It is good to have a choice in fish finders. But it can also be confusing and a bit overwhelming. You may not need the highly sophisticated model and certainly not need the price tag. But you do need a dependable fish finder that is not going to break the budget but still gives you the basic amenities. The fish finder you may need to check into purchasing is the Garmin Fishfinder 140. It does not chart your location or give you a wide sonar range but it also does not cost thousands of dollars.
Garmin is one of the leading names in GPS equipment. They have many fine products and the Garmin Fishfinder 140 is one of them. As far as fish finders go though, it is quite basic. You can get a digital readout of the depth of the water and also see what fish come into range. There is even an alarm setting so you can preset the fish finder to only alert you to fish of a certain size. You can also see the bottom terrain in either a narrow or wide view for better coverage.
The downside of the Garmin 140 would have to be its display. It is the old fashioned black and white display that your parent's used on their boat. And it does not give you the ability to GPS your position so you can come back to the same place. It also does not come with pre-loaded maps of different rivers or lakes that may be in your area. But that is okay considering the price. The 140 is relatively cheap and you can easily find it for around $100 if you look on the www.target.com or www.amazon.com websites.
The real problem with the Garmin Fishfinder 140 is the sales tactic. Sure you can buy it for $100.00 but you have to pay extra for the mounting hardware and screen cover. That is just poor marketing on Garmin's behalf. Granted those extras only tack on an additional $50.00 but it is still the principle of the matter. Trying to up-sell accessories that are actually necessities is a shoddy sales tactic.
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Saturday, January 22, 2011
Friday, January 21, 2011
The Pinnacle of Success With The Humminbird 997C SI Combo NVB Color Fish Finder
The internet has taken a lot of the frustration out of shopping. You do not have to go from store to store trying to find the best deals possible. A couple of webpages will give you great price comparisons on whatever you are searching for. Fish finders are especially easy to find with so many fishing and sporting good stores going online. The key is reading the user reviews and then making your decision. One fish finder in particular you should check out is the Humminbird 997c SI Combo NVB Color Fish Finder.
Fish finders have come a long way over the past thirty years. In the beginning most were simple sonar devices that gave distorted readings at best. Even the higher priced fish finders were not completely accurate and had a very limited range. Hardly enough range to give you time to get your fishing gear in the water. The Humminbird 997c SI Combo NVB Color Fish Finder is one of the newest fish finders on the market and does not suffer from this limitation.
Offering 180 degrees of coverage and able to monitor to a depth of 150 feet, this fish finder is at the top of its game. And well it should be for all of the technological advances that it offers. It is not just a fish finder. It is a fish slayer! The 997c comes with built in maps of rivers and lakes of the United States. It offers you GPS technology and a memory bank so you can input where you caught that trophy fish in case you want to go back to that exact same spot. And with its full color display you no longer have to distinguish the black and white shapes, as older models were often limited to showing. If you put it on the RAM mount, you can virtually see the fish finder from any position on your boat. That is pretty handy.
If there is one thing that is going to stop you from rushing out and buying a Humminbird 997c SI Combo NVB Color Fish Finder it is going to be the cost. You can find them in plenty of online sporting good stores or fishing stores but the price is about the same no matter where you shop. You are looking at spending about two thousand dollars. So if you are just a part-time fishing enthusiast it may not be the fish finder for you.
Fish finders have come a long way over the past thirty years. In the beginning most were simple sonar devices that gave distorted readings at best. Even the higher priced fish finders were not completely accurate and had a very limited range. Hardly enough range to give you time to get your fishing gear in the water. The Humminbird 997c SI Combo NVB Color Fish Finder is one of the newest fish finders on the market and does not suffer from this limitation.
Offering 180 degrees of coverage and able to monitor to a depth of 150 feet, this fish finder is at the top of its game. And well it should be for all of the technological advances that it offers. It is not just a fish finder. It is a fish slayer! The 997c comes with built in maps of rivers and lakes of the United States. It offers you GPS technology and a memory bank so you can input where you caught that trophy fish in case you want to go back to that exact same spot. And with its full color display you no longer have to distinguish the black and white shapes, as older models were often limited to showing. If you put it on the RAM mount, you can virtually see the fish finder from any position on your boat. That is pretty handy.
If there is one thing that is going to stop you from rushing out and buying a Humminbird 997c SI Combo NVB Color Fish Finder it is going to be the cost. You can find them in plenty of online sporting good stores or fishing stores but the price is about the same no matter where you shop. You are looking at spending about two thousand dollars. So if you are just a part-time fishing enthusiast it may not be the fish finder for you.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Portability With The Humminbird SmartCast RF 15 Portable Fishfinder
Bigger is not always necessarily better. Just look at how technology is shrinking. The reason is simple, as most people want to be able to take their luxury items with them on the go. Take a look at any tailgating party and you will see portable televisions, portable satellite systems and of course mobile phones. This portability trend has also made its way over into the fishing arena. Some people do not want to invest in a fish finder that they cannot take with them regardless of the water or lack of boat. That is why Humminbird has answered the portability call with the Humminbird SmartCast RF 15 Portable Fishfinder.
Do you want to know how simple and easy it is to use the Humminbird SmartCast RF 15 Portable Fishfinder? The whole fish finder is broken into two parts. You have the display and then you have this nifty gadget that looks like a neon duck. That neon duck is actually called the Remote Sonar Sensor. You cast it out into the water where you are fishing and it gives you back "below surface" information. It is that easy to use.
Once you have the Remote Sonar Sensor in place you are able to view the underwater terrain where you are fishing. It has a 100 feet range and can read up to depths of 100 feet, which is very impressive. The drawback may be that the display is not as advanced as some of the higher priced units that display terrain and fish in color. But considering you are only paying around $200, versus a few thousand, it is not that important. The only real problem you may have is if the sensor somehow becomes loose and you wind up having to fish for it instead of the catch of the day.
The Humminbird SmartCast RF 15 Portable Fishfinder is perfect for those on the go who do not want to be tethered to a boat or to have to lug around a more traditional fish finder. It is not for everyone and it is not marketed as such. It cannot plot your fishing course and it does not come pre-loaded with area maps. But it is rugged and it is for those who want to just pick up and go fishing wherever they want.
Do you want to know how simple and easy it is to use the Humminbird SmartCast RF 15 Portable Fishfinder? The whole fish finder is broken into two parts. You have the display and then you have this nifty gadget that looks like a neon duck. That neon duck is actually called the Remote Sonar Sensor. You cast it out into the water where you are fishing and it gives you back "below surface" information. It is that easy to use.
Once you have the Remote Sonar Sensor in place you are able to view the underwater terrain where you are fishing. It has a 100 feet range and can read up to depths of 100 feet, which is very impressive. The drawback may be that the display is not as advanced as some of the higher priced units that display terrain and fish in color. But considering you are only paying around $200, versus a few thousand, it is not that important. The only real problem you may have is if the sensor somehow becomes loose and you wind up having to fish for it instead of the catch of the day.
The Humminbird SmartCast RF 15 Portable Fishfinder is perfect for those on the go who do not want to be tethered to a boat or to have to lug around a more traditional fish finder. It is not for everyone and it is not marketed as such. It cannot plot your fishing course and it does not come pre-loaded with area maps. But it is rugged and it is for those who want to just pick up and go fishing wherever they want.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Getting Your Money's Worth: The Eagle Cuda 300 Fishfinder
Do you know what a fish finder should tell you? Well, it should definitely give you the depth of the water and the terrain or ground beneath your boat. It should also tell you the temperature of the water. These three things can be instrumental in helping you catch the right type of fish. But most fish finders on the market now offer more than just these three fundamental aspects. The Eagle Cuda 300 Fishfinder is one such fish finder. It covers the basics and gives you a little bit extra to help you land that catch.
The one thing you should not expect with the Eagle Cuda 300 Fishfinder is a 300 foot radius and depth sonar of several hundred feet. It is not designed for this. While it does give you the basics plus some additional features, it does not compete with the more extravagant fish finders you can find on the market. But it is the price and the capabilities that seem to have fishermen flocking to this fish finder.
One of the "extras" you get with the Eagle Cuda 300 is the ability to see the depth of the fish. That is important because when casting out your line and using weights you want to hit the right depth for the particular fish you are after. The terrain the Eagle Cuda 300 shows is pretty detailed considering it is a lower end model.
No, you will not be able to see that brush pile at the bottom of the lake that you could potentially get snagged on but it does show you a generalized terrain. The Eagle Cuda 300 also comes with a very handy feature. It allows you to view the screen even in bright sunlight. Many LCD screens are hard to read when light is shining on them so this is something you should keep in mind.
