Boat Accessories

Best Ice Fishing Fish Finders in 2023

By: Kye Cardinalis Editor

In search of the best ice fishing fish finders in 2023? Not all fish finders are created equal, particularly when it comes to ice fishing. Specialized features are crucial to ensure successful outings in harsh winter conditions. You require a unit that withstands the extreme cold, penetrates the thick ice, and provides precise readings of what is swimming beneath you.

In this post, you will find a detailed comparison of different fish finders that have proven to be the cream of the crop for ice fishing. Let’s dive in, explore their unique features, and choose the right product for your next ice fishing adventure.

Also Read: Best Side Imaging Fish Finders in 2023

Best Ice Fishing Fish Finders

Best Overall Fish Finder for Ice Fishing

1. Humminbird 411720-1 ICE H5 Chirp G3 Fish Finder

1. Humminbird 411720-1 ICE H5 Chirp G3 Fish Finder

Shop now

What we like

  • Dual Spectrum CHIRP Sonar.
  • Adjustable Sonar Zoom.
  • Beautiful, clear display.
  • CHIRP Interference Rejection.
  • All-in-one kit.

What we don’t like

  • The device often defaults to a particular mode.

Fishing in the depths beneath the icy surface becomes a cinch with the Humminbird ICE H5. This model brings a ton of standout features that give you an unparalleled glimpse into the underwater world. It’s like having x-ray vision for ice fishing.

Pros:

  • The Dual Spectrum CHIRP Sonar is quite an impressive feature, giving you razor-sharp, high-resolution images of individual fish, structures and bait. This unit performs phenomenally in both the flasher and traditional 2D sonar views, reaching incredible depths with up to 3/4″ target separation.
  • Frustrated with competing sonar signals that muddle your view? The CHIRP Interference Rejection function is the answer. With six unique settings, you can cut through the clutter in both modes.
  • Adjustable Sonar Zoom offers versatility. Regardless of the depth of the fish, the 2X zoom for the flasher screen and up to 16X zoom when using 2D sonar will let you pinpoint them with ease.
  • The 5″ LCD display is ultra-bright, detailed, and simply a pleasure to look at. With adjustable brightness and real-time readouts like digital depth display and sonar returns, it’s an asset in any environment.

Cons:

  • A minor glitch – the unit may sometimes default to an unwanted mode. However, with a quick adjustment, you can easily switch back to your desired setting.

The Humminbird 411720-1 ICE H5 Chirp G3 Fish Finder includes a comprehensive kit – the fish finder itself, a Dual Spectrum CHIRP ICE transducer, a 9Ah battery and charger, ICE shuttle, hardware, power cable, and a portable bag. With everything you need in one high performance package, it is our top overall recommendation.

Best All Season Fish Finder

2. Humminbird 411760-1 ICE Helix 7 Chirp GPS G4 Fish Finder

Humminbird 411760 ice fish finder

2. Humminbird 411760-1 ICE Helix 7 Chirp GPS G4 Fish Finder

Shop now

What we like

  • Dual Spectrum CHIRP Sonar
  • CHIRP Interference Rejection system
  • Built-in GPS
  • Humminbird Basemap
  • AutoChart Live ICE

What we don’t like

  • Steep learning curve for a beginning user

Next up, we have the Humminbird 411760-1. This product will run you more than the Humminbird 411720-1 ICE H5 Chirp G3 Fish Finder above, but it is worth it if you want a versatile fish finder for every season.

The Humminbird 411760-1 ICE Helix 7 truly sets a benchmark for fishing gear with its advanced and exclusive features. This device employs Dual Spectrum CHIRP Sonar, like the product above. But it also offers some additional features that the less expensive model lacks.

Pros:

  • You will be able to view accurate and detailed information with target separation down to three-fourths of an inch.
  • The adjustable sonar zoom allows for precise tracking of fish, regardless of their depth.
  • This device delivers unparalleled precision even in crowded sonar environments, thanks to its CHIRP Interference Rejection system.
  • The built-in precision GPS eliminates guesswork when locating fishing spots.
  • The built-in Humminbird Basemap shows you the terrain in detail.
  • AutoChart Live ICE lets you create real-time contour maps.
  • A highly detailed and bright LCD display offers an informative and easy-to-view screen.

Cons:

  • There is a slight learning curve involved due to this fish finder’s multitude of features.

To summarize, the Humminbird 411760-1 ICE Helix 7 is more than just a fishfinder; it’s an advanced tool that allows you to navigate and fish with total confidence. Its innovative features such as the Jig Charge Mode and the premium shuttle add more value to your fishing trips.

Despite a slight learning curve, the payoff is well worth it, especially once you’ve mastered the device’s functionality. This all-season unit is sure to elevate your fishing experiences, whether you’re out on the ice or on the open water.

Best Handheld Fish Finder for Ice Fishing

3. LUCKY Portable Sonar Fish Finder

LUCKY Portable Sonar Fish Finder

3. LUCKY Portable Sonar Fish Finder

Shop now

What we like

  • Durable design for harsh conditions.
  • No bulky cables.
  • Excellent depth and range.
  • Versatile for many uses.
  • Night fishing features.

What we don’t like

  • This product does not boast advanced features.

In search of a handheld fish finder for ice fishing? The LUCKY Portable Sonar Fish Finder is an excellent buy. Built to withstand harsh weather conditions, this device can handle rain and accidental drops in the water. So, there is no more anxiety about damaging the device due to exposure to water or extreme temperatures.

