PROBES FISHING

Oct 19, 2012 Lorenzo Martinez Bernal INFORMATION 0

PROBES FISHING

PROBE OF FISHING TODAY THAT WE HAVE, They are helpful for sport fishermen, Providing us the location of large fish WELL AS OTHER BANKS smaller fish.

ALSO FOR THE CATFISH FISHING ARE KNOW useful for background settings, TIME TO CHOOSE THE AREA WHERE WE'RE GOING TO PRIME, KNOWING If funds are ROCK, EARTH OR HAVE GREAT OBSTACLES SUMERGUIDOS, And the depth.

IN FISHING CATFISH TO CLONK,VITAL PROBE have a, FOR BEST RESULTS.

Here you have a tutorial on HANDLING, THAT I be of great help, To have good NOTIONS OF OPERATION.

PROBES FISHING

PROBES FISHING

Tutorial Probes

Notions Probes

People have been fishing for hundreds of years. All fishermen have always had the same problem: locate fish and they bite. It is clear that the probe can not make bite but if you can solve the problem of locating. It is quite impossible to catch them if we are not in the zone where the fish are; Lowrance probes if you can help with this aspect.

Late 1950, Carl Lowrance and his sons Arlen and Darrell began to practice immersion in order to observe fish and their habits. these investigations, funded by Federal and Local Estates, established that the 90% fish are grouped into the 10% water (in the case of lakes). As environmental conditions change, the fish move toward more favorable. These studies confirmed that the behavior of most species is affected by the structures submerged (as, for example, trees, groups of algae, rocks and various debris), temperature, currents, sunlight and winds. These, as well as other factors, determine the places where fish can find food (baitfish, algae and plankton). All these factors, as a whole, They are those that generate the conditions for that in certain areas accustomed to group different species of fish.

While these investigations took place, some fishermen and settled in their probe ships were uncomfortable because of its size. These equipments working at low frequencies and using vacuum tubes requiring car batteries for supply and operation. Although they obtained satisfactory signals from the background and large shoals, They not detect isolated individuals. Carl and his sons began to design a compact probe, which were supplied with batteries and be able to detect fish isolated. After years of research, development and hard work, they finally succeeded in designing a probe that forever revolutionized the world of fishing. After this initial period, in 1957 an industry that sold its first probe transistorized intended for sport fishing founded. In 1959, Lowrance introduced the model "The Little Green Box,"Which it became the most popular in the world probe. Based transistors, It became the first unit to guarantee results. already 1984 They had sold more than one million units, until it was discontinued because of the high costs entailed. We have come a long way since 1957. From the first "little green boxes" to current probes and GPS with latest technology, Lowrance has not left any time to lead the market for sport fishing.

How does a probe works?

The word probe (in English “sonar”) It is an acronym for “SOund, NAvigation and Ranging.” The first developed, during World War II, in order to follow the movements of enemy submarines. A probe consists of a transmitter, a transducer and a screen (or display unit)..

Simply, operation consists of a transmitter that generates an electrical impulse, the transducer will convert a sound wave sent through the water. When this wave "hits" an object, bounces. The echo returns to the transducer, which reconverts it into an electrical signal; later, the receiver amplifies it and transmits it to the screen. Considering that the propagation velocity of sound in water is constant (approximately 4800 feet per second), We can measure the time elapsed since the signal was transmitted, until the echo is received and, Thus, determine the distance to the object is in question. This process is repeated several times per second.

The frequencies used in the Lowrance probes are 192 – 200 kHz (kilo-hertzios); we also sell some models that use 50 kHz. Although these frequencies are within the sonic spectrum, not perceptible by humans and fish. (You should not suffer thinking that probes "hurt" the fish because they can not perceive).

As we mentioned earlier, the probe transmits and receives signals, which are reproduced graphically on the screen. As the process is repeated several times per second, display a continuous line that is drawn through; This is the seabed profile. further, screen elements suspended in the water between the surface and the bottom are also observed. If we know the speed of propagation of sound in water (some 4800 feet per second) and the time until it receives the echo, echosounder can tell the depth of the water and any fish that is swimming in the water column analyzed.

overall system performance

For a probe to ensure good performance, They have to give these four factors:

• the transmitter is powerful.

• the transducer is efficient.

• the receiver is sensitive.

• the screen has good resolution and contrast.

It is what is technically called "overall system performance". All system components must be designed to work together, They whatever the environmental conditions, even under extreme temperatures.

