Best Fish Finders With Side Imaging in 2026

Disclosure: The Marine Method may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through some links on this page. This does not affect our editorial recommendations.

QUICK ANSWER

Side Imaging can completely change the way you search for fish. Instead of looking only at what's directly underneath your boat, Side Imaging lets you examine the water and structure extending out to both sides. This can make it much easier to locate submerged vegetation, rocks, timber, drop-offs, channels, and other fish-holding structure.

For most anglers looking for a capable Side Imaging system without moving immediately into the most expensive marine electronics, our Best Overall choice is the Garmin STRIKER Vivid 9sv.
The Humminbird HELIX 7 MSI GPS G4N is an excellent alternative for anglers who particularly value MEGA Side Imaging and detailed mapping.
The Lowrance Elite FS 9 is our choice for anglers who want a larger touchscreen and a broader ecosystem of sonar, mapping, and networking features.

The important thing is to understand that Side Imaging is only one part of the system. The transducer, display size, GPS, mapping, installation, and your fishing environment all influence how useful the technology will actually be. If you're shopping specifically for a smaller boat, see our guide to Best Fish Finders for Small Boats in 2026.

What Is Side Imaging?
Why Is Side Imaging Useful?
Our Top Picks
Garmin STRIKER Vivid 9sv
Humminbird HELIX 7 MSI GPS G4N
Lowrance Elite FS 9
Side Imaging vs Down Imaging
How Far Can Side Imaging See?
What to Look For When Buying
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Verdict

WHAT IS SIDE IMAGING?

Traditional sonar generally focuses on what's underneath your boat. Side Imaging takes a different approach. Instead of producing a narrow view directly below the transducer, Side Imaging sends sonar beams outward to the sides and creates an image-like representation of the underwater environment. This allows you to examine a much wider area while moving across the water. Think of it this way:

Traditional sonar: What's underneath me?

Down Imaging: What does the structure underneath me look like?

Side Imaging: What's happening to the left and right of my boat?

That wider perspective is what makes Side Imaging so useful for searching.

WHY IS SIDE IMAGING USEFUL?

Imagine you're fishing a large lake and you're looking for submerged trees. With conventional sonar, you may need to travel directly over the trees before you get a clear return. With Side Imaging, you can potentially see structure away from the boat while you're traveling past it. That means you can spend more time searching for productive water rather than randomly moving around.

Side Imaging can help reveal:

Submerged trees
Rock piles
Weed beds
Drop-offs
Channels
Ledges
Boat wrecks
Other underwater structure

It can also help you understand the shape of the bottom and identify areas that may deserve a closer look.

OUR TOP SIDE IMAGING FISH FINDERS

Our Pick

Best For

Garmin STRIKER Vivid 9sv

Best overall

Humminbird HELIX 7 MSI GPS G4N

Best Humminbird Option

Lowrance Elite FS 9

Best Larger-Screen Option

Lowrance Elite FS 7

Best Compact Lowrance Option

GARMIN STRIKER VIVID 9SV - BEST OVERALL

The Garmin STRIKER Vivid 9sv is a particularly compelling choice for anglers who want a large display and Side Imaging without immediately moving into Garmin's higher-end chartplotter systems. Garmin lists the 9sv with a 9-inch display, built-in GPS, waypoint marking, Quickdraw Contours, traditional CHIRP, ClearVü, and SideVü sonar. The included GT52HW-TM transducer provides the traditional, ClearVü, and SideVü sonar functions.

Why We Picked It

The STRIKER Vivid 9sv strikes a good balance between:

Large display
Side Imaging
GPS
CHIRP sonar
ClearVü
Mapping
Straightforward operation

The 9-inch screen is particularly useful when you're trying to interpret Side Imaging because you're dealing with considerably more information than a simple depth reading.

Where It Stands Out

9-Inch Display

A larger screen makes Side Imaging easier to interpret. The STRIKER Vivid 9sv has an 800 × 480-pixel WVGA display.

SideVü

The included GT52 transducer supports Garmin's SideVü scanning sonar at 260/455/800 kHz.

GPS

The built-in GPS allows you to mark productive locations and create routes. Garmin lists support for up to 5,000 waypoints and 100 navigation routes.

Quickdraw Contours

The unit can create custom maps using Garmin Quickdraw Contours, allowing you to build your own maps while fishing.

What Could Be Better?

The STRIKER Vivid line is more focused on fish finding than on being a full premium multifunction marine display. The interface is also keypad-based rather than touchscreen, and although the 9sv provides a large display, the resolution is relatively modest compared with some newer premium systems.

