10 Best Depth Finders For Boats 2025 in the United States

The Humminbird XPLORE 9 GPS Fish Finder stands out with its advanced sonar technology and comprehensive mapping capabilities. It features MEGA Side Imaging+ and MEGA Down Imaging+, which provide detailed underwater views up to 200 feet on each side and below your boat. The Dual Spectrum CHIRP technology enhances fish detection accuracy, offering both wide and narrow modes for different fishing needs. The built-in GPS and extensive map coverage, including LakeMaster and CoastMaster VX map cards, make navigation and location tracking straightforward, suitable for users who fish in varied water bodies across the US and Canada.

AutoChart Live allows you to create real-time maps of your fishing spots, capturing depth contours, bottom hardness, and vegetation, which is excellent for identifying productive fishing areas. The 9-inch HD touchscreen display with dual control options (touchscreen and keypad) ensures clear visibility and ease of use even in bright conditions. Connectivity features like high-speed Ethernet and Bluetooth, and compatibility with NMEA 2000 network, Minn Kota, and Cannon products, make it versatile and easy to integrate into your existing boat systems.

However, at 9 pounds and with a relatively high price point, it may not be ideal for smaller boats or casual anglers. Its advanced features and comprehensive integration options are best suited for avid anglers or professionals who require detailed underwater imaging and extensive mapping capabilities. The two-year warranty provides some assurance of its durability and performance.

The Lowrance Eagle Eye 9” Live Sonar is an advanced depth-finder that caters to both casual and serious boating enthusiasts. One of its key strengths is the versatility it offers with four different sonar views from a single transducer: Live Forward, Live Down, CHIRP Sonar, and DownScan Imaging with FishReveal. This makes it easier for users to get a complete understanding of the underwater environment without needing additional modules.

The autotuning live sonar feature further simplifies the user experience by automatically adjusting settings for optimal performance, which is especially useful for those who may not be familiar with manual tuning. Additionally, the detailed C-MAP charts with Genesis Live provide comprehensive mapping and navigation data, enhancing the functionality of the device. The 9-inch IPS LED screen ensures clear visibility from all angles, even when wearing polarized glasses. The new twist-lock connector system also adds to the convenience by making installation easy and reliable whether on a boat or kayak.

However, there are some notable drawbacks. The unit is relatively new to the market, first available in August 2024, and with a weight of 2 pounds and dimensions of 11.3 x 3.54 x 6.39 inches, it may be bulkier compared to other models, which could be a consideration for those with limited mounting space. The Lowrance Eagle Eye 9” Live Sonar offers a feature-rich and user-friendly experience but may require more market validation and space consideration for some users.

The Garmin ECHOMAP UHD2 94sv is a solid choice for boaters and anglers looking for an efficient depth finder. Its 9-inch touchscreen display is bright and easy to read, even in sunlight, making navigation straightforward. The included GT56 transducer provides versatile sonar options, including traditional, ClearVü, and SideVü scanning, allowing users to see underwater structures and fish in great detail. With built-in Garmin Navionics+ coastal charts, users can have access to comprehensive mapping data, which enhances the boating experience, especially in unfamiliar waters.

One of the standout features is the built-in Wi-Fi connectivity. This allows users to wirelessly share sonar data, waypoints, and routes between compatible devices, which is particularly useful for teams or when multiple chart plotters are being used on board. Additionally, the unit can connect to a Force trolling motor, enabling users to create and follow routes automatically, which adds a layer of convenience while fishing or cruising.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. While the touchscreen is user-friendly, some users may find its responsiveness varies, especially in wet conditions. The depth finder is relatively bulky, weighing over 8 pounds, which might be a concern for smaller boats with limited mounting options. Additionally, while the price is competitive for its features, it may still be considered high for those who are occasional boaters or fishers who do not need advanced capabilities.