A powerful transmitter increases the chances of return echo in deep waters or in waters unfavorable conditions. It also influences a better definition of the details as, for example, clusters of small fish and submerged structures.

the transducer, on the one hand, You must be able to withstand the high potencies of transmissor and, for the other, converting electrical power into acoustic energy, with minimal loss of signal strength. further, It must be able to detect small return echoes from deep water fish bait.

The receiver also has to "deal" with a wide range of signals. You should be able to average more signals transmitted intensity and amplify the weaker returning from the transducer. You have to discriminate targets close to each other, separating the pulses reflected on the screen.

The display should have a good resolution (vertical pixels) and good contrast, to reflect all the details clear and sharp. These factors allow the "fish arches" are defined and that all details are discriminating against.

frequencies

Most current probes work with Lowrance 192 or with 200 kHz (kilo-hertzios) Y, some models, with 50 kHz.

Each of these frequencies has its advantages but, in general, for both freshwater fishing and sea, frequencies 192 Y 200 kHz are the best option. Provide more detail, perform better in shallow waters and sailing fast generate "less noise" and better discard unwanted echoes. These high frequencies also provide better discrimination between white, that is to say, separated from each fish, reflecting them as separate echoes rather than as a single spot on the screen.

Now we will comment when it is advisable to use the 50 kHz. Normally, a probe works with 50 kHz (with the same conditions and power) is able to achieve greater depth ranges that the same probe operating at high frequencies. This is because the physical phenomenon of absorption of acoustic waves. Sound absorption rate is always higher at high frequencies than at low. Thus, briny deep need to opt for 50 kHz. further, transducers 50 kHz -for general rule- They cover larger areas than those working with 192 O 200 kHz. Because, are those who usually are chosen for fishing with downriggers. Even when downriggers are used in shallow water, anglers prefer to use 50 kHz. Summarizing, the differences between these frequencies are:

192 O 200 kHz 50 kHz

• Shallow waters.

• Beam angle narrower.

• Better identification and discrimination between whites.

• Less sensitive to noise. • Deeper water.

• wider beam angle.

• Definition and discrimination between whites, lower quality.

• More sensitive to noise.

transducers

The transducer acts as an "antenna" unit. Converts electrical energy received from the transmitter high-frequency sounds. Sound waves emitted by the transducer travel through the water and return to collide with any element that is found in the water column. When the returning echo strikes the transducer, it returns to turn it into electrical energy and sends it to the receiver. Clearly the frequency of the transducer must be the same as the machine. In other words, it is not possible to use a transducer 50 kHz, or one of 200 kHz- in a probe designed to work with 192 kHz. The transducer must withstand high power pulses sent by the transmitter and be able to convert, most of them, acoustic energy. At the same time, It must be sensitive enough to receive even the weakest echoes. All these factors should operate according to the appropriate frequency and rejecting other frequencies echoes generated by. In other words, The transducer is a vital component to be highly effective and efficient.

Cristal

The active element of a transducer is a non-natural glass (normally, Zirconia lead or barium titanium). To prepare these crystals the chemicals are mixed and injected into molds which are introduced into furnaces capable of making them highly resistant crystals. Once they have cooled a conductive film is applied to both sides of the glass. Living are welded to these films, so that the glass can be attached to the transducer cable. Crystal shape determines both the frequency, as the beam angle. Spherical crystals are used by most probes, its thickness determines the frequency and the diameter or beam angle coverage angle (refer beam angles). For example, working with 192 kHz, a crystal of a diameter of 1 inch, generates a beam angle 20 degrees; while for an angle of 8 grades need a crystal with a diameter of about 2 inches. Thus, the larger the crystal diameter, less open is the beam angle. This is the reason why a transducer that generates a beam angle 20 degrees is smaller than a projecting angle 8 degrees, despite working at the same frequency.

Accommodations

transducers are sold with all kinds of shapes and sizes. Most are made of plastic but, those for hull type mounts, are usually bronze. As we explained in the previous section, frequency and beam angle determine the crystal size. Thus, also the transducer housing is conditioned on crystal size housing.

