Sonar Buying Guide

Radar is useful to anglers of all stripes and boat owners in general who need assistance in locating fish, seeing birds, checking weather, and navigating in the dark. But there are a few different types of sonar devices available, with a variety of different options so which one do you choose? This guide should help you determine which type to get.

Dome or Open Array?

Most sonar comes in either dome or open-array options. The type of boat you have can impact the type of radar you get. If your boat has too many obstacles for an open array to spin freely, such as antenna or anchor lights, you may need to get a dome instead. Domes only weigh between 15 and 25 pounds and are no larger than a few feet in diameter. Open arrays can weigh 45 to 70 pounds and be anywhere from 3’ to 6’ in diameter. Smaller boats are best suited to domes, while larger boats can handle open arrays.

How Will It Be Used?

Next, you should think about how you plan to use the radar. More power along with the capacity for target separation is needed to spot birds in the distance. If you need to see further out, you’ll want more power.

When you’re ready to shop for fishing boats or fishing electronics and accessories, visit our dealership in Clackamas, OR, to see what we’ve got in stock. We carry many different types of boats, parts, and accessories to suit your needs. Portland Marine & Electronics proudly serves the greater Portland metropolitan area as well as our neighbors to the north in Vancouver, WA.