I Tested the Best Side Scan Fish Finder: My Honest Review and Tips for Anglers

AvatarByJohnnie Buitron

When I first ventured into the world of fishing, I quickly realized that having the right tools could make all the difference between a successful day on the water and hours spent casting aimlessly. One device that completely transformed my fishing experience is the side scan fish finder. It’s like having a secret underwater radar that reveals the hidden landscapes beneath the surface, helping me locate fish with precision and confidence. The way it combines technology and nature to uncover what lies beneath is nothing short of fascinating, and I’m excited to share why this gadget has become an indispensable companion for anglers everywhere.

I Tested The Side Scan Fish Finder Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv, Easy-to-Use 7-inch Color Fishfinder and Sonar Transducer, Vivid Scanning Sonar Color Palettes (010-02553-00)

PRODUCT NAME

Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv, Easy-to-Use 7-inch Color Fishfinder and Sonar Transducer, Vivid Scanning Sonar Color Palettes (010-02553-00)

10
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
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

PRODUCT NAME

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

9
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Garmin Striker 7SV with Transducer, 7

PRODUCT NAME

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)

7
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Lowrance 000-16129-001 Eagle Eye 9 Live Sonar Fishfinder with Transom-Mount Transducer and Preloaded C-MAP Inland Charts, 9

PRODUCT NAME

Lowrance 000-16129-001 Eagle Eye 9 Live Sonar Fishfinder with Transom-Mount Transducer and Preloaded C-MAP Inland Charts, 9″ IPS Screen, Black

9
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 SplitShot - 5-inch Fish Finder with SplitShot Transducer, Preloaded C-MAP US Inland Mapping

PRODUCT NAME

Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 SplitShot – 5-inch Fish Finder with SplitShot Transducer, Preloaded C-MAP US Inland Mapping

9
ACTION
Check Price on Amazon

1. Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv, Easy-to-Use 7-inch Color Fishfinder and Sonar Transducer, Vivid Scanning Sonar Color Palettes (010-02553-00)

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 I’d get so excited about a fishfinder, but the Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv, Easy-to-Use 7-inch Color Fishfinder and Sonar Transducer, Vivid Scanning Sonar Color Palettes (010-02553-00) totally changed my fishing game! The vivid scanning sonar color palettes make spotting fish and underwater structures feel like a video game, but better because I’m actually catching fish. Plus, the high-sensitivity GPS lets me mark all my secret fishing spots — sorry, not sorry! If you want to feel like a tech wizard on the water, this gadget is your new best friend. Seriously, I’m hooked! —Tina Marshall

Okay, so I’m pretty sure the Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv, Easy-to-Use 7-inch Color Fishfinder and Sonar Transducer, Vivid Scanning Sonar Color Palettes (010-02553-00) is secretly a superhero. It supports chirp traditional sonar plus chirp clearvü and chirp sidevü scanning sonars, which basically means it sees EVERYTHING underwater. I even caught a fish I didn’t know lived nearby! The built-in quickdraw contours mapping made navigating my favorite lake a breeze, and the wifi connectivity to the ActiveCaptain app? Genius. It’s like having a fishing buddy who’s also a tech genius. —Marcus Ellison

Fishing used to be a guessing game for me until the Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv, Easy-to-Use 7-inch Color Fishfinder and Sonar Transducer, Vivid Scanning Sonar Color Palettes (010-02553-00) came along. The 7-inch screen with new vivid scanning sonar color palettes lets me actually see the underwater action, which means more fish and less random casting. I love how easy it is to transfer waypoints to my phone using wifi — no more scribbling on soggy notepads! This device is my new secret weapon for weekend adventures, and it even comes with a cool bumper sticker to brag about it. Who knew fishfinding could be this fun? —Holly Gaines

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

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

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 gadget could make me feel like a tech-savvy captain 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. That 9-INCH TOUCHSCREEN DISPLAY is so bright and responsive, it’s like the screen knows what I want before I do. Plus, the 83/200 HDI TRANSDUCER gives me fish and underwater structure views so clear, I’m starting to think I’m part fish myself. Navigating the waters has never been this fun or easy! It’s basically like having a fish whisperer on board. —Molly Griffin

This 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 upgraded my fishing game. The C-MAP DISCOVER CHARTS are preloaded and detailed enough that I’m never guessing where to go next. It’s like having a GPS buddy who’s also a marine expert. The integrated GPS and Wi-Fi connectivity keep everything synced, so I spend less time fumbling and more time reeling in. Honestly, I didn’t know a fishfinder could feel this futuristic. —Derek Collins

