The Ultimate Guide to Using a Fish Finder [Part 2]
As an angler, you know there are a lot of variables that go into having a successful day on the water. But one thing that can make a big difference is using a quality fish finder.
In this article, I will guide you on How to Get The Most Out of Your Fish Finder. So let’s get started!
Fishfinders use sonar to detect fish in the water. They’re an invaluable tool for finding fish in deep water, in areas with a lot of structure, and for locating fish that are holding tight to the bottom.
Here are some tips for getting the most out of your fish finder:
1. Use the right transducer
There are a lot of different transducers on the market, but not all of them are ideal for every situation.
If you’re fishing in deep water, you’ll want a transducer that can send a strong signal down to depths of at least 200 feet.
In shallower water, a transducer with a shorter shaft will work just fine.
And if you’re fishing around a lot of structures, you may want to consider a transducer with a wide beam angle so you can see more of what’s going on around you.
2. Mount the transducer properly
If you don’t mount the transducer properly, you won’t get accurate readings. The transducer needs to be mounted in a place where it won’t get in the way of the boat’s hull or be obstructed by anything else on the boat.
It also needs to be mounted level so it doesn’t produce false readings. You can use a level to make sure the transducer is mounted correctly.
3. Use the right settings
Most fish finders have a few different settings you can adjust to get different results.
For example, you can adjust the sensitivity, which will affect how deep the sonar signal penetrates the water.
You can also adjust the power, which will affect how far the signal travels.
In general, you’ll want to use the highest settings possible without getting too much clutter on the screen.
4. Don’t be afraid to experiment
Don’t be afraid to experiment with the different settings on your fishfinder. You may find that a particular setting works better in certain conditions than others.
The only way to find out is to experiment and see what works best for you.
5. Learn to interpret the readings
It takes some practice to learn how to interpret the readings on a fish finder. The most important thing to look for is the fish icon.
This icon will appear whenever there’s a fish within the sonar beam. The icon will be small if the fish is far away, and it will be large if the fish is close.
You can also use the depth finder to help you determine how deep the fish are. In general, fish that are close to the bottom will appear on the screen as a series of small dots.
Fish that are suspended in the water column will appear as a series of large dots. And fish that are close to the surface will appear as a series of large and small dots.
By learning how to interpret the readings on your fish finder, you’ll be able to locate fish in the water.
6. Use the GPS
Most fish finders nowadays come with GPS built-in. This can be a valuable tool for finding fishing spots, marking your location, and even navigating back to your launch point.
7. Save your settings
Once you find a particular setting that works well for you, it’s a good idea to save it. That way, you can quickly recall it the next time you go out fishing.
8. Update the software
If your fish finder has a software update option, be sure to take advantage of it. Software updates can improve performance and add new features to your fishfinder.
9. Get a cover
When you’re not using your fish finder, it’s a good idea to keep it covered. This will protect it from the elements and keep it clean.
10. Take care of your battery
If your fish finder has a rechargeable battery, be sure to keep it charged. A fully-charged battery will last longer and perform better than one that’s only half-charged.
11. Store it properly
When you’re not using your fish finder, it’s best to store it in a cool, dry place. This will help to prolong the life of the battery and prevent corrosion.
12. Clean it regularly
It’s a good idea to clean your fish finder regularly. This will help to remove any build-up of salt, sand, or other debris.
13. Get the right accessories
There are a few accessories you’ll need to get the most out of your fish finder. These include a transducer, a power cord, and a mounting bracket.
14. Get training
If you’re new to using a fish finder, it’s a good idea to get some training. Many dealers offer training courses that will teach you how to use your fish finder properly.
15. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions
Be sure to read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. This will help you get the most out of your fish finder and prevent damage.
With these tips, you’ll be able to get the most out of your fish finder and have more success on the water.
You can watch this video to know more about it!
FAQs: People Also Asked
How fast can you go with a fish finder?
As it depends on a number of factors, such as the type of fish finder, the conditions of the water, and the skill of the user. However, in general, fish finders can be used to travel at speeds of up to around 30 knots (34 mph).
What frequency should I use on Fishfinder?
Depending on a number of factors, including the type of fish you are trying to find, the depth of the water, and the clarity of the water. However, a general rule of thumb is to use a higher frequency (e.g. 200 kHz) for shallow water and a lower frequency (e.g. 50 kHz) for deep water.
How deep can a fish finder go?
The average fish finder can detect depths of between 800 and 1,500 feet. However, there are some devices that are designed for deeper waters and can detect depths of up to 10,000 feet.
Final Verdict
A fish finder is a great tool for any fisherman, whether you are a beginner or a pro. By following the tips in this article, you can get the most out of your fish finder and increase your chances of success when fishing.