Best Ice Fishing Fish Finder Reviews 2021 Plus Buyer Guide
Hottest Picks
How We Found the Best Ice Fishing Fish Finder
Experts Interviewed
Fish Finders Tested
HOW WE DECIDED
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46
Models Considered
32
Hours Researched
3
Experts Interviewed
238
Consumers Consulted
BOTTOM LINE
The Garmin Striker 4 is a very easy to use ice fishing fish finder. The highly sensitive GPS allows anglers to track and make notes of your environment. If the portability weren’t enough, the built-in flasher allows for clear imaging when used for ice fishing.
The HOOK2 is a dependable Lowrance fish finding model. There are several sizes to choose from, with the larger models – such as the HOOK2 7 – having better display, resolution, color, and sonar. Combine this with Lowrance’s ice fishing transducer and you’ll be catching fish in no time.
Find fish in comfort with the Eyoyo Portable Monitor Fish Finder. The 7” LCD screen allows anglers to see the fine details, all from the HD camera. The camera is also built to withstand colder climates and makes it perfect for ice fishing.
The Deeper Pro+ Smart Sonar Fish Finder for Ice Fishing grants stable connections that help facilitate dependable information. All of this is accessed easily via a smartphone and tablet, which is just as portable and convenient as the Deeper Pro+ fish finder.
The dual frequency allows you to use the fish finder in deep and shallow water. No matter where you’re fishing, you can find out where the fish are located. It’s ideal for those that want to try fishing in different depths to catch a fish. You can use the dual frequency in deep or shallow water to find the fish.
The fiber optic display shows three different colors, allowing you to gauge what’s under the surface. The fiber optic allows information to travel faster, making it ideal for those that want to change their fishing game. You can move around faster and easier with this display.
PROS
- Easy to read 3.5” screen
- Intuitive design
- Long distance Garmin CHIRP transducer
- Accurate GPS
- Built-in flasher for ice fishing
- Accurate and quick working GPS
- Several sizes to choose from
- Downscan and CHIRP technology
- Affordable
- HD camera
- Removable sun visor for light environments
- 8-hour battery life
- HD display
- Transducer can be mounted and trolled
- Multiple sonar functionalities
Flasher technology
Dual beam sonar
Adjustable zoom
200 feet depth
Fiber optic display
Extreme temperature LCD
CONS
- Screen could benefit from bigger size
- While GPS is accurate, does not reveal current location
- Larger sizes pricier than
- No NMEA
- Not ideal for muddy conditions
- Response time may lag when switching sensitivity settings
N/A
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Fish finders are the best way to find out where the fish are hiding. The worst part of a fish finder is how they work in different environments. Some fish finders have trouble in the cold weather, but an ice fishing fish finder is the perfect way to catch fish in frigid temperatures.
While they are like other fish finders, they have unique features that you’ll find are a great help on the ice. If you’re thinking about planning a trip out for ice fishing, you should consider getting the best ice fishing fish finder. You’ll enjoy fishing, even more, when you can go out during the colder temperatures.
Garmin Striker 4 with Portable Kit
Best of the best
Bottom Line
The Garmin Striker 4 is a very easy to use ice fishing fish finder. The highly sensitive GPS allows anglers to track and make notes of your environment. If the portability weren’t enough, the built-in flasher allows for clear imaging when used for ice fishing.
PROS
- Easy to read 3.5” screen
- Intuitive design
- Long distance Garmin CHIRP transducer
- Accurate GPS
- Built-in flasher for ice fishing
CONS
- Screen could benefit from bigger size
- While GPS is accurate, does not reveal current location
Summary
The Garmin Striker 4 is a great starting unit to get for beginner or casual anglers. The price is also affordable, making it a great choice for those who are dipping their toes in fish finding equipment. Despite its price, this unit is full of useful features that make it an effective fish finding tool, even for ice fishing.
The Striker 4 comes with a 4-pin transducer. It uses two beams at 45 degrees. For maximum depth, it can reach to around 800 feet. The sonar type it uses is CHIRP which is a big plus for its price. Using CHIRP, targets can be distinguished from one another easily.
There are also various modes that include 2D mode, a flasher mode, fish alarms, Ultrascroll, and many more. All in all, a good budget-friendly option for newer anglers. The built in flasher also makes it great to use for ice fishing.
If you find yourself in warmer climates, the Garmin Striker 4 can be brought around and used effectively as well.
Lowrance HOOK2 Fish Finder
Best for the Price
Bottom Line
The HOOK2 is a dependable Lowrance fish finding model. There are several sizes to choose from, with the larger models – such as the HOOK2 7 – having better display, resolution, color, and sonar. Combine this with Lowrance’s ice fishing transducer and you’ll be catching fish in no time.
PROS
- Accurate and quick working GPS
- Several sizes to choose from
- Downscan and CHIRP technology
CONS
- Larger sizes pricier than
- No NMEA
Summary
The HOOK2 series offers many size options for anglers. Each size has its own useful qualities. The HOOK2 7 is the flagship product of Lowrance, offering better display, resolution, color, and sonar.
