So, winter is here once again, and most of the water bodies have reached their freezing points. As a result, all the fish are well hidden underneath the ice, and this might make it a little difficult to land your favorite species.
To boost your chances of success in ice fishing, you need the right gear for the job, including the ideal fish finder for these conditions.
However, getting the best ice fishing fishfinder is not always easy. There are too many options available out there – some of them being cheap knock offs!
To ensure that you get nothing but the best value for your money, we’ve come up with the following write-up. It reviews the top 10 options available out there and also provides you with a buying guide covering factors like:
-Accuracy
-Water-resistance
-Portability
-Price, among others
We have also provided our verdict on which one of these 10 does the job better. So, stick around to find out all that and more.
Why Not Use a Regular/Traditional Fish Finder for Ice Fishing?
Nowadays, most modern fish finders can be converted to work for ice fishing. However, if using a regular fish finder for ice fishing, you will need to disassemble the unit from your boat at least every year. Unfortunately, this could damage your device or your kayak.
Additionally, a traditional unit requires custom rigging to mount the screen and level the transducer. Otherwise, the sonar won’t send back a clear picture of what is going on underneath the water.
Also, worth mentioning is that traditional fish finders are potentially less durable in extreme cold. Therefore, it makes sense to use the best fish finder for ice fishing rather than a regular device.
Basically, ice fishing fish finders are the best options because of various reasons like:
- Come with a self-leveling transducer
- Include chart and mapping features specifically for ice angling
- Portable with power source
- Protected against damage from freezing
10 Best Fishfinders for Ice Fishing
If you would like to get a good view of whatever is happening below the deep layers of ice, one of these 10 fish-finders might help. Read on.
1. Garmin Striker 4 with Portable Kit
Garmin has a reputation for producing reliable fish finders, and the Striker 4 model is not an exception. To add to its convenience, it is portable, and therefore you should have an easy time moving around with it.
This device is packed with other features that would make it a worthy investment.
What We Liked About It
To start with, this fish finder is very easy to use. The interface comprises buttons that would allow you to navigate through the controls more easily.
The installation too is quite straightforward, and you should be good to go in a matter of minutes.
The color display aims to give you more clarity in terms of the information on the screen. What’s more, is that the device is available in three different display sizes of 3.5″, 5″ and 7-inches.
The unit features built-in high-sensitivity GPS that you should find useful in the navigation since it helps in marking spots that you could refer to in the future as waypoints.
Let’s also mention the Chirp sonar technology that aims to improve the target separation of this fish finder.
Other useful accessories in the package include a swivel mount, a foam float battery, a suction cup mount, and an AC charger.
What Could Have Been Better
The transducer only works when it is under ice, meaning that you cannot use it in other water bodies.
Pros
- Bright and clear display
- Has a built-in flasher
- Comes with a portable kit
Cons
- The battery is not waterproof
2. Deeper PRO+ Smart Sonar
This fish finder goes an extra step in making things easier for you by giving you the capability of connecting the device to your smartphone. As a result, you would have all the information on your fingertips that you need to make vital decisions as an angler.
What We Liked About It
The first impressive feature with this device is the Wi-Fi connection that enables you to connect the fish finder to your smartphone or tablet.
Then, it has a high-frequency system that provides more precise data that you would need for your fishing trip. This information includes water temperature, depth, vegetation, and fish hot spots.
Let’s also mention the GPS mode that uses bathymetric technology to provide bottom contour data and maps that you would find useful in your navigation during the fishing trip.
You should also be impressed by the rechargeable battery, which needs only about two hours to recharge while the battery life lasts up to six hours.
Besides ice fishing, this device is also suited for other types of fishing, such as bank, shore, or kayak fishing.
What Could Have Been Better
This device is too reliant on a smartphone or tablet for relaying information. Lack of either of the two would render the fish finder useless.
Pros
- Portable
- Impressive battery life
- Well-priced
Cons
- Needs a smartphone or tablet to relay information
3. Humminbird 410970-1 ICE Helix 5 Fish Finder
If you are tired of guesswork and estimations in a fish finder, the Humminbird Ice Helix should solve your problems. It is designed to offer preciseness plus is GPS-enabled to add to its convenience as a fish finder.
What We Liked About It
One feature that makes this device easier to use is the color display with backlight, which makes it easy for you to read the information on the screen in bright sunlight or the dark.
