How to choose an echo sounder, selection tips and reviews

Type

An echo sounder is a device for searching for fish, determining the depth and topography of the bottom of a reservoir.
For these purposes, the echo sounder uses ultrasonic signals, which, reflected from underwater objects, are processed by the sensor and displayed on the LCD screen. Disadvantages: monitor sensitivity to negative temperatures, possible delay in the receipt of data on the screen.

An ice fish finder is a fish finder that is resistant to negative temperatures, making it suitable for use in winter.

A chartplotter is a device that works with water maps. The functionality of such devices includes determining location, storing tracks, routes, individual waypoints and other GPS navigation capabilities.

Echo sounder-chartplotter – combines the capabilities of two devices. However, the versatility of such models significantly increases their cost. In addition, in terms of special functions, such a model may be inferior to devices for narrow purposes.

Portable echo sounder – the echo sounder comes with a case that has adequate space for the battery. The case is also used as a base for mounting the device. A portable echo sounder is a fairly convenient device, but does not tolerate temperatures below 20 ° C: in this case, you will have to heat the screen and battery.

Compact echo sounder - thanks to its small size and weight, this echo sounder is easy to carry and, if necessary, warmed up under clothes in winter. However, the small screen does not allow you to get a clear picture. A compact echo sounder is the best option for beginners.

Echo sounder installed on a boat
Echo sounder for fishing from the shore
Echo sounder for fishing from the shore

Echo sounders for winter fishing

The main difference between winter echo sounders is their ability to operate at sub-zero temperatures. In such conditions, summer devices either do not work at all or produce an image with a lot of noise.

Winter echo sounders can be used in the warm season, but they are inferior to summer models in terms of viewing breadth.

The winter echo sounder is equipped with a hole sensor, a cover and a battery.

The following types of winter echo sounders are available.

Tube echo sounder is protected by a special waterproof housing, which allows it to work reliably in the most difficult conditions. The tube apparatus provides the ability to quickly receive a signal and provide high picture clarity.

Flasher - a feature of such devices is an unusual display of the received data. Information is provided through LEDs arranged in the shape of a ring with sectors. The flasher is highly sensitive and has no delays in displaying information. The most accurate among winter echo sounders.

Disadvantages: a more complex “language” for displaying data, which complicates their “reading”, significant weight (5 kg with battery) and high cost.

Important: pay attention to the presence of a training DVD included with the flasher. Such a disk will help you acquire the necessary knowledge to correctly “read” device data.

For winter fishing, it is better to choose a lightweight and compact device. Taking into account the weight and dimensions of the device is especially important if the fishing spot is quite far away and you have to go to it on skis or on foot.

Tube echo sounder
Flasher echo sounder
Portable echo sounder

Which echo sounder is better to choose?

When choosing an echo sounder and deciding which one is best to buy, you must proceed from your preferred fishing method and the required characteristics. The buyer needs to understand what parameters the model must meet in terms of type, scanning depth, basic and additional functionality.

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Experienced fishermen and experts in the field of fishing and hunting equipment boil down their recommendations to three basic points:

The manufacturing company is also important; it should be a specialized company, and not a brand that creates devices using someone else’s stamps. Our review includes only reliable brands that have earned the trust of users.

GSMIN WA3

Practitioner ER-6PRO

Very popular among our domestic devices. It can be suitable for both winter and summer, thanks to its operating temperature range from -20 to +40. Scans water bodies 25 meters deep and uses 1 beam for this. You can easily get used to it, but one of the downsides is the tight buttons. Thanks to the low cost of 7,000 rubles and 5 operating modes, this minus becomes simply insignificant.

Rybak Evgeniy writes about it: “Happy with the purchase. This device is easy to use. I was very pleased with the price and quality.”

Humminbird PiranhaMAX 175

It is a favorite of professional fishermen. Thanks to two beams with angles of 28 and 16 degrees, the exploration depth is 183 meters. Very convenient, takes up little space. One of the disadvantages is that it is powered from the mains, which makes fishing from a boat difficult at first, requiring an additional portable power source. The cost of such a device is about 10,000 rubles.

