down scan or down image sonar - Kayak Fishing Adventures on Big Water’s Edge

Handymansd · 10-07-2011, 11:43 AM

I tried the HB model with downscan and all I got was trouble with water intrusion, and corrosion

. They were frustrating to deal with.
I eventually ended up spending a little bit more for the HDS 5 when they first came out. They have been slow to respond, but they did make sure that the maps issues were corrected. I do not know the limitations of the structure scan technology but I will say that I cannot imagine ever needing more than the stock HDS-5 for fishing big game in LJ. A standard 50/200 ducer works very well for me, but some feel the higher frequencies provide better detail in shallow waters, the deeper waters do better with the lower frequencies. Although the side and down scan technologies are cool, they are better off being used to find bug structure than fishing for big game... and at $600 for the add on module and a second ducer to worry about it seems a bit much for a yak... so save the money and go buy a new reel!

my 0.02

The Kid · 10-07-2011, 11:55 AM

Whatever you pick do not get the Elite. They are no good for the ocean. Have seen a buddy with one and have to play with it for hours just to get fuzz on bait schools with maxed out colorline. The menu is the craziest and hardest i have worked with. AVOID THE ELITE!!

mtnbykr2 · 10-07-2011, 12:00 PM

I am leaning toward the HDS as well, I have had nothing but trouble with
HB products, water intrusion as well, just sent my 365i back for the last time....

GregAndrew · 10-09-2011, 04:11 PM

You are going to have to deal with a big transducer if you go with DI or DS, which will probably have to be in the water. I agree with The Kid, don't go with the Elite. I had several problems with mine. If they could get a good software update for the HDS5 I would have no prob. recommending it. You can add DS or SS to the HDS5 later if you want too. DS would be good for locating structure if you fish for bottom dwellers. SS would probably be of more help for locating bait.

10-07-2011, 11:43 AM	#1
Handymansd Ancient Member Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: On The Water Posts: 935	I tried the HB model with downscan and all I got was trouble with water intrusion, and corrosion . They were frustrating to deal with. I eventually ended up spending a little bit more for the HDS 5 when they first came out. They have been slow to respond, but they did make sure that the maps issues were corrected. I do not know the limitations of the structure scan technology but I will say that I cannot imagine ever needing more than the stock HDS-5 for fishing big game in LJ. A standard 50/200 ducer works very well for me, but some feel the higher frequencies provide better detail in shallow waters, the deeper waters do better with the lower frequencies. Although the side and down scan technologies are cool, they are better off being used to find bug structure than fishing for big game... and at $600 for the add on module and a second ducer to worry about it seems a bit much for a yak... so save the money and go buy a new reel! my 0.02 __________________ All men are equal before fish. -Herbert Hoover

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10-07-2011, 11:55 AM	#2
The Kid Loves Surface Irons Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: San Diego Posts: 455	Whatever you pick do not get the Elite. They are no good for the ocean. Have seen a buddy with one and have to play with it for hours just to get fuzz on bait schools with maxed out colorline. The menu is the craziest and hardest i have worked with. AVOID THE ELITE!!

10-07-2011, 12:00 PM	#3
mtnbykr2 Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: newbury park ca Posts: 2,323	I am leaning toward the HDS as well, I have had nothing but trouble with HB products, water intrusion as well, just sent my 365i back for the last time....

10-09-2011, 04:11 PM	#4
GregAndrew Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Posts: 2,384	You are going to have to deal with a big transducer if you go with DI or DS, which will probably have to be in the water. I agree with The Kid, don't go with the Elite. I had several problems with mine. If they could get a good software update for the HDS5 I would have no prob. recommending it. You can add DS or SS to the HDS5 later if you want too. DS would be good for locating structure if you fish for bottom dwellers. SS would probably be of more help for locating bait.