10 Best Shallow Water Fish Finders 2025 in the United States

The Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv is a solid choice for shallow-water fishing enthusiasts. Its 7-inch color display with vivid sonar color palettes makes it easy to distinguish fish and underwater structures. The included GT20 transducer supports both CHIRP traditional sonar and CHIRP ClearVü scanning, providing clear and detailed images of the underwater environment. This is particularly useful for identifying fish in shallow waters.

Additionally, the high-sensitivity GPS allows you to mark waypoints, create routes, and monitor your boat’s speed, which is essential for efficient navigation and fishing trips. The built-in Quickdraw Contours mapping feature is a significant advantage, enabling you to create personalized fishing maps with 1-foot contours, enhancing your fishing strategy. The Wi-Fi connectivity and compatibility with the ActiveCaptain app add convenience by allowing you to transfer waypoints, receive notifications, and access community-sourced maps.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The device's reliance on battery power may require frequent recharging during extended fishing trips. Additionally, the user interface is button-based, which might be less intuitive for some users compared to touchscreen models. The device is also relatively heavy at 4.4 pounds, which could be a consideration if you prefer a more lightweight option. Some users might find the mounting process complicated due to the hardware provided. The Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv offers a comprehensive set of features that cater well to shallow-water fishing, with a few minor inconveniences that can be managed with proper planning.