Then, it has a dual-frequency beam plus sonar, which helps to enhance the preciseness of the fish finder.
It is also GPS-enabled, and all your waypoints are plotted on the GPS chart. On top of that, the fish finder features a microSD card slot that you can use for saving your waypoints.
The fact that the device can withstand extreme temperatures means that it is suitable for any type of fishing.
We should also mention the bright and fast LCDs that light up the display to give you a clear and precise digital readout.
What Could Have Been Better
It is quite pricey, but for all the unique features that you would be getting from this device, there is no reason why we would complain about the pricing.
Pros
- Can withstand extreme temperatures
- Comes with a carrying bag for transportation
- Clear and readable display
Cons
- Pricey
4. Marcum LX-7 Ice Fishing Fish Finder
Well, when it comes to advanced fishing technology, the Marcum LX-7 ice fishing fish finder leads the pack. It is packed with advanced features that aim to ensure guesswork and probabilities are no longer part of your fishing vocabulary.
What We Liked About It
Let’s start with the 8-inch screen with a resolution of 800 x 600 pixels. As a result, you would get clear and sharp images that would be easy for you to interpret.
Still, on the display, you will have up to three window displays at the same time for you to view more images. You also have the option of zooming the images whenever you need to do so.
The LCD sonar on its part is quite fast, and it uses either an 8-degree or 20-degree transducer cone angles for instant generation of images.
There is also the customizable dashboard that displays a variety of information, including the battery voltage, target adjust, and interference rejection.
You will also have four color palettes to choose from for the display.
In case you need to upgrade the maps or any other software in the device, the USB port will be of great help.
What Could Have Been Better
This is not the easiest gadget to operate, and it is made worse by the fact that it does not come with a user manual to help you get started.
Therefore, it may be a while before you are entirely comfortable with this fish finder.
Pros
- Has a customizable dashboard to suit your preferences
- High resolution and clear display
- Impressively long battery life
Cons
- Lies on the pricier end of things
5. Vexilar FLX-28 Ice ProPack II Locato
With so many features packed into a single unit, the Vexilar FLX-28 is a device that is designed to make ice fishing easy and fun. It is an upgrade from the FL-8se device, and you should find your ice fishing experience to be less stressful than before.
What We Liked About It
First, this unit is well-built such that you can easily fit different attachments on it. From an ice-ducer to a rod holder, you could easily fit these attachments to add to this device’s convenience.
Then, it has a depth coverage of up to 300ft with all the information gathered being digitally displayed.
The battery life too is impressively long, and all the details concerning it are displayed on the screen. On top of that, the device has low power mode that would help in saving the battery power when using the tool in shallow waters.
With this unit, you will have over five color palettes to choose from while the data transfer system is outstanding too.
Another feature that you should appreciate is the day and night modes that let you adjust the brightness depending on the time of day you would be fishing.
This is a portable device that comes with a case for easy travel and storage.
What Could Have Been Better
The carrying pack could always have stronger straps that would make transporting the device to be easier.
Pros
- Portable
- Impressive battery life
- Comes with a case for travel and storage
Cons
- Relatively pricey
6. Vexilar GP1812 FL18 Ice-Ducer Combo
Another one from the Vexilar brand, this fish finder is designed for all-year-round use plus also aims to make your ice fishing experience to be easier and memorable.
It is made in the USA, and as you shall see in our review, this device maintains the high standards associated with the brand.
What We Liked About It
The first feature that should impress you with this device is the three-color flasher whereby green color stands for weak targets, orange color for the medium targets while the strong targets are represented by red color.
The unit is also well-built to assure you of its durability. On top of that, it is quite lightweight, and this adds to its convenience and ease of use.
You should also appreciate the LED technology that makes the display easy to read even in bright sunlight.
The 12V battery is enough to power the device for a decent period without it running out of power.
It comes with an instructional video that aims to make the setup of the device easy and straightforward.
Other useful features include the rejection interference, 525 segment resolution, and six depth ranges.
What Could Have Been Better
The device is not waterproof, and you need to provide it with extra protection in case you encounter unfriendly weather conditions.
Pros
- Comes with a two-year warranty
- Easy to read display
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not waterproof
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7. Venterior VT-FF001 Portable Fish Finder
If you are a beginner looking for a budget-friendly option, the VT-FF001 fish finder is here for you. It is a portable device that comes with a two-year warranty. This service is usually an indicator that the manufacturer expects the device to serve you for or past the duration of the warranty service.
