Last Updated on October 28th, 2020
Best Ice Fishing Fish Finder Reviews 2020 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 long-lasting battery can last up to nine hours on a full charge. It runs on 12 volts, allowing you to charge it in your vehicle when you’re out on your way to go fishing. It’s practical for those that want to go different places to catch their fish.
The three-color flasher makes it identify the fish in your area. You won’t need to worry about misreading the fish finder. When it catches a fish swimming in your area, you can pick it out from its surroundings. It makes it easy to read and diagnose the best fishing spot for you.
You can see just about everything with this fish finder. The high resolution allows you to pick out the fish from the surroundings. The display is five inches, allowing you to see more under the water. The color display lets you pick out the fish from other objects in the water.
The exact GPS allows you to pinpoint your location. It’s ideal for anyone that needs a reminder of their favorite spot. Since the GPS is highly accurate, you can use it anywhere in the US. You won’t have to guess where you’re going when the GPS tells you.
The display has a screen large enough to see everything in your area. It measures at eight inches, allowing you to catch everything in your area. It has an excellent pixel ratio, allowing you to pick out the differences between the fish and the environment.
The fish finder allows up to four different users to use the fish finder. You can select a color for each user, allowing you to save the information for your preferences. It’s ideal for those that want to go fishing in a group. You just select your color, and the fish finder works on your settings.
You won’t have to worry about your fish finder losing its charge when you’re out on the ice. It plugs right into your car charger, making it ideal for those that want to move to a different location. The battery lasts long enough to let you fish for the whole day.
The three-color flasher makes it identify the fish in your area. You won’t need to worry about misreading the fish finder. When it catches a fish swimming in your area, you can pick it out from its surroundings. It makes it easy to read and diagnose the best fishing spot for you.
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
12-volt battery
Three color flasher
Battery indicator
Cable holding cleats
Color Display
Adjustable rod holder
High-resolution screen
CHIRP sonar
Accurate GPS
U.S. maps
Custom maps
Trackback system
Insight Genesis for custom mapping
8-inch screen
LCD windows
Allows up to four users
Dashboard display
Sonar Footprint technology
12-volt battery
Three color flasher
Battery indicator
Cable holding cleats
Adjustable rod holder
Color Display
Flasher technology
Dual beam sonar
Adjustable zoom
200 feet depth
Fiber optic display
Extreme temperature LCD
CONS
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
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.
Vexilar FLX 28 Ice ProPack
Best of the best
Bottom Line
The long-lasting battery can last up to nine hours on a full charge. It runs on 12 volts, allowing you to charge it in your vehicle when you’re out on your way to go fishing. It’s practical for those that want to go different places to catch their fish.
The three-color flasher makes it identify the fish in your area. You won’t need to worry about misreading the fish finder. When it catches a fish swimming in your area, you can pick it out from its surroundings. It makes it easy to read and diagnose the best fishing spot for you.
PROS
- 12-volt battery
- Three color flasher
- Battery indicator
- Cable holding cleats
- Color Display
- Adjustable rod holder
CONS
- N/A
Summary
The battery indicator lets you know when the battery is about to die. When it turns on, you know it’s time to plug in the fish finder. You won’t have to worry about losing any fish when you can quickly plug in the fish finder. It’s practical for those that may lose track of time when they’re fishing.
While you’re waiting for the fish to take your bait, you can rest your rod on the fish finder. It’s ideal for those that want to get up and move around to stay warm. When you need to get up, just place your rod in the holder. It will ensure you don’t miss out any passing fish.
Lowrance Hook-5 Ice Machine
Best for the Price
Bottom Line
You can see just about everything with this fish finder. The high resolution allows you to pick out the fish from the surroundings. The display is five inches, allowing you to see more under the water. The color display lets you pick out the fish from other objects in the water.
The exact GPS allows you to pinpoint your location. It’s ideal for anyone that needs a reminder of their favorite spot. Since the GPS is highly accurate, you can use it anywhere in the US. You won’t have to guess where you’re going when the GPS tells you.
