Fishing is often known as a game made for those who are patient. The fruits of waiting are in the form of abundant catch and an adventurous experience.
However, that’s not the case every time you go out fishing. Unfortunately, sometimes your patience bears no fruits (or fish), and you have to go back empty-handed.
That’s where fish finders come into the picture. The best side view fish finder will help you get a clear and distinctive image of the water below and improve your fishing.
Fishfinders, especially side view fish finders, have been found to improve the fishing experience considerably.
They reduce the time you spend searching for the perfect spot and the time you spend waiting to get your trophy.
With a good quality side view fish finder, you will be able to see all the natural and man-made structures, and most importantly- fish, below you.
Quick Overview – Top 6 Best Side View Fish Finder
- Humminbird 410220 Fish Finder – Dual display mode suitable for kayaking.
- Lowrance HOOK2 Fish Finder – User-friendly and automated sonar settings.
- No products found. – Better imaging with a CHIRP side imaging.
- Humminbird Helix 9 SI Fish Finder – Includes internal GPS and is compatible with I-Pilot.
- Garmin Striker 7SV GPS Fish Finder – Comes with quickdraw contour mapping.
- Garmin Striker Vivid Fish Finder – Quality and affordable fish finder for beginners.
Best Side Imaging Fish Finder Reviews in 2022
Fishfinders come in several types and with various built-in functions. There are also different kinds of fish finders for different depths of water.
Choosing one that best suits your needs can be difficult and overwhelming with the number of options.
That’s why this review of the best side view fish finder is sure to help make things easy for you.
1. Humminbird 410220 Fish Finder – Best Overall Pick
Not going with the most expensive option doesn’t mean you’re conceding the quality of the product.
It’s not impossible to get a product that has top-notch quality functionality and delivers optimal performance-
all the while offering incredible affordability. The Humminbird 410220 Fish Finder is one such product.
It includes a 5-inch screen and a reliable GPS. With the large display size, it gets easy to notice even the smallest of the structures and other details, but it doesn’t hamper its portability.
The fish finder has a CHIRP sonar sensor for accurate scanning of the side imaging.
The CHIRP sensor also makes it easy to focus on the image and clear the clutter around.
Main Features
- Greater detail and imaging possible with the dual-beam plus sonar
- It’s equipped with a GPRS which enables wireless communication technology.
- The narrow beam from the dual-beam allows for more detailed precision.
- Possible to reach deeper ranger swift the CHIRP digital sonar sensor
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The base map sets included useful in giving information on thousands of locations and lakes.
The information about the lake and coastal area locations is taken from the data obtained from trusted sources like NOAA and LakeMaster.
Specifications
- Display Size: 5 inches
- Dimensions: 15 x 10 x 5 inches
- Batteries: Not included
- GPS Receiver: Internal
Pros
- It’s easily portable despite the screen size
- It’s equipped with an accurate and reliable GPS
- The finish finder has a keypad control
Cons
- The finish finder has a keypad control
This finish finder from Humminbird is one of the best side view fish finders available that fulfill the value of its price. It’s also compatible with both beginners and experienced fishermen.
Also Read: Best Fish Finder for Catfish Reviews [Top 7 Pick]
2. Lowrance HOOK 9-inch Fish Finder – Best For User-Friendliness
If you don’t want the hassle of setting up and constantly updating your fishfinder device, then this product is it for you.
The Lowrance HOOK2 fish finder is favored all over for its incredible ease of use.
You don’t have to spend hours setting up the functions and getting lost and confused with the puzzling menu options.
The direct access keypad makes sure of that.
The menus are quite easy to find grapes and the fish finder comes in various sizes.
The GPS Chartplotter is basic and makes it easy to add waypoints, navigate trails and locations with accuracy and reliability.
Main Features
- Has compatibility with superior charts like Navionics
- The CHIRP sonar is 2D high and wide.
