Best Fish Finders Under 500 Dollars

To enhance your fishing expeditions, investing in a high-quality fish finder is essential. These devices offer valuable insights such as detecting fish presence, mapping underwater terrain, and monitoring water temperature.

The year 2024 brings a myriad of options for fish finders, each boasting advanced features and capabilities. This guide is dedicated to assisting anglers in making an informed decision to find the best fish finders under $500.

After spending several weeks researching, we got in touch with industry experts and consulted them to make this definitive list. From high-resolution displays to cutting-edge sonar technology, we’ll provide a detailed overview of each device, allowing you to find the perfect match for your fishing endeavors. Whether you prefer to fish from a canoe, kayak, boat, dock or shore, the best fish finders under 500 for 2024 await.

Best Fish Finders Under $500 in 2024

Comparison Table of Top 7 Best Fish Finders Under 500 Dollars in 2024:

1. Lowrance Hook Reveal 5 000-15500-001 Fish Finder

When considering the best quality fish finder, you must think about Lowrance. The company has an ambitious goal of changing the fishing technique. The Lowrance Hook Reveal 5 Splitshot is one of the best fish finders under $500 overall owing to its full feature set and accessible price point.

It’s not far different from the same year’s Hook Reveal 5 Splitshot Xdcr but offers two dominant extra features. First, it helps you quickly find and locate the fish. And the second is, the noise Rejection system and auto-tuning sonar make it an incredibly well-rounded choice for most anglers.

You will get high-detail maps of almost 4,000 US inland lakes. You can also create custom contour maps with even greater detail over any map or GPS plotter with Genesis Live (Genesis Live is a real-time mapping feature), so you can get onto the fish faster. It has a GPS speed function so that users can calculate the speed of their boat based on the GPS input.

The auto-tuning sonar automatically adjusts settings as fishing conditions change and the 5-inch crisp display delivers clear views no matter the conditions, even in direct sunlight with excellent clarity. Lowrance Hook Reveal 5 fish finder also has an internal temperature sensor.

This device includes the SplitShot transducer, which is plastic. It features a transom mount and trolling mounting possibilities. It supports multiple frequencies, including 50/83/200 kHz for standard CHIRP sonar, and 455/800 kHz for DownScan. It was designed for lake fishing or inland fishing. However, you can use off-shore in areas with shallow waters, or opt for an extra 50/200 kHz skimmer transducer.

It has a coverage of 40° and a maximum depth capability of 1000 ft. (305 m). It is one of the most advanced Fish Finder Combos under $500 from Lowrance without having networking features. Therefore, because of the lack of Ethernet and NMEA support, you won’t be able to use external GPS. However, you need a bit of knowledge to operate, but nothing too difficult if you’re familiar with such devices previously.

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2. Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv 010-02553-00 Fish Finder

Garmin is well-known for its longstanding presence in the realm of smart technology. With a diverse product lineup ranging from fish finders to smartwatches, they’ve garnered a reputation for offering high-quality items. Looking ahead, their focus appears to be on revolutionizing the future through smart electric connectivity. Our engagement with their smart products dates back to 2010.

However, the Garmin 7SV is the recent and advanced fish finder from the Striker series. Despite its good features and a recognized brand, the purchase price of the Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv fish finder remains correct. It features a 7” WVG color screen with 800×480 pixels resolution. The display provides clear views and you can make full use of all of its sonar capabilities by using the split-screen functionality to view up to four different sonar images.

Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv fish finder comes with an all-in-one transducer that covers regular sonar, down imaging, side imaging, and CHIRP and delivers top-notch imaging performance. The display also shows water depth, water temperature, plus your boat’s speed, movement and heading.

The quality of the sonar returns generated with Garmin CHIRP is truly excellent, providing extremely good object separation, and resulting in a high image resolution on the screen. It is also one of the best fish finders on the market in terms of sonar imaging technology, while still being under 500 dollars.

