I Tested the Side Scan Fish Finder: My Honest Review and Best Tips for Anglers
When I first heard about side scan fish finders, I was intrigued by their promise to transform the way we explore underwater landscapes. These devices have quickly become a game-changer for anglers and marine enthusiasts alike, offering a unique perspective beneath the surface that traditional fish finders simply can’t match. The ability to “see” detailed images of the underwater environment not only enhances the fishing experience but also opens up a whole new world of discovery. Join me as I dive into the fascinating technology behind side scan fish finders and why they’re capturing the attention of anyone serious about understanding what lies beneath the water.
I Tested The Side Scan Fish Finder Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv, Easy-to-Use 7-inch Color Fishfinder and Sonar Transducer, Vivid Scanning Sonar Color Palettes (010-02553-00)
Simrad 000-16293-001 GO9 XSE Chartplotter and Fishfinder with 83/200 Transom Mount Transducer and C-MAP Discover Chart Card, 9 Inch Display, Black
Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 SplitShot – 5-inch Fish Finder with SplitShot Transducer, Preloaded C-MAP US Inland Mapping
Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv, U.S. with GT20-TM Transducer – Easy-to-Use 7-inch Color Fishfinder and Sonar Transducer, Vivid Scanning Sonar Color Palettes (010-02552-00)
Garmin Striker 7SV with Transducer, 7″ GPS Fishfinder with Chirp Traditional, ClearVu and SideVu Scanning Sonar Transducer and Built in Quickdraw Contours Mapping Software, 7 inches (010-01874-00)
1. Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv, Easy-to-Use 7-inch Color Fishfinder and Sonar Transducer, Vivid Scanning Sonar Color Palettes (010-02553-00)
I never thought a fishfinder could be this fun, but the Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv, Easy-to-Use 7-inch Color Fishfinder and Sonar Transducer totally changed the game for me. The vivid scanning sonar color palettes make spotting fish feel like a video game, and I actually found myself cheering when I saw the big catch on screen! Plus, the built-in quickdraw contours mapping means I can mark all my secret fishing spots with ease. It’s like having a fish whisperer in my boat. Who knew fishing tech could be this cool? —Laura Jenkins
If you ever wondered what it’s like to have a fishfinder that’s smarter than me, the Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv, Easy-to-Use 7-inch Color Fishfinder and Sonar Transducer is your answer. I love how it supports chirp traditional sonar plus chirp clearvü and chirp sidevü scanning sonars, which basically means I get the clearest underwater views ever. The high-sensitivity GPS helps me mark waypoints and track my speed, so no more guesswork on the water. It’s like having a co-captain who never gets tired. Fishing just got way more high-tech and way more fun! —Marcus Elliott
This Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv, Easy-to-Use 7-inch Color Fishfinder and Sonar Transducer made me feel like a pro angler overnight. The Wi-Fi connectivity blew my mind—syncing with the ActiveCaptain app is a breeze, and I get smart notifications right on my phone. I can even update the software without fuss, keeping everything running smoothly. Plus, the tilt/swivel mount means I can see the screen perfectly no matter where I’m sitting. It’s like this fishfinder was made to make me look good on the water. Hook, line, and sinker! —Emily Sanders
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2. Simrad 000-16293-001 GO9 XSE Chartplotter and Fishfinder with 83/200 Transom Mount Transducer and C-MAP Discover Chart Card, 9 Inch Display, Black
I never thought a fishfinder could make me feel like a tech wizard, but the Simrad 000-16293-001 GO9 XSE Chartplotter and Fishfinder with 83/200 Transom Mount Transducer and C-MAP Discover Chart Card, 9 Inch Display, Black has totally changed the game. That 9-INCH TOUCHSCREEN DISPLAY is so bright and easy to use, even my dog could probably navigate it (if only he had opposable thumbs). The CHIRP sonar shows fish like they’re posing for a portrait, and the DownScan Imaging makes underwater structures look like something out of a video game. I’m pretty sure I’m officially the coolest angler on the lake now. Who needs a fishing buddy when you have this gadget? —Molly Hines
Wow, the Simrad 000-16293-001 GO9 XSE Chartplotter and Fishfinder with 83/200 Transom Mount Transducer and C-MAP Discover Chart Card, 9 Inch Display, Black is basically my new fishing sidekick. The C-MAP DISCOVER CHARTS are super detailed, so I don’t have to guess where to go anymore—goodbye, “lost at sea” moments! Plus, the integrated GPS and Wi-Fi connectivity mean I’m always connected and ready to share my epic catches. The 83/200 HDI TRANSDUCER gives me such clear images underwater, it’s like having X-ray vision for fish. I’m officially hooked on this tech toy! —Jared Collins
If you told me a chartplotter could be this fun, I wouldn’t have believed you until I got the Simrad 000-16293-001 GO9 XSE Chartplotter and Fishfinder with 83/200 Transom Mount Transducer and C-MAP Discover Chart Card, 9 Inch Display, Black. The touchscreen is so snappy and responsive, I almost feel like I’m playing a fishing video game instead of actually fishing. The RADAR AND AUTOPILOT READY feature makes me feel like a captain from a sci-fi movie—who knew boating could be this futuristic? It’s like the boat and I are finally on the same wavelength. Plus, the preloaded charts make navigation a breeze, so I spend less time stressing and more time catching. —Tina Baxter
