Modern fish finders are incredibly powerful—and confusing. Here's a breakdown of the technologies and what makes sense for Alberta lakes.
Traditional 2D Sonar
The classic fish finder. Sends a cone-shaped beam straight down and returns arches for fish and solid returns for structure.
- Best for: Confirming fish presence, depth finding, basic structure
- Limitations: Can't distinguish between fish and debris; cone only shows what's directly below
Down Imaging (DI)
Uses a thin, high-frequency beam to create photo-like images of what's below. You can see individual fish, logs, weed beds, and rock piles with clarity.
- Best for: Identifying structure type, seeing exactly what's on the bottom
- Limitations: Narrow view; you must drive over targets to see them
Side Imaging (SI)
Scans out to the sides of your boat—up to 150' on each side. Excellent for finding structure you'd otherwise miss.
- Best for: Searching large areas, finding shoreline structure, locating humps and drop-offs
- Limitations: Expensive, requires slow speeds for best images
What Alberta Anglers Need
For most Alberta lakes—relatively shallow, murky water, walleye and pike targets—2D sonar + Down Imaging is the sweet spot. Side imaging is a luxury for serious structure hunters.
Recommended Features
- High-frequency transducer (200+ kHz) for shallow water detail
- GPS with mapping for marking waypoints
- At least 5" screen (7" preferred for split-screen)
- CHIRP technology for better target separation
← Back to Captain's Log