It has high sensitive GPS to plan and create routes and has a maximum depth range of 2300 ft. in freshwater (1100 ft. in saltwater). Also, built-in quickdraw contours mapping is good enough for basic navigation and recording important locations. You can use waypoint marking to find your way back easily.

However, it’s a medium size range device with a waterproof rating of IPX7, so you don’t need to worry about getting it wet, since this level of waterproofing is strong enough to withstand full immersion. This model features Wi-Fi connectivity, which allows you to connect your smartphone via Apps.

The overall quality and build materials are excellent to provide both durability and ease of use (especially as the interface is easy to learn, because of its intuitiveness), which you can expect from Garmin fish finder. However, if the small screen size is a concern then you should buy the bigger size version.

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3. Humminbird 410970-1 ICE H5 HELIX 5 Fish Finder

From 2026, the HELIX series stays on the market, and if you want to get a full-featured fish finder under 500 dollars that maintains stability in bad weather like rain and includes strong safety features, then consider the Humminbird 410970-1 HELIX 5. Both Pro and novice anglers appreciate its small and compact size.

With dual spectrum CHIRP sonar, you will be impressed when viewing in detail that other forms of sonar won’t show you. It is designed to help you see individual fish clearly, identify bait and structure, and reach greater depths and ranges. However, the depth range is 400ft.

You can easily see fish, lures, and activity of fish along the bottom with high resolution 1024-segment flasher and traditional 2D sonar. You can easily adjust the brightness and color of the screen; just press the power button and it will give you the changing option.

Humminbird HELIX 5 fish finder features six settings to keep competing for sonar signals from cluttering your screen, which gives you a clear image all day long in both sonar and flasher modes. And with the new Jig charge mode, the battery power is considerable. You can use more than 15 hours between charges.

You can move the zoom range to locate where the fish are. And the adjustable Sonar Zoom allows you to hone in on fish, whether they are tight to the bottom, or suspended high in the water column. You can turn it on to utilize 2X zoom on the flasher screen or up to 8X zoom on 2D sonar view.

With its lightweight design (only 8 pounds), this device has an amazing amount of features and performs better as a fish finder or flasher than either of them. Like all HELIX series, the ICE HELIX 5 model is compatible with all transducers. The package comes with hummingbird basemaps but not many details.

However, if you’re planning to mount it on a boat, it may be a tad on the small end. But it is a substantial size for all types of fishing kayaks. We highly recommend this model for people who fish both open and hard water.

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4. Deeper DP3H10S10 CHIRP+ Smart Sonar Fishfinder

There’s no doubt that the Deeper CHIRP+ overshadows the older Deeper PRO+ in many respects, particularly when it comes to TimeSaving. The main reason is you should consider the Deeper DP3H10S10 sonar fish finder over its newer cousin: you can quickly move on fishing trips.

It is a portable, wireless, castable, CHIRP fish finder/ depth finder with built-in GPS, making it perfect for experienced anglers. It is a versatile fish finder under $500 that generates its own Wi-Fi signal to connect to your smartphone.

The Deeper CHIRP+ is smaller than a tennis ball and weighs only 90G, which is very useful in situations where it is not possible to enter the water, making it perfect for those who favor urban fishing, especially when you’re standing shoulder-to-shoulder with others anglers.

You can locate fish, holding spots, and Ambush points faster than any other portable fish finder. You can attach the Deeper CHIRP+ directly to your fishing line. However, because of the lightweight design, you’ll need to use a robust rod, line, and knots to make sure it doesn’t go flying off in the wrong direction at some point.

The Deeper app offers detailed readouts directly on your smartphone or tablet. This allows you to make the most of your display size. You can see fish, structure, vegetation, bottom contour, and hardness. You can measure the water depth and temperature, and able to mark the points that you are interested in using waypoints.

Deeper CHIRP+ fish finder built-in GPS enables you to create bathymetric maps from the shore. You can access all of your scans, maps, points of interest, photos, and notes on Lakebook, your personal fishing journal. You can also update the software to use any new features and functions that Deeper releases.