If you are into competitive fishing or deep sea fishing, then the Eagle Cuda 300 Fishfinder is not going to suit your needs. It does cover the basics and does give a great readout of the fish and terrain but it does have its limits. Plus when you consider that you can find it online for around $100 you know it is not going to be in the big leagues.
But for the recreational fisher it is a great beginner's fish finder to own. It gives you all of the basics plus a little bit extra and you get to save a lot of money.
The one thing you should not expect with the Eagle Cuda 300 Fishfinder is a 300 foot radius and depth sonar of several hundred feet. It is not designed for this. While it does give you the basics plus some additional features, it does not compete with the more extravagant fish finders you can find on the market. But it is the price and the capabilities that seem to have fishermen flocking to this fish finder.
One of the "extras" you get with the Eagle Cuda 300 is the ability to see the depth of the fish. That is important because when casting out your line and using weights you want to hit the right depth for the particular fish you are after. The terrain the Eagle Cuda 300 shows is pretty detailed considering it is a lower end model.
No, you will not be able to see that brush pile at the bottom of the lake that you could potentially get snagged on but it does show you a generalized terrain. The Eagle Cuda 300 also comes with a very handy feature. It allows you to view the screen even in bright sunlight. Many LCD screens are hard to read when light is shining on them so this is something you should keep in mind.
If you are into competitive fishing or deep sea fishing, then the Eagle Cuda 300 Fishfinder is not going to suit your needs. It does cover the basics and does give a great readout of the fish and terrain but it does have its limits. Plus when you consider that you can find it online for around $100 you know it is not going to be in the big leagues.
But for the recreational fisher it is a great beginner's fish finder to own. It gives you all of the basics plus a little bit extra and you get to save a lot of money.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Bass Pro's Eagle FishEasy 350C Color Compact Fishfinder
There are a lot of fish finders on the market. Most will give you a readout of the bottom terrain, the depth of the water and fish that come within view. So ultimately the final choice in picking a fish finder comes down to two things; price and the type of fishing you want to do. Deep sea fishermen need a more advanced fish finder than someone who fishes in lakes, rivers or streams. If you mainly target fishing on the latter three, then you need to check out the Eagle FishEasy 350C Color Compact Fishfinder.
If you happened to have purchased the previous model fish finder from Eagle, the 320C, then the new Eagle FishEasy 350C Color Compact Fishfinder is going to make you much happier. For starters it has a screen that has been enhanced so you can see it during daylight hours. Plus they upped the sonar range another 60 degrees so that gives you better coverage area. And to top it off they sealed it in a waterproof casing.
The 350C comes with a one year warranty which is a great thing. Many fish finders on the market these days come with a very limited warranty. And according to some customers at the Bass Pro Shops website, you may need to use that warranty. The chief complaint seems to be the transducer going out quite rapidly. But the good news is that you can easily exchange it for a replacement and do not have to worry about the exchange/returns department giving you a hard time. That in itself makes this something you should consider quite heavily. One fact you should consider when deciding whether or not to purchase this fish finder is how rugged it is and how it will adapt on your boat.
Though there are some complaints on the whole, most users are very happy with the new Eagle FishEasy 350C Color Compact Fishfinder. They like the new range and the fact that it can also handle higher boating speeds. You no longer have to go at a snail's pace and wait for the fish finder to refresh data. And though it is not the cheapest model around, you can pick one up at the Bass Pro Shops website for $219.00, which is very reasonable.
If you happened to have purchased the previous model fish finder from Eagle, the 320C, then the new Eagle FishEasy 350C Color Compact Fishfinder is going to make you much happier. For starters it has a screen that has been enhanced so you can see it during daylight hours. Plus they upped the sonar range another 60 degrees so that gives you better coverage area. And to top it off they sealed it in a waterproof casing.
The 350C comes with a one year warranty which is a great thing. Many fish finders on the market these days come with a very limited warranty. And according to some customers at the Bass Pro Shops website, you may need to use that warranty. The chief complaint seems to be the transducer going out quite rapidly. But the good news is that you can easily exchange it for a replacement and do not have to worry about the exchange/returns department giving you a hard time. That in itself makes this something you should consider quite heavily. One fact you should consider when deciding whether or not to purchase this fish finder is how rugged it is and how it will adapt on your boat.
Though there are some complaints on the whole, most users are very happy with the new Eagle FishEasy 350C Color Compact Fishfinder. They like the new range and the fact that it can also handle higher boating speeds. You no longer have to go at a snail's pace and wait for the fish finder to refresh data. And though it is not the cheapest model around, you can pick one up at the Bass Pro Shops website for $219.00, which is very reasonable.
Monday, January 17, 2011
Professional Use Only: Furuno FCV 295 10.4" Fish Finder
If you have not already figured it out, then you should know that you'll need more than a fishing pole in your hands to get the edge on a big catch. The thing that you have to figure out immediately is that fishing varies vastly between rivers, lakes, ponds and the sea. What works on one body of water often will not work on a different body of water. Deep sea fishermen who fish to earn a living or simply are serious about their hobby know this and know that the right fish finder is important. The Furuno FCV 295 10.4" Fish Finder
is a serious fish finder.
Professionals are best served by the Furuno FCV 295 10.4" Fish Finder because of its capabilities. The average person who only enjoys recreational fishing a couple times a year is not going to benefit from the advanced features of this fish finder. With its advanced sonar echo location it can easily track down a large school of tuna or cod for professionals who base their livelihood on the ocean or sea.
The 10.4" color screen on the Furuno allows you to see it in daylight, which is very important. Cheaper fish finders are often unreadable when light is shining directly on the screen. You do not have to worry about that with this model. It can also locate fish and respond back with the echo so you know the exact size of the fish and how large the school of fish is. That is extremely advantageous for professional fisherman looking to fill their tanks with a plentiful catch.
The Furuno also gives you the ability to vary your frequency between 28 and 200 kHz. You can also customize the colors of the echoes so you can differentiate between the different objects or animals that it picks up.
The Furuno FCV 295 10.4" Fish Finder is not for everyone. At a whopping $2,562.78 (with a 10% discount) at www.boatersworld.com, it is a very expensive fish finder to own. This is not feasible for the person fishing in a stream or lake. This is meant for serious professionals.
So if you are just fishing as a way to pass the time or for a hobby, then there are much cheaper fish finders on the market that will do a good job for your particular needs.
Professionals are best served by the Furuno FCV 295 10.4" Fish Finder because of its capabilities. The average person who only enjoys recreational fishing a couple times a year is not going to benefit from the advanced features of this fish finder. With its advanced sonar echo location it can easily track down a large school of tuna or cod for professionals who base their livelihood on the ocean or sea.
The 10.4" color screen on the Furuno allows you to see it in daylight, which is very important. Cheaper fish finders are often unreadable when light is shining directly on the screen. You do not have to worry about that with this model. It can also locate fish and respond back with the echo so you know the exact size of the fish and how large the school of fish is. That is extremely advantageous for professional fisherman looking to fill their tanks with a plentiful catch.
The Furuno also gives you the ability to vary your frequency between 28 and 200 kHz. You can also customize the colors of the echoes so you can differentiate between the different objects or animals that it picks up.
The Furuno FCV 295 10.4" Fish Finder
So if you are just fishing as a way to pass the time or for a hobby, then there are much cheaper fish finders on the market that will do a good job for your particular needs.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
The Advanced Lowrance HDS-10 Fishfinder/GPS Chartplotter
For a whopping $2,549.99 what would you expect from a fish finder? Chances are you would expect it to do everything besides casting your line and reeling in the fish. And surprisingly that is what you get with the new Lowrance HDS-10 Fishfinder/GPS Chartplotter. This is one of the top of the line models when it comes to fish finding and with all of the extras thrown in, you are sure to be the envy of your fishing friends when they can see what this fish finder can do.
Comparing the Lowrance HDS-10 Fishfinder/GPS Chartplotter to other fish finders on the market is akin to saying that all boats are alike. The fish finders of the past were black and white digital readouts of water terrain with the occasional fish like shape swimming into view. If you were lucky the fish finder would show the temperature of the water and at what depth the fish were staying at so you could cast your line or net accordingly.
This is simply not the case with the HDS-10. This fish finder comes pre-loaded with GPS maps of the surrounding area as seen from above and it also comes with information about the area where you are fishing. Plus you can keep track of where your best fishing has occurred thanks to its SD memory slots. If you are worried about being able to read the screen, then stop worrying because it has a 10.4" VGA color display that allows you to see it in the daylight or at night. And now as of May 15, 2009 it is completely compatible with Navionics, which means you can buy and download additional maps for wherever you are fishing.
