Our Top Picks:
Best for salt- and freshwater: Garmin Striker Cast
Perfect for bank anglers, the Garmin Striker Cast delivers crisp sonar images, GPS connectivity, and easy-to-use mobile app integration.
Best for ease-of-use: Deeper Pro Castable Fish Finder
Portable and easy to use, the Deeper Pro offers smart technology and impressive specs, with the ability to cast far and deep.
Best for ice fishing: Lowrance FishHunter 3D
This wireless, portable Lowrance FishHunter 3D offers tri-frequency coverage and multiple fishing views, making it a versatile tool for anglers.
As avid anglers, we know that fishing from the bank can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Without the mobility of a boat, bank fishing requires a deeper understanding of fish behavior and a keen sense of observation. That’s where a high-quality fish finder can be a game-changer.
After testing and using some of the best bank fishing fish finders available, we’re excited to share our top picks with you in this article. We have years of experience fishing in various settings, so we know the qualities to look for in a fish finder and how to utilize this technology to its fullest potential.
We have everything you need, from high-end models to affordable options. Read on to learn about the best bank fishing fish finders for your upcoming angling trip, whether you’re a weekend warrior or a seasoned pro.
The 5 Best Fish Finders For Bank & Shore Fishing
Garmin Striker Cast (With GPS)
- Rugged, castable sonar device works with free striker cast app (compatible with apple or android devices) to wirelessly stream sonar, locate fish and display them on your smartphone or tablet
Last update on 2023-10-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Your new secret weapon for catching more fish is the Garmin Striker Cast. With the help of the free Striker Cast app, this durable, castable sonar device can wirelessly stream sonar, locate fish, and display them on your smartphone or tablet.
You can download the app, connect your smartphone to the sonar, and begin fishing immediately with a simple, quick set-up.
The device features conventional 2-D and ice fishing flasher sonar modes and functions well in shallow and deep water.
Using the Quickdraw Contours software and the built-in GPS, you can make your own personalized fishing maps with 1′ contours.
The fish finder also has a 10+ hour battery life and is water-resistant. You can catch more fish and improve your fishing skills with the Garmin Striker Cast.
Deeper Pro Castable Fish finder (With GPS & Wi-Fi)
- HIGH SPECS AND ROCK SOLID CONNECTIVITY: Casts out up to 330ft and scans down to 260ft. Precise 0.5in target separation. Compatible with iOS and Android devices. Syncs to phone/tablet using its own Wi-Fi (like a hotspot). No internet or cellular data needed.
Last update on 2023-10-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Discover your favorite fishing spots’ depth, bottom contour, and water temperature with the Deeper Pro Castable Fish Finder.
This high-end device provides precise 0.5in target separation and casts out up to 330ft and scans down to 260ft.
The device syncs to your phone or tablet using its own Wi-Fi, so no internet or cellular data is required. It works with both iOS and Android devices.
The Deeper Pro Fish Finder is perfect for bank, shore, and ice fishing, but it works amazing with boat and kayak fishing as well, installs in seconds without any cables, wires, or external batteries needed.
It has a battery that can be recharged whenever necessary using a micro USB B type cable.
You can view depth, see bottom structure and consistency, vegetation, and fish with its real-time data and two beam frequencies with 15 scans per second.
The Fish Deeper app and web platform allow you to access all of your scans, maps, points of interest, photos, and notes and create bathymetric maps from the bank, shore, boat, canoe, or kayak. Fish Deeper, Deeper’s bathymetric management platform, allows you to save all scans and maps to record every fishing location thoroughly.
Deeper START Smart Fish Finder
- READY TO GO - Easily find where your next catch is hiding with the Deeper START Fish Finder! The lightweight and sleek design makes for a seamless reel without any messy wires or fiddly external batteries required. Ideal for shore anglers and family trips who want to get on with catching!
Last update on 2023-10-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, the Deeper START Smart Fish Finder is the ideal fishing tool for anyone looking to get started.
This portable fish finder is simple to use, lightweight and doesn’t need external batteries or messy wires.
Thanks to advanced Wi-Fi technology, it generates its own Wi-Fi connection, so it won’t consume your mobile data. You can easily save every scan with time and location for convenient revisits.
Within minutes of pairing this small, easy-to-use fish finder with your smartphone, you can see all the pertinent information, including fish location and size, depth, bottom contour, vegetation, and more.
The Deeper START has impressive specs, including a 40° sonar beam that offers excellent accuracy and coverage, a casting range of up to 165 feet, and a depth scanning range of up to 165 feet. This fish finder has a night fishing mode for fishermen who prefer to fish at night. The Deeper START has a battery life of 6 hours and can be fully charged in just 2.5 hours so that you can stay productive for longer.
