When it comes to fishing, having the right equipment is crucial. The Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv offers a user-friendly interface and vivid color palettes, making it easy to locate fish. Similarly, the Lowrance Elite FS 7 features advanced imaging technology, ensuring you never miss a catch.
These fish finders excel in various environments, from lakes to coastal waters. Their unique selling points include built-in mapping software and versatile scanning options that cater to all anglers.
In this review, we will dive deeper into each product’s features, helping you choose the perfect fish finder for your needs. Get ready to transform your fishing adventures!



Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv Fishfinder
The Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv is designed to enhance your fishing experience, ideal for both amateur and seasoned anglers. This 7-inch color fishfinder features a GT20-TM transducer, making it perfect for those who want to locate fish and underwater structures with ease. Its compact dimensions and user-friendly interface ensure that even beginners can navigate its functions effortlessly.
This fishfinder addresses the common challenges faced by anglers, such as identifying fish and underwater structures. With its vivid scanning sonar color palettes, users can easily distinguish between fish and other underwater elements, improving their chances of a successful catch. The high-sensitivity GPS allows you to mark waypoints, create routes, and monitor your boat’s speed, ensuring a smooth fishing experience.
Pros
- Exceptional clarity: The vivid scanning sonar color palettes provide clear images, making it easy to identify fish and structures.
- Built-in GPS: High-sensitivity GPS functionality helps in marking waypoints and navigating efficiently.
- Durable design: Built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, ensuring longevity.
- Easy to use: Intuitive interface makes it accessible for users of all skill levels.
- Wi-Fi connectivity: Connects to the ActiveCaptain app for smart notifications and access to the Garmin Quickdraw Community.
Cons
- Price point: Higher than some basic models, which might deter budget-conscious buyers.
- Size limitations: The 7-inch screen may be small for some users who prefer larger displays for detailed views.
The Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv excels in performance, offering reliable sonar capabilities and mapping features. Its standout functions include built-in Quickdraw Contours mapping, which allows users to create personalized maps of their favorite fishing spots. This fishfinder is best suited for boaters and anglers who value precision and clarity in their fishing tools.
In summary, the Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv is an excellent choice for anglers seeking a high-quality fishfinder that combines advanced technology with ease of use. Its features cater to both novice and experienced fishers, making it a valuable addition to any fishing adventure.
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Garmin Striker 7SV GPS Fishfinder
The Garmin Striker 7SV with Transducer is designed to enhance your fishing experience, ideal for both amateur and professional anglers. Its 7-inch display, combined with advanced sonar technology, ensures you can locate fish with precision. This fishfinder features a robust design, including a built-in transducer that offers CHIRP traditional sonar, CHIRP ClearVü, and CHIRP SideVü scanning capabilities. The device is perfect for those who fish in various environments, from lakes to coastal waters.
With a resolution of 800 x 480, the Garmin Striker 7SV provides clear visuals even in bright sunlight, allowing users to spot fish and underwater structures easily. The built-in Quickdraw Contours mapping software enables you to create and store maps with 1-foot contours for up to 2 million acres, making it a valuable tool for serious fishermen. Additionally, the built-in GPS functionality allows you to mark waypoints, create routes, and monitor your boat’s speed, improving your overall fishing strategy.
Pros
- Advanced sonar technology improves fish detection and underwater visibility.
- Durable and weather-resistant design suitable for various fishing environments.
- User-friendly interface simplifies navigation and operation.
- Built-in Wi-Fi connects to the ActiveCaptain app for smart notifications and community features.
Cons
- Price point may be higher than basic fishfinders, which could deter budget-conscious buyers.
- Some users may find the learning curve steep for advanced features.
In terms of performance, the Garmin Striker 7SV stands out with its exceptional clarity and detail in sonar imaging. The combination of traditional and side-scanning sonar allows for comprehensive underwater exploration. It’s best suited for serious anglers who require detailed mapping and advanced fish-finding capabilities. However, those new to fishfinders might need some time to fully utilize its features.
Overall, the Garmin Striker 7SV offers excellent value for dedicated fishermen looking to enhance their fishing trips with technology. Its advanced features and user-friendly design make it a top choice for anyone serious about fishing.
To buy this product, click here.
Lowrance Elite FS 7 Fish Finder
The Lowrance Elite FS 7 Fish Finder with Active Imaging 3-in-1 Transducer is designed for avid anglers seeking to enhance their fishing experience. Ideal for both novice and experienced fishermen, this device provides detailed insights into underwater structures and fish behavior. Its compact 7-inch multi-touch screen, combined with advanced sonar technology, ensures that users can easily navigate and interpret the waters they fish in.
Key specifications of the Lowrance Elite FS 7 include a vibrant 7-inch display that offers high resolution for clear visibility, and a robust Active Imaging 3-in-1 sonar system that incorporates CHIRP, SideScan, and DownScan capabilities. The preloaded C-MAP Contour+ charts provide high-resolution 1-foot contours across 8,900 U.S. lakes, making it easier to locate key fishing areas.
This fish finder significantly improves the user’s experience by providing real-time data on fish locations and underwater structures, allowing for more strategic fishing. Its built-in networking capabilities enable seamless integration with other devices, enhancing the overall fishing system.
Pros
- Exceptional imaging with Active Imaging 3-in-1 sonar for detailed underwater views.
- 7-inch multi-touch screen is intuitive and user-friendly.
- Preloaded C-MAP Contour+ charts enhance navigation and fishing success.
- Full networking capabilities allow for integration with other marine devices.
- ActiveTarget Live Sonar support provides real-time fish tracking.
Cons
- Requires additional module for full Active Imaging HD functionality.
- Price point may be higher compared to basic fish finders.
- Installation may require some technical knowledge for optimal setup.
