An echo sounder for fishing from the shore is a simple and convenient electronic device that has already become familiar to most fishermen. Having appeared not so long ago, it quickly ceased to be a luxury item and turned into one of the indispensable attributes of modern fishing. However, despite the availability and wide variety of models of this device, choosing it is not as simple as it seems at first glance - it requires basic knowledge of the principle of its operation and selection criteria, taking into account fishing conditions and the financial capabilities of the fisherman.
To measure depths and search for fish from the shore, it is better to use wireless echo sounders
What does an echo sounder consist of and how does it work?
An echo sounder is a device consisting of the following parts:
- The electronic unit with display is the main part of the device. Processes the signal from the sensor and converts it into a graphic image of the bottom topography and fish on the display.
- Sensor (transducer) - scans the bottom and transmits information wirelessly or cable to the electronic unit.
The sensor and the electronic unit can be connected either by a flexible and waterproof cable, or have a wireless connection type (information from the sensor is transmitted to the electronic unit via radio waves).
The operating principle of a fish-finding echolocator is as follows:
- The generator included in the sensor creates a signal in the form of a cone (ultrasonic waves) and sends them into the water column;
- The sensor receiver receives signals reflected from the bottom and obstacles encountered along its path (“echo”);
- Information from the sensor is continuously transmitted to the electronic unit via cable or wirelessly;
- The processor of the electronic unit processes the signals coming from the sensor and converts them into a graphic image of the bottom topography and fish on the echo sounder screen, indicating the depth of the reservoir and the horizons of the fish.
Coastal echo sounder - how to choose?
Echo sounders for fishing from the shore have several varieties:
- Universal - such devices can be used on the shore and on a boat. They have a shock-resistant body, are not afraid of depth and are suitable for fishing even in bad weather. They provide an excellent overview of objects under water (3D) and have a convenient viewing angle.
- Narrowly targeted - fishing only from the shore. A large set of additional functions, usually a low price.
- Portable - effective and easy to use. Low weight, size and cost.
Note! A little about the design of a coastal echo sounder. Like all types, there is a display and a sensor, but the type of communication is not a cable, but a radio signal. This is a major advantage as the sensor can be used over tens of meters.
Recommendations
- When choosing a device, you need to pay attention to image clarity, device power and signal transmission sensitivity;
- When purchasing an inexpensive model, pay attention to the presence of additional functions (mounting, sound signal).
- It is better to purchase a universal model for experienced fishermen (such a device will allow you to fish both from the shore and from a boat).
Due to its small size, an echo sounder for fishing from the shore does not show the full picture, but it performs the necessary tasks - relief, depth and temperature data.
Sonar power
The most important criterion when purchasing a device is its power. It is this that determines how deeply the signal will be transmitted and the necessary information will be provided to the fisherman.
The cost of the device directly depends on this indicator; the higher the power and sensitivity of signal reception, the more expensive the echo sounder.
Good to know! However, a highly sensitive receiver can create a lot of interference, so it is better to opt for devices in which this function is regulated.
Scan angle
The side view function is required in order to search for fish. With its help, the scanning area is increased thanks to the built-in sensors.
Perfect for ice fishing, since the fish are clearly visible under the hole and at a distance from it. You can also determine the direction of the fish.
Display
- Screen size matters if fishing will take place on a large boat or speedboat. A large display has more functions and modes than devices with a small screen. For a small boat, an echo sounder with a small display is more suitable.
- Screen resolution - a device that has a high resolution will have a high-quality image.
Notification system
An additional function that notifies you of movement under water with a sound signal.
Protection
Most echo sounders have a protective tube that protects the device from water.
Fastening
The echo sounder holder plays a huge role in the operation of the device, so it must meet certain requirements:
- reliability, absence of fluctuations and vibrations;
- possibility of adjusting the angle of inclination and installation depth.
Classification by installation method:
- on suction cups;
- on clamps;
- adhesive based;
- using floating elements.
Device selection criteria
Reviews of the wireless echo sounder Praktik 7 Mayak
In order to choose an echo sounder for fishing from the shore from a large assortment of models available on the market, the following characteristics of the device are taken into account: Dimensions and weight - the shore echo sounder must have dimensions and weight that are convenient for carrying and transportation. When choosing an echo sounder, you should consider whether it will fit compactly into a fishing case with gear or a backpack.
Size and type of display - for measuring depth using an echo sounder from the shore, the most convenient devices are those with a high-contrast black-and-white display measuring 2.4-4 inches, with a resolution of at least 4 shades of gray. Models that connect via Wi-Fi to a tablet or smartphone are also convenient.
A small pocket echo sounder connected to a smartphone is the most convenient and simple device for measuring depths and finding fish.
Type of connection between the sensor and the electronic unit - wireless fish finders are best suited for fishing from the shore. Unlike wired models, their sensor is designed for casting from the shore over a fairly large distance using a spinning or feeder rod. Such echo sounders have a transducer range of up to 100 meters (the distance from which the signal will be transmitted from the sensor to the unit).
Number of scanning beams – devices with 1-2 beams are suitable for measuring depths and searching for fish from the shore.