There are some price variations for the Lowrance HDS-10 Fishfinder/GPS Chartplotter. It really comes down to the kilohertz and the type of base-map system you want. If you elect to go with the lower end model, then it just offers the enhanced US base-map for $2,299.99, yet you still get all of the great features of even the slightly higher priced models. All in all this is definitely a top of the line model that serious fishermen can really sink their teeth or hooks into.
Comparing the Lowrance HDS-10 Fishfinder/GPS Chartplotter to other fish finders on the market is akin to saying that all boats are alike. The fish finders of the past were black and white digital readouts of water terrain with the occasional fish like shape swimming into view. If you were lucky the fish finder would show the temperature of the water and at what depth the fish were staying at so you could cast your line or net accordingly.
This is simply not the case with the HDS-10. This fish finder comes pre-loaded with GPS maps of the surrounding area as seen from above and it also comes with information about the area where you are fishing. Plus you can keep track of where your best fishing has occurred thanks to its SD memory slots. If you are worried about being able to read the screen, then stop worrying because it has a 10.4" VGA color display that allows you to see it in the daylight or at night. And now as of May 15, 2009 it is completely compatible with Navionics, which means you can buy and download additional maps for wherever you are fishing.
There are some price variations for the Lowrance HDS-10 Fishfinder/GPS Chartplotter. It really comes down to the kilohertz and the type of base-map system you want. If you elect to go with the lower end model, then it just offers the enhanced US base-map for $2,299.99, yet you still get all of the great features of even the slightly higher priced models. All in all this is definitely a top of the line model that serious fishermen can really sink their teeth or hooks into.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Customer Dissatisfaction With The Humminbird SmartCast RF-35 Wrist Mount Fishfinder With RSS
Sometimes smaller is better when it comes to electronics. Think back to the first cell phones. They were huge bricks that required you to carry around a case for the battery! Today's shopper wants things that are easily portable and easy to use. They do not want huge, bulky items. That is the thought behind the Humminbird SmartCast RF-35 Wrist Mount Fishfinder with RSS. Though the name is a mouthful, the actual device is very small.
The Humminbird SmartCast RF-35 Wrist Mount Fishfinder with RSS is basically a watch that you wear along with a sonar buoy you cast out. The sonar buoy, which resembles a neon duck or a kid's bath toy, sends back readings of the water bed and all the fish within range. The range is 75 feet with a depth of up to 125 feet. All you have to do then is look at the watch. Sounds pretty great right? Well it really is not that great.
Unfortunately, the SmartCast RF-35 Wrist Mount Fishfinder falls to the bottom in user satisfaction. Every single user of this fish finder has had the same general complaint. It does not last and is not sturdy. One user even had trouble turning it off and could only do so by removing the battery. The solution by customer service was to remove the battery. That is not a big help considering each time the person did so, they would have to reprogram the watch. Others complained that the fish finder stopped working completely and that the six month warranty barely covered it. And if you are out of the six month warranty...forget about getting it replaced.
Though the Humminbird SmartCast RF-35 Wrist Mount Fishfinder with RSS is a technological marvel that seems to be something out of a James Bond movie, it simply is not worth the price of $100. It may not seem a lot to pay but there are other good fish finders on the market, although they may be bigger and bulkier, that can do the job for you without having to worry about it breaking or refusing to turn off. This is definitely one product you should avoid buying if you are in the market for a good fish finder.
The Humminbird SmartCast RF-35 Wrist Mount Fishfinder with RSS is basically a watch that you wear along with a sonar buoy you cast out. The sonar buoy, which resembles a neon duck or a kid's bath toy, sends back readings of the water bed and all the fish within range. The range is 75 feet with a depth of up to 125 feet. All you have to do then is look at the watch. Sounds pretty great right? Well it really is not that great.
Unfortunately, the SmartCast RF-35 Wrist Mount Fishfinder falls to the bottom in user satisfaction. Every single user of this fish finder has had the same general complaint. It does not last and is not sturdy. One user even had trouble turning it off and could only do so by removing the battery. The solution by customer service was to remove the battery. That is not a big help considering each time the person did so, they would have to reprogram the watch. Others complained that the fish finder stopped working completely and that the six month warranty barely covered it. And if you are out of the six month warranty...forget about getting it replaced.
Though the Humminbird SmartCast RF-35 Wrist Mount Fishfinder with RSS is a technological marvel that seems to be something out of a James Bond movie, it simply is not worth the price of $100. It may not seem a lot to pay but there are other good fish finders on the market, although they may be bigger and bulkier, that can do the job for you without having to worry about it breaking or refusing to turn off. This is definitely one product you should avoid buying if you are in the market for a good fish finder.
Friday, January 14, 2011
Easy of Use With Lowrance X96 Fishfinder
No matter what type of fishing you do there is a fish finder designed to help you out. But how do you choose from all of the fish finders on the internet? There are hundreds and hundreds of them. Even the same brand may have twenty or thirty different fish finders to compare. The easiest way to do a comparison is to think about what type of capabilities you need the fish finder to have. Then you can narrow down your choice from there. One fish finder you need to consider is the new Lowrance X96 Fishfinder.
One of the most important factors in deciding upon a fish finder is to find out the field of sonar it operates within. There are some on the market that can give you 180 degree range. Granted, the Lowrance X96 Fishfinder does not have that kind of range but it does compensate for it in other area. With a 60 degree view of the water, along with notification of the temperature of the water and the fact that it has a 16-level gray-scale definition, it does make it highly competitive. Plus the screen measures 5" diagonally, which is easy to read.
You can also have alarms set to go off when you reach a certain depth or certain size fish come within range. But to really understand if the X96 is for you, you need to look at reviews. The reviews on the X96 are all fairly positive and they come from Bass Pro Shop users so you know that many of them have checked out the competition. The most overwhelming response comes from users extremely happy about how easy it is to use this fish finder. Ultimately, ease of use will outweigh any other ability. If you cannot use the fish finder you buy, then what good is it?
The Lowrance X96 Fishfinder is a great investment for the average fisherman or woman. It does not cost a lot. In fact you can find it at Bass Pro Shops for $199.00, which is pretty reasonable. Yes, you can find some fish finders for less but they may not work as well or offer you as much range and versatility as the X96 does. It is a fair price to pay for a fish finder that really does seem to work and has other fishermen happy about the results. Just install it on your boat, turn it on and you are good to start fishing. Hopefully, it will land you that trophy fish you have always wanted.
One of the most important factors in deciding upon a fish finder is to find out the field of sonar it operates within. There are some on the market that can give you 180 degree range. Granted, the Lowrance X96 Fishfinder does not have that kind of range but it does compensate for it in other area. With a 60 degree view of the water, along with notification of the temperature of the water and the fact that it has a 16-level gray-scale definition, it does make it highly competitive. Plus the screen measures 5" diagonally, which is easy to read.
You can also have alarms set to go off when you reach a certain depth or certain size fish come within range. But to really understand if the X96 is for you, you need to look at reviews. The reviews on the X96 are all fairly positive and they come from Bass Pro Shop users so you know that many of them have checked out the competition. The most overwhelming response comes from users extremely happy about how easy it is to use this fish finder. Ultimately, ease of use will outweigh any other ability. If you cannot use the fish finder you buy, then what good is it?
The Lowrance X96 Fishfinder is a great investment for the average fisherman or woman. It does not cost a lot. In fact you can find it at Bass Pro Shops for $199.00, which is pretty reasonable. Yes, you can find some fish finders for less but they may not work as well or offer you as much range and versatility as the X96 does. It is a fair price to pay for a fish finder that really does seem to work and has other fishermen happy about the results. Just install it on your boat, turn it on and you are good to start fishing. Hopefully, it will land you that trophy fish you have always wanted.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Shopping For GPS Fish Finders
GPS fish finders combine innovative technology and ease-of-use operation to help you get the most out of your time on the water. Imagine a device that can locate fish and give you access to a mapping system and weather satellite, all with the touch of a button. With fish finders that have GPS capabilities, it is possible.
There are many high tech options available on the market that do everything but your laundry! With so many features to choose from, how do you know which model is for you? In this article, we'll look at how science has combined GPS with fish finder sonar technology to lend a hand to avid anglers.
When using GPS fish finders, a signal is emitted that communicates with the GPS satellite orbiting the earth. The satellite returns a signal to your fish finding device that produces a three dimensional image of the water beneath your boat.
Using this three dimensional image, the sonar will locate the fish and their images will also be displayed on the screen. As you troll over a body of water, the GPS / fish locator/ depth finder will constantly update details and images of the water underneath you so you can effectively determine if it is an area you want to try.
