Hello, my name is Sergio Smirnof, and my goal with FishReeler is to provide a valuable resource for anglers of all levels, from beginners to experienced veterans. I hope that my passion for fishing and dedication to the sport shines through in the content I create and inspires others to get out on the water and catch some fish!
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Do you love fishing for bass? If you’re a fisherman, then you know the importance of having a quality fish finder. Not only do they help you find fish, but they also help you determine the size and location of the fish. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best fish finders for bass fishing.
Best Fish Finders For Bass Fishing Review
In this blog post, we will share with you our top-rated fish finders for bass fishing and provide an overview of what to look for when shopping for a fish finder. We’ll also give you a few tips on how to choose the best fish finder for your needs. Happy fishing!
1# Garmin GPSMAP 8612xsv Chartplotter/Sounder Combo with Mapping Sonar
Color: Black
Size: 12″ Full-HD IPS touchscreen display
Fully network-capable with NMEA 2000 connectivity and the Garmin Marine Network
ANT technology and Wi-Fi networking
Exclusive OneHelm feature to connect to many third-party devices
Preloaded with Garmin-exclusive BlueChart® g3 coastal charts and LakeVü g3 inland maps, with integrated Navionics® data
Compatible with Panoptix™ PS51 FrontVü forward-looking sonar (sold separately)
SmartMode station controls for 1-touch access to several operations
Built-in Garmin SailAssist for a competitive edge
Dual micro SD card slots on back of unit for use with ActiveCaptain app and cartography accessory cards
The Garmin GPSMAP 8612xsv Chartplotter/Sounder Combo with Mapping Sonar is a 12″ Full-HD touchscreen display that comes with stunning appearance, the ability to install multiple displays, and fully network-capable capabilities with NMEA 2000 connectivity and the Garmin Marine Network. It also has ANT technology and Wi-Fi networking, as well as the exclusive OneHelm feature to connect to many third-party devices. The preloaded maps on this device include Garmin-exclusive BlueChart® g3 coastal charts and LakeVü g3 inland maps, with integrated Navionics® data. This device is also compatible with Panoptix™ PS51 FrontVü forward-looking sonar (sold separately).
Pros
12-inch touchscreen display
Comes with worldwide basemap
Preloaded Garmin High Definition mapping
CHIRP sonar technology
SideVü scanning sonar
Cons
The device is expensive
It’s a large unit and may be too big for some fishermen
Fits Model: HDS-16 Live
Incredibly spacious 16″ display
Full high-definition HDS SolarMAX™ HD multi-touch screen with the widest range of viewing angles—viewable even through polarized sunglasses
Active Imaging 3-in-1 (CHIRP/SideScan/DownScan)
LiveSight real-time sonar compatible
Smartphone notifications
C-MAP Genesis Live onscreen mapping
StructureScan 3D with Active Imaging enhancements
High-performance quad-core processor
FishReveal Smart Target View
Preloaded high-detail C-MAP US Enhanced charts with 1′ contours on 4,000-plus lakes
C-MAP Easy Routing, Navionics Autorouting capability
Dual-Channel CHIRP—dual sonar-range coverage from the same transducer
Live Network Sonar
Wireless and Bluetooth® connectivity
Heat Map allows anglers to see trends in water temperature changes to target key fishing areas quickly
Enhanced Surface Clarity lets you see more fish targets near the surface
Quick Access Control Bar with 1–touch access to system controls
Built-in CHIRP and Broadband Sounder
SmartSteer control for Xi5 Trolling Motor and Outboard Pilot
Radar and SonicHub®2 audio server connectivity
NMEA 2000 engine support
Optional mapping upgrades include C-MAP, Navionics, and more
The LOWRANCE-HDS LIVE 16 Fishfinder/Chartplotter is the perfect device for any fisherman. With Active Imaging, navigating to your favourite fishing spot or finding a new one has never been easier. The suite of navigation features includes preloaded C-MAP® US Enhanced mapping with 1-foot contours on 4,000 lakes, C-MAP® Easy Routing, Navionics® Autorouting capability and C-MAP Genesis Live mapping. The HDS LIVE 16 also simplifies your time on the water with onscreen text messages and call notifications, as well as support for LiveCast™ smartphone integration. This allows you to display video, Google Maps and fishing data on your fishfinder display.