Scanning depth – the device must provide depth measurements from 0.5-0.8 to 35-40 meters.
Availability of additional options - for the convenience of the fisherman and obtaining important information, the device must be equipped with such additional options as measuring water temperature, ambient air temperature, sensor movement speed, backlight, and sound signal for detecting fish.
Battery capacity – you should choose devices whose battery, when fully charged, will provide continuous operation for at least 5-6 hours.
Operating principle of sonar
An echo sounder used for fishing from the shore must show the bottom topography in the fishing zone, holes in the water, boulders, edges, dumps, sunken trees, bushes, and passing fish. To scan the bottom when fishing from the shore, pier or bridge, echo sounders with data transmission via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi wireless technologies are used. All echo sounders for shore fishing consist of a sonar and a head unit. To begin scanning the water column, the sonar is tied to a monofilament line or strong twine and thrown into the reservoir at the point where they are going to fish. The head unit receiving information from the sonar can be in the form of a wristwatch or a small plastic box with a screen and control buttons. Some sonars use a tablet or smartphone with an Android or IOS operating system as a head unit.
After entering a body of water, the sonar automatically turns on and begins sending down pulses at an ultrasonic frequency. Ultrasonic waves quickly travel through water, are reflected from any solid objects: the bottom, sunken tree trunks, stones, snags, floating algae and fish, and return to the sonar. The sonar transmits data about sent and received waves via wireless Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to the head unit. Based on the received information, the sonar draws an image of the bottom on the screen, shows in numbers or pictograms the fish swimming in the transducer operating area, the distance to the bottom of the reservoir, and the water temperature.
Rating of the most popular models
The most popular models of wireless echo sounders for shore fishing are:
- Deeper Smart Sonar PRO+;
- Humminbird PiranhaMAX 230e PT;
- Lowrance FishHunter Pro;
Deeper Smart Sonar PRO+
Deeper Smart Sonar PRO+ is a two-beam wireless sonar consisting of a round sensor with a diameter of only 65 mm and a weight of 100 g, connected via Wi-Fi to a smartphone or tablet with Android and iOS operating systems. The echo sounder can be easily cast with a feeder or rigid spinning rod over a fairly long distance. The maximum signal reception range from the sensor is 100 m. The device has a range of measured depths from 0.5 to 80 m. The echo sounder is powered by a reliable 3.7 V lithium-polymer battery. The average price of this model is 19,900 rubles.
Deeper Smart Sonar PRO+
Humminbird PiranhaMAX 230e PT
Used for both shore and boat fishing, this fish finder consists of an electronic unit with a black and white FSTN display (4 inches diagonal with 4 shades of gray and a resolution of 240x160 pixels) and two sensors - wireless and stationary for mounting on the transom boats. The wireless sensor used to measure depth from the shore has 1 bottom-scanning beam, which allows you to measure depth in the range from 0.5 to 35 m. The signal reception range from the sensor is 45 m. The device unit runs on 8 AA batteries. The sensor has a built-in battery, designed in a fully charged state for 500 hours of continuous bottom scanning. The main disadvantage of this reliable and simple device is expensive repairs if it breaks down. The average price of an echo sounder is 9,500 rubles.
Humminbird PiranhaMAX 230e PT
Lowrance FishHunter Pro
Lowrance FishHunter Pro is a five-beam wireless echo sounder consisting of a sensor weighing 185 g. Connects via Wi-Fi to a tablet, smartphone or laptop with Android and iOS operating systems. The signal reception range from the sensor is 60 m; the range of measured depths is 0.5-50 m. The echo sounder sensor operates from a built-in battery, which, when fully charged, allows you to scan the bottom for 10 hours. The device has a very clear depiction of the bottom topography and the location of the fish, and allows you to display a three-dimensional 3D image of the bottom topography. Thanks to its wide operating temperature range (the device can operate at temperatures from -30 to +350 C), Lowrance FishHunter Pro can be used not only as a summer, but also as a winter echo sounder. In winter, thanks to the corresponding function, it can be used as a flasher. Average price - 13,000 rubles.
Lowrance FishHunter Pro
Which echo sounder to choose for fishing from the shore
Before choosing a specific sonar model, you need to decide which echo sounder with what screen diagonal and what capabilities will be in demand when fishing. As practice shows, it is difficult for an inexperienced fisherman to understand the necessary functionality of the device. To gain experience and make an informed choice, an angler can borrow an echo sounder from friends for several fishing trips.
If a person is passionate about fishing and has the financial opportunity, it is better to purchase a universal echo sounder with a large screen. If a fisherman goes to the river several times a season, then it is enough to purchase a simple device that shows the bottom topography, depth and the presence of fish.
Echo sounders with dual-beam sonar and support for CHIRP technology show the relief of water bodies more clearly and find fish faster. The disadvantage of such sonars is their higher price.
The presence of additional functions in the echo sounder (temperature determination, GPS navigation module, fish size determination) increases the comfort of fishing.
Manufacturers of echo sounders produce and sell covers, hard boxes, and mounts for fishing rods and boat transoms for their devices. Additional accessories can be purchased at a fishing store or on the website of the echo sounder manufacturer.