GPS fish finder combos have all kinds of high tech bells and whistles that can make choosing just one a tough task. Some of the factors that you should consider include the size of your boat, how much time you'll be spending on your fishing expeditions and what kind of waters will you be fishing in. You should also make a list of the design options and features you require.
Do you want a large, color display monitor? Do you want a GPS fish finder with extra memory so that you can keep track of your favorite spots? Once you know exactly what you want, you'll be less tempted to go overboard and buy an expensive device that you don't really need.
Part of owning a marine GPS device involves diligent maintenance. If you don't take good care of the system you could end up spending big bucks for replacement parts or a completely new system. When installing your marine GPS fish finder, try to settle on a permanent location that is easily accessible to you.
Most boaters choose to mount it near the driver's seat or steering wheel. It should be in a secure place where it can't be knocked over. To keep the unit from being damaged when not in use, store it securely in either a storage compartment or in a marine utility bag.
It's important to remember that water resistant doesn't mean waterproof. Most GPS fish finders are completely waterproof but the monitor can sustain serious damage if submerged for long periods of time. You can protect your monitor by leaving it in a place where it's unlikely that water will accumulate and by covering it when it's not in use.
You also need to handle the monitor with care when using the touch screen function. Avoid pressing on menu option buttons and screen selections with anything other than a light finger tip. To keep the monitor clean, use a lint free cotton cloth and a small amount of warm water. Avoid using any harsh cleaners, such as a window cleaner or fiberglass polish.
One of the most important features to consider is the monitor. Your device should be waterproof and have glare protection on the display so you can view it in direct sunlight. The image on the screen should be easily visible. Small and inexpensive fish finders will not produce nearly the same quality of picture as a higher-end model with full-color VGA display. Lowrance GPS finders have monitors in high definition!
There are many kinds of GPS fish finders on the market, ranging in price from approximately $300 to well over $1,000, so shop carefully for the perfect device for you.
There are many high tech options available on the market that do everything but your laundry! With so many features to choose from, how do you know which model is for you? In this article, we'll look at how science has combined GPS with fish finder sonar technology to lend a hand to avid anglers.
When using GPS fish finders, a signal is emitted that communicates with the GPS satellite orbiting the earth. The satellite returns a signal to your fish finding device that produces a three dimensional image of the water beneath your boat.
Using this three dimensional image, the sonar will locate the fish and their images will also be displayed on the screen. As you troll over a body of water, the GPS / fish locator/ depth finder will constantly update details and images of the water underneath you so you can effectively determine if it is an area you want to try.
GPS fish finder combos have all kinds of high tech bells and whistles that can make choosing just one a tough task. Some of the factors that you should consider include the size of your boat, how much time you'll be spending on your fishing expeditions and what kind of waters will you be fishing in. You should also make a list of the design options and features you require.
Do you want a large, color display monitor? Do you want a GPS fish finder with extra memory so that you can keep track of your favorite spots? Once you know exactly what you want, you'll be less tempted to go overboard and buy an expensive device that you don't really need.
Part of owning a marine GPS device involves diligent maintenance. If you don't take good care of the system you could end up spending big bucks for replacement parts or a completely new system. When installing your marine GPS fish finder, try to settle on a permanent location that is easily accessible to you.
Most boaters choose to mount it near the driver's seat or steering wheel. It should be in a secure place where it can't be knocked over. To keep the unit from being damaged when not in use, store it securely in either a storage compartment or in a marine utility bag.
It's important to remember that water resistant doesn't mean waterproof. Most GPS fish finders are completely waterproof but the monitor can sustain serious damage if submerged for long periods of time. You can protect your monitor by leaving it in a place where it's unlikely that water will accumulate and by covering it when it's not in use.
You also need to handle the monitor with care when using the touch screen function. Avoid pressing on menu option buttons and screen selections with anything other than a light finger tip. To keep the monitor clean, use a lint free cotton cloth and a small amount of warm water. Avoid using any harsh cleaners, such as a window cleaner or fiberglass polish.
One of the most important features to consider is the monitor. Your device should be waterproof and have glare protection on the display so you can view it in direct sunlight. The image on the screen should be easily visible. Small and inexpensive fish finders will not produce nearly the same quality of picture as a higher-end model with full-color VGA display. Lowrance GPS finders have monitors in high definition!
There are many kinds of GPS fish finders on the market, ranging in price from approximately $300 to well over $1,000, so shop carefully for the perfect device for you.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Finding The Perfect GPS Fish Finder
The GPS fish finder is an amazing piece of technology that can enhance the experiences of sportsmen who love the water. A marine GPS combo system can function as both a portable fish finder and a chart plotter. You can sit back and relax knowing that you are safe and that there are fish in the area. In this article, we'll look at how science has combined GPS with fish finder sonar technology to lend a hand to avid anglers.
The top of the line GPS fish finder combos are absolutely loaded with dozens of options to help you on your fishing expeditions. These first class fish finders can have sensors for GPS speed, water temperature, barometric pressure sensors, wireless sonar links and Gimbal mounts. Many units can be set up for either freshwater or salt water environments to ensure the best performance possible.
However, with so many options to choose from, how do you know what to buy and how much to spend? Before you begin to shop around, make a list of all the features that you require. Do you need a large screen? Perhaps you need an Ethernet connection. Or, will a less expensive unit with basic features satisfy your needs. Once you know exactly what you want, you'll be better prepared to compare devices and prices.
The Humminbird 383c GPS Fish Finder combo has a built-in nautical mile resolution UniMap of USA inland lakes, rivers and coastal areas. In addition, it includes many key features, such as an internal, 16 channel WAAS GPS receiver with omni-directional antenna for higher performance. This model gives accurate water temperature readings and can be designed for both fresh and saltwater environments.
One excellent feature is the ability to freeze frame immediately. This allows the user more time to examine the details on a chart. This model is also a good size for small boats and can be easily mounted. This model possesses the DualBeam PLUS sonar, which delivers wider, depth finder coverage of the bottom. It also makes the job of finding fish much easier with the built in adjustable zoom levels for display.
The Eagle FishElite 500c GPS Fish Finder is another popular choice. It has a high quality ultra bright and 256 color LCD screen. It also possesses a full size combo 200 kHz sonar and mapping GPS and WAAS, with 256-color, sunlight-viewable 320Vx240H pixel display. This high definition is great for minimizing glare and is a big bonus to those who may have bad eyesight.
Most importantly to anglers, this model can reveal fish hidden in underwater color. It also comes with an optional sensor and adjustable ping speed with automatic HyperScroll to show fish targets at higher boat speeds. This Eagle model is good, durable and easy to use. Its internal memory helps to store GPS data and sonar settings.
There are many choices of different GPS fish finders and other electronic navigation devices. The benefits of a GPS fish finder are twofold; it helps to find fish and assists in charting your journey. The fish finding function is more sophisticated than standard portable fish finders and the GPS feature is a must for any boater. A marine GPS is surprisingly easy to install and operate.
However, installation must be done carefully to ensure that the unit will work as it should. All you need to do is to read the manual and understand the signals that are shown on the GPS device. The interfaces are very user-friendly and most manufacturers provide extensive technical support.
Once you do your homework about the different devices available to you, you should be able to find the perfect system that will guarantee a great fishing expedition every time you head out on the water.
The top of the line GPS fish finder combos are absolutely loaded with dozens of options to help you on your fishing expeditions. These first class fish finders can have sensors for GPS speed, water temperature, barometric pressure sensors, wireless sonar links and Gimbal mounts. Many units can be set up for either freshwater or salt water environments to ensure the best performance possible.
However, with so many options to choose from, how do you know what to buy and how much to spend? Before you begin to shop around, make a list of all the features that you require. Do you need a large screen? Perhaps you need an Ethernet connection. Or, will a less expensive unit with basic features satisfy your needs. Once you know exactly what you want, you'll be better prepared to compare devices and prices.
The Humminbird 383c GPS Fish Finder combo has a built-in nautical mile resolution UniMap of USA inland lakes, rivers and coastal areas. In addition, it includes many key features, such as an internal, 16 channel WAAS GPS receiver with omni-directional antenna for higher performance. This model gives accurate water temperature readings and can be designed for both fresh and saltwater environments.
One excellent feature is the ability to freeze frame immediately. This allows the user more time to examine the details on a chart. This model is also a good size for small boats and can be easily mounted. This model possesses the DualBeam PLUS sonar, which delivers wider, depth finder coverage of the bottom. It also makes the job of finding fish much easier with the built in adjustable zoom levels for display.