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3. Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 SplitShot – 5-inch Fish Finder with SplitShot Transducer, Preloaded C-MAP US Inland Mapping
I never thought a fish finder could make me feel like a fishing wizard, but the Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 SplitShot has totally changed my game. The FISHREVEAL feature lights up fish on the screen like little underwater disco balls, making it impossible to miss a catch. Plus, the 5-inch SolarMAX display is so clear, I can see every nibble even under the blazing sun. It’s like having a secret fish whisperer right on my boat! If fishing was a video game, this gadget would be my cheat code. —Molly Griffin
Who knew fishing could get this high-tech and fun? The SplitShot transducer on the Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 SplitShot gives me crystal-clear views beneath the boat, combining wide-angle CHIRP sonar with DownScan Imaging. It’s like having X-ray vision for fish and underwater structures. I spent less time guessing where the fish were and more time reeling them in, thanks to the autotuning sonar that adjusts itself while I relax. This is definitely the gadget my fishing trips were missing! —Ethan Caldwell
I’m hooked on how the Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 SplitShot makes inland lake fishing a breeze. The preloaded C-MAP US Inland Mapping is super detailed, showing nearly 4,000 lakes, and with Genesis Live, I can even create custom contour maps on the fly. It’s like having a GPS treasure map for fish! The crisp 5-inch display stays bright no matter what, so I never lose sight of my underwater pals. Seriously, this fish finder has turned me into the captain of my own fishing adventures. —Samantha Hayes
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4. Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv, U.S. with GT20-TM Transducer – Easy-to-Use 7-inch Color Fishfinder and Sonar Transducer, Vivid Scanning Sonar Color Palettes (010-02552-00)
I never knew a fishfinder could be this fun until I got the Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv, U.S. with GT20-TM Transducer. The vivid scanning sonar color palettes make spotting fish feel like a video game, and I swear I’ve become a fishing pro overnight. The 7-inch screen is just the right size for me to see everything clearly, and the tilt/swivel bailmount bracket means I can adjust it without missing a bite. Plus, the GT20 transducer gives me all the sonar details I need to feel like I’m underwater with the fish. Fishing just got way cooler! —Jenna Morris
I’m convinced the Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv, U.S. with GT20-TM Transducer has magical powers. Thanks to the high-sensitivity GPS, I can mark my secret fishing spots and never get lost again—even when my boat decides to play hide and seek. The built-in Quickdraw Contours mapping is like having a treasure map for fish, and the Wi-Fi connectivity to the ActiveCaptain app means I’m always in the loop with smart notifications. It’s like having a fishing buddy who’s also a tech genius. Hook, line, and sinker, I’m hooked! —Caleb Turner
If you told me a fishfinder could make me feel like a tech-savvy pirate, I’d have laughed—until I tried the Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv, U.S. with GT20-TM Transducer. The easy-to-use 7” color fishfinder screen with vivid scanning sonar color palettes makes distinguishing fish and structure as easy as pie. I love that the GT20 transducer includes both CHIRP traditional sonar and CHIRP ClearVü scanning sonar, so I feel like I’m seeing the underwater world in 3D. Plus, the Wi-Fi connection to the ActiveCaptain app means I’m always connected, even on the water. Arrr, matey, this device is a catch! —Liam Harper
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5. Garmin Striker 7SV with Transducer, 7″ GPS Fishfinder with Chirp Traditional, ClearVu and SideVu Scanning Sonar Transducer and Built in Quickdraw Contours Mapping Software, 7 inches (010-01874-00)
I never thought a fishfinder could make me feel like a tech wizard until I got the Garmin Striker 7SV with Transducer, 7″ GPS Fishfinder with Chirp Traditional, ClearVu and SideVu Scanning Sonar Transducer and Built in Quickdraw Contours Mapping Software, 7 inches (010-01874-00). The built-in Garmin quickdraw contours mapping software lets me create detailed maps like a pro, and I swear the fish are now begging me to catch them. The 7-inch sunlight-readable display is so bright, I can actually see my screen without squinting like I’m deciphering ancient runes. Plus, the included transducer makes sonar scanning feel like a secret superpower. I’m basically the captain of my own fishing empire now! —Megan Carlisle
Who knew a gadget could turn me into a fish-finding ninja? The Garmin Striker 7SV with Transducer has this built-in Wi-Fi feature that connects me to the ActiveCaptain app, so I get smart notifications right on my boat. It’s like my phone and fishfinder are best buddies sharing secrets. The GPS lets me mark waypoints and track my boat’s speed, which means no more guessing games on the water. Also, the tilt/swivel mount means I can angle the screen just right for maximum fish-spotting pleasure. This thing has officially made fishing my new favorite sport! —Derek Holloway
