7 Best Side Scan Fish Finder Models for Every Angler (2026)

Updated November 2026

Side scan fish finder units show you what sits to the left and right of your boat, not just what is directly underneath it. That makes them useful for finding structure, bait schools and fish-holding cover without running over the same water repeatedly. This guide compares seven side scan fish finder models from Garmin, Humminbird and Lowrance. Each pick was chosen by checking manufacturer specifications, brand reputation and common owner feedback, with attention to screen size, sonar capabilities, mounting options and how well each unit suits different boats and fishing styles.

Our Top Picks

Quick Comparison

Product	Best for	Key feature
Humminbird Helix 7 G4 GPS Fish Finder	Best overall	Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar with side imaging
Humminbird XPLORE 10 GPS Fish Finder	Large-screen viewing	10-inch HD touchscreen with MEGA Side Imaging+
Humminbird XPLORE 9 GPS Fish Finder	Mid-size boats	9-inch HD touchscreen with MEGA Side Imaging+
Garmin Striker Vivid 9sv	Color sonar fans	9-inch display with Vivid scanning sonar palettes
Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv	Compact helms	7-inch display with Vivid scanning sonar palettes
Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv	U.S. charts with built-in transducer	7-inch display with GT20-TM transducer
Lowrance Elite FS 9	3-in-1 transducer coverage	Active Imaging 3-in-1 transducer with preloaded C-MAP Contour+ charts

Humminbird Helix 7 G4 GPS Fish Finder

Best for: Best overall

This is a strong fit for anglers who want a well-rounded unit with side imaging, GPS and chirp sonar in a mid-size package. It suits small to mid-size boats and kayaks where a 7-inch screen is practical.

Key specs

• 7-inch display
• Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar
• Side imaging
• GPS capability

Pros

• Side imaging gives wide coverage beside the boat
• Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar helps separate fish from bottom detail
• Screen size works well on compact helms

Cons

• Smaller screen can be tight for split-screen views
• Advanced menus take time to learn

Bottom line: A balanced choice for anglers who want side scan capability and GPS without stepping up to a large screen.

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Humminbird XPLORE 10 GPS Fish Finder

Best for: Best for large-screen viewing

Suited to anglers who run a larger console and want to see side imaging and sonar data at a glance, especially when fishing in deeper or more complex water.

Key specs

• 10-inch HD touchscreen
• MEGA Side Imaging+
• GPS capability

Pros

• Large touchscreen is easy to read in bright light
• MEGA Side Imaging+ covers wide areas on each side
• Good for split-screen layouts

Cons

• Larger footprint needs adequate helm space
• Higher-end feature set may exceed the needs of casual anglers

Bottom line: Best for anglers with a mid-size or larger boat who want the biggest practical screen for side scan work.

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Humminbird XPLORE 9 GPS Fish Finder

Best for: Best for mid-size boats

A good middle ground for anglers who want more screen than a 7-inch unit without the footprint of a 10-inch display.

Key specs

• 9-inch HD touchscreen
• MEGA Side Imaging+
• GPS capability

Pros

• Balanced screen size for most center consoles
• Side imaging supports structure and cover searches
• Touchscreen controls are straightforward once set up

Cons

• Not as expansive as the 10-inch model for split-screen use
• Mounting setup takes some planning on smaller boats

Bottom line: A practical choice for mid-size boats where space is limited but side scan coverage still matters.

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Garmin Striker Vivid 9sv

Best for: Best for color sonar fans

Aimed at anglers who want easy-to-read color sonar and a larger 9-inch display for everyday fishing from a boat or kayak.

Key specs

• 9-inch display
• Vivid scanning sonar with color palettes

Pros

• Color palettes make target separation easier to read
• Larger display than the 7-inch version
• Straightforward menu layout for newer users

Cons

• Side imaging depends on the transducer package you choose
• Larger size can be awkward on small kayaks

Bottom line: A solid option for anglers who prefer color sonar and want a bigger screen than the compact Striker models.

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Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv

Best for: Best for compact helms

A good fit for small boats, kayaks and tight helm layouts where a compact unit still needs clear color sonar.

Key specs

• 7-inch display
• Vivid scanning sonar with color palettes

Pros

• Compact footprint suits small boats and kayaks
• Color sonar aids quick reading of fish and bottom
• Simple controls for everyday trips

Cons

• Smaller screen limits how much data you can view at once
• Side imaging capabilities depend on the specific transducer included

Bottom line: Ideal for anglers with limited mounting space who still want color sonar.

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Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv

Best for: Best for U.S. charts with a built-in transducer

Designed for anglers who want a complete package with the GT20-TM transducer included and U.S.-oriented chart coverage for regional fishing.

Key specs

• 7-inch display
• GT20-TM transducer included
• Vivid scanning sonar with color palettes

Pros

• Included transducer simplifies setup
• Color sonar palettes aid target identification
• Compact size fits many helm layouts

Cons

• Smaller screen may feel limiting on larger boats
• Chart features are most useful for the regions covered by the included data

Bottom line: A convenient all-in-one choice for U.S. anglers who want a compact unit with a transducer already matched to it.

