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Message Subject: Using Depth Finders

Posted 6/18/2002 1:43 PM (#5567)
Subject: Using Depth Finders

I have a few questions about these finders. Ok starting with the bottom density, there are a couple lines on the bottom of the graph what is that actual bottom the first line when you looking coming down or the very bottom line on the graph. Is that white area how thick the bottom is also? When looking for reefs and other structure what do you guys tend for look for and how do you know thats not simple weeds or something of the like?
Thanks a lot this should help me.

Posted 6/18/2002 10:36 PM (#36105)
Subject: Using Depth Finders

BTTT

Posted 6/19/2002 8:27 AM (#36106)
Subject: Using Depth Finders

The actual bottom is the first line you see (from top to bottom reference). If that line is narrow and fuzzy, the bottom is soft. If it it thick and crisp, the bottom is hard. The amount of signal returned to the unit by the bottom will create that line, so if the bottom is mud and absorbs some of the signal, the line will be narrow.

Keep in mind what is actually directly under you is on the first 1/4 inch of the screen moving right to left, the rest is history. You are looking at a composite image of where you have been if the boat is moving. If the unit is a Lowrance, Raymarine, or like unit, the signal cone will be 1/3 the total depth. If you are in 21 feet, the covered area will be a 7' circle.

If you are in 10' and suddenly get a softer, broken line signal from 3' to 10', it's weeds. If you are in 15 with a narrow signal, and it suddenly goes to 7 with a strong signal, you just went from mud or marl to rock, and have found a reef.

Hope this helps!

Posted 6/19/2002 9:50 AM (#36107)
Subject: Using Depth Finders

Thanks Worrall that did help a lot.

Posted 6/19/2002 12:42 PM (#36108)
Subject: Using Depth Finders

David, one of the easiest ways to tell bottom content for me, is to adjust my signal strength (sensitivity) to receive a double echo. In order to do this properly you need to be in manual mode not auto. Your depth range has to be at least double of what the water depth actually is. I go to an area that I know is rock and set my range and sensitivity so that I see this double echo or "gray line". The gray line is the area below the actual bottom echo, or that black line that shows up as bottom on your graph. With the unit set in this manner you can see changes in bottom content as well as depth changes. Us you graph over known areas for a while to get familiar with what different botoms look like. This will help you identify the same type of areas when fishing new spots or lakes.
If you are still not sure what to look for, go to a tourney and ask one of the sponsored contestants to give you a demo on the water. They should be happy to do so. If not get your butt up here to fish the Bone Lake outing and I will be happy to show you how I use my finders.

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