forward-scanning sonar

[flicker]

Forgive my ignorance. I use a little mushroom anchor on a string to sound, when I feel like it-- which is rarely-- so I know little about depth sounders.

There are forward-scanning sonar device on the market these days, I''m referring specifically to the EchoPilot as reviewed in November''s CW. It is supposed to indicate approaching rocks, submerged containers and shoaling. They start at about $800.

Has anyone tried mounting a cheaper, standard depth finder (perhaps fan-beamed) looking forward to detect obstructions ahead? I imagine there would be problems with pitching. But, if the readout is meaningful when looking down even though the boat pitches, it should be interpretable in some way looking forward when the boat pitches.

Can anyone think of a way this might be made to work?

Also, has anyone used the EchoPilot Collision Avoidance Sonar System?

Chas.

[asailor]

practical sailor has done an article on depht sounders a few months ago. i think the issues may be online now. Practical sailor pointed out that the difference between standard depht sounders and forward '' fish finder'' types are very close in price and are worth the little extra money. i have no practical experince with them though as my old depth sounder hasn''t broken yet.