From an early age, my passion for fish and all-things-aquatic was apparent. Unlike my peers, the ideal summer vacation wasn’t going to an amusement park or traveling to tourist traps sprinkled throughout the world. Instead, I begged my family to pack our fishing poles and head out to our local fishing holes.
While I can attribute many experiences and curiosities for laying the foundation of my reefing life, it’s those precious moments sitting in a boat or standing on a dock waiting for the fish to bite that stimulated my love of aquariums. After speaking with many aquarists, it seems I’m not alone. In fact, for many reefers, their love of aquatic life isn’t limited to the clear walls of their aquarium.
Author:
As a lifelong aquarist, Yuliya has an endless curiosity about our underwater universe. After graduating with a bachelor’s in Environmental Engineering, she transformed her passion into a successful career. While working at the Institute of Environmental Protection in Moscow, her passion for saltwater and reef aquariums only increased. Moving to the United States in 2013, Yuliya embarked on another impactful journey by sharing her unprecedented experience for all aquarium hobbyists ... Read More.
Although my life is one filled with tasks and responsibilities, there’s hardly a weekend where you won’t find me packing the car with my trusted fishing gear and a grin of anticipation. Of course, this doesn’t even come close to those previous moments where I can kiss dry land goodbye and set off on a true fishing adventure. While extended fishing vacations aren’t nearly as often as I want, when bass fishing season rolls around, my friends and family know what to expect. In many ways, I’ve always felt fishing and reefing were one-in-the-same. As a reefer, you’re carefully tending to the delicate environment needed to foster growth and life for these underwater inhabitants, and as an angler, you get to enjoy the effortless beauty of similar environments.
Naturally, just as with my reef tank, I’m always on the hunt for the latest fishing hacks. Sure, the patience and skill involved in traditional fishing is part of its allure, but there’s nothing wrong with a little assistance.
So, what’s the latest fishing hack that’s got the angler world as excited as snagging a prize catch? Let’s find out…
Peering Into the Watery World Below - Sonar Fish Finders.
For centuries, anglers called upon Mother Nature to assist in their quest. Studying the subtle clues of underwater activity required a deep connection to the patterns of nature, which is much easier said than done. Until the late 20th Century, observation and instincts were the greatest tools available for the average angler.
So, what’s changed?
While the ancient skill of fishing remains just as important today as it did thousands of years ago, success is no longer completely reliant on instinct and luck. Sure, such skills are forever engrained in this hobby, but with the advancements in digital technology, fishing has reached a pinnacle that’s never been seen before.
If you remember the 1970s and 80s, advancements in fishing technology probably isn’t the first memory of this interesting decade. Throughout this time society began shifting away from the modalities of non-tech life. Television grew in ability and pervasiveness, while portable tech made its initial sprawl on the consumer marketplace.
However, when it came to fishing, the 70s and 80s saw the first consumer-grade sonar fish finder. This revolutionary device aimed to reduce the mystical instinct of fishing by replacing it with the ease of technology. Since its humble beginnings, sonar devices are as common as the fishing lure.
As an avid angler, I’ve used more sonar tools than I can remember. Until recently, most were strikingly similar, but then a shift toward digital technology pushed this beloved tool into the 21st Century.
The Sight of Sonar Innovation - Deeper Smart Sonars.
From the first moment I learned about Deeper fish finder, I knew this company was on the verge of something really interesting. The outdoor sporting industry is littered with startups promising to deliver reimagined versions of common devices. If you’ve paid attention to the most recent rollouts, then you’ll agree with this statement: most fail in delivering this promise of revitalized technology.
This is the fundamental difference between Deeper and other self-proclaimed leaders of innovation. Instead of simply repackaging and rebranding standard products, Deeper has developed an impressive range of sonar devices that leverage the latest digital advancements.
By integrating proven technologies with solid device performance, they’ve literally changed the way anglers engage with the depths. Just as their name suggests, Deeper smart fishfinder has dug deeper into the marriage of high-tech gear and traditional equipment.
So, how exactly is this company revolutionizing the fishing world? Two words: Smart Technology.
Unveiling a Smarter Fishing Device - Deeper Smart Sonar Pro+.
If you’re like me, then you’re growing wearing of the term “smart device.” Not because its technology is failing or overplayed, but because so many devices are rather dumb for being labeled smart.
Although my initial response when Deeper unveiled its Smart Sonar Pro+ was diluted due to my personal feelings, as soon as I dove deeper into its performance capabilities, I soon forgot about my distaste of this overused buzz word.
As the latest release in the Smart Sonar product line, the Pro+ is exactly what fans were hoping to see. Stemming off the popularity of its predecessor, this upgraded version offers extreme portability (seriously, it fits in a tackle box without issue) and leverages the growing popularity of fish finder app-based interfaces.
Throughout my time with this device, I clearly understand why it’s the recipient of multiple awards. Simply put, there really hasn’t been a fish finder quite like the Deeper Smart Sonar Pro+ before.
Reimagined Mapping and Interface - Navigating the Waters Wirelessly.
One of the coolest features offered by the Smart Sonar Pro+ model is its live scanning and real-time map readouts. As soon as it’s cast into the water, its never-before-seen wireless GPS system activates. Essentially, this system creates impressively detailed maps directly on your smartphone, computer or tablet screen.