Pros
Active Imaging allows you to view fish, structure and bottom detail in stunning high definition
The 16-inch display ensures you have a clear view of your surroundings
DownScan Overlay feature provides an easy way to see fish and structures beneath your boat
Lowrance’s StructureScan 3D gives you a three-dimensional image of the world below your boat
Cons
It can be difficult to read the screen in direct sunlight
The unit is heavy and may be difficult to transport
Size: 16″ Mega SI + GPS
Description: Apex 16 MSI+ Charplotter
15.6″ Full-HD display
Cross Touch Interface: control with the touch screen or keypad
Dual-core processor
Humminbird sonar: MEGA Side Imaging+, MEGA Down Imaging+, and Dual Spectrum CHIRP
Internal GPS
Enhanced basemap with terrain and points of interest on more than 10,000 lakes plus coastal coverage for the continental U.S.
Premium chart compatibility
AutoChart Live real-time maps
One-Boat Network compatibility
High-speed Ethernet
Wireless Bluetooth connectivity
NMEA 2000 networking capability
If you’re serious about fishing, you need the Humminbird APEX 16 MEGA SI+ Fish Finder/GPS Chartplotter. This top-of-the-line fish finder has all the features you need to find fish fast, including a 15.6″ full-HD display, cross touch interface, dual-core processor, and Humminbird sonar. Plus, the internal GPS ensures you always know where you are, while the enhanced base map provides all the information you need on more than 10,000 lakes. And with premium chart compatibility and AutoChart Live real-time mapping, you’ll always be prepared for your next fishing trip.
Pros
16-bit colour depth for stunning images
View fish and underwater structures simultaneously
Down Imaging Sonar with Side Imaging capabilities
GPS Chartplotter that records the location of your catches
Size: 12″
Fits Model: HDS-12 Live
Description: HDS-12 Live Amer XD AI 3-In-1
LiveSight real-time sonar compatible
Smartphone notifications
C-MAP Genesis Live onscreen mapping
StructureScan 3D
High-performance quad-core processor
FishReveal Smart Target View
Preloaded high-detail C-MAP US Enhanced charts with 1′ contours on 4,000-plus lakes
C-MAP Easy Routing, Navionics Autorouting capability
Dual-Channel CHIRP—dual sonar-range coverage from the same transducer
Live Network Sonar
Wireless and Bluetooth® connectivity
Heat Map allows anglers to see trends in water temperature changes to target key fishing areas quickly
Enhanced Surface Clarity lets you see more fish targets near the surface
Quick Access Control Bar with 1–touch access to system controls
Built-in CHIRP and Broadband Sounder
SmartSteer control for Xi5 Trolling Motor and Outboard Pilot
Radar and SonicHub®2 audio server connectivity
NMEA 2000 engine support
Optional mapping upgrades include C-MAP, Navionics, and more
The Lowrance HDS LIVE 12 is your go-to fishfinder/chart plotter when you want the best performance and features. With its full high-definition screen, ActiveTarget Live Sonar, Smartphone notifications, and more, this unit will let you enjoy fishing to the fullest. Plus, with C-MAP Genesis Live onscreen mapping and Navionics Autorouting capability, you’ll have all the tools you need for a successful day on the water.
Pros
It has a large, 12-inch touchscreen display that makes it easy to see in any condition.
The HDS LIVE 12 also includes built-in GPS and chart plotting capabilities, so you can easily navigate your way around the water.
This fish finder is also compatible with Lowrance’s StructureScan HD and sonar imaging technologies, which allow you to see fish and structures beneath the surface of the water in great detail.
Cons
The unit can be difficult to read in direct sunlight.