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Lowrance Elite FS 9 Fish Finder

Best for: Best for 3-in-1 transducer coverage

Suited to anglers who want a 9-inch display paired with an Active Imaging 3-in-1 transducer and preloaded C-MAP Contour+ charts.

Key specs

• 9-inch display
• Active Imaging 3-in-1 transducer
• Preloaded C-MAP Contour+ charts

Pros

• 3-in-1 transducer combines several imaging modes
• Preloaded charts reduce setup time
• Good screen size for center consoles

Cons

• Chart coverage may not match every fishing area
• Menu depth can take time to learn

Bottom line: A strong pick for anglers who want a 3-in-1 transducer and ready-to-use charts in a 9-inch package.

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Buying Guide

Screen size and mounting space

Measure your helm before buying. Seven-inch units fit most small boats and kayaks, while nine- and ten-inch displays suit consoles with room for split-screen views. Check the flush-mount or bracket requirements in the manufacturer documentation.

Good picks for this: Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv, Humminbird XPLORE 9 GPS Fish Finder

Side imaging coverage

Side imaging is the defining feature here. Look for the range each side covers, since wider coverage lets you scan more structure at once. Manufacturers list maximum ranges, but real coverage depends on water depth and conditions.

Good picks for this: Humminbird Helix 7 G4 GPS Fish Finder, Humminbird XPLORE 10 GPS Fish Finder

Transducer compatibility

Transducers determine which imaging modes you get. Some units include a transducer in the box, while others require a separate purchase. Confirm which transducer ships with the model and whether it supports side imaging.

Good picks for this: Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv, Lowrance Elite FS 9 Fish Finder

Sonar technology

CHIRP sonar sends a range of frequencies, which generally improves target separation. Color sonar palettes can make fish arches and bottom contours easier to read at a glance, especially for newer users.

Good picks for this: Humminbird Helix 7 G4 GPS Fish Finder, Garmin Striker Vivid 9sv

GPS and charting

If you fish unfamiliar water or want waypoints and map overlays, GPS and preloaded charts matter. Check whether the chart coverage matches your home waters and whether updates are available.

Good picks for this: Humminbird XPLORE 9 GPS Fish Finder, Lowrance Elite FS 9 Fish Finder

Durability and marine conditions

Look for a rating for water resistance and UV exposure. Units mounted on open boats take spray and sun, so a sealed housing and a bright, readable display are worth prioritizing.

Good picks for this: Garmin Striker Vivid 7sv, Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv

Care and maintenance

Rinse the display with fresh water after saltwater trips, avoid abrasive cleaners, and keep the transducer clean and free of growth. Keep software updated according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Good picks for this: Humminbird XPLORE 10 GPS Fish Finder, Garmin Striker Vivid 9sv

FAQ

What is a side scan fish finder?

A side scan fish finder uses sonar beams aimed to the left and right of the boat to produce an image of the bottom and objects beside you. It helps locate structure, cover and bait without driving directly over them.

Do I need a separate transducer for side imaging?

It depends on the model. Some fish finders include a transducer that supports side imaging, while others require a specific transducer to be purchased separately. Check the package contents and compatibility list before buying.

Is side scan the same as down imaging?

No. Down imaging shows a detailed picture directly beneath the boat, while side scan shows the bottom and objects to each side. Many units offer both features.

How deep can side scan sonar reach?

Range varies by model, transducer and water conditions. Manufacturers list maximum depth and range specifications, but actual performance depends on water clarity, bottom type and noise.

Can I use a side scan fish finder from a kayak?

Yes, compact units such as the 7-inch models are often used on kayaks, provided the mount and power setup are suitable. Make sure the unit and transducer are rated for the conditions you fish in.

Does side imaging work in freshwater too?

Side imaging works in both fresh and salt water, though performance can vary with water clarity, temperature and bottom composition. Check the manufacturer’s notes for any environment-specific guidance.

Conclusion

The Humminbird Helix 7 G4 GPS Fish Finder is a well-rounded choice for most anglers who want side scan capability. Larger boats with room for a bigger display will benefit from the XPLORE 10 GPS Fish Finder, while the XPLORE 9 suits mid-size consoles. Anglers who prefer color sonar should consider the Garmin Striker Vivid 9sv or 7sv depending on space, and the Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv works well for those wanting a transducer included. The Lowrance Elite FS 9 Fish Finder is a strong pick for 3-in-1 transducer coverage. Match the screen size, transducer and chart needs to your boat and fishing area before deciding.

Sources

• Charts, bathymetry and marine navigation resources for U.S. waters (noaa.gov)
• Boating safety guidance and equipment recommendations for recreational vessels (uscg.mil)
• Information on water conditions and aquatic environments (usgs.gov)

Related reading

• Side Scan Sonar Fish Finder: How It Works and How to Use It (2026)
• Side Scanning Sonar Fish Finder: How It Works and How to Use It (2026)
• Side Scanning Fish Finder: How It Works and How to Use One (2026)
• Side Scanner Fish Finder: How It Works and How to Use One (2026)
• Cheapest Fish Finder with Side Imaging: 6 Best Picks Compared (2026)

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