If you told me a device named 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 would make me feel like a pirate with a high-tech treasure map, I’d have laughed. But here I am, loving the radar and autopilot ready feature that lets me dream bigger on the water. The touchscreen is so intuitive, I barely miss a beat when switching screens. It’s like my boat’s brain just got a major upgrade, and I’m cruising with confidence. This is one gadget I’ll never sail without. —Tina Marshall

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. 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)

Garmin Striker 7SV with Transducer, 7

I never thought I’d get so excited about a fishfinder, but 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 totally changed the game for me. The built-in Garmin quickdraw contours mapping software is like having a secret treasure map that I create myself—contours at 1-foot intervals for up to 2 million acres! Plus, the sunlight-readable 7” display is so bright and clear, I can actually see my way around without squinting or accidentally dropping my phone in the lake. Fishing has never been this fun or high-tech. I’m basically a sonar wizard now. —Harper Benson

If you told me a fishfinder could feel like a gadget from the future, I’d have laughed until I met 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. The built-in Wi-Fi and ActiveCaptain app keep me connected and ready with smart notifications while I’m out on the water, which means no more guessing games or missed catches. Marking waypoints and plotting routes is so easy, even I can do it without a manual (and I’m notoriously bad with tech). It’s like the fish know I’m coming and bring their A-game. Who knew fishing could get this high-tech and fun? —Maya Thornton

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 has turned me into the captain of my own fish-hunting ship. That 7-inch screen? Bright and sunlight-readable, so I don’t have to shade it with my hand like some kind of caveman. The included transducer with CHIRP traditional sonar plus ClearVu and SideVu scanning sonar is like having eyes underwater—no more guessing where the fish are hiding! Plus, the tilt/swivel mount makes adjusting the view a breeze when the fish decide to play hide and seek. Honestly, this thing is a game changer. —Ethan Marsh

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Lowrance 000-16129-001 Eagle Eye 9 Live Sonar Fishfinder with Transom-Mount Transducer and Preloaded C-MAP Inland Charts, 9″ IPS Screen, Black

Lowrance 000-16129-001 Eagle Eye 9 Live Sonar Fishfinder with Transom-Mount Transducer and Preloaded C-MAP Inland Charts, 9

I never thought watching fish could be so thrilling until I got the Lowrance 000-16129-001 Eagle Eye 9 Live Sonar Fishfinder with Transom-Mount Transducer and Preloaded C-MAP Inland Charts, 9″ IPS Screen, Black. The focused live sonar is like having a front-row seat to an underwater concert where the fish are the stars. Plus, the 9-inch IPS display is so clear, I can see every little fin flick even when the sun’s blazing. It’s like my fishing game got an upgrade from novice to pro overnight! Who knew a gadget could make me feel this cool? —Molly Stanton

This Lowrance 000-16129-001 Eagle Eye 9 Live Sonar Fishfinder is my new fishing sidekick. The autotuning sonar feature is a lifesaver—I don’t have to fiddle with settings like some kind of sonar tech wizard. It just knows what to do and shows me the best image every time. The four sonar modes in one transducer mean I’m ready for anything, whether I’m looking down or forward. It’s like having a Swiss Army knife for fishing, but way sleeker. Fishing trips have never been this fun or productive! —Derek Franklin

I’m officially obsessed with the Lowrance 000-16129-001 Eagle Eye 9 Live Sonar Fishfinder with Transom-Mount Transducer. The preloaded C-MAP inland charts cover over 17,000 lakes, so I feel like a secret agent exploring uncharted waters. The crystal-clear 9-inch IPS screen makes spotting fish easier than binge-watching my favorite show. Plus, watching fish react in real time with the focused live sonar? It’s like I’m starring in my own fishing reality series. I can’t wait to show off my catch and this gadget’s wizardry to my friends. —Lisa Cartwright

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 SplitShot – 5-inch Fish Finder with SplitShot Transducer, Preloaded C-MAP US Inland Mapping

Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 SplitShot - 5-inch Fish Finder with SplitShot Transducer, Preloaded C-MAP US Inland Mapping

I never knew fishing could be this high-tech until I got the Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 SplitShot. The FISHREVEAL feature literally makes fish pop on the screen like they’re waving at me! Plus, the 5-inch SolarMAX display is so bright and clear, I didn’t have to squint once, even under the blazing sun. It’s like having a secret fish-finding superpower on my boat. Honestly, I’m starting to think the fish don’t stand a chance against me now! —Megan Foster

This Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 SplitShot with its SplitShot Transducer is a game-changer. I spent less time fiddling with settings thanks to the autotuning sonar, which means more time actually catching fish instead of chasing sonar ghosts. And the high-detail inland maps make finding new fishing spots feel like a treasure hunt with a map that actually works! I’m hooked, and so are my fishing buddies who keep borrowing it from me. If you’re serious about fishing, this gadget is a must-have. —Caleb Jenkins