Best For

Choose it if you:

Want a large screen
Want Side Imaging
Want built-in GPS
Want CHIRP sonar
Fish from a small or medium-sized boat (Fishing from a jon boat? We've also compared the Best Fish Finders for Jon Boats in 2026)
Want an easier setup
Prefer physical controls

Skip It If...

You want a high-end touchscreen ecosystem with extensive networking and premium mapping features.

The Marine Method Verdict

The Garmin STRIKER Vivid 9sv is our Best Overall Side Imaging Fish Finder because it puts the technology anglers actually want into a relatively straightforward package. The 9-inch display is especially valuable for Side Imaging, while GPS, CHIRP, ClearVü, and Quickdraw Contours give the unit plenty of versatility.

Rating: 4.6/5

Smart choice: If Side Imaging is your priority, don't underestimate the value of a larger screen.

HUMMINBIRD HELIX 7 MSI GPS G4N - BEST HUMMINBIRD OPTION

The Humminbird HELIX 7 MSI GPS G4N is a more feature-rich option for anglers who want Humminbird's MEGA Imaging technology in a 7-inch display. Humminbird lists the unit with MEGA Side Imaging, MEGA Down Imaging, Dual Spectrum CHIRP, built-in GPS, built-in mapping, Bluetooth, and an included XNT 9 HW MSI 150 T transducer.

Why We Picked It

The biggest attraction is MEGA Imaging. The unit supports MEGA Side Imaging at frequencies around 1.075–1.15 MHz, while also supporting traditional 455 and 800 kHz imaging frequencies. That gives anglers several ways to examine underwater structure.

Where It Stands Out

MEGA Side Imaging

Humminbird lists a Side Imaging range of up to 250 feet side-to-side using MEGA frequencies, with greater range available at 455 kHz.

MEGA Down Imaging

You also get MEGA Down Imaging, giving you a more detailed look directly underneath the boat.

GPS and Mapping

The HELIX 7 MSI GPS G4N includes an internal GPS receiver and GPS chartplotting. It also supports AutoChart Live mapping.

Dual Spectrum CHIRP

The system isn't limited to imaging. Dual Spectrum CHIRP provides conventional sonar for identifying fish and understanding the water column.

What Could Be Better?

The 7-inch screen is useful, but Side Imaging benefits from as much screen real estate as you can reasonably afford. The interface is also keypad-based rather than touchscreen, and MEGA Imaging isn't necessarily something every angler needs.

Best For

Choose it if you:

Want detailed Side Imaging
Prefer Humminbird electronics
Want MEGA Imaging
Want GPS and mapping
Want Down Imaging as well
Fish structure frequently

Skip It If...

You're looking for the simplest possible fish finder or primarily fish small bodies of water where advanced imaging isn't particularly important.

The Marine Method Verdict

The HELIX 7 MSI GPS G4N is a strong choice for anglers who are serious about interpreting underwater structure. It combines MEGA Side Imaging, MEGA Down Imaging, CHIRP, GPS, and mapping into one system.

Rating: 4.6/5

Smart choice: If you fish structure regularly, the combination of Side Imaging and Down Imaging is more useful than having either technology alone.

LOWRANCE ELITE FS 9 - BEST LARGER-SCREEN OPTION

The Lowrance Elite FS 9 takes the concept further by combining SideScan and DownScan with a larger touchscreen and a broader multifunction system. The current Elite FS 9 has a 9-inch IPS touchscreen with 800 × 480 resolution, internal 10 Hz GPS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and compatibility with Lowrance's Active Imaging systems.

Why We Picked It

This is the option we'd look at when the fish finder is becoming more than just a sonar display. The Elite FS is designed as a multifunction marine system with:

CHIRP sonar
SideScan
DownScan
GPS
Mapping
Networking
Optional live sonar compatibility
Touchscreen controls

Where It Stands Out

Large Touchscreen

The 9-inch IPS display gives you plenty of room for split-screen sonar and navigation views.

Active Imaging

The Elite FS supports Active Imaging SideScan and DownScan. The 3-in-1 transducer configuration combines CHIRP, SideScan, and DownScan Imaging.

Mapping

The Elite FS supports C-MAP and other compatible mapping options. The system can also use Genesis Live for real-time mapping.

Expandability

The Elite FS platform supports additional Lowrance technologies including ActiveTarget live sonar.

Important Configuration Detail

This is important when shopping. Active Imaging HD is not simply included in every Elite FS setup. Lowrance states that Active Imaging HD requires the additional S3100 module. So don't assume that an Elite FS automatically gives you the highest-resolution Active Imaging HD capability. Always check the exact package.

What Could Be Better?