The Wireless and Castable Sonar Transducer operates seamlessly within a 328ft range and up to 147 ft water depth—without encumbering you with bulky cables. The product also offers you a comprehensive data display, including water depth, fish location, size, water temperature, and bottom contour.

The Sonar Transducer with Attractive Lamp works at 125KHz with a 90 degrees beam angle. This feature not only alerts you when there’s fish around, but also sounds an alarm for shallows.

You can use it for more than just ice fishing. This gadget is suitable for boat and kayak fishing as well as bank fishing, and can easily last for more than 10 hours once the battery save mode is turned on.

Pros:

  • Built with durable anti-corrosion material suitable for freshwater or saltwater fishing.
  • Features a transparent glowing cap on the sonar ball for night fishing.
  • Comes with a parameter setting memory, so you do not need to set your data every time.

Cons:

  • The features are a bit basic, but considering the cost, it is still a worthwhile investment.

Overall, the LUCKY Portable Sonar Fish Finder is a cost-effective, easy-to-use, and compact tool that every angler should consider.

Best Sonar Coverage for Ice Fishing

4. Lowrance HOOK2 Fish Finder

Lowrance HOOK2 Fish Finder

4. Lowrance HOOK2 Fish Finder

Shop now

What we like

  • Amazing sonar coverage.
  • Excellent sonar options.
  • GPS.
  • Nice bang for your buck.

What we don’t like

  • This device is not always accurate.
  • The instructions are not awesome.

A relatively low-cost option if you are looking for an ice fishing fish finder with superior sonar is the Lowrance HOOK2 Fish Finder.

The Lowrance HOOK2 Fish Finder redefines the boundaries of your ice fishing experience. Available in five different screen sizes, this device is customizable to suit every angler’s preference. The high-resolution Solarmax display ensures that you have the clearest possible view, regardless of the conditions.

One aspect that distinguishes the HOOK2 from traditional fish finders is its expanded sonar coverage. With a wider sonar cone, it allows for more than double the coverage, making tracking of bait and lures a breeze as they sink. Visibility gets a major boost thanks to this feature.

Another standout feature is the Autotuning sonar, combined with the availability of 2-in-1 and 3-in-1 sonar options. These enhancements present an accurate depiction of the underwater environment on a wide screen, including fish and bait location, and underwater structure. Also, it does have GPS to mark the spots you’ve visited, although it lacks a chart feature.

Pros:

  • A range of screen sizes to suit every user’s needs.
  • High-resolution Solarmax displays ensure great visibility.
  • Autotuning sonar and wider sonar cone for superior coverage and accuracy.

Cons:

  • The provided instructions are somewhat lacking in detail.
  • There are occasional minor inaccuracies with depth or false sightings.

To sum up, if you’re after a tool that offers superior sonar coverage and user-friendly features, the Lowrance HOOK2 Fish Finder is a solid choice. Despite a few minor shortcomings, it stands as a reliable companion for your ice fishing adventures.

Best Ice Fishing Fish Finder for the Money

5. LUCKY Portable Fish Finders Wired Transducer Kayak Fish Finder Kit

LUCKY Portable Fish Finders Wired Transducer

5. LUCKY Portable Fish Finders Wired Transducer Kayak Fish Finder Kit

Shop now

What we like

  • Display reads well even in bright light.
  • Surprisingly good accuracy.
  • Multiple settings.
  • Good features for the money.
  • Fits any budget.

What we don’t like

  • Hand held unit is not waterproof.
  • Features are not that advanced.

If you are on a tight budget for a fish finder for ice fishing, consider this LUCKY Portable Fish Finder. Yes, it is a different product than the other LUCKY one we shared; they do not give their fish finders very unique names.

Despite its compact size, this device boasts a range of functional features. The color LCD display, which remains visible even under bright sunlight, is a highlight.

Enhanced with a backlight, this fish finder is a great asset for night fishing. The assistant settings allow you to adjust the sensitivity. Other handy features include a battery save mode, fish and fish school alarm, and a battery indicator.

The wired transducer works effectively with a 25ft cable wire and can detect depth from 3ft to 328ft with a 45° beam. Switching the depth unit between “M” and “FT” is a breeze. Running on 4 AAA batteries, the device lasts for about 4-5 hours. Yet, switching to the battery saving mode will extend its operating time.

Pros:

  • A clear, sun-readable LCD display.
  • Multiple assistant settings for a customizable fishing experience.
  • Respectably accurate readings for a budget-friendly device.
  • Suitable for a range of fishing styles, including ice fishing and kayak fishing.

Cons:

  • Lacks waterproof capabilities.
  • There is a dearth of advanced features, although this is understandable considering the price.

In conclusion, if you are looking for an affordable, easy-to-use, and surprisingly accurate fish finder, the LUCKY Portable Fish Finder should be on your shortlist. Despite its lack of advanced features and waterproofing, its benefits far outweigh these minor drawbacks.

How to Choose the Right Ice Fishing Fish Finder

When choosing a fish finder for ice fishing, you should consider the following:

  • Transducer and beam angle
  • Cables
  • Build and durability
  • Dimensions and portability
  • Sonar
  • Screen size, resolution and brightness
  • Battery life
  • Additional useful features
  • Whether the fish finder can also be used in other settings (i.e. kayak)

Read More: How to Choose a Fishfinder for Your Boat: A Comprehensive Guide

Summary

In wrapping up this comparison of the best ice fishing fish finders in 2023, the Humminbird 411720-1 ICE H5 Chirp G3 Fish Finder emerges as the top pick overall. Its impressive range of features and superior functionality set it apart. However, every other device discussed here has unique strengths and is a worthy purchase.