Rybak Alexander writes: “At first, using the Humminbird PiranhaMAX 175, I had problems mastering the menu, but after a short trial, I got used to it. The long range of exploration made it possible to fish in a deep lake. Overall, I like the device.”

Lowrance Mark-5x Pro

This device has a large screen that allows you to clearly see what is happening at the bottom of the reservoir; by the way, its range is 305 meters. One of the disadvantages is the power supply from a 12 volt network. Therefore, you will have to take a battery with you into the boat. The price of such an echo sounder is about 15,000 rubles.

Rybak Andrey writes: “The device pleases with its large screen, but one of the minuses I would like to note is that the echo sounder often freezes.”

JJ-Connect Fisherman 220 Duo Ice Edition MARK II

It has two beams and examines water bodies with a depth of 73 meters. Power comes from batteries. A big plus is the waterproof housing, but the bad thing is that in winter some sensors do not work correctly and fish with a small weight of up to 300 grams are practically not detected. Its average cost was 6,000 rubles.

Here's what fisherman Victor said about it: “It’s a very bright model, with a good display, but this model is not suitable for winter fishing.”

Rivotek Fisher 30

The echo sounder pleases with its compactness, but is only suitable for use in the warm season. Having an average price of 7500 rubles, it pleases with one beam with a frequency of 4333 kHz. One of the disadvantages is the impossibility of fishing in winter.

Let's listen to Vladimir's reviews: “I recently bought this echo sounder. I really liked the design and simplicity of this device. It’s very convenient to fish from a boat.”

Lowrance HDS 7 Carbon

Having a high price of 105,000 rubles, it deserves respect thanks to its wide display with excellent image quality, dual-core processor, touch display, 3D image, navigation. This device is for those who love stylish and powerful models. It supports the latest marine technology. It has a built-in assistant. Such a device can easily control small boats. Allows you to update software and has Internet access.

Let's listen to Nikolai's reviews: “I purchased a Lowrance HDS 7 Carbon for fishing and have never regretted it. The user-friendly interface and excellent image quality make me happy. I especially liked that the smart echo sounder has navigation and works very quickly.”

Garmin Echo 100

It has a viewing depth of 200 meters, one beam at 60 degrees and a price of 10,000 rubles. This is a universal device for winter and summer fishing. Power is supplied from 12 volts.

Review from the owner of this model: “We needed a simple and convenient echo sounder. I chose Garmin Echo 100 and have never regretted it. Price and quality match."

Deeper Smart Fishfinder

Perfect for carp fishing. The sensor is made in the form of a ball and is thrown into the water. A very compact device with good picture quality that does not require frequent recharging. One of the disadvantages is the inconvenience associated with throwing the sensor. The price is 8000 rubles.

Mikhail says about this model: “I bought an echo sounder for the first time. Fishing has become much easier. Very easy to use."

Vexilar FL-20 Ultra Pack Tri-Beam Sonar Fishfinder

Has three beams, color screen. Power comes from batteries. Protected from moisture getting inside. The maximum viewing depth of the reservoir is 60 meters. The disadvantages include heavy weight and a large, uncomfortable body. The cost of this model is 12,000 rubles.

Feedback from Konstantin: “I am an experienced fisherman, I have used different echo sounders. I liked this one for its clarity, although I feel inconvenienced by the bulkiness of the device.”

Lowrance HDS-5x Gen2

It is considered popular due to its perfect image and screen clarity. The settings are automatically saved after switching off. Operates up to 1.5 kilometers underwater. Costs 34,000 rubles. Very powerful. Can be used while on the move, for example when traveling on a boat.

Review from Vladislav: “I bought it recently, I really liked it, but it took me a long time to figure out the echo sounder itself, after I figured it out, there were no problems”

When choosing an echo sounder for fishing on a boat, read carefully our selection of the best models. Remember that you need to choose models that suit your budget and needs. Happy biting!

Each echo sounder operates to a certain depth. You need to choose a model depending on the intended fishing location. So, for fishing in a shallow reservoir, a device operating at a depth of up to 25 meters is suitable. Medium and large lakes may have depressions that are not visible from the surface, so here you should work with an echo sounder at 40-60 meters. At sea, a model that operates at a depth of 300-340 meters will be useful.