Unlike similar products, the Pro+ offers greater insights into how the underwater world is relayed. Some of the standard metrics populated on its screen include:
- Depth finder
- Fish Size and Depth Icons
- Bait Balls
- Vegetation
- Temperature
- Structure
- Fish Arches
- Seafloor Contours and Hardness
I really appreciated how easy it was to instantly understand the screen icons and information. Its main map interface design is one of the best features, but it’s not even close to scratching the surface of its capabilities.
As I mentioned above, the Deeper Smart Sonar Pro+ is among the rarest fish finders on the market due to its wireless connectivity. Think Wi-Fi is only for your computer? Think again! The Pro+ connects with your Android or iOS device via a powerful wireless signal. Obviously, this technology improves its performance while submerged because you don’t have to deal with multiple wires or lines getting tangled in rough waters.
There’s been a lot of confusion about its wireless connections, but let’s get one thing straight: you don’t need to have an actual WiFi hotspot to work. Basically, this term is used to describe the connection between the device and your phone or tablet. In simpler terms, the Deeper Smart Sonar is its own hotspot.
Not only does this fish finder work without traditional wireless internet access, but you don’t even need phone signal. Personally, I enjoy using one of my old smartphones. This way, should the phone get water damaged, I’m not without my actual phone. You can always use an old or refurbished Android or Apple tablet or just get a protective case like this one. And get a cheap waterproof case for your phone.
If you’re a fan of fishing in meandering bodies of water, the Sonar Pro+ will quickly become your favorite fishing buddy.
Essentially, as you use this device, it memorizes your movements and underwater characteristics. This information is stored and can be accessed to help plot your movements to prevent hitting underwater obstructions, while getting close enough to lure fish out of known hiding spots.
It should be noted that while the underwater topographic maps created from your fishing sessions can help guide future trips, this isn’t a navigation system. Think of it as a cheatsheet for your favorite fishing spots. When used in subsequent visits, reference these maps to plot your movements based on previous data. Basically, this feature is a detailed memory of underwater physical characteristics, not an automatic GPS navigation system like you have in your car or boat.
Best settings for Deeper Pro+.
The Deeper settings in the fish finder app is easily customized to fit your specific needs and performance desires. Instead of diving into the seemingly endless setting combinations, here’s my standard setup:
• Lately, I’ve only used my Pro+ in Detailed Mode as it offers ample details and visual clues. Personally, I deactivate the fish icons. Sure, they’re cute and add an enjoyable element to the experience, I find them distracting. After all, I’m not on the lake to watch cute graphics. I’m looking for the perfect catch.
• When first trolling through a lake on my kayak, I prefer activating the Wide Beam setting. This is, in my opinion, the most efficient mapping process.
• As soon as I notice a promising spot, I immediately switch the beam to Narrow 90. which focuses the sonar beam and instantly sends more details to my smartphone.
• Generally, I keep the sensitivity readings around 65 to 75%, which tends to render quality details in the majority of water environments.
Advanced Doesn’t Mean Hard - Using the Deeper Smart Sonar Pro+.
While compiling my thoughts for this review, it was difficult to determine what features I should discuss. Whenever dealing with such an advanced and capable device, narrowing topics isn’t easy. After some brainstorming, I realized one of its most noteworthy features isn’t the wireless connectivity, active mapping or data collection (even though all are impressive in their own right).
In my experience, if a device isn’t easy to use then it doesn’t matter how fantastic or advanced its features may be. However, if you’ve used any of the Deeper Smart Sonar products in the past, then you’re already familiar with their renowned user-friendliness.
I’m proud to report that the Smart Sonar Pro+ doesn’t simply match its predecessors simplistic operation, it takes the concept of straightforward functionality to a whole new level.
To start, casting the PRO+ is a breeze. Simply attach the lightweight sonar to your preferred line and rod. I know many anglers are worried about line breaks, but don’t be. Along with being tested on braided or mono lines, its physical shape is designed to safely cast without breaking your lines. Of course, this doesn’t mean you can cast it in any ole’ fashion.
Stick to these recommended casting tips:
- Shorter casts should always be done with a side-swing movement, which protects the line from unnecessary pressure.
- Remember, you aren’t fly fishing, so don’t whip the bail while the device is in the middle of the air. Smooth and steady is the name of this game.
- When a long distance overhead cast is needed, use your strongest line and rod for optimum protection.
Although Deeper Smart Sonar Pro+ is explicitly designed for casting, you can never be too careful. While not absolutely required, consider buying a fishing-specific attachment, such as the night fishing cover or the flexible arm for small boat or kayak fishing. Of course, these are purely optional and the Smart Sonar Pro+ works just fine in most conditions right out of the box.
Increasing the Vision of Anglers Throughout the World - Final Thoughts.
There’s still so much to say about the Deeper Smart Sonar Pro+, like how its adjustable sonar allows customized beam coverage and sensitivity or its automatic fish alarms that let you know when the perfect catch is within reach. However, to truly grasp the ingenuity of this wireless fish finder, you have to see it for yourself.
While there’s a myriad of sonar device on the market, few offer the stability and quality of a Deeper Smart Sonar. Whether you’re looking to replace your current portable fish finder, or branching out into the realm of high-tech fishing gear, I can’t recommend the Deeper Smart Sonar Pro+ any harder. At this moment it's hands down the best portable fish finder on the market.
Ultimately, this fish finder set out to change the way anglers interact with nature and technology. Although there’s no such thing as the perfect product, the Smart Sonar Pro+ sure does come close.
by Yuliya Ivanova for ReefHacks.