10 Best Fish Depth Finder 2025 in the United States

The Lowrance Elite FS 9 Fish Finder is a feature-rich device designed to enhance your fishing experience. One of its standout features is the Active Imaging 3-in-1 sonar, which combines CHIRP, SideScan, and DownScan capabilities to provide detailed images of underwater structures and fish. The device also supports ActiveTarget Live Sonar for real-time, high-resolution images of fish behavior.

The 9-inch multi-touch LCD screen offers high resolution and ease of use, making it simple to navigate and analyze data on the water. Additionally, the unit comes preloaded with C-MAP Contour+ charts, offering high-resolution contours of 8,900 U.S. lakes, which can be extremely helpful in identifying and navigating to fish-holding areas. The full networking capability, including wireless, NMEA 2000, and Ethernet connectivity, allows you to integrate the fish finder into a broader fishing system, sharing data across multiple displays or adding accessories like radar and outboard pilots.

This makes it a versatile option for serious anglers looking to build a comprehensive setup. On the downside, the unit is relatively bulky, with product dimensions of 16 x 14.07 x 5.54 inches and a weight of 4.53 kilograms, which might be a concern for those looking for a more portable solution. Additionally, while the device is highly capable, it might be overkill for casual fishermen who don’t need such advanced features. The 12 Volt DC power requirement is standard, but users need to ensure their boat’s electrical system is compatible.

The Garmin Striker 7SV is a solid choice for anglers looking for a comprehensive fish-depth-finder. It features a 7-inch screen with a resolution of 800 x 480 pixels, providing a clear and bright display that is readable even in sunlight. This makes it easy to see what's beneath your boat. The device comes equipped with a transducer that supports CHIRP traditional sonar, CHIRP ClearVü, and CHIRP SideVü scanning, offering a detailed view of the underwater environment. These advanced sonar technologies allow for precise fish detection and bottom structure interpretation, making it a powerful tool for serious fishers.

Additionally, the built-in GPS is a standout feature, enabling users to mark waypoints, create routes, and monitor the boat's speed. The Quickdraw Contours mapping software is another highlight, allowing users to create and store personalized maps of their favorite fishing spots. The Garmin Striker 7SV is also equipped with Wi-Fi, providing access to the ActiveCaptain app for smart notifications and easy software updates.

With a transmit power of 500 W (RMS) and a maximum depth measuring capability of 20 meters, it is suitable for both shallow and moderately deep waters. However, the device is not the most portable option, as it is more suited for permanent installation on a boat rather than for carrying around. Additionally, users who prefer touchscreens might find the button interface less convenient. Despite these minor drawbacks, this fish finder offers a robust set of features at a competitive price point, making it a valuable addition to any angler's toolkit.

The Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv is a user-friendly, 7-inch color fishfinder that stands out with its vivid scanning sonar color palettes, making it easier to distinguish fish and underwater structures. The included GT20 transducer supports both traditional CHIRP sonar and CHIRP ClearVü scanning sonar, providing detailed and clear images of what’s beneath your boat. The high-sensitivity GPS is a significant advantage, allowing you to mark waypoints, create routes, and track your boat’s speed, adding to its navigational capabilities.

The Quickdraw Contours mapping feature is handy for creating personalized fishing maps, giving you a better understanding of your fishing environment. Additionally, the built-in Wi-Fi connectivity enables you to connect to the ActiveCaptain app, facilitating waypoint transfer, smart notifications, and access to the Garmin Quickdraw Community for shared maps and updates.

While the screen size of 7 inches might feel small for some users who prefer larger displays for better visibility, the product is relatively lightweight at 4.4 pounds, adding to its portability. However, the surface mount type may limit flexibility in installation for some users. The LCD display type is durable, though it may not offer the best visibility in direct sunlight. The device is powered by a battery, so ensuring a reliable power source is essential for extended use. The Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv is a robust and versatile fishfinder, well-suited for both casual and serious anglers looking for a combination of ease-of-use, detailed sonar imaging, and navigational support.