Viewing angle is an additional function that allows you to determine where to cast your fishing rod. The viewing angle varies from 20 to 90 degrees. For fishing with a net, it is enough to use a model with a viewing angle of 40-60 degrees, with a fishing rod - 20-35 degrees.

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When choosing an echo sounder, pay attention to sensitivity adjustment. If this parameter is high, the picture on the display will be noisy. A model with a low rating will not pick up sound waves. Preference should be given to those with medium sensitivity, or, as we have already written, with the ability to regulate it.

Design depth

Each echo sounder operates to a certain depth. You need to choose a model depending on the intended fishing location. So, for fishing in a shallow reservoir, a device operating at a depth of up to 25 meters is suitable. Medium and large lakes may have depressions that are not visible from the surface, so here you should work with an echo sounder at 40-60 meters. At sea, a model that operates at a depth of 300-340 meters will be useful.

Additional functions

Most echo sounder models in the price range from 220 to 390 rubles have additional functions, which include:

temperature sensor showing the number of degrees of water at depth;
a sensor that determines the speed of the boat;
Russified menu;
backlighting of the display and buttons (a convenient feature when using the device at night);
GPS navigation, convenient for fishing in large bodies of water.

echo sounder practitioner ER-6 pro

Housing placement

Stationary hull – installed on a ship. Such echo sounders are heavy, equipped with a large monitor, and have many functions and sensors.

On the wrist / on the rod - a lightweight and compact echo sounder that is perfect for long hikes. However, a small monitor produces a small image and not very detailed information.

Portable (universal) body - can be used both in a boat and carried for fishing from the shore.

Transducer

A transducer is a device that emits ultrasonic signals and receives their reflections from objects located under water. This device is the main element of the echo sounder and determines its characteristics. The transducer is most often included in the kit, but for some models it must be purchased separately.

Fastening

On the transom - installed on the back of the boat hull, away from the running engine and bottom irregularities. This is the best option for mounting the device, since it is minimally affected by water turbulence. As a result, the device functions normally and provides correct information about the underwater world.

On the bottom - located on the bottom of the boat from the inside, while the ultrasonic signal passes through the boat. Typically the device is mounted to the bottom using epoxy resin. However, this type of fastening has its limitations, for example, it cannot be used on wooden or metal boats.

Universal - can be placed both on the transom and on the bottom of the boat.

In the form of a float - found in portable echo sounders for winter fishing. This device is lowered into the water/hole, from where it transmits information about the fish and the bottom topography.

Popular echo sounder models

Garmin fish finder

These models have proven themselves to be a variety of echo sounder options for any type of fishing. Garmin monitors have excellent quality of transmitted data, produce powerful beams and have excellent sensitivity. Almost all echo sounders are equipped with additional functions and support for other on-board devices. There are a variety of mounting options, and there is also a choice of language.

Raymarine echo sounder

High-quality picture devices, GPS, Wi-Fi support, and built-in Navionics Gold and Platinum maps create comfortable and safe operation on the water. The interface is understandable even for a beginner.

Lowrance echo sounder

A popular, leading brand in the echo sounder market. Has many patents for image enhancement. DownScan Imaging and CHIRP Sonar functions optimize the exploration of the underwater world and create safe movement in deep water. The model range includes both lightweight and compact models for practical fishing, as well as broadband echo sounder options.

Humminbird echo sounder

The line of echo sounders of this brand is represented by both budget sonars and multifunctional, stylish devices with many built-in functions, similar to military reconnaissance. These special options include 3D fish finders, SmartCast technology, and waterproof models.

Rays

Emission frequency

High radiation frequency (200 kHz) ensures clear images and resistance to interference. In this case, the device works well at high speed, but this reduces the width of view and the depth of penetration of the beam.

Sensors with a low frequency (50 kHz) send a signal with a greater field of view and depth of beam penetration, but such devices do not detect small objects well, are weakly resistant to interference, and the picture will be unclear.

It makes sense to use a high-frequency device for shallow reservoirs, while a low-frequency device is better suited for greater depths. Models with 2 or more beams with different frequencies combine the advantages of these options and neutralize their disadvantages.

