The Best Fish Finders for Trolling Motor

We are big believers in making the most out of all our fishing trips which is why we began using fish finders some time ago. Since quite a few of our expeditions takes place on a trolling motor, we soon realized that we needed a device that was specific to this kind of vessel. While we did come across a number of options, it took us a while to find exactly what we wanted.

Fishfinders are hardly a rare commodity anymore. However, ones that can be fixed to a trolling motor aren’t all that easy to find. We had to put quite a few finders through their paces before we found our perfect one.

If you are looking for a shortcut, then this guide is precisely what you need. Below, you can learn what we look for when identifying our top choices. You can make this process even easier and simply select one of the main picks from our reviews.

Best Fish Finder for Trolling Motor

Best Trolling Motor Fish Finder Reviews

First, let’s see what the top fish finders are for trolling motors:

Garmin Striker 4 Fish Finder

If you want to get fishing right away, then this is the fishfinder for you. You will be able to set it up in no time at all.

What We Like:

• Trolling Motor Mount: this fishfinder is already equipped with a trolling motor friendly mount. As a result, you can save time and money when attaching this device to your vessel.
• CHIRP Sonar Features: this technology sends out a continuous sweep of frequencies. As a result, you can receive more accurate information about the fish location.
• Well Outlined Structures: all of the structures such as brush, stumps, and more can be easily identified on the screen, showing you exactly where you need to cast your line.
• User-Friendly: with a clear screen and dedicated buttons, virtually anyone can use this fishfinder without any trouble at all.

What We Don’t Like:

• No Maps: there are no maps installed on this fishfinder which can make it difficult to track your journey.

Raymarine Dragonfly 4 Pro Fish Finder

This is a sophisticated fishfinder that is equipped with all the bells and whistles that you need to figure out just where you should be fishing.

What We Like:

• Flexible Mounting Options: while this does come with a transom mount, there are plenty of ways to mount it on your vessel. So, when combined with a trolling motor bracket, you will be able to set the device up easily.
• CHIRP Downvision Feature: you get photo-like sonar images which allows you to get a much clearer idea of what is going on underneath the water.
• Excellent Display: the crystal-clear, high definition display is incredibly vibrant and also durable, ensuring that it will work well in all weather conditions.
• Great Maps: the built-in maps makes it a lot easier to plan your journey and also keep track of where you are going.

What We Don’t Like:

• Larger Transducer: transducer can be a bit bulky for some motors.

Humminbird HELIX 5 Fish Finder

This fishfinder has all the bells and whistles that experienced anglers could want. With this on your vessel, you will have a much easier time on your fishing trip.

What We Like:

• Compatible with Transducer Mount: while it does have a transom mount, this device is also compatible with trolling motor transducer mounts. Therefore, it can be used any way you want.
• Wonderful Detail: the detail in this device is exquisite. As such, you will be able to clearly distinguish between structures, fish, and more.
• Plenty of Angles: there is no place for the fish to hide as the finder provides you with a clear look from a variety of angles.
• Built-in Maps: the built-in maps ensures that you are able to keep track of your fishing trip and even save favorite spots for later.

What We Don’t Like:

• Learning Curve: it can take a while to figure out how to use the device properly.

Best Trolling Motor Transducer Mount and Adaptor Reviews

Now, let’s consider the transducer mounts and adaptors to see how you can fix various fishfinders on your trolling motor.

Humminbird 710277-1 Trolling Motor Transducer

If you want a transducer that will pick up all the details you need and transmit them perfectly, then this is the one for you.

What We Like:

• Simple Mount: this is quite simple to mount to a trolling motor. Therefore, you should be able to start using your compatible fishfinder rather quickly.
• Dual CHIRP Beam: the dual-beam allows you to use a wider and narrow beam. As a result, you can look for fish on different scales and increase your rate of success.
• Excellent Max Depth: this device offers a max depth of 365m. So, it will be useful for you in virtually all marine environments.
• Temperature Sensor: it is equipped with a temperature sensor that will act as a further guide to tell you where the fish may be.

What We Don’t Like:

• Not Very Sturdy: you have to be careful with this transducer as it may break if jarred or moved around too much.

Garmin Trolling Mount Transducer

If you want something simple and accurate, this is a device that will certainly not let you down.

What We Like:

• Easy to Setup: there is virtually no effort involved in this setup. Therefore, your fishfinder will be up and running in no time at all.
• Dual Beam Feature: the dual-beam feature lets you increase or narrow your scope as you wish. This makes it easier to figure out just which area you should be fishing in.
• Good Compatibility: this transducer is quite compatible, making it a good fit for a number of Garmin fishfinders.