What We Liked About It
To kick us off, this device features an anti-UV LCD that is readable even in direct sunlight. The device is highly detailed and displays information such as the rocks and sand, weeds, fish hotspots, and so on.
It can operate at a depth range of 3ft to 328ft, and this makes it well-suited for different fishing environments such as lakes, rivers, or oceans.
This fish finder has five sensitivity levels, and when it is low (sensitivity), it only provides data on the large fish species.
Another feature that you would like is the round transducer that comes with a 25ft cable. Therefore, besides ice fishing, this device is also ideal for boat and dock fishing, as well.
What Could Have Been Better
There could always be an improvement in the device’s accuracy since it mostly provides approximations which may not be that helpful in some instances.
Pros
- Comes with a two-year warranty
- Budget-friendly
- Clear LCD
Cons
- Too basic
8. Lowrance Hook-3X Sonar
Anyone would appreciate having a versatile fish finder that you could use in different fishing environments. Well, that is precisely what you would get with the Lowrance Hook-3X fish finder, which is easy to set up and operate, and this makes it ideal for beginners too.
What We Like About It
First, this device features a broadband sounder that makes it a highly detailed fish finder. This sounder helps in spotting fish, providing information on the bottom contour, sensing the water temperature, among others.
There is also the dual-sonar frequency of 83 kHz and 200 kHz, whereby you could switch between the two depending on the information that you need from the device.
You should have an easy time reading all the information that the Hook-3X sonar gives out due to the 3.5″ color screen with a resolution of 320 X 240 pixels.
Further, the display has a backlight that makes it possible to read the information in direct sunlight or darkness.
The unit is also lightweight, and therefore you should have an easy time moving around with it.
What Could Have Been Better
There have been complains that this device tends to lose its signal when you start moving. You, therefore, need to move slowly if you want to get the readings spot on.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable
- Clear display even in bright sunlight or darkness
- Easy to set up and operate
Cons
- Easily loses its signal at higher speeds
9. Hawkeye Fishtrax 1C Fish Finder
There are several reasons why anyone would consider this to be the best ice fishing fish finder. It features advanced settings, which normally translates to superior performance. Then, it is really fast, and you would easily see what is going on underwater in real-time.
What We Liked About It
To begin with, the Fishtrax 1C uses a full HD color display to give you a clear view of what is happening underneath the ice. It also has a backlit display that gives you the capability of clear viewing in bright sunlight or dim conditions.
You should also find the icons to be very handy in enhancing the ease of use of this device since interpreting the information is made easier.
Then, it has superior sensing thanks to the Fishtrax intelligence sonar coupled with the three operating modes. As a result, you can easily detect the fish location, understand the water depth as well as the composition of the water bed.
You should also receive real-time sonar readings thanks to the ice-mode digital flasher.
There is also the dual-frequency mode that allows for adjustments depending on whether you are fishing in shallow or deep waters.
Lastly, the depth and fish alarms add to the device’s efficiency.
What Could Have Been Better
The battery life is a bit disappointing, and you need to make constant replacements to keep going.
Pros
- Provides accurate readings to enhance your ice fishing experience
- Clear and colored display
- Versatile to be used in different fishing environments
Cons
- Poor battery life
10. Anysun Underwater Fish Finder
The last item on our list is the Anysun Underwater Fishfinder that overcomes some of the common flaws with fish finders available out there.
For instance, it has an IP68 waterproof rating plus is resistant to extremely low temperatures, and this is one of the reasons for its superb performance in icy waters.
What We Liked About It
This device features a 700tvl CCD and HD camera for capturing clear images and videos. All the information captured would be displayed in a 7-inch monitor that is easy to view even in direct sunlight.
Further, the fish finder has a night view mode that makes it possible to read the information in poorly lit conditions.
Then, it has a battery life of up to 12-hours, which is more than enough to get you through your task of the day.
Other useful accessories that come with the device include a carry case, a 15m cable, a metal clip, and a float.
To wrap things up, this fish finder comes with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty and a 30-day return policy.
What Could Have Been Better
At 2kg, this is a very bulky unit that would prove to be an inconvenience when you intend to move around with it.
However, it comes with most of the necessary accessories, which eliminates the need to make additional purchases before you use the device.