Quantity

The number of beams affects the functionality of the echo sounder: the more there are, the wider the scanning space and the more accurate the information obtained. The beams differ in frequency and coverage angle.

1 beam – can alternately scan with a beam of large and small width. Such an echo sounder does not provide detailed information about the position of an underwater object. The only advantage is low cost.

2 rays - most common. One beam (wide) scans the area in search of fish and other objects, the second (narrow) measures the depth. However, the echo sounder cannot record the location of the fish relative to the vessel.

3 beams - in addition to the previous capabilities, the echo sounder is able to determine the location of fish and other objects to the right and left of the boat.

4 beams – the echo sounder is able to determine the location of fish even more accurately: the best option for trolling (line fishing).

6 beams (3-D echo sounder) – this echo sounder provides a three-dimensional image of the underwater world, including bottom topography, size and shape of objects. This image is much clearer than a flat picture.

Features of hardware settings of side echo sounders

Professional fishermen in the field of high-tech fishing do not recommend changing the factory settings of the side echo sounder, but rather use the default settings. For example, this concerns setting the contrast and sensitivity of the display - in general, these options should be changed only after the operator learns to clearly recognize the resulting picture. To improve your skills, it is recommended to practice swimming near easily interpretable objects, such as:

Bridge supports;
Large stones that have both underwater and surface parts;
Branched snags of trees with a clearly recognizable silhouette.

Such objects will be very easy to identify from the side.

IMPORTANT! For the purpose of obtaining the best scanning results, it should be run at a speed of 9 to 18 kilometers per hour. At the same time, it is recommended to set the initial scanning range to 40 meters - this will allow you to obtain a detailed image at the first stage.

After the operator learns to read the resulting image more or less correctly, it is possible to move on to reconfiguring the standard settings. Here are some adjustment elements and their purpose:

Contrast/sensitivity - with their help, image processing is adjusted in the brightness ratio between dark and light tones, which is reflected on the echo sounder display. Using this setting, you can reduce the “white noise” in order to better distinguish between background (bottom topography) and moving objects (schools of fish);
Range – this setting is responsible for the distance over which scanning occurs in each direction. Typically, the device display has many pixels, therefore, when setting a wider range, the device will be forced to greatly compress the graphic output data, which will make it difficult to read. From here it is clear that the narrower the range, the more detailed the picture is displayed;
Turning on a specific side - it is possible to set the scanning mode to only the left or only the starboard side;
Color palette - the received data will be displayed by the device using a certain color strength of the object, which will depend on the distance to it.

Screen

Type

Color is more convenient to use, as it gives a clear and understandable picture, but it consumes more energy than black and white and is more expensive. Another disadvantage is poor visibility in bright sunlight. Such screens are equipped with devices with a wide range of different functions.

Black and white is a cheaper option, and the picture on such a screen is better readable in the sun than a color screen. However, the data is not displayed very clearly, which is why it is inferior in convenience to color.

Touch – provides intuitive control of the device: to get the desired result, just swipe your finger across the screen.

Backlit – increases the brightness of the image on the screen for use in the dark. The backlight consumes additional energy, which reduces the battery life of the fish finder.

Colors

The quality of the displayed image depends on the number of colors and shades of the screen: more colors mean a more colorful image, but at the same time the price of the echo sounder increases. 256 colors can be considered sufficient screen color. The next level – 65 thousand colors – significantly increases the cost of the echo sounder.

Screen diagonal

The diagonal of the screen determines its size and ease of use of the echo sounder: the larger the diagonal, the more comfortable it is to operate the device. This parameter is measured in inches (1 inch-2.54 cm). The diagonal size of the monitor varies between 1.25-21 inches. In portable models this parameter is 1.5-4 inches, in stationary devices - up to 15 inches and higher.

Screen resolution

Screen resolution is the number of screen pixels (pixels) vertically and horizontally. The higher this parameter, the better the clarity and detail of the picture, and the more information will be displayed on the screen.

Vertical resolution affects the quality of display of the bottom topography: the deeper the body of water, the more pixels are required for its detailed rendering. For example, when fishing at a depth of 2-4 m, a device with 240 vertical pixels is sufficient.