The three-beam frequencies (47°, 16°, 7°) allow you to scan larger areas first, then you can narrow in your target species or location. You can accurately scan in water from 15cm to 100M deep. Deeper CHIRP+ Fishfinder is designed and made in Europe and distributed worldwide.

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5. Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv 010-02552-00 Fish Finder

Garmin has unveiled a new version of its Striker Vivid series called 7cv. This mid-range fish finder is the best choice for people who want to be a professional angler. If fishing is your favorite activity, you are probably looking for a device that is practical and precise. It was also one of the bestseller fish finders in 2022, released at the end of 2021. It offers a larger 7-inch color display and wireless connectivity.

If you’re seeking affordability without compromising on quality, the option I mentioned earlier may be more suitable than the Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv, especially if battery inclusion isn’t a priority for you. Despite being $100 pricier than the Vivid 7sv, it offers several significant upgrades and incorporates many features typically found in Garmin’s higher-end models, some of which can cost over a thousand dollars.

It supports multiple sonar frequencies (50/77/200 kHz for its standard CHIRP mode, and 260/455/800 kHz for ClearVü). Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv fish finder also supports dual-frequency. So if you pair this device with a dual-beam transducer, you can use both sonar beams simultaneously and view the sonar returns in split-screen. With measuring water temperature, it will work accurately up to 1900 feet of water depth.

Like the Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv, this unit has Quickdraw Contours mapping software that lets you create and store maps with 1′ contours for up to 2 million acres. You are not only able to track location, but it allows you to navigate via waypoints, which means you can mark productive spots and return to them later.

Like all previous models in this guide, the Garmin STRIKER 7cv’s transducer uses CHIRP technology to explore the water column. The CHIRP transducers sweep across a range of frequencies, so it can collect much more data, and can therefore produce a much more detailed image. In fact, this device provides nearly photographic-quality images of the world below your boat. Because the very high-quality screen is incredibly visible when combined with the included tilt-and-swivel mount.

Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv fish finder features almost all of the things that offer high-end models. Although it has an IPX7 rating, a Genuine Garmin protective cover is included in the package. This means saving your device from any damage or discoloration from the sun.

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6. Eyoyo Underwater Fishing Camera & Video Fish Finder

To be mindful, underwater fishing cameras and fish finders are different devices that can complement – but not replace – each other. A fish finder is a must-have while a camera is nice-to-have. We add this model for someone who wants to take their fishing technique next level.

Eyoyo Underwater Fishing Camera is ideal for anyone who needs a slightly more affordable fishing camera with impressive video quality. It is simple to use and has a large display. As I mentioned above, it is designed for professional fishermen but newcomers can consider this for different purposes such as fishing or videography.

Despite its budget price tag, Eyoyo Fish Finder offers plenty of features. With 360° Horizontal Panning Camera, you can record videos of your fishing antics and get more fishing information. The recording feature is also really nice when you want to capture the amazing fishing moment, making it an outstanding fishing camera for adventure lovers.

The color viewing is appreciable and big too (wide 9 inches altogether). It has a pretty good 1000TVL resolution; you will get true-life images. The picture quality and flashing light are also adequate for visual inspection.

For fishing on dark night, it has 18pcs of high-power IR lights, so you can even see black and white images of the fish clearly. You can use the remote to control the direction and turn off IR lights by using the controller.

The camera itself is designed for use in extreme weather. That’s why it has impact protection and is anti-corrosive and the waterproof rating is IP68. There’s a handy sun visor to keep the glare off, for when it gets bright.

The package includes 8 GB TF micro SD for videoing your fishing. So you don’t have to buy any extra items separately. It can also be connected to TV by AV ports. It has 4500mAh capacity rechargeable lithium large battery. After fully charged, it will work for up to 5 hours. The connecting cable is incredibly long, measuring a full 30 meters. The briefcase-style carrying case helps you to pack everything right away.

