Best Depth Finder

10 Best Depth Finder For Boat in 2022!

Last updated on August 23rd, 2022

Imagine you’re out fishing in your favorite lake with the best rod you had just bought recently and the best bait that has arrived from your new online shipping. However, you haven’t been able to catch a single fish. For some reason, it feels as if the fishes are all hiding from you. You peep into the water only to find that the water is too murky for you to see through. You can’t seem to figure out whether the fishes are out near the shore or towards the middle of the water body. Even though you can’t see the fishes, you know they are right there. In order to get a view of them, you should invest in the best depth finder.

This simple gadget can help you find where the fishes are hiding it. If you haven’t heard of this device, you are seriously missing out a lot in your fishing life.

But What is the best all-around GPS depth finder? Read on our depth finder reviews to find the top recommendations for 2022.

This incredible device can help you locate and find the fish from the location where you are. It’s able to scan under the waves and precisely identify where the fishes are.

It can even tell you the temperature of the water and how certain deep spots are.

 Comparisons of Best Depth Finders

Image Model Weight Max Depth Price
HawkEye DT2B-TM DepthTrax 2B 1.65 pounds 2.5 to 600 feet in depth
Humminbird HDR650 Digital Depth Finder 2.9 pounds 600 ft depth
Lowrance Hook-3X Sonar 2 pounds Not specified
Humminbird 409670-1 PiranhaMax 197C 2 pounds 600 feet
LUCKY Portable Depth Finder 14.1 ounces 2.3ft(0.7m) to 328ft(100m)
Vexilar Inc. Hand Held Sonar 8 ounces 1.8 to 200 feet in depth
Lowrance LST-3800 2-1/8 Inch In-Dash Depth 1 pounds 700 feet
HawkEye FishTrax 1X Portable Dot Matrix 9.4 ounces multi-level depth ranges
Faria Marine Instruments 13852 1 pounds 2" Depth Sound
Venterior Portable Depth Finder 1.09 pounds 1M to 100m

Top 10 Depth Finders Reviewed!

1. HawkEye DT1B Depth Trax 1B – Boat Mount Depth Finder

Kickstarting our list of the best depth finder with the HawkEye DT1B Depth Trax 1B is probably the only thing we could think of.

That’s because this depth finder is a crowd favorite. What’s more helpful about this device is that you have the freedom to choose how you want to set it up. Cool, right?

Moving on, you can be free to decide whether you want to glue it on the hull or make use of the transom mount feature.

The Sounder can offer precise depth readings from 2.5 to 200 feet and provide translations in meters if you think that’s easier to understand for you.

It’s worth mentioning that no matter how fast you travel on your boat, the finder will give you accurate readings.

It’s able to handle speeds of up to 63 miles per hour, unlike the modern-day depth finders. There’s absolutely no delay in its readings; it’s now and exactly right now.

The HawkEye DT1B Depth Trax 1B has gone the extra mile with their adaptive software programming works that reduce the false readings and signals that the device may receive.

In fact, it’s equipped with a three-stage depth alarm, an ultra-bright red LED warning light, and LCD alarm indicators.

The device will tell you if you are roving towards water that’s treacherously deep or dangerously low with plenty of time to spare.

And it’s worth highlighting that the device is heavy-duty and incredibly long-lasting, even in saltwater conditions. It has a display size of 1.65-inches long that makes it easier to read the measures.

To sweeten the deal furthermore, let me tell you that the Depth Trax 1B has an excellent two-year warranty, that provides excellent coverage for most instances.

Pros:

  • 2-year warranty
  • Three-stage depth alarm
  • Can detect depth from 2.5 – 200 feet

Cons:

  • Might not work well under tide sensitive areas

2. Humminbird 407860-1 HDR650 Digital Depth Gauge

When it comes to depth finders and fishing GPS technology, there’s nothing better than the Humminbird407860-1 HDR650 Digital Depth Gauge.

Why? That’s because it delivers the best functionality and seamless experience for fishers.

Starting from its display, it’s 1.25-inches, which is quite large and comfortable to read off the numbers from it.

The numbers are pretty clear and understandable, and that’s what matters. Plus, this best depth finder is convenient.

The Humminbird 407860-1 HDR650 has taken its design into a premier level. Its sleek design along with the features creates an even better user interface.

And you can make use of it without having to worry about it at all; it’s 100% waterproof unit.