Speed and Transducer

Cavitation is one of the most difficult phenomena to circumvent when we sail fast. If the flow of water surrounding the transducer gradually runs, it transmits and receives signals normally. Nevertheless, when water flow is interrupted by a sturdy surface or with very sharp margins, the waters around the transducer generates turbulence. This air is separated from the water and forms bubbles; is the phenomenon known as "cavitation". When these bubbles pass over the transducer face (the portion of the housing that holds the glass) They reflected on the screen as "noise". We must always remember that a transducer is designed to work in water, no air. Passing air bubbles by the transducer face, the signal generated is reflected back into the bubbles, returning to the transducer. When the air is very close to the transducer, these reflections are very intense and eventually interfering signals from soft bottoms, structures or fish, making it very difficult, or impossible I- distinguish on screen.

The solution to this problem is to design the housings transducers facilitate the flow of water gradually runs, without generating turbulence. Nevertheless, This is complex because of the many conditions that require modern transducers. They should be small to not interfere with outboard engines or water moving propellers. Aft installation should be simple, to having to drill holes minimum possible. further, If hit with an object, You must be able to be removed quickly and without being damaged. In this area Lowrance offers innovative technology (patented) which it allows to use the HS-WS transducer even at high speed sailing. These transducers combine all requirements: They are suitable for fast navigation, They are simple to install and retract easily and quickly when they suffer a stroke.

The problem of cavitation is not limited to the shape of the transducer housing. Some boat hulls create air bubbles passing through the face of the transducer mounted on the transom. Many aluminum boats have this problem because of the numerous rivets protruding from the hull profile. When the boat is moving, each of these channels rivets air bubbles, especially sailing at high speed. To solve this problem it is advisable to mount the transducer face so that it is below the bubbles. this implies, usually, install the transducer mount as far as possible the transom.

Beam angles transducer

The transducer concentrates sonic wave within a beam. When it is transmitting a pulse and as it travels through water, It will covering a determined area. If representásemos this on paper, We would observe that traces a cone, hence the name "cone angle" (or beam). The point where the sound is more intense along the centerline or axis of the cone; said intensity gradually decreases as we move away from axis.

When determining the angle of the beam generated by the transducer, measurements on the shaft are taken first and then compared with the power obtained based on the distance from the same. When the power reaches midpoint (the -3db [decibel] speaking in electronic terms), It is remeasured axis angle. Call beam angle (or cone) the angle formed from the -3db point -a one side of the axis- -3db point to the other about the other side of the central axis.

This intermediate point (-3db) It is a standard measurement used in the electronics industry and, Thus, It is applied by most manufacturers. Nevertheless, others use 10dB, point at which power corresponds to 1/10 the central axis. This implies that more open angles are obtained, since we are measuring a farthest point from the center line. Nothing changes in transducer performance, the only thing that changes is the measurement standard. For example, a transducer that projects a beam angle 8 degrees at -3dB, it created 16 degrees to 10dB.

Although the measurement standard is the midpoint, angle with ability to detect fish is much higher. Lowrance units are characterized by very sensitive receivers incorporate, capable of detecting return echoes (Of fishes, structures or background) beyond 60 °. This implies that the detection angle is always 60 ° even though the beam angle is only 20 ° of.

PROBES FISHING

Beam angle 20 degrees | Beam angle 8 degrees

Lowrance marketed transducers project different beam angles. The open angles cover a larger surface exploration, but they reach less depth and scattering more transmitter power. Narrow beam angles not explore beyond the area near the boat, but they will reach greater depths, thanks to concentrate transmitter power on a small surface. Onscreen, the background signal appear wider when prospecting is done with open-angle transducer because we are seeing a larger area. The area covered by beam angle open, It is always greater than the scanned by a narrow angle.

High frequency transducers (192 – 200 kHz) They are available in both versions of beam angle. The open angle tend to be used in freshwater and, the narrow angle, applied for detection in saltwater. Normally, transducers working with low frequency (50 kHz) project a beam of between 30 and the 45 degrees. Although the sensitivity of the transducer is always higher in the cone generated, it is possible to detect echoes off the same even if received weak. The effective beam angle corresponds to the area within which it is possible to present detector and echoes displayed. If you have a fish is inside the cone transducer, but the sensitivity has a setting very low, the effective angle is narrow projected. We can change the effective beam angle, modifying receiver sensitivity. With low sensitivity settings, the effective angle is narrow and only those fish that remain just below the transducer and shallow bottoms are detected. If we increase the sensitivity, expand the effective angle detector and individuals can more distant relative of the bands boat.

Water conditions and background

The type of water in which we are using the probe significantly affect performance. Sound waves travel better through clear water and sweet as, for example, those found in lakes.

