Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

Winner
The Garmin Striker Vivid 9sv is a 9-inch color fishfinder that stands out with its vivid scanning sonar color palettes, which help make fish and underwater structures easy to spot. Its screen size is generous for this price range, offering clear visuals through a 9-inch LCD display. This device supports CHIRP traditional sonar along with ClearVü and SideVü scanning sonars, providing detailed underwater views. Some scanning sonars require a compatible transducer, which is included in the package.
The built-in GPS is a helpful feature for marking fishing spots and planning routes, and the Quickdraw Contours mapping enables you to create custom maps, which is quite advanced for a fishfinder under $200. Additionally, Wi-Fi connectivity allows syncing with a smartphone app for waypoint transfer and smart notifications, adding convenience. On the downside, the power rating is modest, which might limit depth range and sonar performance in certain conditions compared to higher-end models. The device is also somewhat bulky at over 6 pounds and requires a through-hull mount, which might not be ideal for all boats, especially smaller ones.
While the unit doesn’t have a touch screen and relies on button controls, it remains user-friendly for beginners. This Garmin model is well suited for anglers looking for a reliable, feature-rich fishfinder with good GPS and sonar capabilities on a budget. However, those needing ultra-high power or a more compact design might want to explore other options.
The Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv is a solid choice for anglers looking for a fishfinder under $200 that combines ease of use with useful features. Its 7-inch color display is large enough to clearly see underwater details, enhanced by vivid color palettes that help distinguish fish and structures easily. The unit supports multiple sonar types, including Garmin's CHIRP traditional, ClearVü, and SideVü scanning sonar, providing detailed images of what’s below and around your boat. The included GT52HW-TM transducer covers a wide range, making it versatile for different water environments. It also comes with built-in Quickdraw Contours mapping, allowing you to create and save custom maps right on the device. A high-sensitivity GPS marks waypoints and helps create routes, which is great for navigation and returning to favorite fishing spots.
Wi-Fi connectivity adds convenience by linking the fishfinder to the ActiveCaptain app, enabling easy waypoint transfer, smart notifications, and access to community maps. However, this model relies on button controls rather than a touchscreen, which might feel less intuitive for some users. Also, the device’s power and transducer capabilities are balanced for casual and intermediate users but may not satisfy advanced anglers needing higher-end sonar technology. The unit is compact and lightweight, making it portable and easy to mount.
This Garmin Striker model is well-suited for recreational fishermen wanting a dependable, straightforward fishfinder with good sonar variety and GPS features. Those seeking the absolute best resolution or more advanced features might want to consider pricier options.
The Eagle 7 SplitShot is a solid choice for anglers looking for a fish finder under $200. Its 7-inch IPS LCD screen stands out with good visibility even in bright daylight or when wearing polarized sunglasses, which makes it easier to see details on the water. The SplitShot HD transducer offers enhanced sonar clarity and range, helping you spot fish more effectively through FishReveal technology that highlights fish against underwater structures and weeds.
Preloaded C-MAP charts covering over 17,000 U.S. lakes come in handy for freshwater fishing, and the option to create custom maps in real-time adds valuable detail for discovering new spots. The device is battery powered, which avoids the need for complicated wiring, and the twist-lock connector system simplifies installation on boats or kayaks. It does not have built-in GPS for tracking or marking waypoints, which some users might find limiting if they want advanced navigation features. Also, a suncover is sold separately, so you may need to buy that to protect the screen from glare and damage.
With a one-year warranty and generally positive customer reviews, this fish finder offers a good balance between ease of use, decent sonar performance, and map coverage for casual to intermediate anglers who want reliable tech without breaking the bank.
Most Popular Categories Right Now