Cost of depth sounders vs fishfinders

[waltzingmatilda]

I know there has been a lot written on depth sounders vs fishfinders for use on sailboats, but I
wonder if anyone has any idea why Hummingbird can produce a fishfinder that has a depth
sounder built in as part of it and that can show the configuration of the bottom (as well as any fish
present) for under $100 (their cheapest model) but if you look for depth sounders, most of which
only show a number the cost is $250 and up. I understand that construction may be cheaper, and
that the fishfinder in question does not have a keel offset as most depth sounders do, but that''s
still a big difference in price. Does anyone have enough experience with both to comment? I''d
appreciate it because I''m in the market for a depth sounder of some sort for my CD26. Thanks,
Peter

[mikehoyt]

Check out the transducers that come with each unit. Many Fishfinders use transom mount version versus the thru hull transducers used most often in sailboats. A transom mount transducer is not a viable option on a sailboat for many reason one of which is that it comes out of the water when heeling.

My boat came with a fishfinder that had an optional thru hull transducer available. When I enquired on the price of obtaining the thru hull transducer I noticed that for very few dollars more I could buy a whole new depthsounder (not fishfinder).

REgards,

Mike

[hgreen64]

I like my fish finder. One instrument for less than the price of 2 sailing instruments (depth and Speed)! Another advantage you can see the bottom type.

[Denr]

Do you use your fish finder to locate talking fish to ask them what the depth is at the front of your boat? Depth sounders are normally located in the forward third of the hull, that is to say, before the keel tells you that the water is too skinny. If your stuck on the bottom it really doesn''t matter what type of bottom you''re stuck in! Having a fish finder mounted on the stern of the boat seems dumb unless you sail backwards most of the time.

[BigRed56]

Ahoy Denr, Avast there ye bildge rat , the Capt''n is calling ye on deck for ye promotion the rank of second mate. Ye fired a right fine salvo and hit the mark true!! Be warned the rest of the crew mighten hold ye a grudge but pay em no mind. Let that new pistol in yer belt do yer talking if the knaves get out of line. Mind ye check yer flint often and keep yer powder dry lest ye take a pin to yer head for the misfire. Aye tis a glass of rum ye deserve and I be swilling you a toast meself. Big Red 56 the Pirate of Pine Island.

[JWMOORE]

My depth sounder is broken also. They always seem to be. But my fishfinder works great. The sensor is epoxied to the inside of the hull, not on the transom, and works great. Sound waves can''t tell the difference between a half inch of water and a half inch of fiberglass. The previous owner installed it just behind the keel, but it could have been mounted in front.... there was plenty of cable.

[waltzingmatilda]

To JWMOORE, what sort of fishfinder are you describing? Also, does it have a keel offset?
Peter

[hgreen64]

Yeah and just last week Mr Limpet help me avoid a rock.
My tri-ducer is located forward of the keel and my unit has an offset for the depth. I still find the botom type usefull at anchor time.