Reviews
Kirill For me, as a fan of both winter and summer fishing, the FishHunter Pro echo sounder from Lowrance is a real find. I’ve been fishing with it for a year now and am completely satisfied with the device: it works great both in shallow water and in holes. The Wi-Fi signal is good. Excellent and clear bottom rendering even on my small smartphone. In addition, the echo sounder also has a function, thanks to which all the information about fishing can be recorded in memory and shared with colleagues.
Sasha The budget “old man” PiranhaMAX 230e PT from Humminbird has been working for me, I don’t even remember what year. Convenient and reliable, easy to carry, thanks to the durable case, it measures depth well and looks for fish. The battery charge in the sensor lasts a long time. It hasn't crashed and hasn't let me down even once.
Andrey Pereborov had a desire to buy a “more budget” echo sounder, so he bought a fairly expensive Deeper Smart Sonar PRO+. I've been using it for a year now and have never regretted the money spent on it. A convenient and lightweight ball - this echo sounder is cast with a fishing rod with 120-150 g of dough. It fits in the glove compartment of a car, connects perfectly via Wi-Fi to a smartphone and tablet, clearly draws the bottom and the depth of the fish, saves scanning history, and creates depth maps. Very good device!!! I recommend everything!!!
Thus, a coastal echo sounder is no longer a luxury, but an integral fishing attribute, without which it is often very difficult to find fish and determine the most suitable place for fishing, both in a familiar and unknown body of water that is new to the fisherman.
Top 5 best models of 2021
The basic kit of most echo sounders for shore fishing includes a stationary or car charger and a silicone mount for a tablet or smartphone. The standard set can be supplemented with other accessories necessary for fishing from ice or at night.
We present to you a rating of the best wireless sonars for shore fishing, with various sets of components. The review is based on user reviews and technical characteristics of the models.
- De eper Smart Sonar PRO+
This is a cool fishing accessory with a rich filling. Due to its versatility, the most popular and best-selling model of 2021. Suitable not only for fishing from the shore, but also for winter fishing and when fishing from a boat.
The connection is made via a Wi-Fi module. Has GPS for mapping depths and bottom topography when fishing from the shore or boat. You can add various icons and notes to the map yourself. It is possible to transfer the received information to a computer. Scanning depth is up to 80 meters, maximum buoy casting range is 100 meters.
Main advantages:
- the presence of two scanning beams;
- durable plastic transducer housing;
- latest software.
- Deeper Fishfinder 3D
Wireless sonar suitable for shore and boat fishing. Depth scanning results are transferred to a smartphone or tablet running Android. Compact device with great capabilities.
Main advantages of the model:
- clear and bright picture of the depth and topography of the bottom;
- depth scanning range up to 40 meters;
- two scanning beams.
- FishHunter Directional 3D
A portable, battery-powered device with three depth-scanning beams. The manufacturer guarantees the possibility of using the device in extreme conditions, at a temperature of 30℃.
Advantages:
- ability to operate in shallow water mode, at a depth of up to 5 meters;
- clear detail of objects;
- scanning depth up to 50 meters;
- the ability to display data on the screen in three versions and then create a 3D layout.
- LUCKY FFW718
A universal device suitable for any type of fishing. The manufacturer positions it as a device for echolocation in both fresh and salt water.
Main advantages:
- scanning depth up to 40 meters;
- sensor casting range up to 100 meters;
- differentiation of objects by size;
- possibility of adjusting sensitivity;
- screen backlight.
- Practitioner 7 RF Universal
A worthy domestic representative of echo sounders for fishing from the shore, which is not inferior in its performance characteristics to foreign analogues. This model has absorbed the best qualities of its predecessors.
Main advantages:
- low price;
- user-friendly interface, easy to master even for a beginner;
- recording the movement of objects;
- connection via Bluetooth.
When choosing an echo sounder, you should take into account such technical characteristics and capabilities of the equipment as its power, mounting method, scanning angle, communication range with the receiving device.
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Secrets of successful fishing
To successfully use the device, instructions are included with the echo sounder. To maximize your catch, you should apply your settings. For this:
- There is no need to be afraid to experiment.
- You should personally set the depth at which you intend to fish.
- It is necessary to install image cleaning and noise reduction to get the best picture.
- For color models, it is worth adjusting the screen data.
- You can determine the level of sensitivity. It is recommended to stop at 75 percent.
If the fishfinder echo sounder is intended to be used in winter, then professionals advise protecting the battery from the cold. To do this, make a special polystyrene box or warm bag. For this type of fishing, only two ways to use the device are relevant: freezing it in ice or placing the sonator in a manufactured hole. Each of them creates some difficulties - either picking the device from frozen water, or making a convenient and reliable holder for it. You should also not rely too much on the fish identification function of your equipment in winter. In cold conditions it will not be very effective.
Thus, there are no special problems in the question of how to use an echo sounder. It is important to listen to the recommendations outlined and take into account the operating conditions of the device, then it will help you make truly grandiose catches.
