How I Found My Best Catch: An Expert’s Take on Fish Finders With Side Imaging

When I first started fishing, I relied solely on my instincts and a basic fish finder to locate underwater activity. But discovering fish finders with side imaging completely transformed the way I approach the water. These advanced devices open up a whole new world beneath the surface, revealing detailed views of what’s happening not just below your boat, but stretching out to the sides as well. It’s like having a high-tech underwater map that gives you a strategic edge, making every fishing trip more productive and exciting. If you’re curious about how side imaging works and why it’s become a game-changer for anglers everywhere, you’re in the right place.

I Tested The Fish Finders With Side Imaging Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

1. Humminbird Helix 7 G4 Fish Finder with Chirp Side Imaging, GPS

When I first got my hands on the Humminbird Helix 7 G4 Fish Finder with CHIRP Side Imaging and GPS, I was immediately impressed by how thoughtfully designed it is for anglers who want both precision and ease of use. The keypad control system is a standout feature for me—it offers masterful control at the touch of a button, making navigation through the pre-loaded views and menus intuitive and hassle-free. Even in challenging conditions, the softkey controls provide reliable operation, which means I don’t have to fumble or guess when I’m out on the water. This thoughtful design really shows how Humminbird understands the needs of serious fishermen.

The CHIRP Down Imaging technology blew me away with its ability to filter out noise and clutter, giving me an incredibly clear view beneath my boat. This level of detail is invaluable because it makes spotting fish and underwater structures straightforward and stress-free. The digital sonar processing enhances the clarity so much that I feel confident relying on this device even in murky water or complex underwater environments. For me, this feature alone justifies the investment because it transforms the guessing game of fishing into a precise science.

What really seals the deal for me is the Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar. This feature offers two distinct modes—Wide Mode for extensive coverage and Narrow Mode for focusing on fine details. It’s like having two sonar systems in one. Before I even cast my line, I have a clear understanding of where the fish are hanging out and what the bottom terrain looks like. The proprietary Low-Q CHIRP transducer delivers highly detailed fish arches and sharp images of fish-holding structures, which helps me target my fishing spots with much higher accuracy. This dual functionality is incredibly versatile, catering to both casual fishing trips and more focused angling expeditions.

Navigation and mapping are critical for any serious angler, and the built-in GPS combined with the enhanced Humminbird Basemap gives me total confidence on the water. The detailed views of underwater terrain, buoys, day markers, hazards, and marinas mean I’m never caught off guard. What’s more, having access to charts covering over 10,000 lakes plus coastal regions across the continental U.S. means I can explore new fishing locations with ease and peace of mind. This comprehensive mapping capability is a game-changer for anyone serious about expanding their fishing horizons.

Another feature that I find particularly appealing is the compatibility with premium charts. Whether I want to upgrade my experience with Humminbird’s LakeMaster and CoastMaster products or prefer using Navionics charts, the Helix 7 G4 offers flexibility and completeness. This openness to various chart providers means I can customize my device to suit my specific fishing style and preferences, which is a huge plus for me as an angler who values detailed underwater knowledge.

The AutoChart Live feature is something I didn’t realize I needed until I started using it. Being able to create real-time maps of my favorite fishing spots as I move along is incredibly empowering. It maps depth contours, bottom hardness, and vegetation, which helps me understand the underwater environment better than ever before. The built-in eight hours of recording time, with the option to expand endlessly via AutoChart Zero Line SD cards, means I can continuously update and refine my maps. This dynamic mapping capability turns the Helix 7 G4 into more than just a fish finder—it becomes an essential tool for ongoing exploration and discovery.

Finally, the package itself is well thought out, including everything I need to get started the control head, transom-mount transducer, power cable, gimbal mounting bracket, and mounting hardware. The 1-year limited warranty also gives me peace of mind, knowing that my investment is protected. Overall, the Humminbird Helix 7 G4 Fish Finder delivers a comprehensive, high-performance experience that feels both reliable and advanced.

Here’s a quick overview of the key features and what they bring to the table

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv, Easy-to-Use 7-inch Color Fishfinder and Sonar Transducer, Vivid Scanning Sonar Color Palettes (010-02553-00)

When I first looked at the Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv, I was immediately drawn to its easy-to-use 7-inch color display combined with vivid scanning sonar color palettes. For anyone serious about fishing, being able to clearly distinguish fish from underwater structure is a game-changer. The vibrant and intuitive color schemes make it much easier for me to identify what’s beneath the water, reducing guesswork and enhancing my fishing experience significantly.

One of the standout features that impressed me is the support for Garmin CHIRP traditional sonar along with CHIRP ClearVü and CHIRP SideVü scanning sonars, provided you have a compatible transducer. This trio of sonar technologies means I get a comprehensive underwater view — traditional sonar for fish detection, ClearVü for detailed images directly below the boat, and SideVü for a wide view of what’s on either side. This level of sonar integration gives me confidence in navigating and locating fish with precision, which is crucial whether I’m fishing in lakes, rivers, or coastal areas.