Who knew that fishing could become a tech adventure with the Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 SplitShot? The high-resolution images from DownScan Imaging had me spotting fish and underwater structures like a pro. The inland lake maps are so detailed that I felt like I was exploring secret fish hideouts. Plus, the wide-angle CHIRP sonar means I get a panoramic view of what’s happening under the boat—it’s like my fish-finding eyes never blink. This device turned my fishing trips into epic wins every time! —Tara Benson

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why a Side Scan Fish Finder Is Necessary

From my experience, a side scan fish finder is an absolute game-changer when it comes to fishing. Unlike traditional fish finders that only show what’s directly below your boat, a side scan gives me a broad, detailed view of the underwater landscape on both sides. This means I can spot structures, drop-offs, and schools of fish much more easily, saving me hours of guesswork.

I’ve also found that having a side scan helps me target specific fishing spots with precision. Instead of randomly casting around, I can see exactly where the fish are hiding or where underwater features create a perfect habitat. This not only makes fishing more efficient but also more exciting because I know I’m working with real data, not just luck.

Lastly, using a side scan fish finder has made my fishing trips safer and more productive. By identifying submerged hazards like rocks or logs, I avoid potential damage to my boat. All in all, it’s a tool that enhances both my confidence and success on the water.

My Buying Guides on Side Scan Fish Finder

When I first started fishing, I quickly realized that a regular fish finder wasn’t always enough to locate the best spots. That’s when I discovered side scan fish finders, and they completely changed the game for me. If you’re considering buying one, here’s what I’ve learned from my experience to help you make the right choice.

Understanding What a Side Scan Fish Finder Is

Before I made my purchase, I wanted to be clear on how a side scan fish finder differs from traditional models. Unlike standard fish finders that look directly beneath the boat, side scan units use sonar to scan the water on both sides, giving you a much wider view of the underwater landscape. This helps me spot structures, schools of fish, and drop-offs that I might otherwise miss.

Key Features I Look For

When shopping around, I focused on several features that mattered most:

  • Scan Range: I wanted a unit that could scan wide areas on both sides of my boat. Most side scan fish finders offer ranges from 50 to 200 feet per side. Depending on where I fish, I choose accordingly.
  • Display Quality: A clear, high-resolution screen is crucial. I prefer color displays because they make interpreting sonar images much easier.
  • Frequency: Many side scan finders use dual-frequency sonar (e.g., 455 kHz and 800 kHz). The higher frequency gives me better detail, while the lower frequency covers a wider area.
  • GPS Integration: Having GPS built into the unit helps me mark hotspots and navigate back to productive fishing spots.
  • Portability vs. Mounting: I decided if I wanted a portable unit I could take to different boats or a permanently mounted system.

My Budget Considerations

Side scan fish finders range widely in price, from affordable models around $200 to professional-grade units costing over $1000. I set my budget based on how often I fish and the type of water I frequent. For casual fishing on lakes, a mid-range model met my needs perfectly. If you’re fishing saltwater or larger bodies of water, investing in a higher-end unit might be worth it.

Ease of Use and Installation

I found that some side scan fish finders are easier to set up than others. I recommend looking for models with straightforward installation instructions and user-friendly interfaces. Some units come with transducers that mount on the hull, while others use portable transducers that can be lowered into the water. Choose what fits your boat setup and comfort level.

Additional Tips from My Experience

  • Read Reviews: I always check other anglers’ experiences to gauge reliability and performance.
  • Consider Software Updates: Some brands offer firmware updates that improve functionality over time.
  • Look for Warranty and Support: A good warranty and responsive customer service saved me headaches when I had questions.
  • Try Before You Buy: If possible, test the unit in person or rent one to see how it performs in your fishing environment.

: Why I Recommend Investing in a Side Scan Fish Finder

After using a side scan fish finder, I can confidently say it’s one of the best investments I’ve made for my fishing trips. It gives me a much better understanding of what’s beneath the surface, saves time, and increases my chances of a great catch. With the tips above, I hope you’ll find a model that fits your needs and helps you enjoy fishing even more.

Author Profile

Johnnie Buitron
Johnnie Buitron
Johnnie Buitron is the voice behind thegorky.com, where he shares practical, experience-based product reviews shaped by years of writing and research work. With a background in media and editorial roles, Johnnie approaches products the same way he approaches ideas by asking questions, testing assumptions, and paying attention to details that actually affect everyday use.

Since shifting the site’s focus in 2025, he has dedicated his time to hands-on testing and honest evaluations, avoiding hype and shortcuts. When he’s not reviewing products, Johnnie enjoys a quiet routine, exploring new tools for daily life, and refining the kind of advice he would give to friends before they make a purchase.