- Basic GPS navigation and Chartplotter options available
- SolarMAX display with high resolution
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The triple shot transducer in the fish finder gives you the expected and clear side view imaging of the water.
The triple-shot makes it easy to scan the surrounding areas, track baits, see both natural and man-made structures underneath.
Specifications
- Screen Size: Available 9 inch sizes
- Dimensions: 11.87 x 9.13 x 8.63 inches
- Weight: 5.65 pounds
- Transducer type: Tripleshot skimmer transducer
Pros
- Preloaded inland and coast area mapping available
- A MicroSC reader is included
- Flexibility in transducer mounting
Cons
- Is expensive
This Lowrance fish finder has the full-angle high CHIRP sonar that includes both downside view and side view imaging for convenience.
What’s more, the automated sonar setting adjusts accordingly with the change in water conditions. So you don’t have the hassle of doing it yourself.
3. No products found. – Best Design
The Humminbird Helix 5 CHIRP model is a versatile and quality option for fishermen. The fish finder is ideal for small boats and kayaking.
So, if you’re just starting out, you will find this fish finder incredibly useful and efficient. The GPS is accurate and makes it easy to use Chartplotter and mark waypoints.
The display and sonar also come with clearer imaging with clear mode and faster processing with Max mode.
The MEGA imaging allows for clear, crisp, and detailed soar returns, which helps the anglers locate their catch easily.
The CHIRP sonar sensors also allow the anglers to view deeper and cover more range with side imaging.
The incredible features included make it one of the best-designed fish finders around.
No products found.
Main Features
- Includes an LED Backlit widescreen display of 5 inches
- Two beams combined in the dual-beam sonar cover a larger area
- The map sets include information about 10,100 lake and coastal area locations
- It’s equipped with GPRS
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The GPS mapping, along with the AutoChart live option, makes it easy to navigate the waters and find the best spots for fishing.
Since side view imaging allows for the greatest detail and precision, finding all kinds of structures and identifying schools of fishes gets easier.
Specifications
- Batteries: Not Included
- Dimensions:13 x 7.55 x 4.28 inches
- Weight: 01 pounds
- Mount: Front mount
Pros
- Has split-screen zooming
- Includes real-time sonar
- Includes a gimbal mount
Cons
- It doesn’t come with a unit cover
Although more suitable for small boats and kayaks, fishing on larger boats is also entirely possible with this versatile fish finder.
A side terrain of 480 ft and 100 ft depth makes it easy to get a clear display of the area around your boat on both sides.
4. Humminbird Helix 9 SI Fish Finder – Premium Pick
If you want the best of the best and will not hesitate to shell a few extra bucks, then the Humminbird Helix 9 SI model is perfect for you.
This fish finder makes finishing an incredibly adventurous and easy experience. You will not only be able to find and detect fish and other natural structures around you.
But with e top-notch technology, detecting man-made structures, wreckages ‘and more also is conveniently possible.
Even if you’re in murky waters, the AIS technology coupled with the enhanced GPS functions makes it easy to navigate the areas.
All the while, you will access information and details about the various locations and mark your preferred waypoints.
The screen is the biggest advantage as it has a clear 480×480 resolution display, and the bright 65000 color screen points out the depth and objects with precision and detail.
Main Features
- 480×480 bright, high-resolution display screen
- Both side view scanning and down scan imaging available
- Includes the Clear mode and the Max mode
- Accurate built-in GPS functions
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Aside from the in-built reliable and accurate GPS functions, you will have the Autochart and AutoChartPro mapping available to you as well.
As a lot of information about various locations and markers is also preloaded, it makes navigation even easier.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 13.44 x 7.12 x 4.2 inches
- Display Colors Grayscale: 65,000 colors
- Card Slots: Dual memory card slots with additional memory storage
- Transducer: Transom Transducer
Pros
- High-resolution display screen
- Inbuilt mapping sets and GPS
- High accuracy of fishing
Cons
- Expensive
Navigation is made very easy with the built-in GPS, and the 3,000 mapped out lake locations using Contour XD cartography.
