depth finders

[bumps]

I am thinking about purchasing a hand held depth finder this winter.  I have seen a couple in magazines but I was hoping to hear some first hand reports?

[C.C.]

bumps, go to the electronics forum or just go to the top of the page and search depth finders. I'm sure you will get lot's of oppinion's on the topic.
      Jim

[big big rdg]

I have heard many good things about the handheld depth finders. I was also interested in any first hand reports.

[Augerdogger]

I've used a Marcum model LX-i handheld for the last couple of years with very good results.  The only trouble I've had is that it doesn't perform very well when the ice has "layers" - like when there's a frozen crust over slush over the real ice.

Also, it needs a wet surface to make adequate contact to work properly.  Carrying a small plastic squirt bottle does the trick.

Carpcatcher gave you good advice.  Go to the electronics forum.  I believe you'll find several threads on this subject.

AugerD

[bumps]

Thanks for the point in the right direction.  I have been trying to decide between the LX-i and the polar vision.  Thanks for all the input.

[lenz]

I have the polar version. thick snow ice is a problem, doesn't always work. very thick ice ~18 inches is also a problem. it also is better to wet ice.

[Coastie]

I have a portable fishin buddy the guy's call it the fish repeller.

[Iceman65]

I received the Marcum LX-1 For Christmas, used it twice since!
I really like it, you do need a small amount of water underneath for it to work....

hope this helps,
Iceman65

[DrillnChill]

I have the Hawkeye DF2120PX handheld.   Looks like an average flashlight that would run on 2 C batteries.   I have had it for 2 years and have been very pleased with it - I always bring it.  It works really well in depths over 3 feet, especially hardbottom lakes/ponds.  Occasionally it will give a null reading if you hit tall weeds or if there is soft mud bottom.   The instructions provide some guidance for shooting through the ice, but I found this not worth pursuing.   

I drill holes, clean out most of the ice and shoot the depth by pulling the trigger...get an instant reading.   Makes it very effective....I paid $60.....good value....

[Chancer]

I am thinking about purchasing a hand held depth finder this winter.  I have seen a couple in magazines but I was hoping to hear some first hand reports?

                                   I have the Polar Vision hand held, this my second season and am generally pleased with it. A nice feature that it has is a fish flasher symbol if there is any fish directly under the hole it lets you know. The draw back is that it doesn't shoot thru snow ice and on clear black ice you need to wet the surface in order to get a reading.  I  also use it to sound the depth when i'm setting up the tip-ups.I never go without it now !