Nevertheless, in salt water, the sound is absorbed and reflected by the suspended particles in the water. High frequencies are very susceptible to "backscatter" of acoustic waves and, Thus, It costs them more to reach great depths in the sea in relation to those achieved by low frequencies. One of the problems we encountered at sea is that the surrounding environment is fully dynamic and changing. The wind and currents are constantly mixing water. The waves generated air bubbles are incorporated into the water near the surface, whereby probing signals suffer backscattering. The micro organisms, such as algae and plankton, They scatter and absorb the acoustic signals. Minerals and salt suspended in the water will affect similarly. Although freshwater we also find elements such as wind and micro-organisms in suspension, they do not alter the performance of both polls as in the sea.

Also the mud, sand and vegetation found on the bottom absorb and scatter the probing signals and, with that, the intensity of the returning echo is reduced. The rocks, geological schists, coral and other hard elements reflect the signal very easily. Can yourself see the differences on the screen of your probe. A soft background (for example, slimy) It reflected on the screen as a thin line that crosses. A hard bottom (for example, rocky) It appears on the screen of the probe as a broad line.

Hard bottoms | soft bottoms

We can compare a probe with a blinking flashlight in a dark room. If you move the flashlight around the room, reflections obtained from bright white walls and objects are observed consistent with ease. But if we turn the flashlight on a carpeted floor dark, returns less light because the dark color of the carpet absorbs and scatters its rough texture. If we add smoke to the room (children, please, do not try this experiment!) even detect less light. In this case, smoke is the equivalent of the salt in water and affect similarly to probing signals.

PROBES FISHING

Water temperature and Thermoclines

The water temperature has a significant influence on the behavior of fish. These beings are cold blooded and, Thus, their bodies always keep the same temperature as the water for swimming. In the winter, on cooling water causes metabolism slows down. In these times require a quarter less food than required in summer times.

Most fish do not spawn until the water temperature is within a favorable limits. The surface temperature sensor including many of our probes, help us to establish whether that temperature (which it varies from species to species) It is favorable or not for the presence of fish. For example, Trout can not survive in very hot water flows. Seabass and other similar species, They can even die if they have to stay in excessively cold waters during the summer. Some species are more tolerant of temperature fluctuations than others; each species tries to stay within specific ranges. Shoals of fish that remain suspended over deep water, They do because right at that level find it suitable temperature. We conclude that it is right in the thermal layer in which they are "comfortable".

A liquid crystal probe Lowrance, drawing a graph showing a thermocline on Skiatook Lake near Tulsa (Oklahoma), which it has been detected between the 40 and the 50 feet deep. Note that the thermocline remains unchanged through the water column, regardless of Fund Profile.

The temperature in a lake is substantially identical to the surface in the background. We usually find a warm coat, followed by a cold. The point where these two layers are called "thermocline". The depth and thickness of the thermocline may vary from season to season and, even, between day and night. In deep lakes we can find two or more termoclinas. This is very important because many species of fish tend to remain just above or below the thermocline. In most cases the fish-bait is kept just above the thermocline, while large species swim through it or suspended under the same. Fortunately, the display of the probe will indicate us these temperature differences; the greater the difference between temperatures of the layers, more intense thermocline is reflected on screen.

Functioning

Automatic

Once the engine launched, refer to a protected cove and fondee. Keep the engine running. It might be interesting with the help of a friend who controls the boat, while you are more familiar with the operation of the probe. Press the ON button and slowly scroll down the creek. Probably, You will see a very similar to the figure on the left screen. The dotted line, located at the top of the screen, It represents the water surface. The fund is reflected in the bottom of the screen. The current water depth is 33.9 foot screen and can be seen in the upper left corner. In our example, the depth range limits are among the 0 and the 40 pies. As the team is working in Auto Mode, the scope is continuously adjusted to maintain the background signal always visible on screen.

Fish Symbol Function [Fish-Symbol I.D.™]

All Lowrance LCG LCG probes incorporate an advanced feature called "Fish-Symbol I.D. ™". It is activated simply by pressing a button and let it be the team that interprets the return signals polls. The "Advanced Fish Symbol I.D. ™" function only works when we work in Auto Mode. If you activate the function while in Manual Mode, the probe will enter Auto Mode. Fish and other targets are detected on the screen very clearly and are identified by icons shaped like fish, four different sizes.

