finders is essentially basic. However, it requires the backing of hi-end technology. Fishfinders have the capability to create a two-dimensional picture of what’s going beneath your boat. The emission of higher frequency waves and their bouncing back against a solid surface is not a new concept. However, the frequency at which these waves are emitted might be different. These variations exist because of the different divisions of fish finders available in the market.
No doubt, fishfinders are a conventional way to catch more fish, their category has played a huge role. It also varies according to the perception of the angler approaching to finding the fish. Some anglers find fish right from the shore, some find them from canoes, kayaks, etc., some venture into the sea with deep waters, while most of them use a traditional boat.
As obvious, all these anglers implement a different approach to fish. In fact, the same fish-finding system can be implemented differently by different anglers. Let’s find out how these anglers use the best marine fish finders molded according to them.
Boat anglers fishing offshore/inshore
Most of the fish finder systems out there are designed to be used with conventional fishing boats. The anglers using the same have the widest variety of options for a fishfinder formula. Whether the boat is located offshore, the flexibility is provided right from the choice of products. Sometimes it becomes difficult for boat anglers to choose from numerous models.
But there are certain pointers which narrow down their choices. These indicators always distinguish the appropriate product with others.
- The capability to emit and receive signals in deep waters to find fish. Traditional boats can find their way into the water where it is over a hundred feet deep.
- The capability to pinpoint different locations along the way and mark them with built-in GPS technology. It’s important to use another source to exactly record the path rather than only trusting your eyes.
- The capability to aid in navigation with chart-plotters.
- Boat anglers do not want to stick with the screen on the boat. So, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity should exist. This allows them to monitor the fish finder system from anywhere in the boat.
- The capability to detect above surface hindrances from huge distances with Radar technology.
So, to find the best chance of finding an appropriate fishfinder system, boat anglers have to prioritize basic features like imaging technology and display quality over the others. Remember that more distance from the shore requires more powerful and precise GPS and chart plotting capabilities.
Canoe/Kayak anglers
The anglers who fish using kayaks and canoes can essentially use the same fish-finding system as boat anglers. The only difference is the distinction between models exclusively created for small crafts and small waters. However, the ones who venture into the sea must consider similar capabilities as inshore and offshore anglers do.
To further narrow down the choices, the following are the important indicators for Kayak and canoe anglers.
- The capability of the fish finding system to be easily installed or removed so that it is convenient to store the vessel.
- To ensure that the angler is quick to comprehend the situation, side imaging capabilities must exist.
- Again, GPS technology is mandatory for every other vessel cruising in water to determine the location and traveling speed.
- Sufficient brightness of the screen to be able to understand the information displayed on it.
- Mapping of small rivers and ponds to make quick decisions on the spot. There is an option of preloaded maps and charts.
Dry ground anglers
There are the least options available for anglers who want to fish from the shore. They have only started to find some options from the recent past and before that, there was nothing besides flashers for them. Now, there exist fish finding systems dedicatedly designed for shore anglers. Most bank anglers search for traditional categories of the best marine fish finders systems better suited to their docks. This is because moderately priced fish finders with limited features are enough for shore anglers. Let’s find out in detail for exactly what they need.
- Wireless connectivity with your phone so that you can access the information right from wherever you are.
- The capability to cast the fish finder as far as possible from the shore.
- Rugged housing for the capability to withstand continuous casts.
- Side imaging technologies will allow a better view of the water in terms of quality and quantity.
- Mapmaking capability for small water bodies.
Now, a shore angler can go and buy the best fishfinders of 2021 but it won’t be as active as in cases of traditional boats and Kayaks because of the limited area in access.
Various categories of fish finders to choose from
This is an extension of how to choose a fish finder system according to your requirements mentioned above. We will discuss the different categories of fish finders and you be the judge how they are appropriate for shore, boat, Kayak anglers according to requirements.
Flashers
These are the most traditional sonar units. They essentially inform the angler about only three things which include the water depth, depth of lure and depth of fish. The method of conveyance of information is also different which is a circular graph to correlate with the depth of water. There is no digital display on offer.
Conventional fishfinder systems
The primary function is to collect as much data from the world beneath through sonar technology and display the same on the screen for the angler to understand. Various pieces of information about the water are displayed including depth, temperature, objects, shipwrecks, fish, vegetation and much more. The more eminent technology used in a conventional fish finder, the clearer will be the information displayed on the screen, for instance, picture-like images.
Combos with GPS technology
These are just an extension of conventional fish finders which have GPS capability. The additional features are worth for almost all anglers. These fishfinder GPS combos include settings spot locks, recording paths, tracking your location, watching from a bird’s eye view, etc. Nowadays, GPS has enabled tracking your traveling speed as well.
Constable fishfinder systems
These include small transducers which can be attached to the end of a fishing line. It will emit signals into the water wherever you cast them. This allows them to reach the difficult areas of water where other categories do not serve. This is the most popular category among anglers because it doesn’t need to be attached with the hull of a boat. These units do not come with their own display and hence are very affordable.