fish finder/ depth finder for a newbie

[nightvision]

Hi all,
My son (5 yrs. old) and I just started fishing this year on our boat and he seems to like it. We had some good luck and caught a couple big bass. To make fishing fun I appointed him the trolling motor captain and he get to go where ever he likes. We don't have a fish finder or depth finder and I like to get one. I think with a fish finder/depth finder it will more interesting for him (and for me too!). I did a little research and I'm overwhelm by what is out there. I would appreciate if someone can recommend or narrow down some models that would be fitting for our fishing needs. What specific specs, should we be look for; ie. resolution, etc. We fish in a 200,000 acre feet irrigation fresh water lake. We are not looking for bells and whisles, just the basics a basic functional until for bass, crappie, and trout fishing. (no gps, no maps, etc.). I also like to be able to put the tranducer on the trolling motor if possible. My budget is $100 to $200. Thanks for the input.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: fish finder/ depth finder for a newbie

i have a hummingbird, piranha there basic, but i've been very happy with it, except when i can see the fish, and they won't bite. they also have a tranducer exchange so you can get the trolling motor mounted transducer.

http://www.humminbird.com/products.asp?ID=1008

here's the accessorie for trolling motor mount: http://www.humminbird.com/retail/ca...d&category_name=Trolling+Motor+Adapter&Page=1

 

[whofan]

Re: fish finder/ depth finder for a newbie

Eagle Fishmark 320 or 480 models are outstanding budget priced fish finders.

They are B/W or monochrome models. These fishfinders share many specs and features as there higher priced Lowrance counter parts.

These are not your rock bottom cheap models. They are the best deal for what you pay for. Both are under $200.
These models are starting to show their age now having been out for close to five years. But still good units.

 

[ParallaxBill]

Re: fish finder/ depth finder for a newbie

Just installed a 480 on my boat. Still haven't been on the water to test it out. Paid $150 for it at Bass Pro during a sale.

Can't wait to get on the water.

 

[bassboy1]

Re: fish finder/ depth finder for a newbie

I got my 320 used and really love it. Had it out one trip and it was priceless for depth alone. Also showed bottom contour clearly. Cannot wait to really fiddle with the settings and see how much it really can do.

 

[Drew in B'ham]

Re: fish finder/ depth finder for a newbie

I'm a newbie too, where do you put the transducer if it is not on the trolling motor? I have seen one mounted on the very back of the boat hull, seems like it would be added drag. Seen some factory "flash" depth finders that the transducer is inside the hull. What is recomended?

 

[moi]

Re: fish finder/ depth finder for a newbie

I recently bought the Humminbird 570 and am very pleased. Outstanding resolution for under $200.00, and a good size screen.
If it's your only fish finder I'd stick with transom mount for the transducer. That way it's useable when you're not fishing.