View Full Version : Side-Scan Technology


bloocrab
07-02-2025, 06:13 AM
Hello gents... I wanted to ask those using side-scan tech some questions, I know it's no longer considered "new" tech, but it is for me. I’ve been hearing a lot about how it helps anglers get a much clearer picture of what’s beneath and around the boat compared to traditional sonar. Did you find it to be a game-changer for your fishing experience in terms of locating structure or fish more efficiently? I have watched some videos on it, but info from those of you using it now, is just as valuable.

I’m also curious if you’re happy with the brand and model you chose. Now that you’ve had some time with it, would you still go with the same one, or do you wish you’d picked something different? It seems like there are a lot of options out there, and real-world feedback is more helpful than marketing.

Lastly, I wanted to ask about how it fits in with your existing setup. Did the new side-scan unit replace your older Garmin GPS or chartplotter, or are you still running both? I’m thinking about upgrading and trying to figure out if people are integrating the new tech with their existing systems or completely switching over. Would appreciate any insight!

Moses
07-02-2025, 11:23 AM
FWIW, I fished with a charter boat on Chesapeake Bay back in March - Griffins Guide Service. Their 28' Seahunters had side scan and it was awesome! As we fished various rivers and river openings, this tech was spot on. The captain could tell distance from boat and fish size to some degree.

Guppy
07-02-2025, 03:29 PM
Great for finding bait (pogy ) and bolder fields Tog

wdmso
07-03-2025, 04:15 PM
What Ray said I use it a little when the Bass are up and down. I can find them on either side of the Boat. if they are not showing underneath I get a better image on the Starboard side of the Boat. the engine gets in the way on the Port .. I still depend on mostly Birds they are always where you need to be. My unit supported Sidescan. and came with the transducer. I know not all support it. like Radar just need to check the Model. Ray and I are running Garmin. haven't seen any other company's products in action

niko
07-04-2025, 01:30 PM
its another tool in the toolbox. it was a gamechanger when i was comm bass fishing at night in lower ccbay, just being able to see 60' off to either side. was the difference between an ok night vs a good night. its great for searching for bass/pogies and exploring new tog spots. ive got a garmin system with 3 in 1 chirp transducer on the transom plus my big thru hull regular fishfinder. my systems prob 7 yearns old now. the newer stuff is even better nowadays

JohnR
07-12-2025, 09:22 AM
Has the tale of side scan freqs scaring fish been proven of mythbusted? Assuming the latter

wdmso
07-12-2025, 07:05 PM
Has the tale of side scan freqs scaring fish been proven of mythbusted? Assuming the latter

Didn’t know that was a thing. But I appreciate you giving me an excuse the next time i get skunked 😝
Posted from my iPhone/Mobile device

JohnR
07-13-2025, 04:26 AM
Didn’t know that was a thing. But I appreciate you giving me an excuse the next time i get skunked 😝
Posted from my iPhone/Mobile device




Hahahahaha

JFigliuolo
07-16-2025, 11:27 AM
Has the tale of side scan freqs scaring fish been proven of mythbusted? Assuming the latter


Assuming it ever was a thing. It's so prevalent now, it's likely become background noise