Do you have an inflatable boat with a trolling motor? If so, you’re almost ready to embark on your fishing adventures! But before you hit the water, there’s one more essential piece of gear you’ll want to have – the best fish finder for your trolling motor. With so many options available, choosing the right one can be challenging, especially if you’re new to fish finders. Additionally, you’ll need to consider the size and weight of the fish finder, ensuring it’s suitable for your inflatable boat.
Fortunately, we’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of the five best fish finders for trolling motors. Find the one that meets your requirements, and you’ll be well on your way to catching fish like a pro.
1. The Garmin STRIKER 4
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Garmin, a trusted brand in fish finders, offers this low-priced yet highly effective option. The Garmin STRIKER 4 is a favorite among fishing enthusiasts, thanks to its exceptional fish-finding capabilities. This budget-friendly fish finder will accurately locate fish for you, making it an excellent choice for your trolling motor.
One of the best features of the Garmin STRIKER 4 is its lightweight design. Even with the required 12V battery, it won’t weigh down most inflatable boats. Setting it up is a breeze, so you don’t need to be a tech geek to operate it.
The Garmin STRIKER 4 proves that a high-quality fish finder doesn’t have to break the bank. With features like high-frequency chirp sonar and a waypoint map, this fish finder is worth every penny. It provides crisp fish arches, better target separation, and a nearly photographic view of the water surrounding your boat. It’s also easy to navigate and use, with intuitive controls and dedicated buttons.
2. The Humminbird HELIX 7 Chirp Mega DI GPS G3
Humminbird is a well-known name in the world of fish finders, and their latest update to the HELIX series is no exception. If you loved the previous HELIX 5 model, you’ll be thrilled with the upgraded HELIX 7 Chirp Mega DI GPS G3.
This fish finder offers unparalleled clarity, allowing you to see up to 125 feet below your boat with incredible detail. It’s one of the best fish finders for trolling motors because it provides a comprehensive view of the water around you. Not only can you locate fish effectively, but you can also observe how your lure is presenting to them.
The Humminbird HELIX 7 Chirp Mega DI GPS G3 features a memory card slot, enabling you to purchase and quickly access the maps you need based on your location. With side imaging, you can explore beyond what’s directly under your boat, giving you a broader perspective of the underwater landscape.
3. The Lowrance HOOK Reveal 7 Split Shot with CHIRP, DownScan, & US Inland Charts
Lowrance offers this user-friendly fish finder for those who prefer a more intuitive experience. The Lowrance HOOK Reveal 7 Split Shot with CHIRP, DownScan, & US Inland Charts requires minimal tinkering, allowing you to focus on finding fish more efficiently.
One of its standout features is autotuning sonar, which automatically adjusts settings based on conditions and location. This means you can spend less time adjusting your sonar and more time reeling in fish. Additionally, the fish show up as bright dots on the screen, ensuring you always know their exact location. With both wide-angle and high-resolution images, you’ll have an advantage over the fish.
The Lowrance HOOK Reveal 7 Split Shot with CHIRP, DownScan, & US Inland Charts comes preloaded with lake maps for continental US users. It combines wide-angle and high-resolution images to enhance your fishing experience. Whether you’re fishing on your inflatable boat or in other locations, this fish finder is an excellent investment.
4. Venterior Portable Rechargeable Fish Finder Wireless Sonar Sensor Fishfinder Depth Locator with Color LCD Display
If you’re looking for a fish finder that doesn’t require installation but still offers exceptional performance, the Venterior Portable Rechargeable Fish Finder is the perfect choice. This handheld unit from Venterior is a trusted name in fish finders and provides the convenience of portability without sacrificing functionality.
The Venterior fish finder comes with a wireless, castable sensor that can be tossed out from your boat, giving you a comprehensive view of what’s happening underwater. It also includes two small holes on the sensor unit, allowing you to tether it to the hull of your inflatable boat with fishing line.
In addition to boat fishing, this versatile fish finder can be used on shore, on a dock, or even while ice fishing. It’s a one-stop shop for all your fishing needs. Despite its basic design, the Venterior Portable Rechargeable Fish Finder is still one of the best fish finders for trolling motors. It’s easy to use, portable, and helps you get straight to the serious business of fishing.
5. iBobber by Reel Sonar
For those who enjoy integrating technology into their fishing experience, the iBobber by Reel Sonar offers an innovative solution. This fish finder works in conjunction with your smartphone, providing a new and exciting way to locate fish.
To use the iBobber, simply cast it over the area you want to fish or tether it to your boat with fishing line. It connects to your phone via Bluetooth, allowing you to monitor the underwater conditions up to 100 feet away. The iBobber’s screen offers clear images of the water beneath you, and you can mark the best spots with GPS spot tagging.
With its portability and integration with your phone, the iBobber is an excellent option for anglers who enjoy convenience and technology. It’s easy to install, lightweight, and compatible with both saltwater and freshwater fishing.
How to Choose the Best Fish Finder for a Trolling Motor?
When selecting a fish finder for your trolling motor, there are a few key factors to consider:
1. Weight
Ensure that the fish finder you choose doesn’t add unnecessary weight to your inflatable boat, as this may affect the performance of your trolling motor. Consider the weight of your boat, the power of your trolling motor, and the additional gear you’ll be carrying.
2. Power
Choose a fish finder with sufficient power for your fishing needs. Anglers typically prefer sonar with a minimum of 800 watts, but some may require even more power depending on their fishing environment. Strike a balance between power and weight to find the ideal fish finder.
3. Screen Quality
A fish finder with a higher number of pixels will provide a clearer and more detailed view of the underwater world. However, keep in mind that better screens come at a higher cost and may add weight to your setup. Whenever possible, test the fish finder’s screen quality before making a purchase.
4. Side Scan Options
Consider a fish finder with side scan technology, as it allows you to view a wider area of the lake beyond what’s directly beneath your boat. This feature provides valuable information about the lake’s bottom structure and the location of fish, streamlining your fishing process.
5. Portable vs. Fixed
Decide whether you prefer a portable fish finder or one that can be permanently mounted to your inflatable boat. Portable options offer versatility, allowing you to use them on different fishing trips or in different locations. In contrast, fixed fish finders provide a more seamless and integrated experience.
6. Transducer Cone Angle
The transducer’s cone angle determines the width of the sonar wave it emits. A wider angle provides a broader view, while a narrower angle offers more detail. Consider the depth of the water you’ll be fishing in and choose a transducer cone angle that suits your needs. Most anglers find a 16-20 degree angle sufficient for their fishing requirements.
7. Extra Features
Many fish finders come with additional features such as GPS, temperature sensors, speed sensors, and distance markers. Determine which features are essential for you based on your fishing preferences and choose a fish finder that meets your requirements.
The Final Verdict
After careful consideration, we’ve determined that the Lowrance HOOK Reveal 7 Split Shot with CHIRP, DownScan, & US Inland Charts is the top choice for a trolling motor fish finder. It offers excellent fish-finding capabilities and is easy to use on an inflatable boat. However, if you’re on a budget or prefer a more compact option, the iBobber is a superb alternative.
Upgrade your fishing experience with one of these top fish finders for trolling motors. Happy fishing!
Find these fish finders and more at East Coast Paddle Sports.