The Deeper START is ideal for recreational fishing from the dock, shore, or bank, pinpointing fish location, bottom structure, and vegetation, whether you’re a casual angler, a novice, or an experienced fisherman.
Lowrance FishHunter 3D
- A FISH FINDER ON YOUR PHONE: The FishHunter PRO transmits sonar data to an app on your mobile device giving your a quick, reliable, and easy-to-use fish finder you can take anywhere.
Last update on 2023-10-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
With the Lowrance FishHunter PRO, you can explore what lies beneath the surface. Up to 160 feet away, the portable fish finder connects to your mobile device via WiFi to deliver precise and clear sonar readings of what is below the surface in real-time.
The FishHunter PRO is ideal for anglers who fish from the bank, dock, pier, or small watercraft like kayaks because it has multiple viewing options, including Fish View, Raw View, and Ice Fishing Flasher.
The FishHunter PRO’s bathymetric mapping feature creates personalized color contour charts or structure maps of your favorite fishing locations.
Thanks to the integrated LED light, the FishHunter PRO is simple to see in low light or at night.
You can log your catches and waypoints, follow your friends, and even watch live streams of catches worldwide with the free FishHunter app.
ReelSonar – iBobber Bluetooth Smart Fish Finder
- 【𝐄𝐚𝐬𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐔𝐬𝐞 】 Reelsonar portable fish finder is Easy to use, With a depth range of 135 feet and rechargeable battery life of 10+ hours, IOS and Android apps Bluetooth fishfinder with sonar
Last update on 2023-10-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Looking for a cheaper option? Look no further than the iBobber. It is the perfect addition to any angler’s tackle box! This portable fish finder uses integrated sonar signals to display visual images of objects and fish beneath the water’s surface.
This Bluetooth fish finder works with iOS and Android devices, has a depth range of 135 feet, and has a rechargeable battery life of 10+ hours. You can make custom maps with the iBobber app, mark waypoints, and even keep track of your catches, water temperature, and pictures.
IBobber is the ideal tool to find and catch more fish for all anglers, whether fishing from shore, dock, kayak, or ice. When fish are nearby, the fish alarm and strike alert features will let you know, and the trip log feature lets you save and share your preferred fishing locations.
IBobber is the perfect tool for any angler looking to step up their fishing game because it is lightweight, portable, and simple to use.
Buying Guide for Castable Fish Finders for Bank & Shore fishing
Cost
The cost of fish finders can vary significantly, with some entry-level models starting at around $100 and others going for as much as $1,000. The type of sonar technology, the mapping capabilities, and the connection quality all affect how much a bank fishing fish finder costs.
Unlike more expensive models, entry-level models frequently have fewer features and lower accuracy. However, some more affordable models might still work well for straightforward bank fishing.
For more seasoned anglers looking for a competitive edge, mid-range fish finders can provide more features and better accuracy. Advanced features like CHIRP sonar, thorough mapping, and networking capabilities are available in higher-end models, which are intended for professional anglers or those seeking the highest level of accuracy.
It’s important to remember that a higher price tag does not always translate into better quality or functionality when weighing cost. Some budget-friendly models might include all the features required for productive bank fishing, negating the need for more expensive or sophisticated models.
Nevertheless, more expensive models frequently feature longer warranties, better customer support, and higher-quality materials, all of which can enhance the overall experience.
Range & Connection
When selecting a bank fishing fish finder, connection quality and range are crucial factors. When fishing, a dependable connection can help guarantee that you receive precise and timely sonar data, enabling you to locate fish and increase your catch. The connection range of a fish finder is crucial because it establishes the maximum distance the device can communicate with other networks or devices.
Various connections are available for fish finders used for bank and shore fishing, including Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi is popular because it offers a reliable and quick connection over greater distances. Some fish finders can be controlled remotely via a hotspot connection, which enables you to use your phone or tablet to connect to the fish finder.
Although Bluetooth has a limited range, it can still be useful for connecting with other gadgets like smartphones and tablets. Simple fish finders frequently use this connection because it’s inexpensive and enables sonar data reception.
Types of Sonar
When choosing a bank fishing fish finder, it’s important to consider the type of sonar technology that is best suited to your needs.
For bank fishing, there are primarily two types of sonar: traditional and CHIRP. The best option for you will depend on your fishing needs and preferences because each type of sonar has advantages and limitations.
Traditional Sonar
Traditional sonar, called single-frequency sonar, transmits and receives sound waves using only one frequency. These waves produce an image of the underwater environment on the fish finder’s screen. Traditional sonar is the most prevalent type of sonar on entry-level and mid-range fish finders.
