10 Best Side Imaging Fish Finders 2025 in the United States

The Humminbird XPLORE 10 GPS Fish Finder is a solid choice for anglers wanting a clear and detailed view underwater thanks to its 10-inch HD touchscreen with 1280 x 720 resolution. Its MEGA Side Imaging+ sonar covers up to 200 feet on each side, providing sharp images to help spot fish and understand underwater structures better than many basic models. The unit’s Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar gives flexible options for detecting fish in different water conditions.

For navigation, it includes built-in GPS with detailed maps covering over 10,000 lakes plus additional US and Canada charts, which is great for planning trips and marking fishing spots. The AutoChart Live feature lets you create your own depth and vegetation maps while on the water, adding extra value for serious anglers. Connectivity is another strong point, with high-speed Ethernet and Bluetooth allowing you to connect to other devices like trolling motors or networked fish finders, plus compatibility with NMEA 2000 systems. The transom mount transducer comes included, making setup easier.

This unit requires a corded power source, which means it needs installation on a boat with power access, limiting portability. While it is not the cheapest option, its powerful sonar, large clear display, and advanced mapping features make it well-suited for fishing enthusiasts who want detailed underwater imaging and sophisticated navigation tools without overly complex tech. Beginners might need some time to get used to all features, but the dual control system (touchscreen plus keypad) helps with ease of use.

The Lowrance Eagle Eye™ 9 Live + C-MAP® is a sophisticated fish finder that brings several impressive features to the table. It sports a 9-inch IPS screen that offers clear visibility from all angles, even when wearing polarized glasses, which is a great perk for outdoor use. The screen size and resolution are well-suited for detailed underwater viewing, helping you spot fish with ease.

The device also comes with an Eagle Eye™ transducer that provides four different sonar views (Live Forward, Live Down, CHIRP Sonar, and DownScan Imaging with FishReveal), making it versatile for different fishing conditions. Additionally, the autotuning live sonar ensures you get focused down and forward views without manual adjustments, simplifying usage for less tech-savvy users. The detailed C-MAP charts included on a microSD card for the US and Canada enhance navigation and mapping capabilities, which is crucial for serious anglers.

The new twist-lock connector system promises easy installation in various vessels, whether a boat or kayak, adding to its user-friendliness. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Firstly, the product’s weight and dimensions may make it a bit bulky for some setups. Secondly, while its screen is a strong point, users looking for larger displays might find the 9-inch screen limiting. Finally, despite being reasonably new to the market, indicated by its release date, the fish finder might not have a long track record of durability. The Lowrance Eagle Eye™ 9 Live + C-MAP® is a powerful tool for anglers looking for a feature-rich, easy-to-use fish finder with excellent sonar views and mapping capabilities.

The Humminbird APEX 19 GPS Fish Finder is a solid choice for anglers who want detailed underwater views and reliable navigation features. Its standout strength is the MEGA Side Imaging+ and MEGA Down Imaging+, which deliver clear, high-resolution images up to 250 feet deep and to each side, helping you spot fish and underwater structures with confidence. The 10-inch full HD touchscreen provides sharp visuals (1920 x 1080 resolution) and intuitive controls, making it easier to customize your view and settings.

For navigation, the built-in GPS covers over 10,000 lakes and coastlines across the U.S., plus it supports advanced charts like LakeMaster and Navionics, which is great for planning routes and marking hotspots. The AutoChart Live feature is handy for creating real-time maps of water depth, bottom type, and vegetation while you fish, enhancing your understanding of new or less-charted waters. Connectivity is another strong point with dual ethernet ports, HDMI, Bluetooth, and compatibility with NMEA 2000 networks, allowing integration with other marine electronics such as Minn Kota trolling motors.

The included transducer supports a wide range of frequencies and mounts easily, although the unit is somewhat heavy at 15 pounds, which might be a consideration for smaller boats. While it comes at a slightly higher price point, the advanced features make the Humminbird APEX 19 a high-quality fish finder with excellent side imaging, strong GPS features, and good connectivity that is definitely worth considering.