In terms of capability, the depth finder can go as deep as 600ft without any issues. You will really enjoy that this tool can track the bottom up to 70 MP. And if there’s anything suspicious, it will send you signals. Therefore, it doesn’t matter how well equipped or less equipped your vessel is, the Humminbird 407860-1 HDR650 is a good choice.

All around, Humminbird itself is a high-quality tool for aquatics. It’s simple, reliable and a pretty good tool for the price that it comes with.

Moreover, it makes a high-quality fish finder for beginners. There might be merely lacking in the features that advanced level fishers might be looking for. Well, this one is only for novices.

Pros:

  • Maximum depth capability 600ft
  • Shallow and deep depth alarms
  • Display screen easy to read
  • One year warranty

Cons:

  • Requires drilling outside of the boat for install

3. Lowrance Hook-3X Sonar, W/ 83/200 XDCR

For those who are looking forward to an ultimate fishing experience with top technology, here we have the Lowrance Hook-3X Sonar, W/ 83/200 XDCR.

It’s mainly designed for inshore fishermen, but when it comes to graphics, depth, and temperature, it’s amazing!

The tool may not have GPS technology, it’s an excellent buy for the price that it offers.

The 3.5-inches LED-backlit display provides a magnificent view from all angles. Instead of the fish arches, it displays the fish echoes assigns.

This depth finder is very compact. It has 11 controls on the front that includes a keypad, menu setting, frequency changer, zoom keys, and power button.

Moreover, this depth finder has the sensor to distinguish objects by setting apart weak and robust echoes.

Hard and soft returns are displayed by red, yellow and blue colored lines.

You have the freedom to adjust the ping speed according to the velocity of your boat. So, you can control the interference coming from other transducers.

It easily supports 200 kHz and 83 kHz frequencies that’s adjustable from the frequency key.

The hook attached with depth finder also includes track and alarm options.

With that, we can say that we’ve chosen an excellent featured tool that comes at an affordable price and excellent ratings from consumers.

Pros:

  • Led-backlit 3-inch color display
  • Advanced signal processing
  • Broadband sounder detail easily identifies fish targets

Cons:

  • The depth readings are not very accurate

4. Humminbird 409670-1 PiranhaMax 197C Color Fish Finder

Humminbird provides world-class quality products, and the PiranhaMax 197C is no exception. It has some robust features that fit into the budget as well. With so much more, this fish finder is a total attention grabber.

First off, this depth finder has the technology that can determine the depth automatically. It can auto-adjust itself to keep fish and the bottom visible on the screen.

On top of that, the sonar technology sends sound waves from its transducer out into the water. It detects objects while the boat is moving.

Amazingly, the sonar view shows a different intensity of colors. Plus, the Dual Beam sonar uses a 200/455 kHz frequencies with a 28-degree conical area coverage.

Speaking of the display, it has a 3.5-inch thin-film-transistor TFT screen, the resolution of which is 240H x 320V.

Okay, now we’ll be very honest here; the display maybe not have the highest quality image, but it’s way better than what competitors have come up with.

But the good news is, you can change the contrast settings and zoom and in and out as per your convenience.

The LED backlight compromises better visibility. So, you won’t have to squint to see your target.

Other than that, the fish finder has the fish alarm, which makes a little sound when the sonar picks up a fish. So, you can already see that this device is unique can quite useful for any novice angler.

Pros:

  • Easy to use
  • Affordable
  • Easy adjustment
  • The colored LCD screen with an LED backlight

Cons:

  • Limited features

5. LUCKY Portable Fish Finder 328 Feet Water Depth Finder LCD Screen

The Lucky Fish Finder will definitely change your luck! It’s very adaptable and portable that just fits your needs.

There is an array of functions that you can try in simulation mode and then go fishing in transducer mode.

Or for fishing, you can use the depth sounder in a number of ways such as river fishing, sea fishing, ice fishing and so on. The brackets help you to attach the transducer on your boat.

The sonar transducer of the kayak fish finder gives you a 26ft wired operating distance along with a 45-degree detect angle and 328ft depth finder.

You’ll love the various features that it has.

There are three types of display that you can choose from; clearer and more professional.

And of course, you can set up the sensitivity, brightness, depth range, depth alarm, zoom, and fish icons and set your preferred language.

Take a look at its TFT color LCD screen, and you will be able to detect and see underwater depth, temperature and fish size.

You will be satisfied at how instantly it scans the area and sends an update to the handheld unit.