The Eagle FishElite 500c GPS Fish Finder is another popular choice. It has a high quality ultra bright and 256 color LCD screen. It also possesses a full size combo 200 kHz sonar and mapping GPS and WAAS, with 256-color, sunlight-viewable 320Vx240H pixel display. This high definition is great for minimizing glare and is a big bonus to those who may have bad eyesight.
Most importantly to anglers, this model can reveal fish hidden in underwater color. It also comes with an optional sensor and adjustable ping speed with automatic HyperScroll to show fish targets at higher boat speeds. This Eagle model is good, durable and easy to use. Its internal memory helps to store GPS data and sonar settings.
There are many choices of different GPS fish finders and other electronic navigation devices. The benefits of a GPS fish finder are twofold; it helps to find fish and assists in charting your journey. The fish finding function is more sophisticated than standard portable fish finders and the GPS feature is a must for any boater. A marine GPS is surprisingly easy to install and operate.
However, installation must be done carefully to ensure that the unit will work as it should. All you need to do is to read the manual and understand the signals that are shown on the GPS device. The interfaces are very user-friendly and most manufacturers provide extensive technical support.
Once you do your homework about the different devices available to you, you should be able to find the perfect system that will guarantee a great fishing expedition every time you head out on the water.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Using Humminbird Fish Finders
A good fish locator can make all the difference when you're on the water. Instead of drifting and hoping for the best, these marvelous little devices allow you see beneath your boat using sonar technology. Humminbird fish finders are some of the most popular brands on the market. These affordable, lightweight devices can really make a difference in the number and size of the fish you catch. In this article, we'll look at how the Humminbird can work for you.
Some models of Humminbird fishfinders are small enough and light enough to be used in small watercraft like speedboats canoes, and even inflatable boats. The key to the effectiveness of a fish finder sonar device is the transducer housing. This is what emits the sonar signal in a cone shape and transmits the information back to the screen where you can see it. By bouncing a sonar signal, you'll be able to see fish, weeds and underwater structures.
The smaller Humminbird models have transducers attached to a suction cup that will adhere to any material. This fish finder uses a dual beam sonar. One beam is a 60 degree beam to find the fish and the other is a 20 degree beam to accurately display the bottom and structure.
Getting Humminbird fish finders ready to hit the water is as simple as drilling a few holes and connecting a few cables. Start by mounting your Humminbird device in a location that is easily accessible. Next, connect the electrical leads from the unit to the relay box of your boat. You must connect the power to a hot wire and the ground to your ground plate.
Alternately, you can connect the leads directly to the battery. Finally, secure the transducer to the bottom of the boat. This is normally done at the rear of the boat in an unobstructed spot. To prevent leakage from the drill holes, seal the transducer with silicone. All you have to do then is route the cable from the transducer to the input of the view screen.
Operating Humminbird fishfinders is as easy as pushing a button. After turning on the device, digital readings will appear on the screen. Depending on which model Humminbird you have, these could represent depth, water temperature and boat speed. The line across the bottom of the screen represents the floor of the lake, river or reservoir. The undulations on the screen mirror the terrain on the bottom. A thick, dark line represents a hard bottom, while a thin, light line indicates a soft bottom. Fish will appear as arches or fish icons.
Humminbird fish finders are very easy to use but you can refer to the manual if you do encounter any difficulties. You can also refer to the company's web site for technical support. This is also a good way to stay informed of all software updates for your product, keep track of warranty expiration dates, and find out about recalls. The site also immediately addresses common problems. Often, resetting the unit to its default programming will correct problems.
Humminbird fish finding devices are great, reliable products that you can count on. With a Humminbird, anglers will always have a leg up on those elusive fish.
Some models of Humminbird fishfinders are small enough and light enough to be used in small watercraft like speedboats canoes, and even inflatable boats. The key to the effectiveness of a fish finder sonar device is the transducer housing. This is what emits the sonar signal in a cone shape and transmits the information back to the screen where you can see it. By bouncing a sonar signal, you'll be able to see fish, weeds and underwater structures.
The smaller Humminbird models have transducers attached to a suction cup that will adhere to any material. This fish finder uses a dual beam sonar. One beam is a 60 degree beam to find the fish and the other is a 20 degree beam to accurately display the bottom and structure.
Getting Humminbird fish finders ready to hit the water is as simple as drilling a few holes and connecting a few cables. Start by mounting your Humminbird device in a location that is easily accessible. Next, connect the electrical leads from the unit to the relay box of your boat. You must connect the power to a hot wire and the ground to your ground plate.
Alternately, you can connect the leads directly to the battery. Finally, secure the transducer to the bottom of the boat. This is normally done at the rear of the boat in an unobstructed spot. To prevent leakage from the drill holes, seal the transducer with silicone. All you have to do then is route the cable from the transducer to the input of the view screen.
Operating Humminbird fishfinders is as easy as pushing a button. After turning on the device, digital readings will appear on the screen. Depending on which model Humminbird you have, these could represent depth, water temperature and boat speed. The line across the bottom of the screen represents the floor of the lake, river or reservoir. The undulations on the screen mirror the terrain on the bottom. A thick, dark line represents a hard bottom, while a thin, light line indicates a soft bottom. Fish will appear as arches or fish icons.
Humminbird fish finders are very easy to use but you can refer to the manual if you do encounter any difficulties. You can also refer to the company's web site for technical support. This is also a good way to stay informed of all software updates for your product, keep track of warranty expiration dates, and find out about recalls. The site also immediately addresses common problems. Often, resetting the unit to its default programming will correct problems.
Humminbird fish finding devices are great, reliable products that you can count on. With a Humminbird, anglers will always have a leg up on those elusive fish.
Monday, January 10, 2011
Using Your Humminbird Fish Finder
Fish finders have become so advanced and so affordable that every sport fisherman can own one. Using sonar signals, these depth finders give you a view under your boat so that you can locate fish easily, instead of having to guess where they might be. One of the most popular fish locators on the market today is the Humminbird fish finder. It is compact, and the durable design makes it ideal for small boats. In this article, we'll tell you how this great tool takes the guesswork out of finding a great fishing spot.
Humminbird produces ten different lines of electronic fish finders, each having several models within a line. The devices are made from sturdy, durable hard plastic that provides maximum protection from the elements and any possible damage that may occur on the water. Some lines of Hummingbird fish finders have stretch neoprene covers available to protect them from water damage. There are protective cases designed to cover the mounting assembly of the unit as well.
The Humminbird finder is small enough to be used on speedboats, canoes and even inflatable boats, as the suction cup transducer will work with any material. This fish finder uses dual beam, fish finder sonar. One beam is a 60 degree beam to find the fish and the other is a 20 degree beam to accurately display the bottom and structure. This allows you to see if fish are hiding among weeds or in a concave on the floor of the water.
One key decision you need to make before purchasing a higher end Humminbird fish finder is how and where you are going to mount it. Most fish finders will come with a standard mounting bracket and transom mounting transducers. This is the least expensive way to mount your Hummingbird fish finder. Ideally, it should be mounted somewhere convenient and accessible, like near the steering wheel.
The transducer, a key element in your system, is mounted on the transom in a spot where it will be submerged both at low speeds and high speeds. If your boat has a ladder, then mount it on the opposite side of the boat to avoid entanglement and possible damage to the transducer.
After turning on the fish finder, look at the digital readings that appear on the screen. Depending on the Humminbird fishfinder model you have, these could be depth, water temperature and boat speed readings. These readings are based on the location of the transducer that sends sonar signals from the water to the fish finder. The line across the bottom of the screen is the floor of the lake, river or reservoir.
The undulations on the screen mirror the terrain on the bottom. A thick, dark line represents a hard bottom, while a thin, light line indicates a soft bottom. Lines or other objects that extend up from the bottom likely are submerged timber, rocks or vegetation. Arches on the screen represent fish. On some models, you will see fish icons. The icons vary in size depending on the size of the fish. However, the device can sometimes mistake debris for fish.
Once your Humminbird fish finder is installed, you will need to program the settings. Choosing the "Normal" operation mode uses factory set defaults that allow some control over the settings. This mode allows you to quickly use the unit's sonar functions without making in-depth setting changes.
For more options, press the "View" button while in "Normal" mode to cycle through the different sonar modes. There are seven different options on this menu, from standard sonar all the way to side-looking sonar. Use the "Menu" option when you encounter factory default settings that are not accurate.
The Humminbird is definitely one of the easiest fish finders to use, and now that you've had fish finders explained, you will find one of these devices to be a handy tool to have onboard.