Size: 15″ Mega SI + GPS
Description: Solix 15 Chirp Mega SI+ G3 CHO
Powerhouse SOLIX fish finder
15″ touch-screen Cross Touch display with keyed assist
Customizable settings and view combinations
Dual-core processing power
Transducer ID
Support for MEGA Side Imaging+, MEGA Down Imaging+, and Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar
Internal GPS
Enhanced Humminbird basemap
AutoChart Live real-time mapping
One-Boat Network compatibility
High-speed Ethernet
Bluetooth wireless communication
Humminbird FishSmart App
NMEA 2000 networking
The Humminbird SOLIX 15 CHIRP G3 fish finder is the perfect choice for anglers who demand the best in fish finding technology. This powerhouse fish finder features a 15″ touch-screen Cross Touch display with keyed assist, making it easy to use even in the most challenging conditions. The SOLIX also boasts dual-core processing power and transducer ID for the ultimate in performance. Additionally, the SOLIX is compatible with MEGA Side Imaging+, MEGA Down Imaging+, and Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar, making it one of the most versatile fish finders on the market. For even more functionality, the SOLIX is also equipped with internal GPS.
Color: Black
The ultimate 12″ Raymarine aSeries chartplotter
Enhanced display with Super Bright LED Technology
Easily viewable in full daylight
High-definition 1,280×800 resolution
Innovative, tablet-like LightHouse user interface
Intuitive placement of favorite functions, similar to tablet or smartphone apps
Built-in 10Hz Fast Acquisition GPS with WAAS/EGNOS/MSAS
Built-in sonar, DownVision, and Digital Sonar support (transducers sold separately)
Storage for over 70 unique waypoint icons, and up to 100 waypoint groups with up to 3,000 waypoints in each group
Dual microSD card slots
Bundled Navionics+ with more than 18,000 lakes in the US and Canada, many with 1′ HD contours; along with Nautical Chart guides, SonarChart™ HD bathymetry mapping, and Community Edits free for a full year
NMEA 2000® compatibility
Built-in Wi-Fi
Built-in Bluetooth
12V or 24V operation
Looking for the ultimate Chartplotter/multifunction display? Look no further than the Raymarine A128 aSeries. This 12″ display is packed with features to make your navigation easier and more enjoyable. The Super Bright LED Technology ensures that the display is easily viewable in full daylight, while the high-definition 1,280×800 resolution provides stunning clarity. The innovative LightHouse user interface makes it easy to find and use your favourite functions, just like you would with a tablet or smartphone. Plus, the built-in 10Hz Fast Acquisition GPS system provides quick and accurate positioning information.
Color: Black
12″, keyed-assist, IPS touch-screen combo
Includes GT56 transducer
20% greater sonar range
Vivid scanning sonar color palettes
Built-in support for Panoptix sonars
Preloaded BlueChart g3 coastal charts and LakeVü g3 inland maps
Quickdraw Contours custom map-drawing software
Built-in Wi-Fi
Access to ActiveCaptain app
The Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 126sv Chartplotter/Fish Finder Combo is perfect for serious anglers. With a 12″ IPS touch-screen display, keyed-assist function, and 20% greater sonar range, this device is sure to help you land the big one. The built-in Panoptix support means you’ll never miss another fish again. Plus, with preloaded BlueChart g3 coastal charts and LakeVü g3 inland maps, you’ll be able to navigate your favourite fishing spots with ease. The Quickdraw Contours custom map-drawing software makes it easy to mark your favourite spots on the map.
Pros
It has a large, bright colour display that makes it easy to see in any weather condition.
The combo also includes a built-in GPS receiver and CHIRP sonar.
This allows you to mark your favourite spots and easily navigate back to them.
It is also compatible with LakeVü HD, BlueChart g2, and BlueChart g2 Vision maps.