The "Advanced Fish Symbol I.D. ™" feature is designed to facilitate the identification of targets that the team plays that are fish. As you gain experience in handling the probe, disabled this feature will likely keep most of the time, in order to see all the details on the movements of fish, of the thermocline, banks baitfish, seagrass beds, Background structure, etc.

ASP™ (Advanced Signal Processing)

Advanced Signal Processing (ASP™) It is another innovative Lowrance exclusive feature that uses digital signal processing and advanced form. allows monitoring, permanently, the effects generated by browsing speed, water conditions and other interference sources, also performs automatic adjustments necessary for images as sharp as possible result.

The ASP ™ feature adjusts sensitivity levels as much as possible, while it is keeping the screen clean noise. Regulates the sensitivity and noise rejection, fully automatically. The function can be deactivated and activated and works both in Auto Mode, and Manual Mode. With ASP ™ operating function'll spend less time with routines probe settings and enjoy more time for fishing.

Sensitivity

The sensitivity controls the ability to detect echoes from the team. Low levels of sensitivity cause is excluded numerous information about the fund, signals and other white fish. high sensitivity levels allow us to observe in great detail, but they may appear on the screen many unwanted signals, generating the effect "clutter". Generally, the optimal sensitivity level is one that allows the background appears as a solid line when the function is activated and GRAYLINE® clutter is relatively low. When the probe working in automatic mode, the sensitivity is automatically adjusted so that the screen bottom profile appears as a solid line. This gives the unit the ability to reflect fish and other details. Auto Mode probe adjusts sensitivity taking into account factors such as water conditions, Depth, etc. When you manually adjusts the sensitivity, what you are doing is fit above or below the levels that the equipment takes as means to work in Auto Mode. With ASP ™ feature enabled, Auto mode is responsible for adjusting sensitivity levels for 95% situations; Thus, we recommend that until you gain some experience, use this feature. But, in unusual situations where you know the trends can make manual adjustments. You can also disable automatic sensitivity when it comes to special applications.

To conveniently adjust the sensitivity working in Manual Mode, the first thing to do is change the scope to double the current setting. For example, if we have regulated within a range of 0 a 40 pies, switch to a range ranging between loso 0 – 80 or 0 – 100 pies. Now increase the sensitivity until appears on screen a second echo background, located twice as deep as the background signal current. This "second echo" is generated by the return echo reflected on the bottom to the water surface, as it performs a dual path-from the bottom to the surface-. As this echo has to perform this dual path, It reflects twice as deep compared to the current bottom depth. Now, again change the scope and adjust it to its original scale. You will notice that more echoes appear on screen. If the noise level is very high, Sensitivity down one or two levels.

Grayline function

The GRAYLINE® feature allows us to distinguish more clearly, between weak and strong echoes. It presents targets that are more intense in gray pre-set value. This enables us to greatly differentiate between soft bottoms and rocky bottoms. For example, a muddy background, soft or filled with algae return weak echoes, which are reflected on the screen by a fine line, no gray. A hard bottom returns strong echoes presented on screen using a wide gray line.

If two signals of equal size appear, one with gray and the other not, This indicates that the most intense signal is the greyish. This helps us distinguish between algae and woody vegetation background or, between fish and structures.

The function can be set GRAYLINE®. GRAYLINE® us apart like strong signals of weak, to adjust the sensitivity, chances are that we should also adjust the level of function GRAYLINE®.

Zoom

You may notice fish arches fishing trolling and adjusted probe ranges between 0 and the 60 pies, however always find it easier to see the arches when using the zoom function, because what it does is expand all echoes of the screen. Enabling this feature will get a very similar image that is included here, on the left. The range is between 8 and the 38 pies, the zoom applies to s30 feet. As can be seen, They have expanded all white, including background signal profile. Fish arches (A and B) They are easier and detector structure also shows enlarged (C) important very close to the bottom. In turn may be small fish swimming just below the surface clutter (D). The steps are required to manually adjust the probe to optimize detection capabilities. As you become more familiar with computer operation, It will be able to adjust the sensitivity conveniently, without having to display the aforementioned "second echo".

Fish arches

One of the typical questions asked to us is: What should I do to be brought to fish arches? It's really easy to do, but attention should be paid to details, not only in how the adjustments are made, but also to global equipment installation.

It will also be very useful see section Why Arcos Fish? In explains how these arcs are generated on screen.