Humminbird produces ten different lines of electronic fish finders, each having several models within a line. The devices are made from sturdy, durable hard plastic that provides maximum protection from the elements and any possible damage that may occur on the water. Some lines of Hummingbird fish finders have stretch neoprene covers available to protect them from water damage. There are protective cases designed to cover the mounting assembly of the unit as well.
The Humminbird finder is small enough to be used on speedboats, canoes and even inflatable boats, as the suction cup transducer will work with any material. This fish finder uses dual beam, fish finder sonar. One beam is a 60 degree beam to find the fish and the other is a 20 degree beam to accurately display the bottom and structure. This allows you to see if fish are hiding among weeds or in a concave on the floor of the water.
One key decision you need to make before purchasing a higher end Humminbird fish finder is how and where you are going to mount it. Most fish finders will come with a standard mounting bracket and transom mounting transducers. This is the least expensive way to mount your Hummingbird fish finder. Ideally, it should be mounted somewhere convenient and accessible, like near the steering wheel.
The transducer, a key element in your system, is mounted on the transom in a spot where it will be submerged both at low speeds and high speeds. If your boat has a ladder, then mount it on the opposite side of the boat to avoid entanglement and possible damage to the transducer.
After turning on the fish finder, look at the digital readings that appear on the screen. Depending on the Humminbird fishfinder model you have, these could be depth, water temperature and boat speed readings. These readings are based on the location of the transducer that sends sonar signals from the water to the fish finder. The line across the bottom of the screen is the floor of the lake, river or reservoir.
The undulations on the screen mirror the terrain on the bottom. A thick, dark line represents a hard bottom, while a thin, light line indicates a soft bottom. Lines or other objects that extend up from the bottom likely are submerged timber, rocks or vegetation. Arches on the screen represent fish. On some models, you will see fish icons. The icons vary in size depending on the size of the fish. However, the device can sometimes mistake debris for fish.
Once your Humminbird fish finder is installed, you will need to program the settings. Choosing the "Normal" operation mode uses factory set defaults that allow some control over the settings. This mode allows you to quickly use the unit's sonar functions without making in-depth setting changes.
For more options, press the "View" button while in "Normal" mode to cycle through the different sonar modes. There are seven different options on this menu, from standard sonar all the way to side-looking sonar. Use the "Menu" option when you encounter factory default settings that are not accurate.
The Humminbird is definitely one of the easiest fish finders to use, and now that you've had fish finders explained, you will find one of these devices to be a handy tool to have onboard.
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Exploring The Lowrance Fish Finder
If you're fed up with catching small fry or going home empty handed after a day on the water, then it may be time to add a fish finder to your fishing gear. The Lowrance fish finder has become a popular model because of its simplicity and reputation for being able to take a beating. In this article, we'll look at how this model of electronic fish finder can help you get a better catch every time you're out on the water.
One of the biggest benefits of the Lowrance finder is ease of use. In fact, they have been nominated for best picture, performance and value in 2010. There are a variety of models available to suit the needs of any angler. You can get a fish finder with a monochrome screen, dual-frequency 50/200 kHz sonar with up to 2500 feet of depth penetration, which is designed for salt water or down-rigger tracking.
If you're really serious about your sport fishing and want a higher end model, then check out Lowrance's Legacy line of products. The devices come with high resolution color monitors and dual-frequency, fish finder sonar with 4000 watts of peak-to-peak power.
If you are considering purchasing a Lowrance fish finder or one of the other electronic fish finders on the market, then the transducer should be your main concern. A transducer's cone angle determines its coverage area. The wider the cone angle is, the greater the area that will be covered. Lowrance offers a variety of 200 kHz transducers with either a wide (20°) or narrow (12°) cone angle. The 50 kHz transducers come with a 35° cone angle.
The dual-frequency transducers come with both a narrow (12°) 200 kHz and a wide (35°) 50 kHz cone angles. And the dual-search transducers come with both a narrow (12°) 200 kHz and a wide (35°) 83 kHz cone angles. Generally, anglers should use a wide cone angle for fishing shallow to medium depths. The narrow cone penetrates to deeper depths, but shows less fish and structure due to its narrow beam.
Installing your transducer correctly is critical to the operation of your device. Most of the Lowrance permanent-mount transducers are designed for high-speed operations. For the best results, the transducer should be placed where a smooth, undisturbed flow of water will pass across the face of the transducer at all boat speeds.
Make certain that the chosen location doesn't interfere with the boat's trailer. Read your owner's manual carefully before installing the transducer! If you do have problems, Lowrance offers an excellent technical support system and self service. A plastic transducer is recommended on aluminum or steel-hulled boats to avoid potential electrolysis problems.
If you're a novice with fish finders, then the Lowrance fish finder is a good choice because the menus are easy to understand and the device does not require a great deal of programming. Once you have the device programmed to your liking, you can save the settings so that you don't have to start all over again. Another big selling point is price.
Lowrance products are very competitively priced and have a solid reputation. Before you make a purchase, go online to read customer reviews and have a look at some of the competitors, such as Garmin and Raymarine fish finders. You'll find that Lowrance can hold its own in this niche market.
One of the biggest benefits of the Lowrance finder is ease of use. In fact, they have been nominated for best picture, performance and value in 2010. There are a variety of models available to suit the needs of any angler. You can get a fish finder with a monochrome screen, dual-frequency 50/200 kHz sonar with up to 2500 feet of depth penetration, which is designed for salt water or down-rigger tracking.
If you're really serious about your sport fishing and want a higher end model, then check out Lowrance's Legacy line of products. The devices come with high resolution color monitors and dual-frequency, fish finder sonar with 4000 watts of peak-to-peak power.
If you are considering purchasing a Lowrance fish finder or one of the other electronic fish finders on the market, then the transducer should be your main concern. A transducer's cone angle determines its coverage area. The wider the cone angle is, the greater the area that will be covered. Lowrance offers a variety of 200 kHz transducers with either a wide (20°) or narrow (12°) cone angle. The 50 kHz transducers come with a 35° cone angle.
The dual-frequency transducers come with both a narrow (12°) 200 kHz and a wide (35°) 50 kHz cone angles. And the dual-search transducers come with both a narrow (12°) 200 kHz and a wide (35°) 83 kHz cone angles. Generally, anglers should use a wide cone angle for fishing shallow to medium depths. The narrow cone penetrates to deeper depths, but shows less fish and structure due to its narrow beam.
Installing your transducer correctly is critical to the operation of your device. Most of the Lowrance permanent-mount transducers are designed for high-speed operations. For the best results, the transducer should be placed where a smooth, undisturbed flow of water will pass across the face of the transducer at all boat speeds.
Make certain that the chosen location doesn't interfere with the boat's trailer. Read your owner's manual carefully before installing the transducer! If you do have problems, Lowrance offers an excellent technical support system and self service. A plastic transducer is recommended on aluminum or steel-hulled boats to avoid potential electrolysis problems.
If you're a novice with fish finders, then the Lowrance fish finder is a good choice because the menus are easy to understand and the device does not require a great deal of programming. Once you have the device programmed to your liking, you can save the settings so that you don't have to start all over again. Another big selling point is price.
Lowrance products are very competitively priced and have a solid reputation. Before you make a purchase, go online to read customer reviews and have a look at some of the competitors, such as Garmin and Raymarine fish finders. You'll find that Lowrance can hold its own in this niche market.
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Choosing The Eagle Fish Finder
Nothing is more heartbreaking to a fisherman than going home empty handed. Instead of leaving your haul to chance, consider including a fish finder with your fishing gear. These fish locators scan the water to help you find schools of fish that are feeding so that you never go home without a great catch again. Among the most popular choices is the Eagle fish finder. This sturdy, lightweight piece of equipment can help you hook the greatest catch of your life. In this article, we'll review this great fishing tool and help you decide if it's the right fish finder for you.
There are several different models of the Eagle fish finder and all are very easy to use and are affordable. Because of its size and lightweight design this fish finder can be used on small watercraft like kayaks, canoes or even or float tubes. The transducer, the working part of the fish locator, mounts onto the craft using a suction cup.
Due to its sturdy and waterproof casing, this portable fish finder can be used in both freshwater and harsh saltwater environments. Another big benefit of this device is the design of the screen. It's bright and readable - even in direct sunlight. The Eagle ranges in price from approximately $100-$500 and comes with a 1-year manufactures warranty.
Like the Garmin fishfinders, the Humminbird fishfinders and the Lowrance fishfinders, the Eagle fish finder depends on the transducer for its effectiveness. The transducer emits the sonar signal that detects fish, weeds and underwater structures beneath your boat.