Performance-wise, the Lowrance Elite FS 7 excels in providing detailed, high-resolution images of fish and underwater structures, making it a valuable tool for serious anglers. Its standout features, such as the ActiveTarget Live Sonar and comprehensive networking options, set it apart from competitors. While it may have a steeper learning curve for beginners, the benefits far outweigh the minor drawbacks.
This fish finder is best suited for anglers who prioritize technology and want to maximize their fishing efficiency. With its advanced features and user-friendly design, the Lowrance Elite FS 7 Fish Finder is a worthy investment for anyone serious about fishing.
To buy this product, click here.
Garmin Striker Plus 9SV Fish Finder
The Garmin Striker Plus 9SV with CV52HW-TM transducer is designed to enhance your fishing experience, making it ideal for anglers who demand precision and clarity. This fishfinder features a built-in Garmin CHIRP traditional sonar, along with CHIRP ClearVü and CHIRP SideVü scanning sonars, providing exceptional imaging and depth perception. Its 9-inch bright display ensures visibility even in direct sunlight, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced fishermen.
This product is tailored for serious anglers who fish in various environments, from lakes to coastal waters. With dimensions of 9 inches, this device is compact enough to fit on most boats without compromising functionality. The sleek design is complemented by a user-friendly interface, constructed from durable materials that can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
The Garmin Striker Plus 9SV addresses common fishing challenges by delivering high-resolution images of underwater structures and fish, allowing users to make informed decisions on where to cast their lines. The built-in GPS feature enables users to mark waypoints, create routes, and monitor boat speed, enhancing navigation on unfamiliar waters.
Pros
- Exceptional sonar imaging for accurate fish detection.
- Built-in GPS for easy waypoint marking and navigation.
- Durable construction suitable for outdoor use.
- Intuitive user interface for quick operation.
- Access to ActiveCaptain app for smart notifications and community features.
Cons
- Does not support mapping software or come pre-loaded with maps.
- Price may be higher compared to basic fishfinders.
- Limited to fishfinding capabilities, not a multifunction chartplotter.
Overall, the Garmin Striker Plus 9SV stands out with its impressive performance and user-friendly features. It’s best suited for anglers who prioritize advanced sonar technology and GPS navigation in their fishing adventures. While it may not offer mapping capabilities, its superior imaging and connectivity options make it a worthwhile investment for serious fishing enthusiasts.
To buy this product, click here.
Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 Fish Finder
The Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 SplitShot is designed to enhance your fishing experience by providing precise underwater visibility, ideal for freshwater anglers seeking to locate and identify fish more effectively. With a compact 5-inch SolarMAX display, this fish finder is perfect for small to medium-sized boats and kayaks. Its robust features include a SplitShot transducer, preloaded C-MAP US inland mapping, and advanced sonar technology, ensuring you can find fish quickly and efficiently.
This fish finder addresses the common challenge of locating fish in various water conditions. The combination of CHIRP sonar and DownScan Imaging offers unparalleled clarity, allowing users to see fish and underwater structures in high detail. The preloaded maps cover nearly 4,000 US inland lakes, enabling anglers to create custom contour maps for even deeper insights into their fishing spots.
Pros
- Enhanced Fish Detection: FishReveal technology makes it easier to spot and identify fish.
- High-Detail Mapping: Access to nearly 4,000 inland lakes with customizable mapping options.
- Autotuning Sonar: Automatically adjusts settings for optimal sonar images, saving time during fishing trips.
- Clear Display: The SolarMAX display ensures excellent visibility in all lighting conditions.
Cons
- Size Limitations: The 5-inch display may be small for some users who prefer larger screens.
- Price Point: Higher than basic fish finders, which might not suit budget-conscious anglers.
In terms of performance, the Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 SplitShot excels in providing clear and detailed images of underwater environments. The autotuning feature is particularly beneficial, allowing users to focus on fishing rather than constantly adjusting settings. While the size may be a drawback for some, the clarity and functionality of the display make it a valuable tool for serious anglers.
This fish finder is best suited for freshwater enthusiasts who prioritize ease of use and detailed mapping. Overall, the Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 SplitShot offers exceptional value for those looking to elevate their fishing game.
To buy this product, click here.
Faq about best fish finder with side scan imaging reviews:
1:What is a fish finder with side scan imaging?
A fish finder with side scan imaging uses sonar technology to provide detailed views of underwater structures and fish located to the sides of the boat.
2:What are the benefits of side scan imaging?
Side scan imaging offers enhanced visibility of fish and underwater objects, allowing anglers to identify structures and locate fish more effectively than traditional sonar.
3:How does side scan imaging work?
Side scan imaging emits sonar waves from the transducer, which bounce off objects and return to create detailed images of the underwater environment on the display screen.
4:Which features should I look for in a fish finder?
Look for high-resolution displays, GPS capabilities, user-friendly interfaces, and advanced sonar technologies for optimal performance.
5:Can I use a fish finder with side scan imaging in shallow water?
Yes, many models are designed to work effectively in shallow waters, but check the specifications for optimal depth ranges.
6:Are there any recommended brands for fish finders?
Popular brands include Garmin, Humminbird, and Lowrance, known for their reliable and innovative fish finder technologies.
Conclusion
Both the Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv and Garmin Striker 7SV exemplify excellence in fish finding technology. The Vivid 7cv impresses with its vivid color display and user-friendly interface, making it an ideal choice for novice and seasoned anglers alike. Its side scan imaging capabilities enhance underwater visibility, ensuring a successful fishing experience.
Conversely, the Striker 7SV offers advanced features, including robust GPS functionality and superior sonar imaging, catering to discerning fishermen seeking precision. Together, these models represent the pinnacle of innovation, empowering users to navigate aquatic environments with unparalleled clarity and confidence.