Advantages:
- Traditional sonar is simple to use and easy to understand.
- It’s often the most affordable option for anglers who are just starting out.
- Traditional sonar can be used in a variety of water depths and conditions.
Limitations:
- Traditional sonar provides a less detailed image of the underwater environment than CHIRP sonar.
- It can struggle to provide accurate data in deeper water or when there is a lot of debris.
CHIRP Sonar
Compressed High-Intensity Radiated Pulse, or CHIRP sonar, uses a variety of frequencies to produce a more accurate and detailed image of the underwater environment.
Professional anglers or those requiring the highest accuracy level should use CHIRP sonar, frequently found on high-end fish finders.
Advantages:
- CHIRP sonar provides a clearer and more accurate image of the underwater environment.
- It can be used in various water depths and conditions, making it versatile.
- CHIRP sonar can provide more detailed information about fish, including their size and movement.
Limitations:
- CHIRP sonar is more expensive than traditional sonar.
- It requires more advanced knowledge to use effectively.
- CHIRP sonar may not be necessary for casual anglers who fish in shallow water or calm conditions.
You can select the best fish finder for your particular fishing needs by being aware of the benefits and limitations of each type of sonar.
GPS & Mapping
When selecting a bank fishing fish finder, it’s important to consider its GPS and mapping capabilities. These functions can assist you in finding and marking productive fishing locations, navigating to specific locations, and understanding the underwater environment. There are several different features to consider regarding GPS and mapping.
GPS
Marking waypoints, keeping track of your route, and returning to productive fishing locations can all be done with GPS.
While some fish finders for bank fishing already have GPS capabilities, others must be connected to an external GPS device.
Benefits of GPS:
- GPS allows you to navigate precisely and confidently, even in unfamiliar areas.
- It can help you return to successful fishing spots and save time on the water.
- GPS can also help you keep track of your path and monitor your progress.
Mapping
Mapping capabilities allow you to view and understand the underwater terrain, which can help you identify fishing spots and underwater features.
The two primary mapping formats are 2D mapping and 3D mapping. While 3D mapping offers a more detailed and realistic view, 2D mapping offers a basic understanding of the underwater environment.
Benfits of mapping:
- Mapping capabilities can help you locate fish and identify underwater structures.
- 3D mapping can provide a more detailed and realistic view of the underwater environment.
- Mapping can help plan fishing trips and identify the best areas to fish.
Even though mapping is an impressive feature, its applicability in some places or on certain types of water may be restricted. One needs more specialized knowledge to interpret 3D mapping effectively, which can be very complex.
Accuracy
When selecting a bank fishing fish finder, accuracy is a crucial factor to consider. How successfully you can find and catch fish depends on how accurate a fish finder is. More precise information about fish location, size, and movement from a fish finder can help you modify your approach and improve your chances of success.
When evaluating a fish finder’s accuracy, it’s important to consider the type of sonar technology it uses, the quality of the connection, and the level of detail the device provides.
Traditional sonar is less accurate than more sophisticated sonar technology, like CHIRP sonar. Since it guarantees that you get timely and accurate sonar data, a dependable connection can also increase the accuracy of a fish finder.
Battery
Rechargeable batteries, which can be practical and economical, are commonly used in bank fishing fish finders. However, the expected battery life can be very different between different devices. Some fish finders may only have a few hours of battery life, while others may have a battery life of up to 10 or 12 hours.
The length of time you intend to spend on the water should be considered when selecting a fish finder with a battery life that can accommodate your needs.
You might also be interested in these articles about fish finders:
- See The 10 Best Fish-Finders for Small Boats
- Best Fish finders for shallow waters
- Guide to offshore fishfinders
FAQ
Can you use a fish finder from the bank?
Yes, you can use a fish finder from the bank for better success in locating fish.
Are portable fish finders worth it?
Yes, portable fish finders can be very effective and convenient, especially for bank and kayak fishing.
Can I use my iPhone as a fish finder?
Yes, you can use your iPhone as a fish finder with the right app and equipment.
What is the simplest fish finder?
The simplest fish finders display basic information, like depth and fish location, without many extra features.
Is chirp better than sonar?
Chirp technology allows for greater detail and accuracy compared to traditional sonar, making it a better option for some anglers.
How far can a fish finder see?
The maximum range of a fish finder depends on factors like the frequency of the sonar signal and water conditions, but some models can detect fish up to several hundred feet away.
How deep do fish finders go?
Most fish finders can detect fish up to several hundred feet below the surface, depending on the frequency and power of the sonar.
Do fish finders scare fish away?
Fish finders emit sound waves that could possibly scare some fish, but the impact is generally minimal and doesn’t significantly affect fishing success.