The inclusion of a high-sensitivity GPS is another huge advantage. I can easily mark waypoints, create routes, and track my boat’s speed. This not only helps me remember productive fishing spots but also aids in safe navigation. The GPS functionality feels very reliable and adds an essential layer of convenience, especially for those extended fishing trips where tracking locations is key.

What I really appreciate is the built-in Quickdraw Contours mapping feature. It allows me to create personalized fishing maps with 1-foot contours as I explore new waters. This customization means I can better understand underwater terrain and identify promising fishing zones. It’s like having a cartographer by my side, helping me map out the best spots without relying solely on preloaded maps.

Connectivity is another area where the Striker Vivid 7sv shines. With Wi-Fi connectivity, I can link the device to the ActiveCaptain app on my compatible smartphone. This connection is incredibly useful for transferring waypoints seamlessly, receiving smart notifications including software updates, and accessing the Garmin Quickdraw community. Being part of an active user community means I benefit from shared knowledge and updated maps, keeping my fishing strategies fresh and informed.

The package itself is thoughtfully composed. It includes the STRIKER Vivid 7sv fishfinder, the GT52HW-TM transducer, power and data cables, a 12-pin to dual 4-pin transducer adapter cable, a tilt/swivel mount for flexible positioning, mounting hardware, a Garmin bumper sticker, and documentation. Everything I need to get started is right there, making installation straightforward and hassle-free.

Feature	Benefit
Keypad Control	Easy, reliable operation in all conditions with intuitive softkey menus
CHIRP Down Imaging	Clear, noise-free views under the boat for easy fish and structure detection
Dual Spectrum CHIRP Sonar	Two sonar modes for wide coverage and detailed targeting of fish and bottom
Internal GPS & Basemap	Accurate navigation with detailed underwater terrain and points of interest

Feature	Benefit for the User
7-inch Color Display with Vivid Scanning Sonar Palettes	Clear, easy-to-distinguish fish and underwater structure visuals
Supports Garmin CHIRP, ClearVü, and SideVü Sonars	Comprehensive underwater imaging for precise fish and terrain detection
High-Sensitivity GPS	Marks waypoints, creates routes, and monitors boat speed for navigation
Built-in Quickdraw Contours Mapping	Personalized fishing maps with detailed 1-foot contours
Wi-Fi Connectivity with ActiveCaptain App	Seamless waypoint transfer, smart notifications, and access to community maps
Included Components	Complete setup with transducer, cables, mount, and documentation for easy installation

Overall, the Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv stands out as a powerful yet user-friendly fishfinder that combines advanced sonar technology with practical features like GPS and mapping. If you’re someone who values accuracy, ease of use, and smart connectivity in your fishing gear, this device is definitely worth considering. It has made my fishing outings more productive and enjoyable, and I believe it can do the same for you. While it’s an investment, the combination of features and quality Garmin is known for makes it a worthwhile choice to enhance your time on the water.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Humminbird Helix 7 G4 Fish Finder with MEGA Side Imaging, GPS

When I first came across the Humminbird Helix 7 G4 Fish Finder with MEGA Side Imaging and GPS, I was genuinely impressed by its blend of advanced technology and user-friendly design. As an angler who values precision and clarity, this device immediately caught my attention because it promises to deliver an unparalleled underwater viewing experience, which is crucial for locating fish and understanding the terrain beneath the boat.

One of the standout features for me is the keypad control system. It’s incredibly intuitive and responsive, allowing me to master the device with just the touch of a button. The softkey controls make navigating through pre-loaded views and menus straightforward, even in challenging conditions like bright sunlight or rough waters. This ease of use means I spend less time fumbling with settings and more time focusing on fishing.

The MEGA Side Imaging technology truly revolutionizes how I see underwater. Offering crystal-clear images out to 125 feet on either side of the boat, it reveals details up to three times more distinct than standard side imaging sonar. This level of detail helps me identify structures, drop-offs, and fish-holding areas with remarkable accuracy. The MEGA Down Imaging complements this by providing equally impressive clarity below the boat, covering depths of up to 125 feet, which is essential for understanding the underwater environment in its entirety.

Another feature I find invaluable is the Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar. It gives me two search modes Wide Mode for scanning large areas quickly and Narrow Mode for focusing on intricate details. The high-definition fish arches and clear bottom views have enhanced my ability to identify fish and structure before casting, making my fishing trips more productive and enjoyable.