Overall, the Eyoyo Underwater Fishing Camera is a great alternative, especially for developed fishing enthusiasts. It’s ideal for sea fishing, ice fishing, lake fishing, boat fishing, and other underwater adventures. However, if you use it in the ocean, wash and dry the camera with clear water after use, otherwise saltwater can corrode the camera.

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7. Humminbird 410220-1NAV HELIX 5 CHIRP Fish Finder

The Humminbird 410220-1NAV HELIX 5 is physically identical to the HELIX 5, launched in 2017, but there are some key upgrades. And if you’re looking for the best imagery from underwater, this is the model we bring to you. When Humminbird first released the 410220-1NAV HELIX 5, we were surprised to see fish finders for under $500 with Side and Down Imaging! However, now it is common in all leading brands.

Whether you’re fishing freshwater lakes, coastal waters or the ice, you will locate and see fish more clearly and find the right solution for your environment and prey.

The display is physically average (it’s actually a 5-inch) but captures more details and provides better dynamic range, along with LED backlit. It also has two display modes, Max Mode and Clear Mode; you can be well concerned in detail, including fish, structure, and thermoclines.

With built-in GPS, you can easily find your most successful fishing spots and view underwater terrain. A temperature sensor is also installed that gives you the exact temperature so that you can fish even more precisely. You can get depth information on the display device with a depth range of up to 1,500 feet.

You can attach the transducer to a suitable place on your boat and receive the data display device with the appropriate mounting base to attach it near the encoder. The two components are connected with a long cable, which guarantees secure data transmission.

The encoder sends a frequency of 200 kilohertz and the manufacturer promises wide-angle technology. You can set a depth alarm so that the device notifies you when you exceed it. The clear menu selection also promises you easy handling.

Humminbird 410220-1NAV HELIX 5 fish finder is suitable for boat and kayak fishing because it has an excellent stationary mounting method. With a lightweight and compact design, it is one of the most far-reaching fish finders under 500 dollars on the market today.

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Buyer’s Guide: Best Fish Finder Under 500 Dollars

When looking for the best fish finder under $500, you’ll want to find a balance between quality features and affordability. Here are some top options to consider:

Depending on your fishing habits

Fish finders are not one-size-fits-all devices, as their effectiveness can vary depending on the fishing environment. For instance, if you’re accustomed to sea fishing, opting for a sounder displaying 50/200kHz is recommended. Conversely, for freshwater fishing, it’s preferable to choose an 83/200kHz device. Many product specifications include this information to streamline the purchasing process.

Choose a good screen size

The display plays a pivotal role in a fish finder as it enables anglers to interpret the data collected by the transducer. Therefore, it must be sufficiently large to provide unobstructed views. Image clarity and the display’s ability to adjust to varying lighting conditions, whether it be bright sunlight or overcast skies, are crucial factors to consider.

Some displays show additional information for different areas. However, it still depends on the functions of the device. Many fish finders give you the depth and temperature of the water. You can also find information about battery status, signal range, or active features such as the fish alarm on the screen.

Resolution

Resolution is crucial because it directly impacts the clarity and detail of the images you see on the screen. Higher resolution means clearer images. Look for at least 480 x 480 pixels, though higher is better.

Transducer

Transducer is an essential part of all fish finders because it sends and receives the sonar wave messages. When the waves are emitted into the water, the principle is that they bounce off any object they encounter. These objects are then picked up by the transducer. This data is usually transmitted to a central unit where it can be processed and turned into a visual analysis of what is happening underwater.

Transducers come with different types of brackets to install. They are usually made of plastic, making them easy to assemble and disassemble. These are compatible with almost all types of boats.

Wattage

This common thing is applicable for fish finders, higher power is better than lower. But if you only intend to fish in shallow water, low power won’t be a problem. However, the high-power models bring some advantages, for example, the faster these sound waves, the more accurate the reading you will receive. If you want to go fishing in open saltwater or a large body of water such as a large lake, a more powerful model will be better.

Additional functions: technology

Fish finders are above all maritime accessories intended to locate fish. It was without counting on the expectations of the consumer. So, if this function is not sufficient, look at the on-board technology. Does the device act as a GPS, can it memorize the places where fish evolve in whole schools? Obviously, these functions often drive up the purchase price.