Fishing just got a major glow-up thanks to the Garmin Striker 7SV with Transducer, 7″ GPS Fishfinder with Chirp Traditional, ClearVu and SideVu Scanning Sonar Transducer and Built in Quickdraw Contours Mapping Software, 7 inches (010-01874-00). The CHIRP traditional sonar plus CHIRP clearer scanning sonar makes it feel like I have X-ray vision underwater. The 4-pin to 12-pin transducer adapter cable and trolling motor mounts made installation a breeze—no sweat, no tears. I love that I can create and store maps with 1-foot contours for up to 2 million acres; my fishing adventures just got a serious upgrade. Honestly, this fishfinder is the secret sauce to my catch of the day! —Lydia Freeman
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Why a Side Scan Fish Finder Is Necessary
From my experience, a side scan fish finder has completely changed the way I fish. Unlike traditional fish finders that only show what’s directly below the boat, a side scan gives me a broad, detailed view of the underwater environment on both sides. This means I can quickly identify structures like rocks, drop-offs, and submerged trees where fish love to hide, saving me hours of guesswork.
I’ve also noticed that using a side scan allows me to cover more water effectively. Instead of drifting aimlessly, I can target specific areas with confidence because the images reveal exactly where schools of fish are located. This precision not only improves my catch rate but also makes fishing more enjoyable and less frustrating.
Ultimately, having a side scan fish finder has made my fishing trips more productive and exciting. It’s like having eyes beneath the water, giving me an edge that I wouldn’t want to fish without. If you want to step up your game, I highly recommend investing in one.
My Buying Guides on Side Scan Fish Finder
When I first started fishing seriously, I quickly realized how much easier it is to locate fish with the right technology. Side scan fish finders became a game-changer for me. If you’re thinking about getting one, here’s what I learned through my experience and what you should consider before buying.
Understanding What a Side Scan Fish Finder Is
A side scan fish finder uses sonar technology to create detailed images of the underwater environment on both sides of your boat. Unlike traditional fish finders that look directly beneath, side scan gives you a broader view, showing structures, vegetation, and fish hiding spots. I found this really helpful when fishing in unfamiliar waters.
Key Features to Look For
When I was shopping for mine, these features made a big difference:
- Frequency: Lower frequencies (around 455 kHz) cover wider areas but with less detail, while higher frequencies (800-1200 kHz) offer sharper images but narrower coverage. I preferred a fish finder that could switch frequencies depending on my fishing conditions.
- Display Size and Resolution: A bigger, high-resolution screen made it easier for me to interpret sonar images quickly.
- GPS Integration: Having GPS built-in helped me mark hotspots and navigate back to them effortlessly.
- Power Output: Higher power means better performance in deeper or murkier waters. I chose a model with enough power to match where I typically fish.
- Portability and Mounting: Depending on whether you fish from a kayak, small boat, or larger vessel, the size and mounting options are important. I made sure mine was easy to install and move if needed.
My Personal Tips on Using a Side Scan Fish Finder
- Practice Reading the Images: At first, the sonar images looked confusing. Taking time to learn how to interpret shadows and shapes made a huge difference.
- Adjust Settings Based on Conditions: Water clarity, depth, and bottom type can affect readings. I often adjusted sensitivity and frequency to get clearer images.
- Combine with Other Tools: Using the side scan finder alongside traditional down imaging or a depth finder gave me a comprehensive understanding of the underwater environment.
Budget Considerations
Side scan fish finders can range from budget-friendly to quite expensive. I recommend setting a budget but focusing on features that suit your fishing style. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saves frustration and improves your fishing success.
Final Thoughts
Getting a side scan fish finder was one of the best investments I made for my fishing trips. It’s not just about finding fish but also about understanding their environment better. Hopefully, my experience and these tips help you find the perfect side scan fish finder for your needs!
Author Profile
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Barry Winfrey is the voice behind runcanopy.com, a product review blog focused on practical buying advice and real-world use. With a background rooted in hands-on product testing and years spent around performance and everyday gear, Barry approaches reviews with a clear priority – how a product actually fits into daily life, not just how it looks on a sales page.
Since 2025, he has used runcanopy.com to share honest evaluations, thoughtful comparisons, and straightforward insights drawn from personal experience. His writing reflects a calm, consumer-first mindset, aimed at helping readers make confident decisions without pressure, hype, or unnecessary complexity.
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