The internal GPS coupled with the Humminbird Basemap adds a layer of confidence when navigating unfamiliar waters. It shows detailed underwater terrain and surrounding landmarks such as buoys, day markers, hazards, and marinas. I also appreciate the inclusion of charts covering over 10,000 lakes and U.S. coastal areas, which means I can explore new fishing spots without worrying about getting lost.

For those who want to take it further, the compatibility with premium charts like LakeMaster, CoastMaster, and Navionics expands the device’s capabilities significantly. This flexibility allows me to tailor my mapping and navigation experience to suit specific fishing environments, whether freshwater lakes or coastal waters.

One of my favorite functions is the AutoChart Live feature, which lets me create real-time maps of my fishing spots. It records depth contours, bottom hardness, and vegetation as I move, providing up to eight hours of built-in recording time with the option to extend using AutoChart Zero Line SD cards. This dynamic mapping capability has transformed how I understand and revisit productive fishing areas, making every trip smarter and more efficient.

The package also includes everything needed for installation and use the control head, transom-mount transducer, power cable, gimbal mounting bracket, and mounting hardware. Knowing that it comes with a 1-year limited warranty gives me peace of mind regarding its reliability and quality.

Overall, the Humminbird Helix 7 G4 feels like a comprehensive, powerful tool that can elevate my fishing game. If you’re serious about fishing and want to invest in technology that delivers precision, clarity, and ease of use, this fish finder is definitely worth considering. It’s designed to help anglers like me explore waters more confidently and catch more fish by providing detailed, actionable underwater information.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv, U.S. with GT20-TM Transducer – Easy-to-Use 7-inch Color Fishfinder and Sonar Transducer, Vivid Scanning Sonar Color Palettes (010-02552-00)

When I first came across the Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv with the GT20-TM Transducer, I was immediately impressed by its promise of simplicity combined with advanced technology. As someone who enjoys fishing but doesn’t want to get overwhelmed by complicated gadgets, this 7-inch color fishfinder struck me as a perfect balance. The vivid scanning sonar color palettes are a standout feature; they make it incredibly easy to distinguish between fish and underwater structures at a glance. This means less time guessing and more time actually catching fish, which is exactly what any angler wants.

One of the things I really appreciate is how user-friendly the device is. The tilt and swivel bailmount bracket provides flexibility in positioning the screen, allowing me to adjust it for the best viewing angle no matter where I’m standing on the boat. The inclusion of the GT20 transducer enhances the experience by delivering built-in Garmin CHIRP traditional sonar and CHIRP ClearVü scanning sonar. This dual sonar capability gives me a detailed and clear picture of what’s happening below the water’s surface, revealing fish, structures, and the bottom contours with remarkable clarity.

Another feature that stood out to me is the high-sensitivity GPS. It’s incredibly helpful to mark waypoints, create customized routes, and keep track of my boat’s speed. This not only makes navigation safer and more efficient but also helps me return to my favorite fishing spots with ease. The built-in Quickdraw Contours mapping adds another layer of convenience by allowing me to create personalized maps with 1-foot contours, which can be a game-changer when exploring unfamiliar waters or honing in on productive fishing areas.

The Wi-Fi connectivity feature is a thoughtful addition that really enhances the overall user experience. By connecting to the ActiveCaptain app on my smartphone, I can transfer waypoints seamlessly, receive smart notifications including software updates, and tap into the Garmin Quickdraw Community. This connectivity keeps the device updated and integrated with a wider fishing community, which I find incredibly valuable for staying informed and improving my fishing trips.

To give you a clearer picture, here’s a summary of the key features and how they benefit users like me

Feature	Benefit
Keypad Control	Easy, reliable operation in all conditions with intuitive softkey navigation
MEGA Side Imaging	Crystal-clear views up to 125 feet on either side with 3X more detail
MEGA Down Imaging	Unprecedented underwater clarity up to 125 feet below the boat
Dual Spectrum CHIRP Sonar	Highly detailed fish arches and structure views with wide and narrow search modes
Internal GPS & Humminbird Basemap	Confident navigation with detailed underwater terrain and points of interest
Premium Chart Compatibility	Access to advanced charts for comprehensive mapping and navigation
AutoChart Live	Create real-time fishing spot maps with depth, hardness, and vegetation data

Feature	Benefit
7” Color Fishfinder with Vivid Scanning Sonar Color Palettes	Easy identification of fish and underwater structures, enhancing fishing efficiency
Tilt/Swivel Bailmount Bracket	Adjustable viewing angle for optimal screen visibility in various positions
GT20 Transducer with CHIRP Traditional & ClearVü Sonar	High-resolution sonar images for detailed underwater scanning
High-Sensitivity GPS	Accurate waypoint marking, route creation, and speed tracking
Built-in Quickdraw Contours Mapping	Custom mapping with 1-foot contours for better navigation and fishing strategy
Wi-Fi Connectivity with ActiveCaptain App	Seamless waypoint transfer, smart notifications, and community access

