Modern fishing has long since ceased to be just a float contemplation, becoming a high-tech process of finding active fish. Amateur fishermen and professionals are looking for devices that can work in different conditions, from deep water from the boat to when you go fishing from shore. Lucky FF718LiCThe product is described by the manufacturer as a “two-in-one” solution.
The main attraction of this device lies in its mobility and functionality, affordable at a price that is much lower than that of eminent competitors. sonar This model is capable of scanning water columns up to 100 meters, making it suitable for fishing in large reservoirs, but in order for the device to meet expectations, you need to clearly understand its technical limitations and adjust the sensitivity correctly.
In this article, we will discuss in detail the specifications of the sonar, the current price range and the nuances of operation in various conditions, you will learn how to correctly interpret the screen readings and avoid typical beginner errors at the first start.
Technical specifications and design features
Model FF718LiC It is made in a protected housing that meets the standard IPX7This means that it is completely waterproof during a short dive, and the screen is 2.6 inches diagonal and has a resolution that is sufficient to clearly display the bottom of the terrain even in bright sunlight. Radiation frequency It is 430 kHz, which is the optimal balance between the detail of the picture and the range of penetration of the water column.
The device is powered by an integrated lithium battery with a capacity of 1100 mAh, which provides up to 5-7 hours of continuous operation, which is enough for a full day fishing. Micro-USBThis eliminates the need to carry specific chargers.
⚠️ Attention: Despite the moisture-proof housing, it is not recommended to leave the device under direct sunlight for a long time, since overheating can reduce the battery life and damage the display matrix.
The kit usually includes the sonar itself, a sensor with a cable about 7 meters long, a floating float holder for the sensor and a instructions. The float design allows you to use the gadget as a classic "leaning" sonar for shore fishing, simply throwing the sensor into the water.
- 🐟 Scan depth: up to 100 meters (depending on the density of the water and bottom).
- 🔋 Battery life: up to 7 hours in constant search mode.
- 📏 Screen size: 2.6 inches, color LCD.
- 🌊 Beam angle: approximately 45 degrees, which gives good coverage under the boat.
Using a sonar for fishing from a boat
When operated from a craft Lucky FF718LiC It shows itself as a reliable tool for finding brows and pits. To install the sensor on the boat, you can use a special bracket (often sold separately) or temporarily attach it to the board with a suction cup or tape, if the design allows, the main condition is that the sensor must be submerged in water strictly vertically.
In boat mode, it is important to adjust the sensitivity correctly (SensitivityIf you put it to the maximum, the screen will fill with the "noise" from the suspension in the water, and you will not see the fish. The optimal starting point is 60-70% and adjusting in the process. Scrolling speed (See also: "Scripture speed")Scroll Speed) it is better to set to the middle or fast one to see the dynamics of the boat over the bottom.
☑️ Preparation of the sonar for fishing from a boat
The sonar is a great example of the structure of the bottom: hard ground is shown by a greasy red line, and soft silt is shown by a thinner and more intermittent fish, and the fish is displayed as characteristic arcs or spots, the size of which depends on the distance to the sensor. When the boat moves against the current or wind, the picture becomes more stable, since the craft chatters less on the wave.
For stationary fishing from a boat (for example, when fishing in plumb), you can use the zoom function (see below).Zoom), which allows you to double the area of interest in the bottom, which helps you to see the topography and behavior of fish in the bottom layer.
Features of coastal fishing with a sensor throw
So, the shore mode is fundamentally changing the way we use the gadget. Lucky FF718LiC It acts as a wireless scout, and it attaches itself to a floating body and is thrown into the water on a line or cord, and the radio communication between the sensor and the head unit is about 40 to 50 meters, allowing you to explore the water area in front of you.
When throwing, it's important to consider that the sensor has its own buoyancy, so that it doesn't fly far from the shore under the influence of wind or current, the fishing line needs to be held in tension or tied to a peg. The signal on the screen is updated with a slight delay, so sudden movements of the sensor can lubricate the picture, and it's better to let it calm down in the water before taking the reading.
Shore fishing with echo sounder is effective for finding the depths and local pits where the predator is standing. You can fan the sector in front of you, determining the terrain without having to climb into the water or use a boat, this is especially true on unfamiliar bodies of water.