The Lucky Fish Finder is rechargeable and comes with a USB cable that helps in charging. The handheld depth sounder is able to last for approximately 5 hours with a full charge in it.

We highly recommend the Lucky Fish Finder as it’s very reliable. Not only will you be lucky to have it, but also smart to own it!

Pros:

  • Two user modes; simulation and transducer
  • Portable and reliable
  • Full charge stays for more extended hours

Cons:

  • Comes with a wire

6. Vexilar Inc. Hand Held Sonar

Vexilar Inc. Hand Held Sonar is not just a depth finder. It’s an addition to your fishing, boating, and diving experience.

This handheld depth finder comes in very handy. It’s equipped with a 200 kHz in-built transducer that’s able to read depths between 1.8 to 200 feet.

You can use the device while you are in the water and still get flawless performance.

It’s 100% waterproof for up to 150ft, which makes it an ideal tool for snorkeling and scuba diving. It even performs excellently when used for ice fishing.

Remarkably, this device floats on water. So, even if you accidentally drop it into the water, it will bob on the water surface, making it easier for you to pick it up.

And the neon yellow color helps you clear a clear view of the tool, no matter where it is.

The display might be a little small, but you can still view the measurements without any trouble.

After all, what more can you expect from a handheld device that runs on 9V batteries?

The display auto-shuts every 10-seconds to conserve battery charge. However, the backlit display is quite useful, especially at night.

Consider this best depth finder to be your life savior. Make every fishing expedition a triumph with the Vexilar Inc. Hand Held Sonar.

Pros:

  • Nautical yellow is easy to identify
  • Floats on water
  • Waterproof up to 150ft

Cons:

  • Small display

7. Lowrance LST-3800 2-1/8 Inch In-Dash Depth and Temperature Gauge with 200KHz Transom Mount Transducer

Reliability, accuracy, and simplicity; the Lowrance LST-3800 In-Dash Depth and Temperature revolve around these three words.

This is a more compact and unique version of the Lowrance Hook-3X Sonar, W/ 83/200 XDCR that we had reviewed previously.

With the use of the Lowrance LST-3800 In-Dash Depth and Temperature, you are more likely to get an accurate depth reading and temperature instantly.

The tool measures down the temperature nearest to 0.1-degree Fahrenheit for the best accuracy. You would be surprised that this compact design of a depth finder is able to measure down to 700 feet.

With the shallow water alarm, it will make things way more comfortable. Alongside, the external buzzer will not cause you any trouble.

The standard compact case can fit into a standard 2-1/8-inch diameter gauge hole for convenient mounting.

Now coming back to the display, it has a high-contrast dot matrix LCD display along with advanced white LED backlighting.

This makes it very easy to read. The screen shows three main features – temperature, dual-screen and more importantly the depth.

You can go about 40-45 miles per hour in your boat and still get a reasonably well reading. So, you won’t have any issues with speeding either.

Overall, this depth finder works really well under any circumstances. One more thing that we’d like to say in conclusion is that it’s an excellent tool for diving, especially with kids. It will help you instantly know the depth of the water.

Pros:

  • High-contrast dot matrix display
  • 700 ft depth capability
  • Compact size

Cons:

  • Not very durable

8. HawkEye FishTrax 1X Portable Dot Matrix Fish Finder

The HawkEye FishTrax 1X is an advancement to the next level. If you have bought other fish finders and still failed to track and catch your prey, this tool is going to be very useful.

We would strongly recommend you to purchase this, and if not then at least consider it in your list of fish finders. For some beginner and experienced anglers, it could be terribly difficult to read and understand from the display.

However, the HawkEyeFishTrax 1X has the dot matrix play that delivers a clear view of the screen and a summary of what’s going on underwater.

If you’re looking for something portable, rather than permanently mounting on your boat, here’s your solution.

This small-sized depth finder is perfect for you to bring whenever you go fishing, diving or other watersport activities.

The tool comes with an intelligent sonar that’s used to come up with all the other metrics.

The dual-frequency sonar in the device helps to show you some of the vital facts that you need to know. This enables you to ensure what approach you should follow to catch your fish.

You’re definitely going to get perfect results if you head out to buy one of the HawkEyeFishTrax 1X. Whether you use it to find fish or measure the water depth, it’s going to be so much better with this one.