What We Don’t Like:

• Basic Features: there are no bells and whistles included with this transducer.

Raymarine CPT-100DVS Trolling Motor Transducer Bracket

If you want to make the setup of your fishfinder transducer as simple as possible, this bracket should be the one that you reach for.

What We Like:

• Compatible with Trolling Motors: this bracket has been designed to be suitable for most trolling motors. So, regardless of the make and model that you use, this will be a good fit.
• Good for Most Devices: this bracket works well with a number of different Raymarine transducers. This should make it easier to use.
• Easy Setup: this setup will work well even for novices. So, it should be fixed up in just a matter of minutes.

What We Don’t Like:

• High Cost: this bracket isn’t great value for money.

Fish Finders vs. Transducer Mounts vs. Adaptors for Trolling Motors

As mentioned, fish finders that have been specifically designed for trolling motors aren’t readily available. You are more likely to find transom mounts than ones for transducers. This is why some anglers will look for corresponding trolling motor transducer mounts instead of the full package.

As the name suggests, the trolling motor transducer mounts are transducers that can be directly attached to the trolling motor. You can then link up this transducer to a new or existing fishfinder. If you decide to go with this option make sure that your fish finder and your transducer are compatible.

Since transom mounts are so common, you can also choose to simply get an adaptor for your transducer. This will allow you to place the transducer on the existing mount and use the fish finder that comes along with it as well.

What to Look for in Fish Finders for Trolling Motors

Let’s take a look at some of the features you should consider when looking for a trolling motor specific fish finder:

The Transducer Mount

When it comes to fish finders for trolling motors, you need to be aware of all the types of transducer mounts you will encounter. This will give you some idea of whether you need to buy additional gear for your fish finder or if you can set it up immediately.

If the fish finder is equipped with a trolling motor mount, then this is excellent news for you. Here, it is a matter of attaching the transducer to the motor and hooking it up to the power source. If this isn’t the case, however, you may not be able to use your fish finder immediately.

Now, if your preferred fish finder comes with a transom mount, you have two options. First, contact the manufacturing company to determine whether you can exchange the transom transducer for one with a trolling mount one. Certain companies such as Humminbird may actually do this free of charge.

If this isn’t possible, then you can get a separate transducer or opt for an adaptor for your existing transom mount. Regardless of which one you decide on, make it a point to check on the compatibility.

The Power Requirements

One thing that anglers often complain about when using fish finders with trolling motors is the interference. This isn’t just annoying, it can also throw off the readings completely as well. To cut down on the risk of this happening, you need to check the power requirements of your fishfinder.

When you are aware of the power requirements, you can make it a point to choose a clean, appropriate power source. As a result, you can keep the trolling motor and fishfinder sources separate. In doing so, there is a lower likelihood of interference.

Water Resistance

Fishfinders and transducers that are mounted on a trolling motor are more likely to get wet. Due to this, it is important that they are water-resistant. This information isn’t always readily available. Therefore, you may want to contact the manufacturer just to be sure.

The Best Fish Finder for Trolling Motor

When it comes to fish finders, there are quite a few available on the market. However, for the best fish finder for a trolling motor, there is no denying that Garmin should be your first choice. For one thing, it is equipped for a trolling motor, cutting down on both cost and effort for you. What’s more, this fish finder is simple to use and provides you with all the information you need for a successful fishing trip.

FAQs

Here are some of the frequently asked questions about this topic:

What is a Fish Finder Transducer?

A transducer is the most important part of a fish finder. It is responsible for sending out and receiving signals to get a clearer picture of what is happening beneath the water.

What is a CHIRP Fish Finder?

A CHIRP fish finder is capable of sending more powerful signals into the water. As a result, you can see what is going on at the bottom where you are fishing.

How Do You Reduce Interference with Trolling Motors?

There are several things that you can do to reduce interference. First, you can turn down the sensitivity of the fish finder. Also, making sure that the motor and the transducer have separate power sources can help as well.

Do All Fish Finders Come With Transducers?

Yes. Since transducers are essential to the functioning of fish finders, every device will be equipped with its own transducer.

How Do You Install a Transducer a Trolling Motor?

You can install the transducer onto the motor using the provided brackets. In some instances, you may need to use an adaptor instead.

These are the main things you need to know about fish finders for trolling motors. So, use this information wisely and figure out how to select one that is suitable for you and your fishing needs.