AutoChart and AutoChartPro also make it easier to navigate the mapped out locations and mark waypoints.
The fish finder’s display is unmatched, and the clear side imaging scan will let you find the best spots for fishing in no time.
5. Garmin Striker 7SV GPS Fish Finder – Best Value Pick
This fish finder redefines finding using the side view scan imaging.
The 2D sonar includes frequencies of 77kHz and 200 kHz with the ClearVu, and SideVu can handle beams of frequencies ranging from 260 kHz, 455 kHz, and 800 kHz.
An additional perk is that you don’t need to be moving at a very slow speed or be stationary for better imaging.
The Garmin fish finder works well even when you’re moving. You can save as many as 5,00 waypoints in the system, and you also have the option of recording your route.
It also includes quickdraw contour mapping features and a built WiFi and GPS access.
Main Features
- Includes all ClearVu, SideVu, and DownVu scanning
- It can go to the depth of 2,300 ft in freshwater and 1,100 ft in saltwater
- GPS can store up to 5,000 waypoint
- Includes ActiveCaptain app for interaction with other users
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What’s more, with this fish finder, you can even interact with your fellow anglers.
The ActiveCaptain app allows you to receive notifications and waypoints from nearby and other anglers and users.
Specifications
- Dimensions:3 x 2.3 x 5.5 inches
- Display Size: 7 inches
- Map Type: Worldwide
- Screen Resolution: 800 x 480
Pros
- High screen resolution
- Easy to use
- Quickdraw contour feature included
Cons
- Additional charts and maps cannot be included
It’s a high-ranked fish finder and allows you to use professional features with the perk of affordability.
So, it will be a great addition for both beginners and anglers with experience as well.
6. Garmin Striker 4cv Fish Finder – Budget Pick
For anglers that are just starting out and want to have a fish finder with basic and easy features, these Garmin fish finders will be the best fit.
As side view imaging can make it easier to spot games and improve your fishing time, if you’re looking for an affordable option, then this is it.
The Garmin Striker 4cv comes with swift built-in quickdraw mapping software and is available in a compact size you can take anywhere.
You can even connect other sensors like temperature sensors and can perform well even under bright light.
It even comes with a high-quality CHIRP sensor and displays accurate and clear imaging of the underwater.
Best of all, this is a highly durable product, so you won’t be needing to replace it anytime soon.
Main Features
- Includes a built-in Garmin CHIRP with a transducer
- Has detailed ClearVu scanning available
- Reliable mapping software
- Built-in GPS
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With the various built-in features and clear display, the Garmin fish finder makes it easy to have fun while fishing.
Ti also includes information on coordinates and can run speed calculations easily. You can also have up to 5,00 waypoints saved which are highly useful to mark spots.
Specifications
- Screen Size: 4 Inches
- Dimensions: 9 x 1.8 x 6.9 inches
- Weight: 02 ounces
- Battery Type: 1 AA Battery
Pros
- Highly durable
- Quickdraw contour mapping available
- Sunlight readable screen
Cons
- MicroSD slot unavailable
Even on sunny days, you will easily read the details and find the best fishing spots.
It cuts down the time spent in searching for locations considerably. This fish finder is one of the most affordable options available.
Buyer’s Guide
Having gone through the reviews above, you might want to keep certain things in mind before buying a fish finder.
The devices must have specific features that should be present so that their performance is good.
This buying guide will be able to help you find the products based on your choice. You can take a look at each feature and then decide on the product accordingly.
Transducers
Along the lines of frequency, transducers help in receiving and giving out sonar signals. This is a very integral feature that every fish finder should have.
Three components should also be taken into consideration while checking the transducer of the device.
The majority of the devices come with transducers, and the mounting required will be determined by your boat.
It’s integral for the mount to fit well in your boat.
There are a variety of different mounts that can be fixed following compatibility with your boat.
Frequencies
Frequencies help in getting more details. This is one of the main reasons so to why fish finders use this feature.
