Fish Finder Options

• Choose a fish finder that fits your needs. Fish finder transducers are rated for certain depth limits, so choose a shallower or deeper range, depending on the area where you fish. Transducers also come in transom mount or bilge mount. If you have limited access to the bilge, or the floor of the bilge is too oily to seal the transducer to, then a transom mount will work best. Many new models have color screens, which can help visually identify objects on the screen, but won't help you catch fish. For fresh water such as the Great Lakes, temperature is important to the fish's feeding cycle. A water temperature gauge may be a nice extra if it can help, although they only measure at the surface. A speedometer option may be important, since the boat's speed can also be critical depending on the species of fish you are chasing. Depth alarms are also a great way to find the depth you're looking for or avoid running aground. Many models have GPS installed, which may be a selling point if you don't already have one.
  
  

Install the Fish Finder

• Installation is important to the function of the fish finder. Place the fish finder itself in an easy to see and reach spot that does not block your visibility while driving. Make sure you can run cables to that spot without disassembling or damaging interior trim, and that drilling holes for the mounting screws will not damage anything. The fish finder should also be out of the way of any controls such as the steering wheel or throttle.
  
  

Installing the Transducer

• Mount the transducer using the provided template near the center line of the boat, but out of the path of anything that could create turbulence across the face, such as water pick-ups or through-hull fittings. Transom mount transducers need to be level from port to starboard, but the rear should be tipped slightly down to create a smooth flow across the surface. The bottom of the transducer should only hang 1/8 to 1/4 inch below the edge of the transom. The transducer cable is fragile, use caution to avoid sharp edges, exposed screws or other objects that can damage the outer transducer cable jacket and cause poor readings.
  
  

Powering the Fish Finder

• Run the power cable to a fused source. You can choose to power the fish finder from a source that stays on when the ignition is off, or shuts down with the key. If it stays on while the engine is off, run the power from a separate, dedicated battery isolated from the engine starting battery to avoid becoming stranded on the open water.