The signal bounces back to the boat and is read on the screen. With its 20 degree cone angle transducer mounting, the Eagle offers up to 60 degrees of fish detection and also has a high sensitivity setting to allow you to locate more fish.
One of the Eagle's biggest selling points is ease of use. Once you have arrived at a potential fishing site, turn on your fish locator. The device will display the depth and water temperature to approximately 600 feet in the corner of the screen.
The sonar chart will scroll and display what's directly beneath the boat as you drift or troll for schools of fish. By using the menu options you can adjust the sensitivity of the device. The fish will show as a straight line when you are stopped.
As good as the Eagle fish finder is, no device is foolproof. To get the most out of your fish locator, you must determine which frequency to use. One rule of thumb is to use the 83 kHz option in very deep saltwater and the 200 kHz option in shallow water up to about 300 feet. The 200 kHz frequency gives better detail and definition, but its depth penetration isn't as good.
The sonar can be fooled, so watch for false readings if you use the fish display option--often called Fish ID--instead of the actual fish echoes. Fish ID displays symbols on the screen.
For example, a small fish symbol will appear when the device "thinks" the target is a small fish, a medium icon when it "thinks" it has hit a medium fish etc. In spite of this, the Eagle is still a great device that will definitely improve your game.
There are several different models of the Eagle fish finder and all are very easy to use and are affordable. Because of its size and lightweight design this fish finder can be used on small watercraft like kayaks, canoes or even or float tubes. The transducer, the working part of the fish locator, mounts onto the craft using a suction cup.
Due to its sturdy and waterproof casing, this portable fish finder can be used in both freshwater and harsh saltwater environments. Another big benefit of this device is the design of the screen. It's bright and readable - even in direct sunlight. The Eagle ranges in price from approximately $100-$500 and comes with a 1-year manufactures warranty.
Like the Garmin fishfinders, the Humminbird fishfinders and the Lowrance fishfinders, the Eagle fish finder depends on the transducer for its effectiveness. The transducer emits the sonar signal that detects fish, weeds and underwater structures beneath your boat.
The signal bounces back to the boat and is read on the screen. With its 20 degree cone angle transducer mounting, the Eagle offers up to 60 degrees of fish detection and also has a high sensitivity setting to allow you to locate more fish.
One of the Eagle's biggest selling points is ease of use. Once you have arrived at a potential fishing site, turn on your fish locator. The device will display the depth and water temperature to approximately 600 feet in the corner of the screen.
The sonar chart will scroll and display what's directly beneath the boat as you drift or troll for schools of fish. By using the menu options you can adjust the sensitivity of the device. The fish will show as a straight line when you are stopped.
As good as the Eagle fish finder is, no device is foolproof. To get the most out of your fish locator, you must determine which frequency to use. One rule of thumb is to use the 83 kHz option in very deep saltwater and the 200 kHz option in shallow water up to about 300 feet. The 200 kHz frequency gives better detail and definition, but its depth penetration isn't as good.
The sonar can be fooled, so watch for false readings if you use the fish display option--often called Fish ID--instead of the actual fish echoes. Fish ID displays symbols on the screen.
For example, a small fish symbol will appear when the device "thinks" the target is a small fish, a medium icon when it "thinks" it has hit a medium fish etc. In spite of this, the Eagle is still a great device that will definitely improve your game.
Friday, January 7, 2011
How Eagle Fish Finders Work
Fish finders aren't just for big commercial fishing boats anymore. Anglers everywhere can use these sonar devices to take the guesswork out of finding great fishing spots. Regardless of your environment, a locating device is a helpful piece of equipment to include with your fishing gear. Eagle fish finders have snagged a great reputation among sport fishermen because of device design and accuracy. It's ideal for small boats and is affordable. In this article, we'll weigh the pros and cons of the Eagle and help you decide if it's the right fish finder for you.
Eagle fish locators come in a variety of models, all of which are very easy to use and are reasonably priced. The design of the units is ideal for small boats, kayaks, canoes and even floating tubes. As with all electronic fish finders, the transducer is the working element. The Eagle's transducer has a suction cup mount that easily attaches to your boat. One of the most popular features is the large, bright screen that makes it easy to read the charts. The various models range in price from approximately $100-$500 and come with a 1-year manufacturer's warranty.
Essentially, fish locators are your eyes in the water. Like other brands, such as Garmin and Humminbird fishfinders, the Eagle fish finders work by sending a sonar signal into the water beneath your boat. The transducer emits the sonar signal in a coned shape that detects fish, weeds and underwater structures. The signal bounces back or 'echoes' to the boat and is read on the screen as a chart with easy to read symbols. With its 20 degree cone angle transducer mounting, the Eagle offers up to 60 degrees of fish detection and also has a high sensitivity setting to allow you to locate more fish.
One of the most attractive features of the Eagle finders is the simple operating mechanism. Anyone can use it. Once you find a fishing spot that you think might be a winner, turn on your device and evaluate the depth and water temperature. The information will be accurate to approximately 600 feet and will appear in the corner of the screen. The sonar chart will scroll and display what's directly beneath the boat as you drift or troll. By using the menu options you can adjust the sensitivity of the device. The fish will show as a straight line when you are stationary.
Eagle fish finders are known for their accuracy up to 600 feet, but sometimes branches and other debris can result in a false reading. To get the most out of your fish locator, you must determine which frequency to use. Generally, it's best to use 83 kHz option in very deep saltwater and the 200 kHz option in shallow water up to about 300 feet. The 200 kHz frequency gives better detail and definition, but its depth penetration isn't as good.
Fish locators are great tools but no piece of technology is a substitute for instinct. If you feel that your trophy catch is hiding in a certain spot, go ahead and hit it with everything you've got! As every avid angler knows, there's nothing like the thrill of a great catch.
Eagle fish locators come in a variety of models, all of which are very easy to use and are reasonably priced. The design of the units is ideal for small boats, kayaks, canoes and even floating tubes. As with all electronic fish finders, the transducer is the working element. The Eagle's transducer has a suction cup mount that easily attaches to your boat. One of the most popular features is the large, bright screen that makes it easy to read the charts. The various models range in price from approximately $100-$500 and come with a 1-year manufacturer's warranty.
Essentially, fish locators are your eyes in the water. Like other brands, such as Garmin and Humminbird fishfinders, the Eagle fish finders work by sending a sonar signal into the water beneath your boat. The transducer emits the sonar signal in a coned shape that detects fish, weeds and underwater structures. The signal bounces back or 'echoes' to the boat and is read on the screen as a chart with easy to read symbols. With its 20 degree cone angle transducer mounting, the Eagle offers up to 60 degrees of fish detection and also has a high sensitivity setting to allow you to locate more fish.
One of the most attractive features of the Eagle finders is the simple operating mechanism. Anyone can use it. Once you find a fishing spot that you think might be a winner, turn on your device and evaluate the depth and water temperature. The information will be accurate to approximately 600 feet and will appear in the corner of the screen. The sonar chart will scroll and display what's directly beneath the boat as you drift or troll. By using the menu options you can adjust the sensitivity of the device. The fish will show as a straight line when you are stationary.
Eagle fish finders are known for their accuracy up to 600 feet, but sometimes branches and other debris can result in a false reading. To get the most out of your fish locator, you must determine which frequency to use. Generally, it's best to use 83 kHz option in very deep saltwater and the 200 kHz option in shallow water up to about 300 feet. The 200 kHz frequency gives better detail and definition, but its depth penetration isn't as good.
Fish locators are great tools but no piece of technology is a substitute for instinct. If you feel that your trophy catch is hiding in a certain spot, go ahead and hit it with everything you've got! As every avid angler knows, there's nothing like the thrill of a great catch.
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Choosing A Portable Fish Finder
Every fisher has been there; going from spot to spot looking for a bite only to go home empty handed. It's a frustrating feeling to say the least. However, technology has become every fisherman's best friend. A portable fish finder can help you find your next catch by being your eyes UNDER your boat. In this article, we'll explain how this handy piece of fishing gear works and how to choose one suited to your needs and budget.
Portable fish finders are an incredible piece of equipment that can actually help you find fish if used properly. Before the invention of this piece of technology, fishers used a depth finder that only indicated the depth underneath the boat. There was no precise screen showing the presence of schools of fish. Consequently, depth finders were of little use to commercial fisherman. Next there were the sounders with printed graphs rolls that were very accurate if used properly. However, the real breakthrough was the advent of the LCD (liquid crystal display) sounder that showed both bottom contours and fish. Today there is a wide variety of these LCD fish finders.
