What Is a Good Cheap Fish Finder? A Complete Guide for Beginners
Fishing has always been a favorite pastime for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you are casting from the shore, trolling from a kayak, or heading offshore on a boat, the goal remains the same—finding fish. That’s where technology comes in. A fish finder is an electronic device that uses sonar to detect fish and underwater structures, giving anglers an advantage. However, not everyone has the budget for high-end models. If you’ve been asking yourself, what is a good cheap fish finder?—you’re in the right place.
This guide will walk you through the basics of fish finders, what features to look for, and the best affordable options that won’t break the bank.
Understanding Fish Finders
A fish finder is essentially a sonar device that sends sound waves into the water. When these waves hit an object, like a fish or structure, they bounce back to the device, which then displays the data on a screen. This helps you see:
Where fish are located
Water depth
Bottom structure (rocks, weeds, sand, or drop-offs)
Temperature and contours
High-end models can cost thousands of dollars, offering GPS mapping, side imaging, and advanced scanning. But for beginners or casual anglers, a cheap fish finder can do the job perfectly well.
Why Choose a Cheap Fish Finder?
If you are new to fishing or only go out occasionally, investing in an expensive sonar system might not make sense. Cheap fish finders are:
Budget-friendly: Many reliable models cost under $200, with some portable options even below $100.
Portable: Affordable versions are often handheld or castable, making them great for kayaks, canoes, or shore fishing.
Beginner-friendly: Simple interfaces make them easy to use without overwhelming settings.
Effective: Even the cheapest models can help you find fish and understand underwater conditions.
Key Features to Look for in a Good Cheap Fish Finder
When searching for what is a good cheap fish finder, you’ll want to focus on the features that matter most without paying for extras you might not need. Here are the essentials:
1. Sonar Quality
Dual-beam sonar is ideal since it provides a wider coverage area.
Depth range should suit your fishing style (e.g., 100–300 feet for freshwater, deeper for offshore).
2. Display Screen
Look for a bright, easy-to-read screen, especially if you fish in daylight.
Even small color displays are better than black-and-white for clarity.
3. Portability
Castable fish finders pair with smartphones and are great for shore anglers.
Handheld models are compact and can fit into your tackle box.
4. Battery Life
Long battery life is important for day-long fishing trips. Rechargeable batteries are often more cost-effective.
5. GPS (Optional)
While not always included in cheap models, GPS is helpful for marking fishing spots.
Types of Affordable Fish Finders
When deciding on what is a good cheap fish finder, it helps to know the different types:
Portable Fish Finders – Compact, battery-powered units that can be used on any boat or from the shore.
Castable Fish Finders – Devices you cast into the water like a lure; they send sonar data to your smartphone.
Mountable Fish Finders – Small, budget-friendly units that can be permanently attached to a kayak or small boat.
Best Cheap Fish Finders in 2025
Here are some of the most recommended affordable models for anglers:
1. Garmin Striker 4
Price Range: Around $120–$150
Features: Dual-beam sonar, clear display, GPS for marking waypoints.
Why It’s Good: Reliable performance, great value for money, suitable for both beginners and experienced anglers.
2. Deeper START Smart Fish Finder
Price Range: Around $100
Features: Castable, wireless, connects to smartphone app, scans up to 165 feet deep.
Why It’s Good: Perfect for shore and kayak fishing, lightweight and portable.
3. LUCKY Portable Fish Finder
Price Range: $60–$90
Features: Handheld, basic sonar, depth range up to 328 feet.
Why It’s Good: Extremely budget-friendly, simple to use, great for occasional anglers.
4. Humminbird PiranhaMAX 4
Price Range: $120–$160
Features: 4.3-inch color display, dual-beam sonar, depth up to 600 feet.
Why It’s Good: Strong sonar power for the price, easy-to-read screen.
5. Venterior VT-FF001 Portable Fish Finder
Price Range: $50–$70
Features: Small, easy to use, depth range up to 328 feet.
Why It’s Good: One of the cheapest functional fish finders on the market.
Tips for Using a Cheap Fish Finder
Even the best device won’t guarantee success unless you know how to use it effectively. Here are a few tips:
Learn the icons and readings: Fish often show up as arches or symbols. Understanding the display is key.
Adjust sensitivity: Too much sensitivity can clutter the screen; too little might miss smaller fish.
Check depth settings: Always adjust based on whether you’re fishing shallow ponds or deep lakes.
Practice in familiar waters: Start where you already know fish are present to build confidence in your readings.
Are Cheap Fish Finders Worth It?
Absolutely. If you’re new to fishing or just want a little extra help spotting fish, you don’t need to spend a fortune. The models listed above prove that you can find a good cheap fish finder under $200, and even under $100 in some cases.
High-end models might have advanced features like side imaging and large displays, but for many anglers, the basics—locating fish, understanding depth, and reading bottom structure—are enough.
Final Thoughts
So, what is a good cheap fish finder? The answer depends on your fishing style and budget, but reliable options include the Garmin Striker 4, Deeper START, and LUCKY Portable Fish Finder. These affordable devices provide accurate readings, portability, and ease of use—all without breaking the bank.
A fish finder won’t catch fish for you, but it will give you the advantage of knowing where to cast your line. For beginners or casual anglers, investing in a budget-friendly model is a smart move that enhances your fishing experience while keeping your wallet intact.