10 Best Depth Finders For Boats 2026 in the United States

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 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 Simrad NSS12 Evo3S is a robust depth finder designed for boat enthusiasts who demand high performance and advanced features. With a large 12-inch high-definition display and an advanced iMX 8 processor, it offers fast response times and smooth navigation through its intuitive touchscreen interface. The built-in GPS navigation with preloaded C-MAP US Enhanced charts is a significant advantage for those navigating inland and coastal waters, making it easy to plan routes and identify key landmarks.

In terms of fish-finding capabilities, the NSS12 Evo3S excels with features like Active Imaging sonar and StructureScan 3D, allowing users to locate fish more effectively. The vessel-wide integration also stands out, providing real-time monitoring of various systems onboard, such as fuel efficiency and engine performance, which can enhance the boating experience.

It is important to consider a few drawbacks. The size of the device may be cumbersome for smaller boats, and installation could require some technical know-how. Additionally, while the unit is packed with features, those new to depth finders might find the array of options overwhelming at first. Lastly, the price point is on the higher side, potentially limiting it for recreational users or beginners who may not require such advanced capabilities.