Description: ECHOMAP 93SV + LIVESCOPE
Bright, sunlight-readable 9″ touch screen with keyed assist
GT56 transducer provides Garmin CHIRP traditional sonar and Ultra High-Definition ClearVü and SideVü scanning sonars with 20% greater range
Vivid scanning-sonar color palettes
Preloaded LakeVü g3 inland maps with integrated Navionics data of more than 18,000 lakes with up to 1′ contours
Supports Panoptix all-seeing sonar, including Panoptix LiveScope™ sonar
Share sonar, mapping, and user data with other ECHOMAP Plus, ECHOMAP UHD and ECHOMAP Ultra units
NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 network support
Built-in Wi-Fi
Quick-release bail mount
Live, real-time scanning sonar with LiveScope Transducer System
See live, incredibly sharp images of structure, bait, and fish around your boat, even when the boat sits stationary
LiveScope Down and LiveScope Forward modes in 1 transducer
View automatically changes on your compatible Garmin chartplotter screen
Attitude Heading Reference System stabilization keeps your sonar view steady, even in rough conditions
Frequencies supported: 530–1,100kHz
500W transmit power
Maximum depth: 200′ down and forward
The Garmin ECHOMAP UHD 93sv touch-screen fishfinder/Chartplotter is a top-of-the-line navigational tool that provides users with high-definition sonar data and mapping capabilities. With its bright, sunlight-readable 9″ touch screen, the ECHOMAP UHD 93sv is easy to use even in the most difficult conditions. The included GT56 transducer provides both Garmin CHIRP traditional sonar and Ultra High-Definition ClearVü and SideVü scanning sonars with a 20% greater range than other models on the market. The Vivid scanning-sonar colour palettes create an immersive fishing experience.
Pros
Brilliant colour display
Unparalleled accuracy
User-friendly interface
Cons
Limited sonar coverage
Some users complain about the quality of the touch screen
Size: 10″ Mega SI+ GPS
Description: Solix 10 Chirp Mega SI+ G3
Powerhouse SOLIX fish finder
10″ touch-screen Cross Touch display with keyed assist
Customizable settings and view combinations
Dual-core processing power
Transducer ID
Support for MEGA Side Imaging+, MEGA Down Imaging+, and Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar
Internal GPS
Enhanced Humminbird basemap
AutoChart Live real-time mapping
One-Boat Network compatibility
High-speed Ethernet
Bluetooth wireless communication
Humminbird FishSmart App
NMEA 2000 networking
The Humminbird SOLIX 10 CHIRP MEGA SI G3 fishfinder/GPS chart plotter is a top-of-the-line product that is perfect for serious anglers. The 10″ touch-screen display makes it easy to customize settings and view combinations, while the dual-core processing power ensures smooth operation. The transducer ID feature makes it easy to identify your transducer type, and the support for MEGA Side Imaging+, MEGA Down Imaging+, and Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar gives you incredible imaging capabilities. The internal GPS provides accurate positioning information, and the enhanced Humminbird base map ensures you always have the latest mapping data.
Pros
10-inch colour display
CHIRP Side Imaging and Down Imaging sonar
MEGA Side Imaging+ for double the coverage of traditional side imaging sonar
GPS chart plotting with built-in Humminbird AutoChart Live
Includes transducer
Cons
You need a high-speed internet connection to use all its features.
The unit can be difficult to set up and calibrate correctly.
Size: 9″
Description: HDS-9 LIVE Amer XD AI 3-In-1
Full high-definition, 9″, HDS SolarMAX™ HD multi-touch screen with the widest range of viewing angles—viewable even through polarized sunglasses
LiveSight real-time sonar compatible
Smartphone notifications
C-MAP Genesis Live onscreen mapping
StructureScan 3D
High-performance dual-core processor
FishReveal Smart Target View
Preloaded high-detail C-MAP US Enhanced charts with 1′ contours on 4,000-plus lakes
C-MAP Easy Routing, Navionics Autorouting capability
Dual-Channel CHIRP—dual sonar-range coverage from the same transducer
Live Network Sonar
Wireless and Bluetooth® connectivity
Heat Map allows anglers to see trends in water temperature changes to target key fishing areas quickly
Enhanced Surface Clarity lets you see more fish targets near the surface
Quick Access Control Bar with 1–touch access to system controls
Built-in CHIRP and Broadband Sounder
SmartSteer control for Xi5 Trolling Motor and Outboard Pilot
Radar and SonicHub®2 audio server connectivity
NMEA 2000 engine support
Optional mapping upgrades include C-MAP, Navionics, and more
The Lowrance HDS LIVE 9 Fishfinder/Chartplotter is an amazing piece of equipment. With its full high-definition, 9″ screen and a wide range of viewing angles, it is perfect for fishing in any condition. The ActiveTarget Live Sonar feature provides real-time sonar data that is essential for making the perfect catch. Additionally, the Smartphone notifications function allows you to stay connected even while out on the water. The preloaded high-detail C-MAP US Enhanced charts with 1′ contours on 4,000-plus lakes make navigation a breeze, while the Dual-Channel CHIRP—dual sonar-range coverage from the same transducer ensures that you won’t miss a single sight!
