2 Products
Frequently Asked Questions
What transducer do I need to get the most out of my Simrad fishfinder?
The right transducer depends on which sonar technologies your Simrad fishfinder supports and how your hull is configured. For boaters who want CHIRP sonar, DownScan, and SideScan imaging from a single unit, Simrad's ActiveImaging transducers are the most efficient solution - one transducer handles all three functions with a single cable run. If you want StructureScan 3D capability, you will need the dedicated StructureScan 3D module and its matching transducer. Hull type matters too - transom mount transducers suit most fiberglass and aluminum boats, while thru-hull installations deliver better performance at speed. Cross-referencing your display unit's compatible transducer list before purchasing prevents the frustrating experience of receiving hardware that does not match your unit's connector or capability set.
How does a Simrad fish finder compare to a Garmin or Humminbird at the same price?
All three brands produce capable sonar at competitive price points, and each has a technology that earns particular praise. Humminbird's Mega Imaging is widely regarded as the sharpest side and down imaging available, particularly at shallower freshwater depths where that resolution advantage is most visible. Garmin's LiveScope forward and down scanning sonar has become a dominant technology in tournament bass fishing. Simrad's strength lies in StructureScan 3D, deep-water CHIRP performance, and the depth of integration with their broader electronics ecosystem - radar, autopilot, and chartplotting all communicate seamlessly within the Simrad platform. For saltwater and offshore boaters who want a fully networked helm, a Simrad fishfinder within the Simrad ecosystem tends to deliver the most cohesive experience. For freshwater tournament anglers who prioritize shallow-water imaging above everything else, the Humminbird comparison deserves a closer look.
Can I use my Simrad fish finder display as my primary chartplotter as well?
Most mid-range and upper-tier Simrad fish finders in the GO, NSS, and NSO series are fully capable multifunction displays that handle GPS charting, route planning, radar overlay, and autopilot control alongside sonar. Running a split-screen layout with your chart on one side and sonar on the other is a standard configuration for many anglers, and Simrad's interface handles it well. The main practical limitation is screen size - a 7-inch display running split screen gives you two relatively small viewing areas, which works fine on a small boat at close range but becomes less comfortable on a larger vessel where the helm is further from your eyes. If navigation and fish finding are both priorities and screen real estate is limited, stepping up to a 9-inch or 12-inch unit is worth the additional investment for the usability improvement alone.
Does a Simrad fish finder require professional installation, or can I do it myself?
For most boaters, a standard Simrad fish finder installation - flush mounting or bracket mounting the display, running a power cable to the fuse block, and mounting a transom transducer - is a manageable DIY project with basic wiring experience. Simrad's installation documentation is clear and detailed, and their NMEA 2000 network connections use standardized connectors that are straightforward to work with. The more involved part of the installation is typically the transducer - transom mount installations are accessible for most DIY boaters, while thru-hull transducer installations require cutting through the hull and proper sealing, which is better handled professionally if you have not done it before. For boaters adding NMEA 2000 network connections, radar integration, or StructureScan 3D modules on top of the basic display, the complexity increases but remains manageable if you are methodical and work from Simrad's wiring diagrams.