Pros:

  • Battery powered
  • Can be mounted if needed
  • Intelligent sonar technology

Cons:

  • Not suitable for colder temperatures

9. Faria Marine Instruments 13852 Faria Chesapeake 2″ Depth Sound

The Faria Marine 13852 Chesapeake do need a lot of time and dedication to set it up, but once it’s done, there’s nothing better than this.

However, for your convenience, it does come with its transom-mounted transducer for you to begin your installation process ASAP!

Moving on, this depth finder is capable of a finding of 199ft. And the most significant advantage of this depth finder is that it has a considerably larger display, which allows you to gauge the depth with just a glance.

It has a backlit display, which is relatively visible during both day and night.

It also has the keel offset setting, which means you can customize your settings as per the needs of your vessel draft.

The Faria Marine 13852 Chesapeake has automatic control. This means that whether the signal is active or too weak, the results are going to remain the same. You will get the most updated and reliable readings about the water.

However, the wrong side of this depth finder is that if you put it in deeper water, it may not function very well.

Pros:

  • Has automatic gain control
  • 2-inch screen display
  • Keel offset option

Cons:

  • May not function well under more than 199ft

10. Venterior Portable Fish Finder, Handheld depth finder with Wired Sonar Sensor Transducer, and LCD Display

This portable depth finder is impressive. That’s because it can identify and visualize short and tall weeds, water depth, location of fish and rock and sand on the seabed.

This is an updated version of all the previous devices that the manufacturers had created, and this is indeed so much better.

The Venterior Portable Fish Finder can be used in lakes, seas, rivers, or any other favorite fishing spots. It works great at a depth that starts from 3ft to anywhere around 328ft flawlessly.

In addition, it has a round transducer, which has 25 feet of cable with a removable transducer float.

The device has a beam angle that is detectable at 45 degrees, as well as a range from 3 ft/1 m down to 328 ft/100m below the sonar transducer.

Moreover, it comes with some unique features like battery saver mode, backlight mode and up to 5 users’ selectable sensibility.

Do take note that it measures the depth of water in terms of both meters and feet.

With no more than a two-years of warranty, you can return it in any case of manufactural defects. So, what are you waiting for? Get yours now!

Pros:

  • 2-years warranty
  • Battery saver mode just in case if you run out of charge
  • Can go up to 328ft deep

Cons:

  • The Venterior Portable Fish Finder is good at figuring out depth but not precisely about is under the water

Things To Look For When Buying A Depth Finder

Of course, you will be looking at a number of different depth finders, features, and functionalities. However, you need to look for a few factors that are a must. Therefore, we have combined the main things you should look for in the best depth finder.

Transducer

Mainly, if you are planning on using your depth finder solely to find fish, sensors are a must! Basically, a sensor is what sends out and receives the sonar wave.

Once these waves are emitted into the water, it bounces off to find different objects underwater. Eventually, they get picked by the transducer.

When it receives the data that it needs, it directly goes into the central unit. The signals then get processed into a picture and appear on the display for you to see and understand.

Transducers also come with different types of mounts, the easiest one of which is to install the transom mount.

However, if you have a bigger boat, you will be needing something much seriously; perhaps something like the thru-hull mount.

Transducer Material

What type of boat will you be using? Depending on that, you need to choose the right transducer material. For hobbyists and recreational fishermen, a plastic transom would do the job.

They are compatible with all types of boats. On the other hand, if you are using a transducer with a thru-hull or an in-hull mount, metal hulls or fiberglass need plastic housings.

Aluminum or steel hulls need the stainless-steel housings. Bronze housings are more necessary for boats with fiberglass or wood hulls.

Lastly, when it’s about recreational users, most of the fish finders come well equipped with trolling motor transducers with transom mounts.

The good thing about this is that it works with any kind of boats. You will just need to ensure to follow the installation guidelines thoroughly.

But if you still think that the idea of a thru-hull transducer is better, then your choice is between bronze and plastic only.

Colored screen vs Black & White Screen

Of course, color displays look better on all electronic devices, not just depth finders. They uphold plenty of details and offer up to millions of colors.

Whereas a black and white screen only has 265 shades of grey. Plus, black and white screens are harder to be read under sunlight, dark and cloudy weather. Colour screens are easier to understand and learn.

If you can’t seem to fit a color display depth finder into your budget, you might just have to choose a black and white one to get started with.

In addition, if the device is merely just to get a simple idea about the depth and find a few fishes, then a simpler model would be better to start with. You can always upgrade later.

Screen Resolution

Here’s a little though you need to put in: you need to consider what resolution and how many pixels your depth finder’s screen needs to have. In simple words, a pixel is just a dot on the screen.