Screen resolution

Call Screen resolution to the number of vertical pixels that the screen is capable of displaying. The more vertical pixels, simpler result be brought to fish arches. This factor plays an important role in determining the ability of a probe to display fish arches. Below are tables in which sizes of the pixels relate to the area occupied, according to several ranges up to 50 feet for two different screens.

PIXEL PIXEL HEIGHT HEIGHT

100 VERTICAL PIXEL DISPLAY 240 VERTICAL PIXEL DISPLAY

HEIGHT HEIGHT RANGE RANGE PIXEL PIXEL

0-10 pies 1.2 inches 0-10 pies 0.5 inches

0-20 pies 2.4 inches 0-20 pies 1.0 inches

0-30 pies 3.6 inches 0-30 pies 1.5 inches

0-40 pies 4.8 inches 0-40 pies 2.0 inches

0-50 pies 6.0 inches 0-50 pies 2.5 inches

As can be seen, a pixel represents a larger volume of water with the team working within a range that goes from 0 a 100 pies, when it does within 0 – 10 pies. For example, if a probe is 100 vertical pixels and is working within a range that goes from 0 to the 100 pies, each pixel corresponds to a depth of 12 inches. With this range of scope for a fish might be fulfilled as an arc should be slightly larger. Nevertheless, If we apply zoom 30 feet deep (for example, since the 80 until the 110 pies), each pixel passes correspond to 3.6 inches. Now thanks to the zoom function the same fish, probably, and it will be seen as an arc. The size of the arc is proportional to the fish; a small fish will be reflected as a short arc, largest one as a greater arc and thus progressively. If we use a probe, in shallow water, and has few vertical pixels, a fish that is just above the background will be seen as a straight line slightly separated background Profile. This is due to the limited number of points that depth. If we are in deep water (where the fish signal is displayed on a large distance from the boat trip) zooming between 20 Y 30 pies, the window covering the bottom, show fish arches near the structure. This is because we have reduced the pixel size within a broad cone.

100 pixels

240 pixels

In the right image a display section is observed 240 vertical pixels. On the left it is the same screen in Simulator Mode, but with only 100 vertical pixels. As can be seen, the screen on the right has a better definition than the left. Fish arches distinguish more easily work with 240 pixels onscreen.

Sonogram displacement

The speed at which the echogram moves, through the screen, It affects how they are displayed fish arches. The faster scrolling, more pixels are used when the fish passes through the cone. This helps to visualize more clearly between fish arches. (Nevertheless, If the traveling speed of the card is very high, fish arches are seen up slightly elongated. Go experimented with this speed setting, until it detects that best suits your needs.)

Transducer Installation

If despite all commented, fish arches will not appear satisfactory, Perhaps the problem lies in mounting the transducer. If installed on the transom, adjust so that the face is facing downward; make this adjustment with the boat in the water. If you become inclined, fish arches will not be displayed. If the arc tends to go up but not down, This indicates that the front of the transducer is too high and should lower. If only half of the descending arc seen, It means that the transducer is tilted downward and, Thus, upload it.

Summary Fish Arches

1. Sensitivity

Although the optimal sensitivity setting will get activating the "Advanced Signal Processing (ASP™)”, whenever necessary adjustment may increase.

2. White depth

The depth at which the fish is found may determine to be observed or not like a bow. If the fish is in shallow water, It will not stay for a long time within the transducer beam, which hinder you to observe the screen like a bow. Normally, the greater the depth at which the fish is, the easier it is to be reflected on the screen as an arc.

3. Speed boat

With engines clutched boat or in neutral, Go experimenting until you find the right gear to which the fish are reflected as bows. Normally, a slow navigation always gives better results.

4. Sonogram displacement

apply, As minimum, a displacement rate of echogram 3/4 or higher.

5. Zoom level

If you see markings that could correspond to fish but not reflected as bows, I applied zoom on them. Zoom function with the screen resolution increases substantially.

Arcos latest tips on Fish

Probably, very small fish will not generate arcs. Sometimes, because of water conditions, clutter intenso o termoclinas, it is not possible to raise enough sensitivity so that the arcs are observed. For best results, sensitivity adjustment possible, without reaching levels that generate a lot of noise on the screen. In normal and deep water, this setting used to give good results.

A school of fish may appear on screen taking different forms; this will depend on the bank that is within the cone transducer. In shallow water, fish clusters tend to be reflected as block, provided no apparent order. Deepwater, each individual will generate an arc proportional to your own size.

