10 Best Fish Finders 2025 in the United States

The Lowrance HDS PRO 16 Inch Fish Finder stands out as a high-end option for anglers seeking advanced features. With its impressive 16-inch SolarMAX HD touchscreen, users benefit from a clear view even in bright sunlight or through polarized sunglasses. This feature is essential for spotting fish in various lighting conditions. The unit's Active Imaging HD transducer offers multiple sonar options, including CHIRP, SideScan, and DownScan imaging, providing comprehensive coverage of the underwater environment. Additionally, with support for ActiveTarget live sonar, users can track fish movements in real-time, which can significantly enhance fishing success.

GPS integration is another strong point, as it comes preloaded with detailed charts covering thousands of lakes in the US and Canada, plus a worldwide basemap. This makes navigation easier and more intuitive, contributing to a safer and more enjoyable fishing experience.

There are some aspects to consider. The size of this fish finder might be cumbersome for smaller boats or those who prioritize portability; its weight of 17.8 pounds and dimensions may require careful planning for installation and transport. Additionally, while the price is competitive for its features, it may be on the higher end for casual fishers who do not need such advanced capabilities. Moreover, although the connectivity options like NMEA 2000, Bluetooth, and smartphone notifications are appealing, they may overwhelm users who are not tech-savvy or those looking for a simpler device.

This fish finder is best suited for serious anglers who fish frequently in varied conditions, and who are willing to invest in a device that offers sophisticated imaging and navigation capabilities.

The Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv is a solid choice for both casual and dedicated anglers looking for a user-friendly fish finder. It features a bright 9-inch touchscreen that is easy to read in sunlight, providing clarity and detail that can be beneficial for locating fish and navigating. Its included GT56 transducer enables traditional sonar as well as advanced ClearVü and SideVü imaging, which enhances underwater visibility and helps spot fish more effectively. Additionally, the built-in Garmin Navionics+ coastal charts are a real treat, giving users access to valuable navigation data and maps right out of the box.

One of the standout features is the built-in Wi-Fi, allowing for easy sharing of sonar data, waypoints, and routes between devices. This connectivity also lets you control a compatible Force trolling motor, making it easier to follow routes and manage speed. For those who enjoy fishing from a boat, the portability of the device allows for convenient setup, whether you prefer a dashboard mount or a flush mount installation.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. The screen resolution of 1024 x 600 may not match the highest-end models on the market, potentially limiting detail in certain situations. The weight of 8.08 pounds could be a bit cumbersome for some users, especially if portability is a key factor. Additionally, while the price point is competitive, some might find it on the higher end compared to basic fish finders with fewer features.

The Lowrance Elite FS 9 Fish Finder stands out due to its comprehensive feature set and high-quality components. Its most notable advantage is the Active Imaging 3-in-1 sonar, which includes CHIRP, SideScan, and DownScan capabilities, allowing users to see underwater structures with remarkable clarity. The 9-inch LCD screen is large, high-resolution, and multi-touch, making it user-friendly and easy to install.

With preloaded C-MAP Contour+ charts, anglers can navigate and pinpoint fish hotspots on 8,900 U.S. lakes, enhancing fishing success. Additionally, the device supports ActiveTarget Live Sonar for real-time fish observation, which is beneficial for serious anglers aiming to improve their catch rates. The full networking capability, including wireless, NMEA 2000, and Ethernet connectivity, allows the integration of additional devices, making it a versatile choice for comprehensive fishing systems.

On the downside, the unit’s size and weight might affect portability, making it less convenient for those needing a more mobile solution. Moreover, the power requirement of 12 Volt DC might necessitate additional power management for extended use. The Lowrance Elite FS 9 is well-suited for dedicated anglers who prioritize advanced imaging and comprehensive connectivity options in their fish-finding equipment.