Kayak fishing is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise, but it can be tough to find fish. A kayak fish finder can help you locate the fish so you can cast your line in the right spot. If you're an avid fisherman, then you know that having a good fish finder can make all the difference when it comes to success out on the water. But with so many different kayaks and fish finders on the market, how do you know which one is right for you?
But what if you want to take your fishing game to the next level by using a kayak?
In this guide, we'll show you the best kayak fish finders on the market so that you can make the most of your time out on the water. We'll also provide a few tips on how to choose the right model for your needs and how to use it effectively.
So, if you're ready to up your fishing game, read on for the best kayak fish finders on the market!
Fish Finder: The Types
There are two main types of fish finders: portable and handheld.
Portable fish finders are designed to be mounted on your kayak, while handheld models are small and can be carried with you. Both types have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to choose the right one for your needs.
Portable Fish Finders
- Portable fish finders are a great option if you want a permanent solution that won't take up too much space on your kayak. They're also easy to install, so you won't have to spend too much time setting things up.
- On the downside, portable fish finders can be more expensive than handheld models. They also require batteries, so you'll need to make sure you have a good supply of them before heading out.
Handheld Fish Finders
- Handheld fish finders are a great option if you want a more affordable solution that's easy to carry with you. They're also very easy to use, so you won't have to spend too much time learning how to use them.
- On the downside, handheld fish finders can be less accurate than portable models. They also have a shorter range, so you may not be able to use them in all areas.
How to Choose the Best Kayak Fish Finder
When choosing the best kayak fish finder, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
- First, consider the type of kayak fish finder you want. As we mentioned above, there are two main types: portable and handheld. Each has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to choose the right one for your needs.
- Second, consider the features you want. Fish finders come with a variety of features, so it's important to choose the ones that are most important to you. For example, if you're an avid fisherman, you may want a model with GPS so you can easily find your way back to your starting point.
- Third, consider your budget. Fish finders can range in price from around $100 to over $1,000. So, it's important to choose the model that fits your budget.
- Finally, consider the brand. There are a lot of different fish finder manufacturers on the market, so it's important to choose one that you trust. We recommend sticking with well-known brands like Garmin, Lowrance, or Humminbird.
Best Kayak Fish Finders: The Top Picks
Now that you know how to choose the best kayak fish finder for your needs, it's time to take a look at some of the top picks on the market. They have been compiled by rating and reviews.
Best Pick with Portable Kit: Garmin Striker 4
The Garmin Striker 4 is one of the most popular portable fish finders on the market. It features a 3.5-inch color display, GPS, and a water temperature sensor.
Due to the GPS feature, you can mark your favorite fishing spots and return to them easily. The water temperature sensor is also a great feature, as it allows you to find the perfect spot for fishing.
This model is very easy to install and use, so you won't have to spend too much time setting things up.
The Striker 4 is easy to use and provides accurate results. It's also very affordable, making it a great option for budget-conscious shoppers. The pack is also equipped with a portable kit that includes a 12v battery.
Pros:
- Affordable.
- Accurate.
- Easy to use.
- Comes with a portable kit.
Cons:
- None noted.
Great Chirp Sonar: Garmin Striker 4 with Transducer
Garmin 010-01550-00 Striker 4 with Transducer is a very popular portable fish finder.
It also comes with a Clear Vu scanning sonar transducer that can be mounted on your kayak.
1,600 feet freshwater, 750 feet saltwater . The unit has a 3.5" color WVGA display and can be used with batteries or 12 volt adapter.
The Striker 4 is easy to use and provides precise and fast results. It's also very affordable, making it a great option for budget-conscious shoppers.
Also, due to the built in flasher, you can use the Striker 4 for ice fishing.
Pros:
- Precise and fast results.
- Easy to use.
- Portable kit included.
- Built-in flasher for ice fishing.
Cons:
- Some additional cables are required.
Hottest Handheld Option: LUCKY Portable Fish Finder
LUCKY Portable wired fish finder is one of the most versatile fish finders for kayaks, due to its water temperature, fish depth, and fish size detection abilities.
This model can be used in both saltwater and freshwater, so you're never limited to where you can take it. The LUCKY portable fish finder also includes a suction cup transducer mount and a removable float.
The Transducer/Simulation modes of this castable fish finder allow you to change between sonar and fish finder modes. The sonar mode will give you real-time readings of the bottom contour, while the fish finder mode simulates a school of fish.
You can also choose the measurement unit (feet or meter) and the sensitivity level. This portable fish finder also has an alarm function that will alert you when fish are within a certain depth range.
Pros:
- Water temperature, fish depth, and fish size detection.
- Can be used in both saltwater and freshwater.
- Includes a suction cup transducer mount and a removable float.
- Transducer/Simulation modes.
- Sensitivity Adjustment.
- Fish alarm.
Cons:
- Some users state that this option is not splash-resistant.
Most Handy: Lowrance Hook 2
Lowrance HOOK2 Fish Finder is one of the lightest and easiest fish finders to use. The Lowrance HOOK2 Fish Finder 4x Bullet has a 4-inch color display and GPS.
This model is very easy to install, due to the fact that it doesn't require any transducer mounting. You can just plug it in and fish. The HOOK2 Fish Finder is also very easy to use compared to other fish finders.
It comes with a wide variety of menus and options that allow you to customize your experience. You can also choose between different sonar types, such as DownScan Imaging, Broadband Sounder, or SideScan.
