Side Imaging Technology: How it works

Side Imaging sonar uses two very precise sonar beams that are directed to either side of the boat and “illuminate” the bottom contour, structure, and fish, and display results in a “picture-like” image.

Side beams are extremely narrow from front to back, and provide “thin slices” of the bottom for high resolution imaging.

Side beams can search an area that is 720 feet wide (360 to each side), with a typical depth performance of 150 feet when the side beam frequency selection is set for 455 kHz..

The main benefit of Side Imaging sonar to anglers is that it provides an overall survey of a large area of water. This gives you a better understanding of the bottom topography and how structure is oriented for more efficient fishing. Saltwater anglers pick up precise details of popular fishing structure like wrecks, reefs, humps and drop-offs, as well as being able to spot bait balls in open water. Freshwater anglers can see fish-attracting structure such as timber, stumps, rocks and creek beds.

Side Imaging Representation

Creek Bed

Rock

Bait Ball Fish Tree Stump

Bank

Water Column

Side Imaging: On the water Interpretation

Use the following side imaging examples to help you interpret the side imaging display.

Imaging Tips

Boat speed: Side imaging is best performed at boat speeds between 2 to 6 mph. If the boat is stationary, the same information is displayed over and over. If the boat is moving very quickly, there will be gaps between the strips of information. The best boat speed to use will depend on the side range selected. Slower speeds are good for longer ranges, while faster speeds can be used at shorter ranges.

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Humminbird 997c Combo, 900 Series manual Side Imaging Technology How it works, Side Imaging On the water Interpretation