The more pixels you have, the more details the depth finder’s display can put out. For instance, with a 320 x 320 resolution, 320 dots would be going from left to right and 320 dots going from top to bottom in each column.

What we’d suggest is that you should at least go for 240 x 160 pixels, if it’s your first time buying a depth finder. Even this might give you the feeling that you are playing Tetris instead of looking for fish.

If you have a little extra budget to spare, always go for a better resolution display that’s more likely to give you nice details and crisper images. It’s totally worth it!

In tune with the screen size, the resolution of the depth finder will decide if the picture of it is going to be good. Most cheaper devices have smaller displays. They make good backup options.

But if you are seriously looking for a fish finder, which needs to sustain for long, you need a bigger budget, larger display, and better-quality screen.

Only then you will be able to view the numbers and data on a larger screen. Some small screens sometimes even get cluttered up!

Power

Before you jump on to pulling the trigger, you need to know the power of the depth finder. If you want a device that has faster and deeper readings, you need a high wattage unit.

Devices with lower wattage are likely to be slower and are more applicable for shallow water. This usually occurs because a depth finder converts sonar waves from its transducer.

When there is less power, the wave is slower, and hence the reading is also not reliable. When there’s more power, the readings turn out to be more accurate.

Long story short, if you plan on going fishing in shallower water, you don’t need a powerful depth finder. But if you prefer deep water or saltwater, you need to get a device that can afford much power.

Cone Angle

Many individuals are looking for a transducer for a depth finder based on the cone angle, regarded as one of the essential characteristics. A depth finder’s cone angle works in tandem with its frequency.

The cone angle is when a beam goes down through the bottom of your boat, and it starts to grow wider. It starts as it narrow at the top and gradually widens as it goes deeper into the water, much like a cone.
Cone Angle is also known as the transducer beam angle.

Take note:

  • Your depth finder will show depth readings of up to 400 feet with every 100 watts of power at 50 kHz.
  • Your depth finder will read up to 100 feet with every 100 watts of power at 200 kHz.

Most depth finders in the mid-range operate with dual frequencies, which helps you to see readings from every spectrum in a split-screen mode.

Water Resistance

Last but not least, you need to consider water resistance. Why? That’s because if you plan on mounting it on an open vessel, chances are it will come in contact with water.

In that case, check the IPX or JIX ratings that determine the device’s resistance to water. If it has a rating of four out of five, it means that the device is safe and water splashes won’t have any effect on the device.

Consider yourself lucky if your device has a rating of seven because it means that you can sink your device for a good 10 – 30 minutes and there’s not going to be much of a problem. The rating makes a huge difference.

Is a depth finder the same as a fish finder?

A depth finder is a device used to find the depth of a body of water. This can be helpful for determining the best place to anchor, for finding fish, or for avoiding dangerous areas. A fish finder, on the other hand, is a device used to find fish. They can be handheld or mounted to a boat. Fishfinders can also be used to locate other objects in the water, like sunken boats.

Do I need a depth finder for my boat?

Not all boats and boaters need a depth finder to enjoy the water. However, those who want to know what’s beneath the surface will benefit from being on board. A depth finder can help you get more out of your time on the water, whether it’s fishing or just spending time with friends or family.


Fishfinders can tell you the water temperature, water depth, bottom topography, and the presence of fish and other marine life. They also provide information about structures such as weeds, rocks, laydowns, and shelves.

Final Words

Just like any other gear, you need to pay close attention to details when looking for the best depth finder. These devices are all very well advanced and equipped to last you years with proper maintenance.

If you invest a decent amount on it, you will find an excellent 3D mapping, charting, scanning, and navigation features. It’s not like you have to spend hundreds unless you really want a high-end depth sounder.

Also, don’t forget to look for products that are easily upgradable (both hardware and software).

As we had mentioned before those multi-screen finders make your fishing experience so much better, in tune, you also need to pay attention to the power output in watts and the display size and clarity.

If all goes well, the brands that we have mentioned are all excellent. Lowrance, Humminbird, HawkEye, and so on. All of them have rugged construction with a basic operation that provides stress-free performance.

So, ladies and gentlemen, this article on the best depth finder will help you guide you through the best and we hope that you find what fits your needs. You will be thrilled to find out about some of the most amazing things that these depth finders could do.

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[amazon bestseller=”Depth Finder” items=”10″ template=”table”]

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