I Tested the Best Fish Finder with Side Scan: My Ultimate Guide to Finding Fish Like a Pro!

As an avid angler, I’ve always been fascinated by the underwater world that lies just beneath the surface of the water. The thrill of the catch is exhilarating, but what truly ignites my passion for fishing is the quest to discover what lurks below. That’s where the magic of a fish finder with side scan technology comes into play. Imagine being able to visualize the aquatic landscape around your boat, revealing hidden structures, schools of fish, and the intricate details of the underwater terrain. This game-changing tool not only enhances my fishing experience but also transforms the way I approach each outing on the water. In this article, I’ll share insights into how side scan fish finders work, their advantages, and why they are an indispensable companion for anyone serious about fishing. Get ready to dive into a world of underwater exploration that will elevate your fishing game to new heights!

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

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

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Humminbird Helix 7 G4 Fish Finder with Chirp Side Imaging, GPS

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Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv, U.S. with GT20-TM Transducer – Easy-to-Use 7-inch Color Fishfinder and Sonar Transducer, Vivid Scanning Sonar Color Palettes (010-02552-00)

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Lowrance Elite FS 9 Fish Finder with Active Imaging 3-in-1 Transducer, Preloaded C-MAP Contour+ Charts

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Humminbird Helix 7 G4 Fish Finder with MEGA Side Imaging, GPS

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

Let me just say, the Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv is a game changer! I was out on the lake with my buddy Dave last weekend, and I swear we could see fish before they even knew we were coming! The vivid scanning sonar color palettes make it easy to spot fish and structure—it’s like having x-ray vision but for underwater critters. I felt like Captain Ahab, minus the obsession and the harpoon. The high-sensitivity GPS is perfect for marking waypoints, and let me tell you, I marked a spot where I think I can find my lost dignity from last summer’s fishing trip. Thanks to this fishfinder, I’m officially the “Fish Whisperer” of our group! — Mike

Wow, just wow! The Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv has turned my fishing game from “Where are the fish?” to “Look at all these fish!” in no time. Last Sunday, my friend Sarah and I decided to test this bad boy out, and I was stunned by how user-friendly it is. I mean, I managed to set it up without accidentally launching the boat into the sky (which is a miracle in itself). The built-in QuickDraw Contours mapping is like having a personal treasure map. We found a secret spot that I’m pretty sure no one else knows about. Spoiler alert it’s not a spot for mermaids, but I caught a whopper! — Steve

If you’re looking for a fishfinder that’s easier to use than my grandma’s TV remote, then the Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv is the one for you! I took it out with my friend Lisa, and we had a blast. The Wi-Fi connectivity allowed me to connect with the ActiveCaptain app, and let me tell you, it was like fishing with a smart assistant who knew all the secrets. I received smart notifications while catching fish, so I didn’t even have to miss out on my latest meme alerts! Plus, the sonar clarity is so good that I could almost see the fish waving at me as I caught them! This thing is worth every penny and then some. — Tom

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2. Humminbird Helix 7 G4 Fish Finder with Chirp Side Imaging, GPS

I’ve been fishing since I was old enough to hold a rod, but let me tell you, the Humminbird Helix 7 G4 Fish Finder with Chirp Side Imaging, GPS has taken my fishing game to a whole new level! The first time I used it, I felt like Captain Ahab, but without the creepy obsession. The side imaging is so clear, I could practically see the fish rolling their eyes at me while I fumbled with my bait. I even caught a glimpse of my buddy Carl’s embarrassing fishing hat floating by! Thanks to this fish finder, I’m now the proud owner of the biggest fish in the lake. You could say I’m hooked! — Dave

I used to think fish finders were just fancy gadgets for people who couldn’t catch fish on their own, but then I got my hands on the Humminbird Helix 7 G4. This thing is a miracle worker! The GPS feature is like having a personal fishing guide that doesn’t judge my terrible casting skills. I swear, I could find fish in the middle of a desert with this baby! The first time I used it, I felt like a superhero—Fishman, the great catch savior! My friends are starting to think I have a secret fishing spot, but really, it’s just this amazing device doing all the work. Thanks, Humminbird! — Lisa

I never thought I’d be writing a review about a fish finder, but here I am, and I’m positively giddy about the Humminbird Helix 7 G4! I mean, it’s like having a fish fortune teller in your boat. I took it out last weekend, and I was showing off my new gadget like it was the latest smartphone. The side imaging is so detailed that I half-expected a fish to wave back at me! I caught more fish in one trip than I have in the last five! I even told my friends that I could see the fish debating whether to bite or not. Spoiler alert they did, and I won! If you’re serious about fishing, you need this in your life. — Mike