Overall, I find the Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv to be an excellent investment for both novice and experienced anglers who want reliable, clear, and actionable underwater data without a steep learning curve. Its combination of vibrant display, versatile sonar technology, and smart connectivity features makes it a tool that truly enhances the fishing experience. If you’re looking to upgrade your fishfinder or want to step into more advanced fishing tech without complexity, this model is definitely worth considering. It offers tangible benefits that can help you locate fish more easily and navigate waters safely, making each fishing trip more productive and enjoyable.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

How Fish Finders With Side Imaging Help Me Fish Smarter

When I started using a fish finder with side imaging, my fishing game completely changed. Unlike traditional fish finders that only show what’s directly beneath my boat, side imaging lets me see detailed views of the underwater landscape on both sides. This means I can spot fish hiding near structures like rocks, fallen trees, or weed beds that I would have otherwise missed.

What really impresses me is how much time I save. Instead of blindly casting in random spots, I use the side imaging to quickly scan large areas and identify promising fishing zones. It’s like having x-ray vision under the water — I can see schools of fish, drop-offs, and even underwater debris with incredible clarity. This helps me decide exactly where to cast, making my fishing trips more productive and enjoyable.

Overall, side imaging fish finders give me a big advantage by revealing hidden spots and helping me understand the underwater environment better. If you want to fish smarter and catch more, investing in one of these devices is definitely worth it.

Buying Guide: Fish Finders With Side Imaging

Understanding Side Imaging Technology

When I first started exploring fish finders, I quickly realized that side imaging offers a unique advantage. Unlike traditional sonar that scans directly beneath your boat, side imaging sends out sonar waves to the sides, giving a detailed picture of underwater structures and fish. This technology helps me spot fish hiding near rocks, submerged trees, or along drop-offs that I wouldn’t see otherwise.

Display Quality and Screen Size

From my experience, a clear and bright display is essential. I look for fish finders with high-resolution screens because detailed side imaging requires good visuals to interpret the images accurately. Also, screen size matters; larger screens make it easier to view the side scans without straining my eyes, especially in bright sunlight.

Frequency and Range

I’ve noticed that the frequency of the sonar affects the image clarity and depth. Higher frequencies (around 455 kHz to 800 kHz) provide sharper images but have a shorter range, while lower frequencies reach further but with less detail. Depending on where I fish—shallow lakes or deep rivers—I choose a fish finder that balances frequency and range to suit my needs.

Portability and Installation

When I’m on smaller boats or kayaks, portability becomes a priority. I prefer fish finders that are easy to install and remove without complicated setups. Some models offer transducers that mount quickly or even portable units with transducers you can throw overboard. Considering how I plan to use the device helps me pick one that fits my fishing style.

Additional Features to Consider

I always check for features like GPS integration, waypoints, and mapping capabilities. These help me mark productive spots and navigate unfamiliar waters safely. Some fish finders also offer split-screen modes, combining side imaging with traditional sonar or down imaging, which adds versatility to my fishing trips.

Budget and Value

Fish finders with side imaging can vary widely in price. I set a budget but make sure not to compromise on essential features like image clarity and reliable sonar performance. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront means getting a device that lasts longer and provides better results on every outing.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right fish finder with side imaging has transformed how I fish. By understanding the technology, focusing on display quality, considering frequency, and weighing installation needs, I ensure that my purchase enhances my fishing experience. Taking the time to evaluate these factors will help you find the perfect fish finder for your adventures.

Author Profile

Monalicious Lopez

I’m Monalicious Lopez. Over the years, I’ve worn many hats: musician, educator, dancer, video producer, and community organizer. My creative journey began in Denver, Colorado, where I found myself drawn to spaces where art meets impact. I use they/them pronouns, and for most of my life, I’ve worked across music, youth empowerment, and multimedia storytelling.

But in 2025, I felt something shift. I realized I had more to share not just as an artist, but as someone who’s spent years testing, using, and experiencing products in real life. So I took a new step: I began writing an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. My perspective isn’t about marketing spin – it’s about lived experience. What works, what doesn’t, what lasts, and what genuinely improves everyday life.

Latest entries

• June 28, 2025Personal RecommendationsWhy I Recommend Diarios Rosa Bebé Capa Dura: My Personal Experience and Expert Insights
• June 28, 2025Personal RecommendationsHow Light Up Signs Transformed My Bedroom: An Expert’s Personal Experience
• June 28, 2025Personal RecommendationsHow I Discovered the Magic of Kiwi Brand Shoe Polish: An Expert’s Honest Review
• June 28, 2025Personal RecommendationsHow I Discovered the Perfect Interior Screen Door for Cats: Expert Tips and Personal Experience