Pros
It is designed with a large, high-resolution display that makes it easy to see fish and structures beneath the boat.
This unit offers both DownScan Imaging and StructureScan HD sonar technology to give you a clear picture of what’s below your boat.
It also has built-in CHIRP sonar for mapping fish and their habitats.
With the HDS LIVE 9, you can track your speed, location, and fuel level on the screen.
CHIRP sonar technology
Cons
Some users have complained about the unit’s short battery life.
Size: 9″ MEGA SI + GPS
Description: HELIX 9 CHIRP MEGA SI+ GPS G4N
9″, sunlight-viewable, high-resolution display
Soft-key controls
User-friendly menu system
Includes proprietary, Low-Q CHIRP transducer
Dual Spectrum CHIRP support with Wide Mode and Narrow Mode
Enhanced built-in basemap
The most complete offering of premium chart options available
AutoChart Live real-time mapping
One-Boat Network compatibility
High-speed Ethernet
Bluetooth wireless connectivity
The Humminbird HELIX 9 CHIRP MEGA SI GPS G4N Fish Finder/Chartplotter is a top-of-the-line fish finder that features a 9″, sunlight-viewable, high-resolution display. With soft-key controls and a user-friendly menu system, it’s easy to use. The unit comes with a proprietary, Low-Q CHIRP transducer, and supports Dual Spectrum CHIRP with Wide Mode and Narrow Mode. It also has an enhanced built-in base map, as well as the most complete offering of premium chart options available.
Yes, fish finders work for bass. In fact, they work for all types of fish. Fishfinders use sonar technology to transmit sound waves into the water and then measure the time it takes for the sound waves to return. This information is used to create a map of the underwater terrain and help fishermen locate fish.
How do you find the bass on a fish finder?
The sonar technology used in fish finders creates a map of the underwater terrain and helps fishermen locate fish. The location of the bass on this map can be determined by looking for the areas that have the highest return signal. The higher the return signal, the closer the bass is to the surface of the water.
What does bass look like on side imaging?
Bass look like small, dark shapes on side imaging. Side imaging is a technology used in fish finders that creates a two-dimensional image of the underwater terrain. This image can be used to help fishermen locate fish and determine the size and location of the fish.
Conclusion
When it comes to finding the best fish finders for bass fishing, there are a few key features you’ll want to look for. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll walk you through what to consider when choosing a fish finder and review some of the top-rated models on the market. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, our guide will help you choose the perfect fish finder for your next trip out on the water.
Professional fisherman with 40+ years of experience.
Fishing and the ocean is a passion of my life. I am passionate about all kinds of sea fishing: fishing from the shore (spinning, float, baitcasting), from a boat, and spearfishing day and night.
I live in Tenerife (Canary Islands) for the last 10+ years and share my daily fishing experiences on my website. Many years of personal experience as a fisherman and the vast experience of my friends allow me to write professionally on any fishing topics (from choosing a flashlight and equipment to deep-sea fishing).
All of my advice is based on practical real-world experience and will be useful to both novice anglers and professionals. Read more about the author.
Affiliate Disclosure: FishReeler.com sometimes gets paid for listings, through sponsors or affiliate programs like Amazon, Ebay, Cabelas, Bass Pro Shop, Shimano, Daiwa, Rapala, Renn, Okuma, KastKing, etс. Clicking a link helps keep FishReeler.com free, at no extra cost to you!
About the author: Each article is verified by the fishing expert Sergio Smirnoff. The articles are written by professional and amateur fishermen with 20+ years of fishing experience.
Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency. The articles are for informational purposes only, share your opinions in the comments and join the fishing discussions, let's share our fishing experiences together!
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