Best Fish Finders for Bass Fishing: Top Picks for 2023

Bass fishing is a popular sport enjoyed by many anglers, and having the right equipment can make all the difference in catching the biggest fish.

One essential piece of equipment is a fish finder, which can help locate fish and determine their depth. In this article, we will be discussing the best fish finders for bass fishing.

When it comes to fish finders, there are a variety of options on the market. However, for bass fishing, certain features are crucial to look for.

One critical factor is the frequency of the fish finder. A higher frequency will provide more detail and accuracy, which is essential when trying to locate small fish like bass.

Another important feature is the size of the screen. A larger screen will be easier to read and provide a clearer image of the underwater landscape.

While there are many fish finders available, we tested and researched ten of the best options to help you find the perfect one for your bass fishing needs. Our research focused on factors such as frequency, screen size, ease of use, and price.

After extensive testing, we have identified the top fish finders for bass fishing that will provide you with the most accurate and detailed information to help you catch more fish.

Best Fish Finders for Bass Fishing

We know that finding the best fish finder for bass fishing can be a daunting task, especially with the wide variety of options available in the market. That’s why we have done the research for you and compiled a list of the top fish finders that will help you catch more bass.

Our experts have tested and reviewed each product to ensure that they meet the highest standards of quality, performance, and affordability. So, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned angler, our list has got you covered. Check out our top picks below.

Lowrance HOOK2 Fish Finder

If you’re looking for the best fish finder for bass fishing, the Lowrance HOOK2 Fish Finder is a great option.

Pros

  • The auto-tuning sonar and phone-like menus make it easy to use.
  • The wide-angle sonar cone provides double the coverage of traditional fish finders.
  • The included Bullet Skimmer transducer gives you traditional 2-D sonar (fish arch) views.

Cons

  • Some users have reported having to reset the device frequently.
  • The 4.3-inch screen may be too small for some users.
  • It does not have GPS capabilities.

We recently used the Lowrance HOOK2 Fish Finder on a bass fishing trip and were impressed with its ease of use. The auto-tuning sonar and phone-like menus made it simple to set up and start using right away.

The wide-angle sonar cone allowed us to see more of the underwater environment, making it easier to spot fish.

One downside we noticed was that the device occasionally needed to be reset. This was a minor inconvenience, but it did interrupt our fishing experience. Additionally, the 4.3-inch screen may be too small for some users, especially those who prefer a larger display.

Overall, we would recommend the Lowrance HOOK2 Fish Finder for bass fishing. Its ease of use and wide-angle sonar cone make it a great option for beginners and experienced anglers alike.

ReelSonar Portable Fish Finder

If you’re looking for a portable and easy-to-use fish finder, the ReelSonar Portable Fish Finder is a great option.

Pros

  • The ReelSonar Portable Fish Finder is incredibly easy to use, with a depth range of up to 135 feet and a rechargeable battery life of over 10 hours.
  • The sonar signals are integrated to find and reflect visual images of both static and moving objects beneath the water’s surface, with depth-tagged fish icons color-coded by size.
  • The fish alarm and strike alert features make it easy to be alerted when fish congregate under docks and piers or when fish are biting.

Cons

  • The ReelSonar Portable Fish Finder may not be as accurate as some other fish finders on the market.
  • The Bluetooth connection can sometimes be spotty, leading to dropped connections or inaccurate readings.
  • The app can be a bit confusing to use at first, especially for those who are not tech-savvy.

We recently took the ReelSonar Portable Fish Finder out on a fishing trip and were impressed with its ease of use and accuracy. The device synced up seamlessly with our smartphones, and the app was intuitive and easy to navigate.

We were able to quickly locate fish and structures on ponds, lakes, streams, and rivers, making for a successful day of fishing.

One thing to keep in mind is that the ReelSonar Portable Fish Finder may not be as accurate as some other fish finders on the market. We found that it was sometimes off by a few feet, so it’s important to use it as a general guide rather than relying on it for precise measurements.

Overall, we would recommend the ReelSonar Portable Fish Finder to anyone looking for a portable and easy-to-use fish finder. It’s a great tool for fishing from shore and docks, and is ideal for kayak or canoe fishing and for bottom sounding areas not available by boat.

LUCKY Portable Fish Finder

We highly recommend the LUCKY Portable Fish Finder for anyone who loves fishing, especially for bass.

Pros

  • The ergonomic design makes it easy to hold for long periods of time without feeling tired.
  • Multiple functions, including real-time display of water depth, fish location, and rock and weed detection, make it easy to get a good catch.
  • Wide detection range and sensitivity adjustable function make it accurate and reliable in any water condition.

Cons

  • The background light for night fishing could be brighter.
  • The fish detector alarm is not very loud.
  • The battery cover is not very secure and can easily pop out.

We recently used the LUCKY Portable Fish Finder on a fishing trip and were impressed with its performance.

The ergonomic design made it comfortable to hold for long periods of time, and the multiple functions, including real-time display of water depth and fish location, made it easy to find the best spots to catch fish.