The HOOK2 12 is great for plotting charts and finding fish. With a larger screen and an affordable price, it is a great choice for anglers. If ease is your primary concern, then the HOOK2 5X is the unit for you. This unit has autotuning sonar that allows you to take your mind off of fixing sonar settings and just focus on fishing.
Combine any units in the HOOK2 series with Lowrance’s ice fishing transducer and you’ll have a powerful combination for ice fishing.
Eyoyo Portable Monitor Fish Finder for Ice Fishing
Bottom Line
Find fish in comfort with the Eyoyo Portable Monitor Fish Finder. The 7” LCD screen allows anglers to see the fine details, all from the HD camera. The camera is also built to withstand colder climates and makes it perfect for ice fishing.
PROS
- Affordable
- HD camera
- Removable sun visor for light environments
- 8-hour battery life
CONS
- Not ideal to use in muddy conditions
Summary
The Eyoyo Portable Monitor Fish Finder for Ice Fishing is a bundle that offers great value for your money. This bundle comes first and foremost with a 7 inch monitor where you can see all your fish finding information in great detail.
It also comes with a high definition camera that shows up to 1,000 TV lines. The camera also comes equipped with 12 infrared lights that allow for you to find fish even in deeper and darker depths.
It is worth noting that this camera is made for warmer and cooler temperatures, making it great for ice fishing. It also includes a sun visor for when you use it in light environments, lures, corresponding cables, and a waterproof case.
Deeper PRO+ Smart Sonar Fish Finder for Ice Fishing
Bottom Line
The Deeper Pro+ Smart Sonar Fish Finder for Ice Fishing grants stable connections that help facilitate dependable information. All of this is accessed easily via a smartphone and tablet, which is just as portable and convenient as the Deeper Pro+ fish finder.
PROS
- HD display
- Transducer can be mounted and trolled
- Multiple sonar functionalities
CONS
- Response time may lag when switching sensitivity settings
Summary
The Deeper PRO+ Smart Sonar Fish Finder for Ice Fishing is one of the best castable fish finders available in the market. It is portable, lightweight, and very easy to use.
The information gained via the GPS as well as the frequencies sent out every 15 seconds paint a vivid picture underwater. This can all be conveniently reviewed on a smartphone or tablet.
There is no extensive installation process. There are no wires or complex machineries to work with. The portability and ease of use make it ideal for taking on a kayak, canoe, and even for ice fishing.
Humminbird ICE-35 Fish Finder
Bottom Line
The dual frequency allows you to use the fish finder in deep and shallow water. No matter where you’re fishing, you can find out where the fish are located. It’s ideal for those that want to try fishing in different depths to catch a fish. You can use the dual frequency in deep or shallow water to find the fish.
The fiber optic display shows three different colors, allowing you to gauge what’s under the surface. The fiber optic allows information to travel faster, making it ideal for those that want to change their fishing game. You can move around faster and easier with this display.
PROS
- Flasher technology
- Dual beam sonar
- Adjustable zoom
- 200 feet depth
- Fiber optic display
- Extreme temperature LCD
CONS
- N/A
Summary
200 Feet Depth
The fish finder can find anything in your area, up to 200 feet. No matter where you’re fishing, you can use the fish finder for ice fishing to gauge where the fish are located. You won’t have to guess how far down the water goes before you start to pick something up on display.
Adjustable Zoom
The adjustable zoom allows you focus on one area of the water. If you’re planning on catching any fish, you need to see what’s going on. When you can zoom in on different areas, you increase your chances of catching a big fish. Its’ ideal distinguishing what you’re looking at.
LUCKY Portable Fish Finder
Bottom Line
The LUCKY Portable Fish Finder for Ice Fishing is affordable and offers good features for its price. It’s single beam sonar imaging has a scan angle of 45 degrees and can scan up to 300 feet deep. The sensitivity settings allow anglers to customize aspects for multiple applications. While it is nothing crazy, this fish finder does what it is supposed to do and gets the job done.
PROS
- Multiple sensitivity settings
- Fish alarm function
- Colored LCD
- Depth range good for ice fishing
CONS
- LCD screen is smaller than most fish finders
- Not waterproof
Summary
The bottom line for the LUCKY Portable Fish Finder for Ice Fishing is that it gets the job done. All in all, this fish finder is a cost-effective and simple solution that has all the essentials for finding fish and catching them.
Anglers can go on to the simulation mode to try out the many features included in this fish finder. When they are ready to start finding and catching fish, they can switch over to transducer mode.
It also comes with a 26 feet wired operating distance that can detect more than 300 feet. The sonar used scans at a 45 degree angle with 200Khz in detection.
This portable fish finder, combined with how deep it goes and its 5 hour battery life, make it a worthwhile choice for ice fishing.