Pros
- Versatile to be used in different fishing environments
- Has a waterproof design
- Decent battery life
Cons
- Too bulky
Why Get the Best Fish Finder For Ice Fishing? – Benefits
Now that you know what are the top-rated ice fishing fish finders, let’s discuss the benefits of these units. Of course, the obvious reason of getting a fish finder is to help you locate fish with ease. But you will be surprised that these units offer so much more.
Saves Time
Without a fish finder, you will need to move around here and there to find a catch. This will not only be time consuming but also tiring.
But with the right fish finder, the device will do the job for you by locating the fish. Consequently, you will save more time, which you can use to do other important things. More importantly, you will be able to catch more fish.
Easier Navigation
You see, some fish finders come with advanced features than others. For example, some models allow you to mark your path for ease of navigation. This means you will know all the spots you passed by and what you were able to find there.
This feature comes in handy, especially during those long fishing trips since you don’t have to worry about getting lost. Also, the device can guide you to your lucky fishing spots.
Accurate Fish Targeting
These devices are built to find fish with more accuracy compared to the naked eye. Besides, a fish finder provides you with details about the size of the fish to ensure you use the best baitcasting rod.
More importantly, the device will indicate the water depth, temperature, and even the habitat of the fish. As such, finding a particular type of fish is very easy with a fish finder.
The Buying Guide
Ice fishing is slightly different from other forms of fishing and is, in fact, more challenging. Therefore, it would be wise if you get the best fish finder for ice fishing.
One way to achieve this goal is by focusing on particular aspects that would help you narrow down your search.
Let’s briefly analyze these factors.
The Power
Ideally, the wattage of the fish finder will affect the clarity of the readings you get. This means that higher watt levels usually translate to faster readings and vice versa.
Additionally, you should also consider the battery life, which should last you all through your fishing expedition. To be on the safe side, always have a backup battery with you.
Durability
Like with any other product out there, the durability of the fish finder is a critical factor to consider. Ideally, the best fish finder for ice fishing should be well-built and able to withstand extremely low temperatures.
More so, a durable device should transmit clear signals for the longest duration. As far as this concerned, we recommend buying a unit that uses a high-quality transducer. This is because the transducer also affects the overall durability of the device.
Weight
Generally, ice fishing involves walking from one location to another. Therefore, an ideal fish finder should be lightweight. This way, you will have easy time moving it to different locations as you search for new hot spots. Of course, this is unless you will be using a snow bike or something else.
As far as weight is concerned, you should also consider the size of the unit. This is because a finder that is too big may be cumbersome to carry around. On the other hand, a small unit will mean a small screen.
The backlit display
The display of the fish finder enables you to read the output of the sonar. Therefore, the best fish finder is one that is readable in direct sunlight as well as in poorly lit conditions. A backlit display would make this a possibility.
Additionally, the display should be big enough and with a decent resolution. This way, you can read the data clearly for easy interpretation regardless of the weather condition.
Frequency
This refers to the energy pulses released by the transducer, and it determines the amount of detail that you get from the fish finder.
Higher frequencies of around 200 kHz tend to be more useful in shallow waters, while the lower frequencies of approximately 83 kHz are more effective in deeper waters, although they would give out less detail.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The following questions aim to boost your knowledge of the best fish finders for ice fishing.
Q: How different is an ice fish finder from a regular fish finder?
A: The main difference between the two is that an ice fishing finder is designed to withstand extremely low temperatures. The materials used in the construction are one of the reasons why such a device would survive in icy conditions.
Q: Does the fish finder have to be waterproof?
A: Since you would be fishing through holes in the ice, the device does not necessarily have to be waterproof, although there is no harm in getting a water-resistant item.
Q: Is the price important?
A: As your experience with ice fishing fish finders grows, you become more precise in what you are looking for in an ideal device. A pro would obviously go for a device with advanced features, which would ordinarily be pricier. If you are ice fishing for leisure, there is no need to splash out a lot of cash for ice fishing.
The Best Overall Choice
As we wrap things up, we have settled on the Deeper PRO+ Smart Sonar as the best of them all. This is because we believe it has the ideal combination of features that would ensure the device delivers you the outstanding performance that you have been looking for in an ice fishing fish finder.
Wrapping it Up
We hope that our article has significantly boosted your chances of landing the best ice fishing fishfinder. Make a point of referring to our buying guide as well as the list of recommended brands, and nothing should stop you from getting the best item for the job.
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Editor’s Note: Article Last Updated 30 June 2021