The background noise is also comparatively lower, and there is more clarity on the screen.
Fishfinders use either one or many frequencies. The screen gets more precise and more detailed if the device uses numerous frequencies simultaneously.
However, this might depend on the depth of the water as well.
Hence, in areas wherein the water is deep, low frequencies work the best. In comparison, higher frequencies work best in shallow water.
Getting a device that will easily allow you to switch between the frequencies is the ideal option.
Through-Hull Mount
These transducers provide excellent signals, but they are also the most difficult to install.
They are bound to perform exceptionally well at any given speed. This mount is complicated to install because it requires a hole to be made in your boat.
In-Hull Mount
This mount works best in a certain frequency of 190-200 kHz. Moreover, they are attached to the hull bottom, which prevents them from coming in contact with the water.
The signal is sent through the hull in such mounts. Moreover, while installing this mount, it’s necessary to use very solid fiberglass.
Transom Mount
Since this mount is one of the easiest to install, it’s prevalent. This transducer is behind the hull, and all you need to do is screw it.
Most of the time, this transducer mount is used only on wood, aluminum, or fiberglass.
It’s crucial to check the installation techniques before deciding on the transducer mount.
However, if the fish finder comes with the entire transducer package, you might want to check its compatibility with your boat and then purchase the device.
The last thing that should be considered is the material of the transducer. Electrolysis can be a significant problem if the materials do not match with the boat.
Hence, steel or aluminum boat hulls work best only with plastic ones.
However, aluminum boats aren’t compatible with bronze. Hence transducers made of that material should be avoided.
Motor or transom mounts are the ones that are compatible with any boat.
Lastly, going through the entire installation process is essential because transducers are an integral part of fish finding.
Display
The screen resolution of the devices should be noted before you decide on one. The better the screen resolution is, the more precise details you will be able to see.
Other than the resolution, the color and size of the display should also be taken into consideration.
Bigger screens are undoubtedly on the expensive side, but at the same time, it shows more detail.
Displays in color are easy to understand in any situation, be it light or dark. Black and white screens are comparatively harder to read with the availability of only grey shades.
Power
The performance of the fish finder depends on the power. Moreover, the speed also depends on the same. Hence, if the device can work high-powered, the details can be retained easily.
The device’s mode from wherein the power will be provided should be noted to meet all the requirements.
If the watts are comparatively higher, then the power will also be more potent.
Durability
The fish finder should be very durable and, most importantly, be waterproof.
Some devices can’t be submerged in deep water; hence, it’s integral to note that it might affect the entire activity if it isn’t completely water-resistant.
Other than being water-resistant, fish finders should also be able to withstand low pressure.
Since the pressure can constantly be changing underwater and while it’s brought back to land, the device should have the capacity to withstand the same.
Best Side Imaging Fish Finder (FAQs)
✅ What is CHIRP?
CHIRP stands for Compressed High-Intensity Radiated Pulse. This technology can send multiple frequencies, and their interpretation is also individually reflected. It also helps in providing better details with lesser noise.
✅ What frequency is typically used in fish finders?
The frequency mainly depends on the location as well as the device. However, most of the time, the frequency ranges from 50 to 200 kHz. It can also go up to 400 kHz.
✅ How to use a fish finder?
The most integral step of finding fish is to learn how to identify it. This becomes very easy if your device has a Fish-ID.
This technology will easily be able to create a similar image of the fish and identify it. Moreover, some features can identify different rocks as well.
Any data received with the sonar's help is immediately changed into useful information with specific images and details.
Wrap Up
This review of the best side view fish finders includes some of the best products available for you with useful features and performance.
Though all the picks are suitable for a good day of fishing, the Humminbird 410220 Fish Finder is our top pick for the best side view fish finder.
The detailed precision and high-quality imaging, along with its affordability, makes it a favorite.
However, the Garmin Striker 4cv Fish Finder is the best choice for a much more affordable option.
Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API