How to Choose the Right Ice Fishing Fish Finder
Weight
The weight of the fish finder should be taken into consideration. Since you’re more likely to have to carry the fish finder, it shouldn’t be too heavy. You want to find one that is easy to carry but doesn’t exclude too many features. The fish finder should be easy enough to lift in and out of your vehicle, especially if you need to walk across the ice. It also prevents you from getting too heavy and falling through the ice while you’re carrying the fish finder.
Beam Angle
The beam angle of the transducer allows you to pick up the fish under the surface of the ice. When it shoots out the sonar, it will bounce off anything in the water, straight to the display. You can check out the beam angles to find the right angle you want. They typically run between 7 and 22 degrees. The smaller the degree, the further down you can see. The higher the degree, you will have a wider angle, but at a shallower depth. You should consider how deep you want to fish.
Backlit Display
The backlit display allows you to see everything on the screen clearly. Whether you’re fishing during the day when the sun is most visible, or when it’s dark, the backlit display should be easy to read. You can find some that can read in direct sunlight, making it easy to see the screen. If you can find one that has protection against the ice and cold, it will work even better for you. There are different colors you can choose from, or use one with a black and white screen. You can find the right backlit display for you based on your preference.
Portability
The portability goes hand in hand with the weight. You should consider how you want the fish finder to sit on the ice, and how easy it is to walk around with. The more portable it is, the more places you can take it. Also, the portability factor makes the fish finder easier to store when you’re not using it. You can choose to leave it in your vehicle if you want to. The portability makes the fish finder makes it a better companion for wherever you want to go ice fishing.
Durability
While you may be tempted to take a regular fish finder ice fishing, there are some problems with that. A regular fish finder may not be suitable to take out and leave in the snow. Water and moisture can get inside, which can damage the electronics. You want to make sure your fishfinder is designed to handle the extreme cold before you take it out. Otherwise, you will need to buy a new one in the future.
Advantage of an Ice Fishing Fish Finder
There are numerous advantages to using an ice fishing fish finder. Not only can you see what’s underneath the surface, but you can also plan your spots accordingly. You can mark every spot that you like, making it easy when you return for more ice fishing.
An ice fish finder is more durable than other fish finders, allowing you to use it where you want. Since you don’t have to hook the ice fish locator to a boat, you can transport it anywhere you want to go. If you’re planning on an ice fishing trip, you’ll benefit greatly from an ice fishing fish finder.
Tips for Using a Ice Fishing Fish Finder Effectively
When you’re going ice fishing, it never hurts to have a few tips and tricks up your sleeve. Here are some tips you can use to enhance your ice fishing experience.
Finding the Fish
A fish finder works one of two ways. A flashing fish finder is good to look around and see what’s under the surface. The other way is with 2D sonar, which shows a graph of what’s going on beneath you. If you’re looking to up your game, you can get one that allows you to switch between the two.
Aiming Your Cone
When you’re using the fish finder, you should aim your fish in every direction. This allows you to get an idea of the depth, and what’s around. If you’re fishing in shallow water, you can alter your position to go deeper. Depending on where you’re fishing, you can move into a new position.
Position Your Fish Finder
You should position your fish finder where it is easy to read what’s going on in the water. You don’t want to put the fish finder where it is difficult to see what’s going on the screen. Propping it up in front of you will help you fish accurately and without craning your neck.
FAQ's
What is the best ice fishing sonar?
Lowrance Hook 4x and 5x Ice Machine has the best ice fishing sonar as it uses the CHIRP technology to help locate the fish and find the depth.
What is the best fish finder for 2021?
We have judged the best overall as the RayMarine Axiom 7 for 2021’s fish finder of choice.
Can you use a regular fish finder for ice fishing?
Short answer is yes you can use a regular fish finder for ice fishing but it doesn’t have the capabilities and durability of the ice fish finders and may take a bit of creativity to get them to work effectively.
What does a ice fishing flasher do?
An ice fishing flasher indicates when fish are in the area by signalling the top and bottom of the water and the water column in between so when fish rise from the bottom towards your lure you should be able to see this movement on the flasher. The video above explains more.
Final Verdict
Finding the best ice fishing fish finder will help you find more fish, giving you better odds of catching one. You should ensure the fishfinder will work in extremely cold conditions before you decide to make a purchase.
There are many ice fishing fishfinders available, but the Lowrance Hook-5 Ice Machine is one of the best. You can do more with it, and the beautiful display is ideal for those wanting a high-resolution screen. You can see everything clearly, and in color with this fish finder. If you’re looking for a quality fish finder, this is the one for you.
We like to share product recommendations with you and hope you like them! Just to make you aware FishingLab may collect a small share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page.
I love to write for readers with a genuine interest in enjoying the fishing. Hence, I started this blog to provide you guides so that you can have a better and more pleasant fishing experience.
James Williams
Staff | FishingLab
We like to share product recommendations with you and hope you like them! Just to make you aware FishingLab may collect a small share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page.