Thursday, February 19, 2009

Fish finder frequency

Most sonar units today operate at 50 kHz - 200 kHz (kilohertz) and there are advantages to each frequency, but for almost all freshwater applications and most saltwater applications, 192 or 200 kHz is the best choice. It gives the best detail, works best in shallow water and at speed, and typically shows less "noise" and undesired echoes. Target definition is also better with these higher frequencies. This is the ability to display two fish as two separate echoes instead of one "blob" on the screen.

There are some applications where a 50 kHz frequency is best. Typically, a 50 kHz sonar (under the same conditions and power) can penetrate water to deeper depths than higher frequencies. This is due to water's natural ability to absorb sound waves. The rate of absorption is greater for higher frequency sound than it is for lower frequencies. Therefore, you'll generally find 50 kHz used in deeper saltwater applications. Also, 50 kHz transducers typically have wider coverage angles than 192 or 200 kHz transducers. This characteristic makes them useful in tracking multiple downriggers. Thus, even when these downriggers are in relatively shallow depths, 50 kHz is preferred by many fishermen. In summary, the differences between these frequencies are:

192 or 200 kHz

* Shallower depths
* Narrow cone angle
* Better definition and
target separation
* Less noise susceptibility


50 kHz
* Deeper depths
* Wide cone angle
* Less definition and
target separation
* More noise susceptibility



http://www.fishfindergarage.com/

4 comments:

fisshy said...

Choosing the best fish finder is about getting the bigger fish to catch.The greater the frequency the higher the chance of finding fish!

Gennie said...

I really like this article,
it's too good,
i like it,.
fish finder

Parbotti said...

WOOOOOOOW !!!!!! The ultimate field trip! Congratulations, to all the fisherman!!!!!! What a catch! Pulling together a last minute adventure makes it even more fun, doesn't it? Special memories for all!!!!! Thanks!

Taskin said...

An anchor pulley system- An anchor is important and you should have one on your kayak. Wind is a major concern when fishing out of a 'yak. I designed a "pulley system" on the bow of my kayak where I can release and drop anchor from the safety of my seat.