⚠️ Warning: When you throw the sensor, make sure that the cable does not get tangled around rocks or driftwoods at the bottom. A sharp jerk when pulling can damage the wire or tear off the sensor.
In coastal mode, maximum sensitivity is recommended, as the sensor is further away from the fish and the signal may be weaker, and it is also useful to enable the fish size identification mode, although it is often conditional and depends on many factors.
To increase the range of throwing, tie a small loader-olive to the sensor float, but make sure that it does not disturb buoyancy and the sensor does not drown.
Price analysis and comparison with competitors
Pricing on the model FF718LiC It depends on the region of sales, currency exchange rates and configuration. It is currently one of the most affordable color sonars on the market, and its cost ranges from 4000 to 6000 rubles, making it an entry level device for beginners.
For comparison, similar models from the brand Deeper (for example, Deeper Start) cost 3-4 times more, while offering a smartphone connection instead of its own screen. Chinese counterparts from JiaYu or lesser-known brands can cost less, but often lose out as a build and stability of the radio signal.
| Parameter | Lucky FF718LiC | Deeper Start | Generic No-Name |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price (rupe) | ~5 000 | ~12 000 | ~2 500 |
| Screen. | Colored, built-in | No (smartphone) | Monochrome |
| Depth. | 100m | 50m | 30m |
| Battery | Removable/Integrated | Built-in | Batteries. |
Buying. Lucky FF718LiCYou pay primarily for a color display and a time-tested design, and it doesn't require a phone connection, which saves you the power you might need for a navigation or communication.
The Lucky FF718LiC’s optimal price makes it the best choice for those who want a colored sounder with a screen without overpaying for the brand and unnecessary features.
Setup and calibration of the device
To get reliable information, the sonar must be properly configured, immediately after turning on the device goes into simulation mode, showing the fictional bottom.Real-timeThe menu is intuitive, but has its own translation features.
The key parameter is the cut-off depth (Depth RangeIf you're fishing at a depth of 3 meters, there's no point in putting a range of 100 meters -- you just won't see the little details.Auto) is usually good at scaling but in difficult conditions it is better to adjust manually.
Sensitivity settings are also available (Sensitivity) and zoomZoomSensitivity regulates the strength of the signal received: high sensitivity shows more detail, but adds noise. Low sensitivity cleans the screen, but can hide small fish.
- 🔧 Go to the settings menu (cog icon).
- 🌊 Select the scan depth corresponding to your water body.
- 🔊 Adjust the sensitivity so that the bottom is clear, but without unnecessary “junk”.
- 🐟 Turn on fish identification mode if you are a beginner.
⚠️ Warning: Do not try to calibrate the sonar in a water tank (bucket, bath). the ultrasonic signal will be reflected repeatedly from the walls, and the device will show chaotic data that has nothing to do with reality.
To reset all settings to factory settings, you can find the appropriate item in the system menu, which is useful if you are confused in the parameters or the device began to behave incorrectly after experiments.
Secret combination for reboot
If the sonar is hovering, press the on button and the menu for 5-7 seconds at the same time, this will force the system to restart without removing the battery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a sounder in winter at sub-zero temperatures?
Yeah, Lucky FF718LiC It works at low temperatures, but the lifespan of a lithium battery in the cold is significantly reduced, so it is recommended to keep the device in the inner pocket of the jacket, taking out only for viewing, or use chemical heating pads.
Why does the sonar show the fish and the cool one doesn't?
The sonar shows objects that are dense and sized like fish, can be air bubbles rising from the bottom, or large algae, and the fish can be passive and not respond to bait, even if it is nearby.
How to increase battery life?
To save charge, reduce the brightness of the screen backlight to a comfortable minimum and turn off the device between casts. Also helps to use the power saving mode, if it is available in the firmware.
Does the sonar see small fish?
Theoretically, a frequency of 430 kHz allows you to see objects from 2-3 cm in size, however, in practice, small fish often merge with the bottom echo or are mistaken for noise, especially if they are in motion or in grass thickets.
Do I need to lubricate the sensor contacts?
The contact of the battery and the device itself should be wiped dry after fishing. Special lubrication is not required, but storage in a dry place is a prerequisite to prevent oxidation.