Top Fish Finder and GPS Chartplotter Picks for Kayak Anglers

Kayak fishing is booming in popularity, and for good reason. Paddling out on a kayak allows you to reach fishing spots that typical motorboats can’t access. However, finding fish efficiently from a compact kayak still requires some key technology – a quality onboard fish finder and GPS chartplotter.

When selecting fish finding electronics for kayak installation, the most important factors are compact size, lightweight, and portable power. Bulky units will feel obtrusive and be difficult to mount on small kayaks. Low weight helps maintain balance and maneuverability. And being battery-powered instead of wired to a motor allows flexibility in placement.

Here are some top fish finder and chartplotter options popular with kayak anglers:

Garmin Striker 4 – This budget-friendly fish finder packs excellent fish spotting capability into a tiny, easy-to-mount transducer and compact display unit. It offers CHIRP sonar for clear scanning and GPS integration for marking fishing hot spots.

Garmin Striker Plus 4 – A step up with a built-in GPS receiver for navigation and mapping without needing to pair with your phone. The screen is also larger at 3.5” for easier viewing.

Humminbird Helix 5 – A versatile fish finder with CHIRP, GPS, and Autochart live mapping to view depth, structure, and contours. The bright color screen is readable in sunlight. Fits well on small decks.

Lowrance Hook Reveal – This integrated fish finder and chartplotter has a color screen and includes detailed C-MAP charts for popular lakes and coastal areas. Excellent value for the built-in mapping.

Power Options: Many kayak anglers opt for compact lithium batteries that can run a fish finder all day without weighing down the boat. Waterproof cases or bags keep batteries safely stowed but accessible.

Having onboard scanning sonar and GPS gives kayak anglers a powerful information advantage to find where fish are biting. Match your needs and budget to pick the right fish finder and hit the water with confidence.