10 Best Fish Finders 2025 in the United States

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 Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 2 with LiveScope Plus Bundle is a high-end fish-finder designed for serious anglers who want detailed underwater views and reliable navigation. It features a large 12-inch screen with a sharp 1280 x 800 resolution, making it easy to see fish and underwater structures clearly. The hybrid touchscreen controls help you navigate menus smoothly, which is helpful whether you prefer touch or button inputs. The sonar system uses advanced CHIRP technology across multiple frequencies (70, 83, and 200 kHz), combined with ClearVu and SideVu scanning sonar, to give detailed and wide-ranging views of fish and bottom contours. The included LiveScope Plus system adds real-time scanning sonar, giving a live look at fish movement and underwater objects, which is a big advantage for tracking fast or subtle fish activity.

GPS is very precise thanks to support for multiple satellite systems (GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BEIDOU) and a 10 Hz receiver that updates your position 10 times per second. This ensures accurate boat positioning and smooth navigation. The device also supports comprehensive connectivity options, including dual microSD card slots for map storage and NMEA 2000 networking for integrating with other marine electronics.

The unit’s weight and sizable dimensions make it less portable and not easy to move between boats, making it best suited for larger vessels with permanent mounts. While it comes with preloaded Navionics+ charts for the U.S., international users might need to purchase additional charts. Its price and advanced features reflect its professional-grade focus, which could be more than casual fishermen require. This Garmin fish-finder excels in screen quality, sonar technology, and navigation precision, making it a strong choice for experienced anglers who want a powerful, detailed, and integrated fish-finding and chartplotting system, though it may be less ideal for casual or budget-conscious users.

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.