Why Arcos Fish?

The explanation of why fish are reflected as arcs must be sought in the relationship that exists between fish and the beam angle transducer, as the boat moves on said fish. When the outer margin of the beam hits the fish, a pixel on the screen is activated. As the boat passes over the fish, decreases the distance to it. In shallow water, more pixels are activated on screen. When the beam center is located just above the fish, It is generated the first half of the arc; This is turn, the shortest distance to the fish. When the fish is near the boat, the signal is very intense and thicker bow. You as the ship moves away from the fish, distance increases and the pixels appear progressively with depth, until fish is either the beam angle.

If the fish does not pass right through the center beam, the arc will not be well defined. If the individual does not stay long inside the cone, too many echoes are not displayed and those that if they do, they are weak. This is one of the motives for which it is difficult to see fish arches in shallow water. The beam angle is too narrow to generate an arc from the detected signal.

Remember that for an arc is generated, there must be movement between the boat and the fish. This implies drag at low speed trolling. If you are anchored or moored, They will not show fish arches, instead of them observed as horizontal lines entering and leaving the cone.

Recordings of actual Echograms

The following recordings were obtained echogram with a probe Lowrance X-85 liquid crystal. It has a transmitter 3000 watts of power, screen resolution 240 x 240 pixels and uses a frequency of 192 kHz.

Example X-85 1

Here we see Item Display format, a presentation of the water column beneath the boat. Indicating depth range, right hand side of the screen, It is between 0 and the 60 pies. On the left side of the screen we see that has been applied on Zoom 30 pies, between the 9 and the 39 pies. As the unit is working in Auto Mode (observe the indication "auto" in the top center of the screen) It will maintain the scope so that the bottom profile is permanently observe. The water depth is 35.9 pies.

The unit used an HS-WSBK transducer “Skimmer®”, installed aft. The sensitivity level is set to 93% or more. The scroll speed is set echogram a step below the minimum.

A. Surface Clutter

The marks appearing at the top of the screen can extend many feet below the surface. This effect is called "Surface Clutter". It is caused by various factors: air bubbles in the wind and waves, shoals of small fish, plankton and algae. Sometimes, They can be big fish feeding on baitfish and other foods that are on the surface.

B. GRAYLINE®

The GRAYLINE® function is used to outline the bottom contour that, sometimes, It can be hidden under bushes and remains submerged. You can also guide us on the typology of the same. A very hard bottom returns strong echoes, generating a wide gray line. A soft background, lodoso or many algae, return weak echoes, which signal it is reflected as a thin gray line. The background of this image is hard, composed of numerous rocks.

C. Structure

Usually, the term "structure" is used to identify trees, debris and other objects that lie at the bottom, but not part of the. In this picture, “C” It will probably be a tree that comes from the bottom. This recording was obtained in an artificial lake. When this lake was built some trees remained, being created in their environment natural habitats for fish.

D. Fish arches

The X-85 probe has a very significant advantage over direct competitors and that is capable of displaying individual fish, reflected on screen, arcuate (See section Why Arcos Fish?) This screen, They appear several large fish right on the substance at the point “D,” while smaller fish remain suspended in half the screen and near a structure.

E. Other elements

The long and partial arc observed at point “E” not for a fish. We are trolling fishing near a cove that has numerous buoys linked together by ropes. Other cables anchored buoys in the background. Big Bow on “E” was generated when we passed over one of these large cables that anchor buoys.

Example X-85 2

We observe, Full Screen Format, a presentation of the water column directly below the boat. The depth range is between 8 and the 38 pies, with zoom applied to those 30 pies. As the unit is working in Auto Mode (observe the indication "auto" in the top center of the screen) It will maintain the scope so that the bottom profile is permanently observe. The water depth is 34.7 pies.

The unit used an HS-WSBK transducer “Skimmer®”, installed aft. The sensitivity level is set to 93% or more. The scroll speed is set echogram a step below the minimum. A and B. Fish arches

The X-85 probe has a very significant advantage over direct competitors and that is capable of displaying individual fish, reflected on screen, arcuate (See section Why Arcos Fish?) This screen, They appear several large fish right on the substance at the point “B,” while another big fish remains suspended just above them.

C. Structure

The surface clutter reflected in “D” (top of the screen) It extends below 12 pies. Just below the small fish are observed Clutter, surely it is baitfish to feed larger individuals.