Boat Accessories

I've learned a lot about various things that have to do with boating because of all the research I've been doing lately. One of the most intriguing items is the depthfinder/fishfinder. Modern technology has made fishing a truly relaxing endeavor. No more worries about sitting for hours without a single nibble fish finders make it possible to know exactly where the fish are. For boaters these devices both help them find fish filled waters they also help navigate shallow water areas without damaging their boats by keeping track of the depth of the water.

Purchasing a Fish Finder

Don't skimp. Get a fish finder with as many pixels as possible. The more pixels the fish finder has the clearer and more accurate the picture. Color shows more detail than a black and white screen. For extra value get a fish finder/depth finder with GPS capability and make sure you never get lost and can always communicate your position to rescue craft when necessary.

Professional Installation

It may be tempting to install a sonar device on your own to save on costs but this is one time when hiring a professional makes more sense. You may pay a little more but you'll save on worries of having engine interference, putting the depth sounder in the proper position for your particular type of boat, and if for any reason there are problems with your unit when you put your boat in the water, you can take it back for repair without paying extra in most cases.


What You're Looking At

You will have to become accustomed to looking at the images on a fish finder. Both objects in the water and fish themselves do not look 'lifelike' but as you use your sonar device you will learn what fish look like, what to look for to find fish such as brush in the water where bass are likely to be living, bottom swells to watch out for to keep from bottoming out your boat.

Fishing Aid


As you learn to distinguish the various types of fish on your screen your fish finder will help you catch fish by letting you know the depth of the fish so you can get your line right down to where the fish are. Some fish finders will allow you to see in all directions around your boat so you can fish off several sections of the boat at the same time. It will even tell you the temperature of the water so you know when fish are most likely to be active.