Horizontal resolution indicates the length of time information remains on the screen before shifting. This is important so as not to lose sight of the bottom topography when displaying additional windows.

Spacing between objects – the minimum distance between objects at which they are displayed separately. The lower this parameter, the smaller or nearby objects are visible on the screen. If the interval is large, then this can be misleading, for example, a cluster of fry will seem like a large fish. Most often this figure ranges from 3 to 10 cm.

Enlarging the image (zoom) is a useful function if you need to carefully examine the small details of the picture. Magnification also makes it possible to observe objects at the required level, that is, to focus your attention on individual areas where fish can live. There are echo sounders with 2, 4, 6 and 8x zoom. The more vertical pixels, the higher the zoom factor.

Information and functions

The size of the fish and the depth of its location - information about the size and depth of the fish allows you to select the appropriate gear and tactics for catching it. Fish are displayed in two ways:

in the form of fish icons - a clear designation system that is well suited for a beginner;
in the form of arcs of different shapes - a more complex designation option that requires knowledge and experience, since it is necessary to be able to distinguish the fish itself from other signal sources.

Bottom structure - information about the bottom topography helps to detect places where fish accumulate.

Determining bottom density - allows you to determine the object located under the boat (silt, sand or stone). This information can be useful not only when fishing, but also for searching for various underwater objects.

Water temperature - this parameter will be useful for fishermen who have experience in catching certain types of fish in specific bodies of water. An experienced fisherman will be able to connect the water temperature with the behavior of the fish and assess the likelihood of a bite.

Important: The above information is basic . Other information and functions may be useful under certain conditions, but most often they are not used and significantly increase the cost of the fish finder.

Additional Information

Side radiation (horizontal) – carried out by side sensors, which can be purchased separately. Allows you to see objects located on the sides or in front of the boat.

Boat speed - such information is useful even if you have a speedometer, since it is more convenient to receive data on one monitor rather than diverting attention to a separate device. Such a sensor can be built into the echo sounder or connected to it.

Real-time display of fish - information appears on the screen when a fish hits the device’s beam and immediately disappears the moment it leaves the beam. Allows you to very quickly and accurately track the movement of fish.

Sound alarm - notifies the fisherman about the detection of fish or a person overboard, a decrease in depth (risk of running aground), and so on. An audible alarm significantly reduces the likelihood of missing an important message.

Fast screen updating is important when the boat is moving at high speed (from 30-40 km/h). If the screen refreshes slowly, the terrain may not be displayed properly.

Automatic change of depth scale – adjusts the echo sounder monitor so that the entire volume of water from the bottom to the surface is always fully visible. That is, at a depth of 40 m, the device will use a 50-meter scale, and when the depth changes upward or downward, it will use a 100- or 20-meter scale. This makes it easier to observe the underwater world and assess the situation.

Displayed depth range – the ability to set a specific depth range so that the space below or above is not displayed on the monitor. In this case, the image is larger than when viewing the entire underwater space. A useful function if you need to search for fish living at a certain depth range.

"Man overboard" - used for rescue operations.
Some devices only display the location of the incident, others also notify via DSC marine radio communications, and also allow you to receive and process such signals from other boats.

Brief overview of budget echo sounders

"Practician" series ER-6Pro2

The model is new and has only recently been on sale, so it’s worth familiarizing yourself with the capabilities of this echo sounder.

Maximum location depth (m) – 25.
There are one rays (400).
Screen (cm) – 3 x 5.
Resolution (pixels) – 128 x 64.
Operating temperature range (ºС) – from -20 to +40.
Duration of continuous operation (hour) – up to 170 (±20).
Batteries (pieces) – 1.

Several adjustments, operating modes and functions. For example, a sound alert about the presence of fish under the boat.

Price – 6,480 rubles.

"Fisherman" JJ-Connect series, model 200

This echo sounder is largely similar in characteristics to the previous device - single-beam, but the depth is slightly greater (up to 75 m). The operating limit has been increased to +65 ºС. Includes 4 AAA elements, which lasts for 36 hours.

Price – 3,990 rubles.