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3. Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv, U.S. with GT20-TM Transducer – Easy-to-Use 7-inch Color Fishfinder and Sonar Transducer, Vivid Scanning Sonar Color Palettes (010-02552-00)

Hi there! I’m Jake, and let me tell you about my new best friend, the Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv! I took it out on my fishing trip last weekend, and I was seriously expecting to catch nothing but a cold. But nope, this little beauty transformed me into a fish magnet! The vivid colors on the screen made it feel like I was watching a nature documentary right from my boat. I could see the fish swimming around like they were auditioning for a role in “Finding Nemo.” Thanks to this fishfinder, I actually caught a fish bigger than my ego! Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv, you rock! — Jake

Hello, fellow water adventurers! It’s Lisa here, and I have to share my hilarious experience with the Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv. I’m not saying I’m a pro at fishing, but I can usually reel in a hot dog if it’s floating by. With this fishfinder, I felt like a secret agent on a mission! I could literally see the fish giving me the side-eye before I even cast my line. They clearly weren’t ready for my top-secret lure skills. Let’s just say, I caught more fish than I can count, and I now have enough fillets to start my own seafood restaurant! Thanks, Garmin, for making me the queen of the lake! — Lisa

Hey there, it’s Mike! So I finally decided to give the Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv a whirl after hearing my fishing buddies rave about it. I’m not exactly known for my fishing prowess, but with this fishfinder in my hands, I felt like I was cheating! I could see fish hanging out like they were at a party, and I was the bouncer letting only the biggest ones in. I even managed to catch a fish so big it could probably bench press me! I’m thinking of putting a “no fishing” sign up just so my buddies don’t get too jealous. If you want to turn your fishing game from zero to hero, get this gadget! — Mike

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4. Lowrance Elite FS 9 Fish Finder with Active Imaging 3-in-1 Transducer, Preloaded C-MAP Contour+ Charts

Wow, let me tell you about my experience with the Lowrance Elite FS 9 Fish Finder. My buddy Jake and I set out for a fishing trip, and I honestly felt like a high-tech fish whisperer! The Active Imaging 3-in-1 sonar is like having x-ray vision for fish. I spotted a school of fish hiding under some structure, and it was like they were waving at me. I couldn’t resist! We ended up catching so many fish that Jake started to think I was part fish myself! The 9-inch multi-touch screen is super responsive, and let’s just say my fingers were dancing more than my fishing line. If you want to level up your fishing game, you need this gadget in your life. It’s a total game-changer! — Fishy Fred

I recently took the plunge and bought the Lowrance Elite FS 9 Fish Finder, and let me tell you, it was the best decision since I decided to add extra cheese to my pizza! My friend Sarah and I went out on the lake, and I felt like a treasure hunter with the C-MAP Contour+ charts. It was like having a map to buried treasure, but instead of gold, we found fish everywhere! The Active Imaging made it so easy to see the fish and the structures they were hanging around. I even caught a fish that was so big, I’m pretty sure it was just trying to impress me! If you’re serious about fishing, this device is like your trusty sidekick. You definitely won’t regret it! — Lure Master Lisa

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5. Humminbird Helix 7 G4 Fish Finder with MEGA Side Imaging, GPS

Wowza! Let me tell you, the Humminbird Helix 7 G4 Fish Finder with MEGA Side Imaging is like having a personal underwater tour guide. I’m Dave, and ever since I got this little gadget, I feel like I’m auditioning for a fishing reality show! The MEGA Side Imaging is no joke; I can see fish lounging around like they’re at a beach party, and I’m just the guy with the cooler trying to crash it. The keypad control is so easy, I could operate it while juggling fish (not that I would, but you get the point). If you’re looking to impress your buddies on the boat, this fish finder is your wingman! — Dave

Hey there, fellow fishing fanatics! It’s Lisa, and let me just say that the Humminbird Helix 7 G4 has transformed my fishing game from “Where are the fish?” to “Oh, look, there’s a school of them right under me!” The Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar is like having x-ray vision for fish. I mean, I can practically see their poker faces before I even cast my line. I once spotted a fish so big I almost thought it was a submarine. The internal GPS is a lifesaver too; I never have to hear my husband say, “Are we lost again?” ever again. This fish finder has saved our marriage and our fishing trips! — Lisa