Ease of use

While high-end fish finders may seem complex, the key lies in their user-friendliness, ultimately enhancing your fishing experiences. Ensure the device is lightweight and portable for convenience, with some models even offering carrying bags for added ease of transport. The priority is to ensure you can effortlessly master the device, thereby maximizing its utility during your fishing excursions.

The price

There’s a notable discrepancy among various fish trackers. Higher-priced brands often incorporate advanced technology, reflecting in their cost. However, before splurging on an expensive model, consider your usage frequency and prioritize the functions most relevant to you. For instance, if GPS integration is essential, it’s commonly found in higher-priced options. Evaluate your needs carefully to determine the most suitable device for you.

FAQs

Are all fish finders waterproof?

Not all fish finders are waterproof, but most famous brands always offer that. On the other hand, some may survive splashing, but not adequately submersion.

Which fish finder is good for ice fishing?

The short answer is Dual Spectrum CHIRP Sonar. However, it is entirely possible to use both hand-held and mounted sounders for ice fishing. Keep in mind, the cold temperature ruins the transducer easily if you choose a cheap fish finder. So for ice fishing, we always recommend investing in a high-quality model.

What is CHIRP technology?

CHIRP stands for “Compressed High-Intensity Radar Pulse”. Echosounders with CHIRP emit different waves. Ultrasonic tones have differentiated frequencies – like a bird – in order to get the clearest data possible. Using CHIRP technology, the encoder can analyze each returning wave and transmit detailed results to the visual display device. CHIRP technology is therefore suitable for professionals or even beginners who want to collect as much information as possible.

How to evaluate the data correctly?

The image of the data display device is generally divided into three regions. The uppermost region shows you the surface of the water as a line, just below you can sometimes see marks that represent water disturbances because of winds or the movement of the boat. The upper area is not that important to you as there are hardly any fish in the area.

The middle region represents deep water, which is much calmer and therefore easier to read. In the area, the fish finder shows you possible objects. You will usually also receive information about the size of the object and how deep it is.

The third and final level gives you the metro. You get a good cross-section, although the promising devices tell you something about nature. For example, if it is a hard stone floor, the sonar will find information and indicate that the area is very dark. On the other hand, if the ground is littered with plants, the screen displays light-colored ground.

What is the difference between Down Imaging and Side Imaging in a fish finder?

• Down Imaging: Down Imaging provides a detailed view directly beneath the boat. It’s useful for identifying structures, contours, and individual fish that are located directly below the transducer.
• Side Imaging: Side Imaging offers a wide, detailed view of what’s on either side of the boat. It’s excellent for locating fish, submerged objects, and structures that are to the sides of your boat.

Do I need to maintain a fish finder?

Yes, regular fishing can quickly leave residue on the encoder. The data display device is also contaminated with frequent use. For this reason, you should clean your fish finder with lukewarm water after each use. Use only a little detergent for stubborn dirt and do not use harsh cleaning products. Otherwise, the electronics could be damaged. A microfiber cloth is suitable for drying so that no stripes appear on the screen.

To ensure the proper functioning, protect any open jacks or connections. Use wax or grease for example to cover vulnerable areas. In this way, no water can enter and sensitive places are secured. If you don’t need your device for a long time, store it in a dry place to protect it from light. Extreme cold or heat can permanently damage electronics.

If you use the fish finder in the sea, it is necessary to take extra care of it. Because of the saltwater, corrosion can occur more quickly and the material is also attacked by the high salt content.

The Verdict

Fish finder contributes to the joy of fishing. Whether you are an amateur or an experienced fisherman, a good fish finder is an ally for going out to meet fresh or saltwater fish. We dedicated extensive time to research, aiming to create a list accessible to all. Moreover, to ensure impartiality, we took care to consult experts independent of any brand affiliations.

You now have all the latest data. So pick the one that will allow you to fish more.

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