10 Best Fish Finders 2025 in the United States

The Lowrance HDS PRO 12 is a solid choice for serious anglers seeking a high-quality fish finder and chartplotter combo. Its 12-inch SolarMax HD touchscreen offers a bright, clear view even in direct sunlight or when wearing polarized sunglasses, which makes it easier to interpret underwater details. The device uses advanced sonar technology, including ultra-high-definition CHIRP, SideScan, and DownScan imaging through the included Active Imaging HD 3-in-1 transducer. This combination allows you to see fish and underwater structures with great clarity, enhancing your fishing efficiency. It also supports ActiveTarget 2 Live Sonar, giving real-time fish tracking if you invest in the compatible system later. The preloaded C-MAP Discover on-board charts cover thousands of lakes in the U.S. and Canada with detailed contour lines, which is very helpful for navigation and finding productive fishing spots.

The unit runs on a 12-volt power source and offers good depth capability, reaching up to 1,000 feet. Being relatively large and weighing over 6 kilograms, it is designed more for boat mounting than portability. The price and complexity might be a bit much for casual or beginner fishermen, but experienced users will appreciate the extensive features and high-resolution imaging. The warranty of two years adds some peace of mind. The Lowrance HDS PRO 12 is well-suited for anglers who want advanced sonar details, reliable GPS mapping, and a large, easy-to-read screen — especially if they are fishing frequently and need a dependable, feature-rich system.

The Lowrance HDS PRO 16 Inch Fish Finder stands out as a high-end option for anglers seeking advanced features. With its impressive 16-inch SolarMAX HD touchscreen, users benefit from a clear view even in bright sunlight or through polarized sunglasses. This feature is essential for spotting fish in various lighting conditions. The unit's Active Imaging HD transducer offers multiple sonar options, including CHIRP, SideScan, and DownScan imaging, providing comprehensive coverage of the underwater environment. Additionally, with support for ActiveTarget live sonar, users can track fish movements in real-time, which can significantly enhance fishing success.

GPS integration is another strong point, as it comes preloaded with detailed charts covering thousands of lakes in the US and Canada, plus a worldwide basemap. This makes navigation easier and more intuitive, contributing to a safer and more enjoyable fishing experience.

There are some aspects to consider. The size of this fish finder might be cumbersome for smaller boats or those who prioritize portability; its weight of 17.8 pounds and dimensions may require careful planning for installation and transport. Additionally, while the price is competitive for its features, it may be on the higher end for casual fishers who do not need such advanced capabilities. Moreover, although the connectivity options like NMEA 2000, Bluetooth, and smartphone notifications are appealing, they may overwhelm users who are not tech-savvy or those looking for a simpler device.

This fish finder is best suited for serious anglers who fish frequently in varied conditions, and who are willing to invest in a device that offers sophisticated imaging and navigation capabilities.

The Simrad NSS9 Evo3S is a solid choice for anglers looking for a multifunction fish finder with excellent navigation features. Its 9-inch high-definition LCD screen offers clear visuals, making it easier to spot fish and understand underwater structures. The device includes powerful processing that supports advanced sonar technologies like Active Imaging and StructureScan 3D, which help reveal detailed views beneath and around your boat.

It comes with built-in GPS and preloaded C-MAP US Enhanced charts, allowing confident navigation of inland and coastal waters. The addition of HALO 20+ radar is a standout feature, improving safety by helping you avoid obstacles and monitor weather or other boats, which is not common in all fish finders. The system is designed for dashboard mounting and runs on a DC power supply, which suits boat setups. It also supports vessel-wide integration, enabling monitoring of engines and other onboard systems with compatible equipment.

This fish finder is well-suited for boaters who want a comprehensive, easy-to-use device that combines sonar, navigation, and radar in one unit.