The wide detection range and sensitivity adjustable function made it accurate and reliable in any water condition.

However, we did notice that the background light for night fishing could be brighter, and the fish detector alarm is not very loud. Additionally, the battery cover is not very secure and can easily pop out, which could be a problem if it falls into the water.

Overall, we think the LUCKY Portable Fish Finder is a great investment for anyone who loves fishing, especially for bass. It’s easy to use and accurate, and the 12-month warranty policy gives us peace of mind.

Up Java 2 Pcs Drum Rig Fish Finder Rigs

If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable fish finder rig for bass fishing, the Up Java 2 Pcs Drum Rig Fish Finder Rigs might be worth considering.

Pros

  • The size # 7/0 snelled circle hook is perfect for catching bass.
  • The 100 lb. test Sufix Superior Monofilament Leader is strong and durable.
  • The fish finder sinker slides with Duo-Lock Snap make it easy to attach the rig to your fishing line.

Cons

  • Some users have reported that the beads are too small and can slip off the rig.
  • The rig might not be suitable for catching larger fish species.
  • You only get two complete rigs, which might not be enough for longer fishing trips.

We’ve tested the Up Java 2 Pcs Drum Rig Fish Finder Rigs and found that they are easy to use and can be effective for catching bass.

The snelled circle hook is sharp and reliable, and the monofilament leader can withstand the fight of a strong fish. The fish finder sinker slides are a nice touch, as they allow you to adjust the depth of the rig and make it more versatile.

However, we did notice that the beads are quite small and can sometimes slip off the rig, which can be frustrating. Additionally, the rig might not be suitable for catching larger fish species, as the hook and leader are not as strong as some other options on the market.

Finally, you only get two complete rigs, which might not be enough for longer fishing trips or if you lose a rig while fishing.

Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and reliable fish finder rig for bass fishing, the Up Java 2 Pcs Drum Rig Fish Finder Rigs might be a good option. Just be aware of the limitations of the rig and make sure to bring enough rigs for your fishing trip.

LUCKY Kayak Portable Fish Depth Finder Water Handheld Fish Finder Sonar

LUCKY Kayak Portable Fish Depth Finder Water Handheld Fish Finder Sonar Castable Kayak Boat Fishfinder Transducer Fishing LCD Display FFC1108

If you’re looking for an affordable and portable fish finder for your next bass fishing trip, the LUCKY Kayak Portable Fish Depth Finder is a great option.

Pros

  • The LUCKY fish finder is easy to use and portable, making it ideal for kayak, boat, and shore fishing.
  • The display is visible in both sunshine and darkness with the back light turned on.
  • The fish finder can detect fish and fishing schools passing by and can work continuously for at least 4-5 hours with a new battery.

Cons

  • The accuracy of the depth reading may be a couple of feet off.
  • The fish finder may not be as accurate from the shore.
  • The device may be slow to change depths.

We recently had the pleasure of trying out the LUCKY Kayak Portable Fish Depth Finder, and we were impressed with its performance.

The fish finder is compact and easy to use with just one hand. The neck strap included in the package allows you to wear it around your neck when you’re busy on the kayak or boat.

The LUCKY fish finder is also versatile in its ability to detect approximate fish location, water depth, short and tall weeds, sand, and rocks on the bottom. The measurement unit of the depth can be freely switched by feet or meter.

While the accuracy of the depth reading may be slightly off, the fish finder does its job in detecting fish and fishing schools passing by. The device can work continuously for at least 4-5 hours with a new battery, and even longer with the battery save mode turned on.

Overall, the LUCKY Kayak Portable Fish Depth Finder is an affordable and portable option for those looking to enhance their bass fishing experience.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best fish finder for bass fishing, there are a few key features to consider. Here are the factors we recommend looking at:

Transducer Type

The transducer is the part of the fish finder that sends out sonar waves to detect fish. There are two main types of transducers: single frequency and dual frequency.

Single frequency transducers are best for shallow water, while dual frequency transducers are better for deeper water. Consider the depth of the water you will be fishing in when choosing a transducer.

Display

The display is where you will see the information gathered by the fish finder. Look for a display that is easy to read in all lighting conditions, including direct sunlight. A color display can be helpful in distinguishing between different types of fish and underwater structures.

GPS

Many fish finders come with GPS capabilities, which can be useful for marking fishing spots and navigating to them. Look for a fish finder with accurate GPS and mapping capabilities if this is important to you.

Power

The power of a fish finder is measured in watts. A higher wattage will generally provide better performance, especially in deeper water. Consider the depth of the water you will be fishing in and choose a fish finder with an appropriate wattage.

Additional Features

There are many additional features that can be useful in a fish finder, such as:

  • Side imaging: Provides a detailed view of the underwater landscape to help you locate fish and structures.
  • Down imaging: Provides a detailed view of the area directly beneath the boat.
  • Temperature sensor: Helps you locate areas with the right water temperature for bass fishing.
  • Fish alarms: Alert you when fish are detected.

Consider which additional features would be most useful for your specific fishing needs.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best fish finder for your bass fishing needs.