Are you in the market for a fish finder with side imaging? If so, you may be wondering if this technology is worth the extra money.
In this post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of fish finders with side imaging to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, this information will come in handy. So, read on to learn more!
What are fish finders with side imaging and how do they work
Fish finders with side imaging use sonar to create a 3D image of the area around your boat. The sonar waves are sent out in a cone shape from the transducer, which is usually mounted on the hull of the boat.
As the waves bounce off objects in the water, they are reflected back to the transducer. The transducer then converts these signals into images that are displayed on a screen. Side imaging allows you to see not only what is directly under your boat, but also what is off to the side.
This can be helpful when you’re trying to find fish that may be hiding in the grass or other structures. Side imaging can also be used to detect underwater hazards, so you can avoid them when you’re cruising around.
The pros and cons of fish finders with side imaging
Side imaging fish finders are a relatively new invention, and they offer a number of advantages over traditional fish finders.
- One of the biggest benefits is that side imaging allows you to see the structure of the underwater environment in greater detail. This can be helpful in finding ledges, drop-offs, and other features that fish use for cover.
- In addition, side imaging provides a much wider field of view than traditional fish finders. This means that you can cover more water in a shorter amount of time, which can be essential when fishing in large lakes or rivers.
However, side imaging fish finders also have some drawbacks.
- One of the biggest is that they can be very expensive, especially when compared to traditional fish finders.
- In addition, side imaging can sometimes produce false positives, which can lead to frustration when trying to locate fish.
Ultimately, whether or not a side imaging fish finder is right for you depends on your specific needs and budget.
How to choose the best fish finder for your needs
There are many factors to consider when choosing a fish finder.
- The type of fishing you plan on doing will play a big role in determining which features you need. For example, if you plan on trolling for salmon, you’ll need a fish finder that can track multiple depths at once. If you’re an ice fisherman, you’ll need a model that can handle cold temperatures.
- Cost is also a factor to consider. Fish finders range in price from around $100 to $1000 or more. Decide how much you’re willing to spend, and then look for a model that has the features you need.
- It’s also important to think about the size of the fish finder. If you have a small boat, you might not have room for a large unit. Conversely, if you have a lot of space, you might be better off with a larger model so that you can see the information more clearly.
- Finally, take some time to read online reviews before making your purchase. This is a great way to get unbiased opinions about various models.
By taking all of these factors into account, you can be sure to choose the best fish finder for your needs.
Tips for using your fish finder with side imaging to get the most out of it
If you’re an avid fisherman, you know that using a fish finder can make a big difference in your success rate. But if you’re new to using a fish finder, or if you’re not familiar with side imaging, you might not be getting the most out of your device. Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your fish finder with side imaging:
- First, when you’re setting up your device, make sure to position the transducer so that it’s pointing directly down into the water. This will ensure that you’re getting an accurate picture of what’s below the surface.
- Next, when you’re scanning the water with your fish finder, move slowly and methodically so that you don’t miss anything. It can be tempting to speed up when you’re covering a lot of ground, but this can cause you to miss important details.
- Finally, pay attention to any submerged structures – like reefs or shipwrecks – that might be in the area. These can attract fish, so they’re worth keeping an eye on. By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to get the most out of your fish finder – and catch more fish as a result!
FAQs
Q: Is it okay to use a fish finder in saltwater?
A: Yes, most fish finders on the market today are designed for use in both fresh and saltwater. You may need to buy a separate transducer for saltwater use, but other than that, you should be good to go.
Q: What’s the difference between a fish finder and a depth sounder?
A: A fish finder uses sonar to detect objects in the water, while a depth sounder simply measures the depth of the water. However, many modern fish finders also include depth sounders, so they’re essentially two devices in one.
Q: Can I use a fish finder if I’m not a fisherman?
A: Yes, you don’t have to be a fisherman to use a fish finder. In fact, many people use them for activities like kayaking and canoeing. They can also be helpful if you’re swimming in unfamiliar waters and want to know what’s beneath the surface.
The Bottom Line
So, have you tried a fish finder with side imaging? If not, it might be worth considering if you’re serious about getting into fishing.
These devices are designed to help anglers locate fish in murky water, and the side imaging feature takes things one step further by providing an image of what’s on the other side of that obstruction. While they may come with a higher price tag than traditional fish finders, the benefits can be well worth it for those who want to up their fishing game.