The more capable the system becomes, the more complicated the purchase becomes. You need to pay attention to:

Display model
Transducer
Mapping package
Optional modules
Installation
Networking requirements

That makes it less attractive for someone who simply wants basic Side Imaging.

Best For

Choose it if you:

Want a larger touchscreen
Want SideScan and DownScan
Want GPS and mapping
Want room to expand later
Fish frequently
Want a more complete marine electronics system

Skip It If...

You simply want an inexpensive Side Imaging fish finder. You may be paying for capabilities you won't use. If you're working with a tighter budget, our guide to Best Fish Finders Under $300 in 2026 covers some of the most practical budget-friendly options.

The Marine Method Verdict

The Elite FS 9 is our Best Larger-Screen Option because it provides a much broader marine electronics platform than a simple fish finder, but its strength is also its weakness: there are more components, options, and configurations to understand.

Rating: 4.5/5

Smart choice: Check whether your package includes the transducer you actually need before comparing prices.

LOWRANCE ELITE FS 7 - BEST COMPACT LOWRANCE OPTION

If the Elite FS 9 is simply too large for your boat or budget, the Elite FS 7 offers much of the same platform in a smaller package. The Elite FS range supports CHIRP, Active Imaging SideScan and DownScan, GPS, mapping, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and compatibility with additional Lowrance sonar technologies.

Why We Picked It

The 7-inch format is a good middle ground. It's large enough for meaningful Side Imaging interpretation while remaining easier to install on a smaller console.

Where It Stands Out

The Elite FS platform gives you access to:

SideScan
DownScan
CHIRP
GPS
Mapping
FishReveal
Optional live sonar

That makes it more expandable than many basic fish finders.

What Could Be Better?

As with the Elite FS 9, you need to pay attention to the exact configuration. The standard Active Imaging capabilities and the higher-resolution Active Imaging HD system are not the same thing. Lowrance specifies that Active Imaging HD requires the S3100 module.

Best For

Choose it if you:

Have limited console space
Want a touchscreen
Want SideScan
Want GPS and mapping
Want future expansion

Skip It If...

You don't need the additional features offered by a multifunction system.

The Marine Method Verdict

The Elite FS 7 is a sensible choice for anglers who want the Lowrance ecosystem without dedicating as much dashboard space to the display. It's particularly attractive when you're planning to add more electronics later.

Rating: 4.4/5

Smart choice: Compare the complete package rather than the display alone.

SIDE IMAGING VS DOWN IMAGING

This is one of the most common questions when shopping for a fish finder. The two technologies are related, but they answer different questions.

Feature	Side Imaging	Down Imaging
Main view	To both sides of the boat	Directly underneath the boat
Best for	Searching for structure	Examining structure
Structure detection	Excellent	Excellent
Search area	Wide	Narrower
Learning curve	Moderate	Easier
Best use	Finding new fishing spots	Studying spots you've already located

Side Imaging

Side Imaging is excellent when you don't know where the fish-holding structure is. You can cover water and search a wider area.

Down Imaging

Down Imaging becomes particularly useful once you've located an interesting area and want to understand what's directly below you.

Which One Should You Buy?

If you can afford both: Get both.
If you have to choose one: Choose Side Imaging if you spend a lot of time searching unfamiliar water.
Choose Down Imaging if your fishing style already revolves around specific areas and structure.

HOW FAR CAN SIDE IMAGING SEE?

There isn't one universal answer. The usable range depends on:

Frequency
Transducer
Water depth
Bottom composition
Water clarity
Boat speed
Sonar settings
Target size

For example, Humminbird lists up to 250 feet side-to-side using MEGA Side Imaging on the HELIX 7 MSI GPS G4N, while its 455 kHz mode can reach farther. Garmin's STRIKER Vivid 9sv supports SideVü at 260/455/800 kHz. So don't judge two fish finders purely by a claimed maximum range. Image quality and target separation matter just as much.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A SIDE IMAGING FISH FINDER

1. Look at the Transducer

The display isn't the entire fish finder. The transducer is responsible for producing the sonar information. Two fish finders with similar screens can perform very differently if their transducers differ. Always check what's included.

2. Consider Screen Size

Side Imaging produces a lot of information. A larger display makes that information easier to interpret. For a small boat, 7 inches can be a sensible compromise. If you have enough dashboard space, 9 inches can be considerably more comfortable.

3. Check the Imaging Technology

"Side Imaging" isn't automatically the same across manufacturers.

Garmin uses SideVü.
Humminbird uses Side Imaging / MEGA Side Imaging.
Lowrance uses SideScan / Active Imaging.

Compare the actual specifications rather than relying only on marketing names.

