Jet skis can be some of the best watercraft for fishing, allowing you to get in tight places or shallow water. If you’ve already installed a fishing rack, then your next project should be a jet ski fish finder! If you already have one, then check out some other essential jet ski fishing accessories.
Jet skis typically do not come with fish finders (except this See Doo Fish Pro). More expensive jet ski models occasionally have GPS, but if you really want to make your jet ski a true fishing vessel, you will need to get your hands dirty and mount the transducer to the hull (or in it) yourself. Luckily, it can be pretty easy with the right tools.
When looking for a fish finder for waverunners, size is one of the most important factors. A typical fish finder for a boat will be too big to mount on your steering system. The 5 best jet ski fish finders with GPS are:
1. Lowrance HOOK2 5 Fish Finder
2. Garmin Striker 4
3. Lowrance HOOK2 4x GPS Fish Finder
4. Garmin Striker 4cv GPS Fishfinder
5. Garmin echoMAP CHIRP 53cv
We will tell you why these are the best waverunner fish finders later in this article!
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Top Rated Fish Finders And Depth Finders
Lowrance HOOK2 5-inch Fish Finder
Premium 5 inch fish-finder withUS inland lake maps pre-installed.
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This is one of the coolest waverunner fish finders on the list – and our top pick. The newest version of the Lowrance Hook packs a serious punch. It features three modes, also known as “TripleShot” – DownScan sonar (straight down), SideScan sonar (up to 300′ to each side), and CHIRP sonar (fish arch) views.
This device was made specifically for small vessels, such as kayaks, jon boats, and jet skis. Thanks to the various scan modes, the transducer can be mounted inside the hull – perfect for those trying to avoid drilling holes in their jet ski.
This fish finder GPS also comes with underwater maps of 4,000 lakes, allowing you to fish unknown territory like a pro! It also easy to use, with cell phone-like settings. Forget confusing settings and get to fishing!
Garmin Striker 4
The Garmin Striker 4 is one of the best fish finders for a waverunner. With a display of 3.5 inches and a weight of just 8 ounces, you will hardly notice this device is there. It won’t get in your way, yet it is powerful enough to help you find the next big catch. It is also water and rain resistant, which is critical for jet ski. The GPS combo is great too if you decide to go offshore. If you lose cell phone signal, this GPS will help you navigate the open water while simultaneously helping you find fishing holes. At just over $100, this jet ski fish finder won’t break the bank either. It also has a 1-year warranty.
Lowrance HOOK2 4x GPS Fish Finder
With a display of 4 inches and a price point of just around $100, this little device gives the best bank for the buck on our list. With DownVision technology, the sonar produces photo-like precision. It also has built-in WiFi so you can stream to your phone. It is the right size for a jet ski and can be easily mounted to a RAM cell phone mount.
Garmin Striker 4cv GPS Fishfinder
Same features as the other Garmin Striker 4, with GPS built in for creating routes and viewing speed.
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This device is a pricier version of the Striker 4. It has a slightly bigger display and some more features, such as waypoints, speedometer, and sunlight readable. At 4”, it is still small enough to fit on a jet ski – yet the high wattage makes it great for deep water with accurate readings.
Garmin echoMAP CHIRP 53cv
If you are looking for a GPS with the highest accuracy and image quality, this is the one for you. It sends a constant sweep if CHIRP sonar at various frequencies which will render photographic accuracy of ledges, holes, rocks, and fish.
With a screen size of 5 inches and weight of just 1lb, this Garmin can if you professional-grade fish finding on your personal watercraft.
*This article was not sponsored or endorsed by Garmin or Lowrance
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How to Install a Jet Ski Fish Finder
To install a jet ski fish finder, you will need to install a transducer mount to the hull. You can then install a RAM mount to the dash or steering system. Depending on your model, you may be able to find holes to run the transducer cable, otherwise, you will likely have to drill a hole for the cable in the hull.
If you do not want/need water temperature readings, you can place the transducer inside the hull. This would prevent drilling into your hull. Some people also opt to use silicone caulk, but this is a less secure option.
Choosing The Right Fish Finder
When choosing a jet ski fish finder, you should keep your intentions in mind. Whether you plan on fishing in deep water or shallow water can make a huge difference! All fish finders use different technology designed for specific needs.
Low-frequency devices are best for deep water, as the sonar can travel further. High-frequency devices provide the best accuracy and picture quality, but they are best used in shallow water. If you are just fishing for fun, a high-frequency device is the best bet. It will still work in deep water, but the readings will not be as accurate as a low-frequency device. If you are a serious fisherman, a low-frequency device is your best bet if you plan on deepwater fishing.
Wattage also plays an important role for accurate readings. If you are a serious fisherman, then higher wattage is crucial for accurate readings in deep water. If you are fishing for fun mostly, then lower wattage devices will do the trick – it just might produce a fuzzier display.