The HOOK2 Fish Finder has a very versatile side imaging that can be used in both saltwater and freshwater. The auto-tuning sonar ensures that you always get the clearest possible picture.
Pros:
- Light and easy to use.
- No transducer mounting required.
- Wide variety of menus and options.
- Versatile side imaging.
- Auto-tuning sonar.
Cons:
- Some users found the screen to be too small.
Top Imaging Fish Finder: Lowrance Hook Reveal
Lowrance Hook Reveal is a 7 inch fish finder with a built in transducer, preloaded optional maps, and GPS plotter for a more precise fish detection.
This model has two different sonar modes: SideScan and DownScan Imaging. The SideScan mode gives you a clear picture of what's happening on the sides of your kayak, while the DownScan Imaging mode gives you a detailed view of the bottom.
The Lowrance Hook Reveal also includes an Autotuning Sonar and a FishReveal feature that makes fish easier to see.
This fish finder also has an SD card slot so you can save your favorite fishing spots and maps.
Pros:
- 7-inch display.
- Built-in transducer.
- Preloaded optional maps.
- GPS plotter for more precise fish detection.
- SideScan.
Cons:
- A pricey pick.
Best By Screen Size: Lowrance HOOK 2 12
Lowrance HOOK2 12 is a 12-inch fish finder with a tripleshot transducer and an Inland lake maps.
This model is very easy to install, due to the fact that it doesn't require any transducer mounting. The very clear Solarmax Display and the TripleShot Transducer of this fish finder will give you a clear picture of what's happening beneath your kayak. Also, the direct sunlight will not affect the quality of the display.
The HOOK2 12 also comes with a wide variety of menus and options that allow you to customize your experience. You can also choose between different sonar types, such as DownScan Imaging, Broadband Sounder, or SideScan.
The Lowrance HOOK2 12 also features Autotuning Sonar Settings and FishReveal Technology that makes fish easier to see.
The high-detail U.S. map included with this fish finder will help you find your way back to your favorite fishing spots.
The SD slot makes it easy to use the software and mapping upgrades.
Pros:
- 12-inch display.
- Tripleshot transducer.
- Inland lake maps included.
- Autotuning Sonar Settings.
- FishReveal Technology.
- SolarMax large screen provides clear images.
Cons:
- The most expensive option on the list.
Top Pick For Shallow Waters: Garmin Striker Plus 4
Garmin Striker Plus 4 is equipped with a Dual-Beam transducer, a 3.5-inch color display, and a GPS plotter.
This model is very easy to install, due to the fact that it doesn't require any transducer mounting. The Striker Plus 4 also has an excellent sonar range, which makes it perfect for kayak fishing in shallow waters.
This device is able to make maps with 1’ contours for up to 2 million acres. It also comes with a wide variety of menus and options that allow you to customize your experience. You can also choose between different sonar types, such as DownScan Imaging, Broadband Sounder, or SideScan.
The Striker Plus 4 also features Auto Guidance technology that uses your GPS location to create a path to follow.
The CHIRP Sonar Clarity of this fish finder will help you see fish more clearly.
The included transducer has a built-in temperature sensor that will help you find the perfect spot for fishing.
Pros:
- 3.5-inch color display.
- Dual-Beam transducer.
- GPS plotter.
- Auto Guidance technology.
- Great resolution in shallow and deeper water.
Cons:
- Some users find the screen to be too small.
Budget-Friendly Pick: Venterior Portable Fish Finder
The Venterior FFC1108-1 offers a portable and very affordable fish finder with a built-in sonar depth finder. Powered by 4 AAA batteries, you can take this device anywhere.
The 3.5-inch large LED backlit display of the Venterior is very easy to read, even in direct sunlight. The transducer of this fish finder has a 25 ft cable and it can be mounted on the boat hull or inside the kayak.
This device is perfect for beginners, due to the fact that it's very easy to use. All you have to do is cast the transducer into the water and wait for the fish finder to start working.
The Venterior Portable Fish Finder also features a sonar transducer that works in a 45 degree beam angle. The depth finder can reach depths of up to 328 ft.
The Fish Alarm function will notify you when a fish is near the transducer.
Pros:
- Portable and very affordable.
- 3.5-inch large LED backlit display.
- Sonar transducer with a 45-degree beam angle.
- Fish Alarm function.
Cons:
- The depth finder is not as accurate as the other models on the list.
Best Kayak Fish Finders: Our Conclusions
Kayak fishing is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and it's a perfect activity for those who love to fish. But, in order to have a successful kayak fishing trip, you need to have the right gear. A kayak fish finder is a very important piece of equipment that every kayak fisherman should have.
There are many different kayak fish finders on the market and it can be hard to choose the right one for your needs. That's why we've put together this list of sophisticated fish finders as well as simple and affordable options.
If you need a convenient model with a portable kit, the Venterior Portable Fish Finder is the perfect choice for you.
If you're looking for a high-end fish finder with all the bells and whistles, the Lowrance Hook Reveal is a great option.
For a budget-friendly option that's still packed with features, the Garmin Striker Plus 4 is a perfect choice.
If you need a device with a large screen, Lowrance HOOK 2 12 is a great option.
If you mostly fish in shallow waters, the Garmin Striker Plus 4 is your target device.
And last but not least, the Venterior FFC1108-1 is a great choice for those who need a fish finder for a beginner.
No matter what your budget or needs are, you're sure to find the perfect kayak fish finder on this list. We hope you found this article helpful and that you now have a better understanding of what to look for when choosing a kayak fish finder.