4. Don't Forget GPS

Side Imaging helps you find interesting structure. GPS helps you return to it. That combination is extremely useful. When you discover a productive piece of structure, marking it as a waypoint means you don't have to rely on memory.

5. Think About Installation

Side Imaging transducers need an appropriate position to work properly. The transducer should have a clear view of the water to both sides. On some boats, mounting location can be more complicated than with a basic downward-facing transducer. If you're installing a system yourself, follow the manufacturer's mounting instructions carefully.

6. Don't Pay for Features You Won't Use

A premium fish finder can cost substantially more than a basic model, but if you only fish occasionally on a small lake, you may not benefit from every premium feature. Ask yourself: Will this feature actually change the way I fish? If the answer is no, keep your money.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is Side Imaging worth it?

For many anglers, yes. It's particularly valuable when you're searching large areas for structure. Instead of repeatedly driving directly over potential targets, Side Imaging can allow you to examine areas away from the boat.

Is Side Imaging better than traditional sonar?

Neither replaces the other. Traditional sonar is excellent for understanding the water directly beneath your boat and identifying fish in the water column. Side Imaging is better for searching a wider area. The best systems combine both.

Can Side Imaging find fish?

Yes. However, Side Imaging is often most valuable for finding the structure that attracts fish. A fish can be visible on Side Imaging, but identifying structure and understanding where fish may be holding is often the bigger advantage.

Does Side Imaging work in shallow water?

Yes. Side Imaging can be very useful in shallow water. However, the useful scanning range depends on the depth and the particular system. Don't assume that the maximum advertised range will always be usable.

Does Side Imaging work in deep water?

Yes, but performance depends heavily on the system, frequency, transducer, and conditions. As depth increases, the practical imaging range and detail can change.

Do I need a 9-inch screen for Side Imaging?

No. A 7-inch display can work very well. However, a larger display makes it easier to interpret detailed Side Imaging returns, especially when using split-screen views.

Is Garmin SideVü the same as Side Imaging?

Functionally, they're designed to accomplish the same basic task: scanning underwater areas to the sides of the boat. Garmin calls its technology SideVü, while other manufacturers use terms such as Side Imaging or SideScan.

Is Humminbird MEGA Side Imaging better than regular Side Imaging?

MEGA Side Imaging uses higher-frequency imaging technology designed to provide detailed views of underwater structure. However, "better" depends on the fishing situation. Higher frequency can provide excellent detail but may not always provide the greatest range.

Does Lowrance Elite FS have Side Imaging?

Yes. The Elite FS platform supports Active Imaging SideScan and DownScan, depending on the configuration and transducer.

Does Elite FS include Active Imaging HD?

Not automatically. Lowrance states that Active Imaging HD requires the S3100 module. Always check the exact package before buying.

FINAL VERDICT

Side Imaging is one of the most useful technologies for anglers who spend a lot of time searching for structure. Instead of limiting your view to what's directly below the boat, you can examine a much wider area and identify potential fishing spots before you ever pass directly over them.

Our picks:

Best Overall: Garmin STRIKER Vivid 9sv
Best Humminbird Option: Humminbird HELIX 7 MSI GPS G4N
Best Larger-Screen Option: Lowrance Elite FS 9
Best Compact Lowrance Option: Lowrance Elite FS 7

For most anglers, we'd start with the Garmin STRIKER Vivid 9sv if the goal is a straightforward Side Imaging system with a large screen, GPS, CHIRP, and ClearVü. If you're particularly interested in Humminbird's MEGA Imaging technology, the HELIX 7 MSI GPS G4N deserves serious consideration. And if you're building a more sophisticated electronics setup, the Lowrance Elite FS platform offers considerably more room to expand.

The most important lesson is this: Side Imaging isn't about seeing more sonar. It's about searching smarter.

ABOUT THE MARINE METHOD

The Marine Method researches marine electronics, boating gear, and buying decisions to help boat owners make smarter purchasing choices. We compare products based on specifications, intended use, practicality, and value rather than simply recommending the most expensive option. Read our Editorial Policy.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE

The Marine Method participates in affiliate marketing programs. Some links on this page may be affiliate links. If you click an affiliate link and make a qualifying purchase, we may receive a commission from the retailer or affiliate partner, at no additional cost to you. Our recommendations are based on factors such as product specifications, features, intended use, price and value, compatibility, practicality, and different user needs. Affiliate relationships do not determine our editorial conclusions. We do not claim to have personally tested a product unless explicitly stated. Product prices, availability, specifications, and promotions can change. Always verify the current price, configuration, and specifications on the retailer's website before purchasing. Read our full Affiliate Disclosure.