10 Best Fish Finders For Kayaks 2025 in the United States

The Lowrance Elite FS 9 Fish Finder is a well-rounded fish finder option for kayakers, offering several advanced features and a large, user-friendly 9-inch LCD screen. One of its standout features is the Active Imaging 3-in-1 sonar, which includes CHIRP, SideScan, and DownScan with FishReveal technology, providing detailed images of underwater structures and fish. This makes it easier to locate fish and understand their behavior in real-time. Additionally, the device supports ActiveTarget Live Sonar for high-resolution live images of fish movements, which can be quite beneficial for serious anglers.

The preloaded C-MAP Contour+ charts add to its utility by assisting in navigation and locating key fishing areas on 8,900 U.S. lakes, enhancing fishing success rates. The fish finder is also equipped with full networking capabilities, including integrated wireless, NMEA 2000, and Ethernet connectivity, allowing for the addition of other devices like radar and outboard pilots, and sharing sonar data and waypoints between different displays. This makes it a versatile tool for a comprehensive fishing system.

However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. The power source required is a 12 Volt DC, which might not be ideal for all kayakers depending on their setup. The device is also relatively large and heavy, with dimensions of 16 x 5.54 x 14.07 inches and a weight of 4.53 kilograms, which could be cumbersome for small or lightweight kayaks. Additionally, the advanced features and full networking might be more than what a casual kayaker needs, making it more suitable for those who take their fishing seriously and have the setup to support such a device. The one-year warranty provides some peace of mind regarding its durability.

The Lowrance Eagle 5 SplitShot is a solid fish finder designed with kayakers in mind, featuring a 5-inch high-visibility IPS screen that works well even in bright daylight and when wearing polarized sunglasses. This makes it easier to see clear images from different angles on the water. It includes a SplitShot HD transducer that offers enhanced sonar with improved clarity and range, helping you spot fish more easily, even around weeds.

The unit comes with built-in C-MAP Discover charts for the US and Canada, allowing you to quickly find great fishing spots right away without needing extra maps. The device is battery-powered and has a simple twist-lock connector system, making installation straightforward and portable for kayak use.

While the GPS and chart features are helpful, the screen size of 5 inches might feel a bit small if you prefer larger displays for easier reading. Also, the suncover is sold separately, which is something to keep in mind if you often fish in bright sunlight. With a one-year warranty and positive customer feedback, this fish finder provides a user-friendly, reliable option for kayak anglers seeking good sonar performance and portability without overly complex features.

The Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv is a solid choice for kayak anglers who want a clear and colorful view of underwater structures and fish. It features a 7-inch LCD screen, which is a good size for easy viewing without being bulky. The vivid scanning sonar color palettes make it simpler to distinguish fish and the surrounding environment, helping you spot your targets more clearly. It supports multiple sonar types, including traditional CHIRP, ClearVü, and SideVü scanning sonar, providing more detailed and wider views under and around your kayak.

One of its stand-out features is the high-sensitivity GPS that lets you mark your favorite fishing spots, create routes, and check your speed, which is especially handy for kayakers who move around a lot. The built-in Quickdraw Contours mapping lets you create your own detailed maps of the water, which can be a big plus for finding the best fishing spots over time. The unit also offers Wi-Fi connectivity to sync with your smartphone, making it easy to transfer data, get software updates, and access the Garmin Quickdraw community.

In terms of portability, the Striker Vivid 7sv is lightweight (about one pound) and comes with a tilt/swivel mount, making it easy to attach and adjust on your kayak. It runs on direct DC power, so you’ll need a battery source while on the water. Some users might find the button interface less intuitive compared to touchscreen models, but it keeps things simple and reliable. The device requires compatible transducers for full sonar scanning capabilities, so make sure to use the included GT52HW-TM transducer or compatible models. While the screen is bright and colorful, its resolution details are not specified, which may affect sharpness compared to some higher-end models. Also, being a bit larger than simpler fish finders, it might take up more space on very small kayaks. This combination of sonar power, GPS features, and user-friendly design makes the Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv well suited for kayak fishing enthusiasts seeking detailed underwater views and navigation support without overly complex controls.