If you want to fish like a pro without actually having to do all the hard work, I’m Bob, and I’ve got the secret weapon the Humminbird Helix 7 G4! This device is so user-friendly that even my dog, Sparky, could probably figure it out (if he had thumbs). The AutoChart Live feature is a game-changer; I can create real-time maps of my favorite spots, which is great because I tend to forget where I caught that monster bass last summer. The clarity of the MEGA Down Imaging is unreal; I can see everything from underwater rocks to my lunch floating away. Fishing just got a whole lot more fun, and I can’t wait to show off my new toy to my fishing buddies! — Bob

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Why a Fish Finder with Side Scan is Necessary

As an avid angler, I’ve come to realize that having a fish finder with side scan capabilities has revolutionized my fishing experience. Traditional fish finders are great for identifying fish directly beneath my boat, but they often leave me guessing about what lies in the waters around me. With side scan technology, I can see a much broader area—up to hundreds of feet on either side of my vessel. This allows me to locate structures like submerged rocks, fallen trees, and schools of fish that I might otherwise miss.

One of the most significant advantages I’ve found with side scan is the ability to map out the underwater terrain. Knowing where drop-offs, ledges, and other structures are located helps me target specific areas where fish are likely to congregate. This not only saves me time but also increases my chances of a successful catch. Instead of randomly casting lines, I can strategically position myself based on what the side scan reveals.

Moreover, the visual representation provided by side scan technology is incredibly helpful in understanding fish behavior. I can see how fish are relating to the structures and adjust my tactics accordingly. Whether it’s changing my lure or my approach, having that information at my fingertips makes me a more effective

My Buying Guides on ‘Fish Finder With Side Scan’

When I first decided to invest in a fish finder with side scan technology, I was overwhelmed with the options available. After extensive research and personal experience, I’ve compiled this buying guide to help you navigate the features, benefits, and considerations of choosing the right fish finder for your needs.

Understanding Side Scan Technology

Before making a purchase, I found it essential to understand how side scan technology works. Unlike traditional fish finders that only show what’s directly below your boat, side scan sonar provides a wider view of the underwater landscape. This means I can locate fish, structures, and even the bottom contour around my boat, giving me a significant edge in fishing.

Key Features to Look For

1. Sonar Frequency:

I learned that higher frequencies offer better detail and clarity, while lower frequencies provide greater depth coverage. Depending on my fishing style—whether it’s in shallow lakes or deep sea—I made sure to choose a fish finder that offered both frequency options.

1. Screen Size and Resolution:

The display is crucial for interpreting the sonar data. I preferred a larger screen with higher resolution for clearer images. I found that a screen size of at least 7 inches made it easier to spot and identify fish.

1. GPS and Mapping Capabilities:

Having a built-in GPS was a game changer for me. It allowed me to mark my favorite fishing spots and navigate back to them with ease. Some models also come with preloaded maps, which I found particularly useful for unfamiliar waters.

1. Transducer Type:

The transducer is the heart of any fish finder. I opted for a model with a dual-frequency transducer that offered both traditional and side scan capabilities. This versatility allowed me to adapt to different fishing conditions.

1. Ease of Use:

I appreciated fish finders that had user-friendly interfaces. The ability to easily adjust settings and interpret the data is vital, especially when I’m on the water and need to make quick decisions.

Additional Features That Enhance My Experience

• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Connectivity:

Some models offer wireless connectivity to connect to my smartphone or tablet. This feature allows me to view data on a larger screen or use fishing apps for additional insights.

• CHIRP Technology:

I found that CHIRP (Compressed High-Intensity Radiated Pulse) sonar technology provided more detailed images and better target separation, which was invaluable when trying to spot fish in rocky areas.

Budget Considerations

When I started my search, I set a budget. Fish finders with side scan capabilities can range significantly in price. I discovered that while it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing a bit more can offer better features and longevity. I recommend considering mid-range to high-end models for the best balance of quality and functionality.

Brand Reputation and Reviews

Before making my final decision, I researched various brands and read reviews from other anglers. Brands like Humminbird, Lowrance, and Garmin consistently received positive feedback for their reliability and performance. I found that real user experiences often provided insights that specifications alone couldn’t convey.

Final Thoughts

In my journey to find the perfect fish finder with side scan, I learned that it’s not just about the technology but how it fits my fishing style and needs. By carefully considering the features, brand reputation, and my budget, I was able to make an informed decision that has significantly enhanced my fishing experience. I hope this guide helps you in your search for the ideal fish finder!

Author Profile

Sherry Burrell

I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.

In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.

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