Picking the right portable fish finder can be difficult because the market pricing is very competitive and products are being updated all the time. Top of the line models can cost more than the average dinghy, yet basic units can be quite affordable and cost as little as $300 from a discount fish finder store. The technology has come a long way since electronic fish finders first appeared on the market. Modern finders are slimmer, lighter and more menu-driven than their predecessors. The display units have both black and white or color display screens and the screens come in a variety of sizes. The bigger screens are better suited to larger fishing boats where they can be kept out of the sun and weather. These are ideal for commercial fishing trawlers.
A portable fish finder is dependant on its transducer housing. This housing contains a man-made crystal called a piezoelectric device. When it receives a signal from the unit it converts it into a mechanical sound wave that is sent down to the bottom below the boat. When this wave encounters an object it rebounds - creating an echo. This echo is bounced from the bottom and back to the transducer, where it's decoded and sent to the display unit as incoming signals. These sound waves not only bounce from the bottom but from any object encountered between the transducer and the bottom. This includes fish, schools of bait, weeds and underwater structures. This sounding process is continuous, even when the boat is moving. As the moving sound wave travels forward, the signals of everything it encounters are sent back as amazingly clear pictures.
Proper installation and maintenance are key to keeping your portable fish finder in working order. It should be in a convenient place that is out of direct sunlight and rain. A fish locator will be waterproof but prolonged exposure to sun and water will shrink and decay the neoprene casing. You should also make sure that the monitor is well placed. The pixels that make up the image can appear blurry if the angle isn't correct. If you don't have good vision, then you might want to spend a little more on a screen with a higher resolution. By doing your homework and making good choices when shopping, you'll definitely notice a marked volume in your catches.
Portable fish finders are an incredible piece of equipment that can actually help you find fish if used properly. Before the invention of this piece of technology, fishers used a depth finder that only indicated the depth underneath the boat. There was no precise screen showing the presence of schools of fish. Consequently, depth finders were of little use to commercial fisherman. Next there were the sounders with printed graphs rolls that were very accurate if used properly. However, the real breakthrough was the advent of the LCD (liquid crystal display) sounder that showed both bottom contours and fish. Today there is a wide variety of these LCD fish finders.
Picking the right portable fish finder can be difficult because the market pricing is very competitive and products are being updated all the time. Top of the line models can cost more than the average dinghy, yet basic units can be quite affordable and cost as little as $300 from a discount fish finder store. The technology has come a long way since electronic fish finders first appeared on the market. Modern finders are slimmer, lighter and more menu-driven than their predecessors. The display units have both black and white or color display screens and the screens come in a variety of sizes. The bigger screens are better suited to larger fishing boats where they can be kept out of the sun and weather. These are ideal for commercial fishing trawlers.
A portable fish finder is dependant on its transducer housing. This housing contains a man-made crystal called a piezoelectric device. When it receives a signal from the unit it converts it into a mechanical sound wave that is sent down to the bottom below the boat. When this wave encounters an object it rebounds - creating an echo. This echo is bounced from the bottom and back to the transducer, where it's decoded and sent to the display unit as incoming signals. These sound waves not only bounce from the bottom but from any object encountered between the transducer and the bottom. This includes fish, schools of bait, weeds and underwater structures. This sounding process is continuous, even when the boat is moving. As the moving sound wave travels forward, the signals of everything it encounters are sent back as amazingly clear pictures.
Proper installation and maintenance are key to keeping your portable fish finder in working order. It should be in a convenient place that is out of direct sunlight and rain. A fish locator will be waterproof but prolonged exposure to sun and water will shrink and decay the neoprene casing. You should also make sure that the monitor is well placed. The pixels that make up the image can appear blurry if the angle isn't correct. If you don't have good vision, then you might want to spend a little more on a screen with a higher resolution. By doing your homework and making good choices when shopping, you'll definitely notice a marked volume in your catches.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
The Technology of Lowrance Fish Finders
Fish finding technology has taken advantage of all the latest hardware and software developments. Even high definition technology has made it to fishing gear! Lowrance fish finders are at the forefront of these developing technologies and is passing on the benefits to their customers. These devices perform in all kinds of environments and can take a beating! With low to mid-range pricing, it's an affordable gadget for anglers who want to up their game. In this article, we'll look at how an electronic fish finder works and help you decide if it's right for you.
The Lowrance fishfinder is very easy to use. Start by mounting the unit on your boat using the mounting kit that came with the unit. The three most common places to mount fish finders are on the bow, stern or near the steering wheel. The device that actually sends a sonar signal into the water and relays information to the fish finder is the transducer. Some units come with transducers, while others require a separate purchase. Mount the transducer on the back of the boat so that it's underwater.
Finally, connect the transducer wire to the fish finder. The device can be operated either manually or automatically and will measure water depth, temperature, and the speed of the boat. On the Lowrance models, a flat line corresponds with a flat bottom. If the line slopes downward, the water is getting deeper. Conversely, if the line angles upward, the water is getting shallower. The icons that represent fish will be in the shape of fish or in the shape of a boomerang depending on which device you have.
The Lowrance fish finders provide anglers with information about the depth of the water, the contour and composition of the bottom, the water temperature and the presence of fish. Like with all fish finder sonar units, when properly used they give anglers information that can help in the pursuit of fish.
With all fish finders, the most important component is the transducer. To select the transducer that's best suited to your needs, you need to consider the transducer's operating frequency, cone angle and type of installation. Typically, high frequency sonar units provide the best resolution and definition of structure and targets. They excel at showing minute details of the underwater world.
Installing your transducer correctly is critical to the operation of your fish locator. Most of the Lowrance permanent-mount transducers are designed for high-speed operations. For the best results, the transducer should be placed where a smooth, undisturbed flow of water will pass across the face of the transducer at all boat speeds.
Make certain that the chosen location doesn't interfere with the boat's trailer. Read your owner's manual carefully before installing the transducer! If you do have problems, then Lowrance offers an excellent technical support system and self service. A plastic transducer is recommended on aluminum or steel-hulled boats to avoid potential electrolysis problems.
The technology of Lowrance fish finders is always moving forward. You can get constant satellite updates with a GPS receiver and there are electronic probes available with independent microprocessors that will feed back additional data to your monitor. The devices are also available with large screen monochrome monitors. Most of these models come with 200 kHz transducers and thermal scanners.
Of course, technology comes with a price, so be prudent about how much you're willing to spend. Once you have found a Lowrance device that fits your needs, it will be the best fishing buddy you've ever had.
The Lowrance fishfinder is very easy to use. Start by mounting the unit on your boat using the mounting kit that came with the unit. The three most common places to mount fish finders are on the bow, stern or near the steering wheel. The device that actually sends a sonar signal into the water and relays information to the fish finder is the transducer. Some units come with transducers, while others require a separate purchase. Mount the transducer on the back of the boat so that it's underwater.
Finally, connect the transducer wire to the fish finder. The device can be operated either manually or automatically and will measure water depth, temperature, and the speed of the boat. On the Lowrance models, a flat line corresponds with a flat bottom. If the line slopes downward, the water is getting deeper. Conversely, if the line angles upward, the water is getting shallower. The icons that represent fish will be in the shape of fish or in the shape of a boomerang depending on which device you have.
The Lowrance fish finders provide anglers with information about the depth of the water, the contour and composition of the bottom, the water temperature and the presence of fish. Like with all fish finder sonar units, when properly used they give anglers information that can help in the pursuit of fish.
With all fish finders, the most important component is the transducer. To select the transducer that's best suited to your needs, you need to consider the transducer's operating frequency, cone angle and type of installation. Typically, high frequency sonar units provide the best resolution and definition of structure and targets. They excel at showing minute details of the underwater world.
Installing your transducer correctly is critical to the operation of your fish locator. Most of the Lowrance permanent-mount transducers are designed for high-speed operations. For the best results, the transducer should be placed where a smooth, undisturbed flow of water will pass across the face of the transducer at all boat speeds.
Make certain that the chosen location doesn't interfere with the boat's trailer. Read your owner's manual carefully before installing the transducer! If you do have problems, then Lowrance offers an excellent technical support system and self service. A plastic transducer is recommended on aluminum or steel-hulled boats to avoid potential electrolysis problems.
The technology of Lowrance fish finders is always moving forward. You can get constant satellite updates with a GPS receiver and there are electronic probes available with independent microprocessors that will feed back additional data to your monitor. The devices are also available with large screen monochrome monitors. Most of these models come with 200 kHz transducers and thermal scanners.
Of course, technology comes with a price, so be prudent about how much you're willing to spend. Once you have found a Lowrance device that fits your needs, it will be the best fishing buddy you've ever had.
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