The descriptions of these two models of echo sounders are quite enough to understand the capabilities of devices in this price range. There are products for 2,000 - 2,500 rubles, but it is unlikely that the pursuit of savings will result in a good catch. As practice shows, for fishing from a boat you should focus on echo sounders costing between 4,000 and 9,000 rubles. An experienced fisherman hardly needs the full functionality of more expensive ones, and cheap models, as a rule, do not justify themselves.

Hello, I'm Alexander, the mastermind behind the blog. In terms of career and free time, I connected my life with the forest. How could it be otherwise when you live in Karelia! In this blog, I am responsible for sections dedicated to hunting, hiking and equipment. Welcome to my world!

1 ） Number of rays “The more, the better!” - you will shout, and I will tell you: “Well done, take the gingerbread from the shelf!” But on average, two are enough for regular fishing. If you fish only in winter, then 1 beam at 45˚ is enough and don’t even worry about it. And if you, my friend, fish only in the summer, I advise you to buy 2 rays. Don’t take less, because with the 1st beam your frequency will only be 83 or 77.

I will not start from afar, but will start straight to the point. You all already know why an echo sounder , and if not, then check it out on Wikipedia. I will analyze the main parameters when choosing an echo sounder:

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1 ） Number of rays “The more, the better!” - you will shout, and I will tell you: “Well done, take the gingerbread from the shelf!” But on average, two are enough for regular fishing. If you fish only in winter, then 1 beam at 45˚ is enough and don’t even worry about it. And if you, my friend, fish only in the summer, I advise you to buy 2 rays. Don’t take less, because with the 1st beam your frequency will only be 83 or 77.

Well, we went through the main parameters when choosing an echo sounder. If you still have questions, it is better to call us at 8-800-200-22-92. Calls within Russia are free. Good luck!

There are various models on sale, with a larger (or smaller) number of options. Some of them are just additional services, and they, as a rule, do not have any impact on the fishing process itself. Let's figure out what should be assessed first.

GPS module

The GPS module allows the fish finder to be used as a chartplotter, which can plot a route using “water maps” that inform the angler about underwater debris, depths, tidal zones and allow you to mark waypoints. The GPS module can be built into the echo sounder/chartplotter, or connected separately.

Waypoints, routes, tracks

Waypoint – a point on the map that is used in the GPS module and is marked with the corresponding sign. Waypoints can be used to mark landmarks and fishing spots. Most GPS echo sounders are designed for 500 points, and the most modern devices are designed for 1000-4000.

A route is a set of waypoints along which the trajectory of a planned trip is built. When passing the route, the device will indicate the direction of movement and the distance to the next waypoint.

Track – a route traveled, which is recorded in the device’s memory. The track can be used as a route for the next trip or a new trajectory can be built based on it.

The more complex and longer the route, the more waypoints the navigator must support. For frequent travel, you will need a GPS module that supports a large number of routes and tracks.

Communications, interfaces

Wi-Fi – allows the echo sounder to transmit information obtained as a result of scanning to a tablet or smartphone.

Bluetooth – transmits scan data to a tablet or smartphone via a special port.

Ethernet connector - Used to connect a sonar, radar, or external monitor to a device.

NMEA 0183, NMEA 2000 – protocols for communication between marine equipment. NMEA 2000 is more modern, allowing you to connect the echo sounder with various devices.

Memory cards – used for downloading maps, software updates, system backups and other operations.

Connecting a flash drive - used to update the echo sounder software and download additional maps (if there is a GPS module).

Video input – allows you to connect a video camera to the echo sounder.

Video output – displays the image from the echo sounder on an external screen.

Backlit keys – like the backlight of the screen, allow you to use the fish finder at night.

Satellite Radio/Weather – Provides radio broadcasting and reception of meteorological information needed by the angler.

Nutrition

Batteries, accumulator - such an echo sounder can be used autonomously if the on-board network breaks down or is missing. The battery capacity of different echo sounders varies between 3-18 Ah (amp-hours).

External 12V – the echo sounder is connected to the mains. Such a device can work longer than from a battery or accumulator.

Important: remember that at low temperatures the power supply discharges much faster than in summer. Therefore, it is recommended to choose a winter echo sounder with a powerful battery or prepare spare batteries/batteries.