PROS
- High-resolution screen
- CHIRP sonar
- Accurate GPS
- U.S. maps
- Custom maps
- Trackback system
- Insight Genesis for custom mapping
CONS
- N/A
Summary
Since the CHIRP sonar is one of the best ones available, you can use it to catch more fish. The CHIRP sonar can detect any fish in your area. You won’t have to guess where the fish are. You’ll get the best possible view of the area when you’re using the CHIRP system.
When you find a good location one year, it can be difficult to find it again the next year. You can pinpoint your favorite locations to ensure you get the same spot every year. You can use the fish finder to see how the conditions were the last time you were there to catch even more fish this time around.
Marcum LX-7 Ice Fish Finder
Bottom Line
The display has a screen large enough to see everything in your area. It measures at eight inches, allowing you to catch everything in your area. It has an excellent pixel ratio, allowing you to pick out the differences between the fish and the environment.
The fish finder allows up to four different users to use the fish finder. You can select a color for each user, allowing you to save the information for your preferences. It’s ideal for those that want to go fishing in a group. You just select your color, and the fish finder works on your settings.
PROS
- 8-inch screen
- LCD windows
- Allows up to four users
- Dashboard display
- Sonar Footprint technology
CONS
- N/A
Summary
The fish finder has plenty of options for different fields, allowing you to gather the maximum amount of information for ice fishing. It displays depth, battery voltage, range, gain, target adjust, and a combination. No matter how you plan on using the fish finder, you’ll be sure to catch plenty of fish.
The sonar footprint technology allows you to see the bottom of the place you’re fishing. No matter how far down it goes, you’ll be able to see where the bottom lies. It’s ideal to use an ice fishing sonar for those that want to make sure they’re in the right depth range for the fish they want to catch. Considered one of the best ice fishing depth finders on the market right now.
Vexilar FL 8SE Ice ProPack
Bottom Line
You won’t have to worry about your fish finder losing its charge when you’re out on the ice. It plugs right into your car charger, making it ideal for those that want to move to a different location. The battery lasts long enough to let you fish for the whole day.
The three-color flasher makes it identify the fish in your area. You won’t need to worry about misreading the fish finder. When it catches a fish swimming in your area, you can pick it out from its surroundings. It makes it easy to read and diagnose the best fishing spot for you.
PROS
- 12-volt battery
- Three color flasher
- Battery indicator
- Cable holding cleats
- Adjustable rod holder
- Color Display
CONS
- N/A
Summary
The battery indicator lets you know when the battery is about to die. When it turns on, you know it’s time to plug in the fish finder. You won’t have to worry about losing any fish when you can quickly plug in the fish finder. It’s practical for those that may lose track of time when they’re fishing.
While you’re waiting for the fish to take your bait, you can rest your rod on the fish finder. It’s ideal for those that want to get up and move around to stay warm. When you need to get up, just place your rod in the holder. It will ensure you don’t miss out any passing fish.
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.
Lowrance Hook-4X Ice Machine
Bottom Line
When you’re using a fish finder, you want a good sonar. The CHIRP system is one of the best available, and you can see just about anything in the water. No matter the size of the fish, you can read it easily on display. It’s ideal for those fishing in new waters to gauge the environment.
The display allows you to view multiple CHIRP readings, giving you the edge you need for ice fishing. You won’t have to worry too much about missing any passing fish. It’s practical for those that need a particular setting for a special fishing spot.
PROS
- CHIRP sonar
- Multiple CHIRP ranges
- Single transducer
- Trackback viewing
- Pinpoint locations
- Color display
CONS
- N/A
Summary
The transducer is imperative to a good fish finder. If you want to get a better idea of the area in the water, a good transducer is necessary. You can pick up just about anything in the water with this transducer. You won’t have to worry about missing out on any fish in your area.
The trackback option is ideal for those that want to follow up on their fishing history. You can see what areas were populated with fish, and where the dead spots are. If you’re planning on catching a lot of fish, you should remember where the fishing was good.
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 2020?
We have judged the best overall as the RayMarine Axiom 7 for 2019’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
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Best Ice Fishing Fish Finder Reviews 2020 Plus Buyer Guide
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James Williams
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Fishing Lab
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.