GARMIN STRIKER 4 - Best Budget Sonar? - Full Review - Settings - On Ice Demos

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

OUTLINE and TIMESTAMPS Quick Overview - Best Budget Sonar? - 0:40 Basic Settings - 2:58 Range (Depth) - 3:49 Gain - 4:11 Overlay Numbers - 5:24 Scroll Speed - 6:04 Fish Symbols (Turn Off) - 6:40 Color Schemes - 7:10 Noise Rejection - 7:21 Fishing Modes - 8:37 Flasher - Shallow Water (LIVE DEMO) - 9:29 Flasher - Deep Water (LIVE DEMO) - 11:14 Basic Graph - 12:30 Basic Graph - Shallow Water - (LIVE DEMO) - 12:47 Basic Graph - Deep Water - (LIVE DEMO) - 13:11 Zoom Mode - Settings - 14:19 Zoom Mode - Deep Water - (LIVE DEMO) - 16:10 A-Scope Mode (USE THIS) - Settings - 17:22 A-Scope Mode - Deep Water - (LIVE DEMO) - 18:18 Split Frequency - Settings - 20:39 Split Zoom - Settings - 22:15 Transducer Options and Setup - 23:11 Transducer Settings - 26:26 Transducer Frequency Settings and CHIRP - 29:25 GPS-Waypoints - 31:13 Advanced Tips & Tricks - 32:57 Battery Options (Lithium Ion) - 33:03 Sonar near Drop-offs - 33:57 Reasons to Change Beam Width - 35:09 Braided Line Disturbance - 36:18 Wrap Up - 36:56

[@SB-qh8ps]

Thank you so much for this.

[@justincammidge]

I bought one of these units a couple days ago, I took it ice fishing today and had some problems. Anyway I will try to explain this the best I can. So I dropped the transducer and float down hole, the ducer was just below the ice pointed straight down. I identified the red hard bottom, but then above that were 3 -4 yellow/orange lines suspended a few inches off bottom. So I thought "that's great looks like fish". So i started to drop my lure down, ( was using a fairly big sized jig) and I saw nothing on the screen, so I turned up the gain so that I could see my lure. All was good there, but then the marks near bottom got really big and took up a good 4 feet of water on the screen. Also the marks didn't move at all, they do change color quite often. I would have thought maybe the fish would have moved to check out the lure, I'm thinking maybe they were not fish?? Any suggestions on what I might be doing wrong??? P.S. I was fishing 10 ft of water Thanks.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

@@justincammidge Were you fishing in weeds? My guess is there was some sort of cover (logs, sticks, weeds) on the bottom. Weeds will definitely make things look very cluttered and make it hard to use sonar. Especially if you're in 10 feet of water... that is the weed zone where they like to grow. It is also a good area for fish :) Fish marks do not sit completely still... they will move. I have fished in weeds with the sonar... to be successful get used to what is not moving and then look for anything that moves. That is likely the fish in the weeds. Play with the gain to minimize the return from the weeds but still be able to identify your moving jig (and therefore moving fish). Good luck!

[@justincammidge]

@@WhiteDogTrailCompany Thank you, now that you mention it, I did pull up a couple weeds, I didn't think that's what they would look like. Thanks again. Keep up the great work on the videos.

[@rye1906]

Hi! I have a new Garmin Striker 4 plus. Is the setting for transducer are the same. I used Dual Beam am I right or I need to used the GT8HW?

[@recoveradventures3728]

Garmin should hire you my friend. This has been the most useful video/info that I have found for this unit. Thanks so much.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

LOL... Thanks! I'm glad it was helpful!

[@JuanJDumeP]

Not playing around white dog you have the best review on this unit on youtube. Believe me I've been looking for a review like yours for months.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

@@JuanJDumeP That's awesome! Thank you!

[@gscfishingoutdoors]

I just bought a Stryker 4 and I agree, best review and reason I ordered mine....plus the sale price! 😆

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

@@gscfishingoutdoors That's awesome! I love to hear that it is helping people! Thank you for letting me know!

[@hoangthang8772]

In general, the TI units are faster in response to inputs. This is seen when quickly switching between sonar, downscan, chart, and split screens kzbin.infoUgkxeAxH15LxhjGlg5-CRYqjTGTEH0tbY4vk recommend The Hook units will show some lag on button pushes and screen switching. The big ticket item though is maps. If you install a mapping card such as Navionics or the free C-Map Genesis which has a lot of map detail, then moving around the map with the cursor or when running down the lake can lag significantly on the Hook units, but is seamless with the TI units.

[@cyjonzjones2762]

Great video, thank you! Got one of these from my son for Christmas and just now unpacking it because we are leaving in 6 days to head north to go fishing. We take our kids and grandkids every year. Being disabled and have younger grandchildren we always rent a pontoon to make it easier for all. They normally come with a depth finder but usually not the best but wouldn’t expect anything great on a rental. After watching your video I believe I can half assed figure it out. Thanks again great video!!

[@trailbossx2]

Just assembled my 4, from basspro, and literally, you just walked me thru the ENTIRE setup,,,doing it this way, hands on, in real time,,in sync, with your vid, is way more comprehensive,, and is much more effective, than reading the manual, over and over,,,I totally recommend this, to anyone new to this unit,,,and you sir, COMPLETELY nailed the instructional aspect, in relating the many, many, subtle features of this unit, in such a comprehensive manner,,,, your communication, and teaching skills, breaking this stuff down, in layman's terms, are EXTRAORDINARY!!!!!,,,by far, MILES ahead, of any vid, on the 4, to date!!!,,,,REALLY A GREAT, GREAT VID!!!!,,,,explaining the potential, of this sonar,,,,,,THANKS SO MUCH!!!!TIGHT LINES!!!!😎

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Wow! Thank you so much! 😀 Definitely appreciate it and glad it helped you out!

[@trailbossx2]

@@WhiteDogTrailCompany YW,,,,,,,NOW,,,on to some TACKLE BUSTIN' FISH!!!!!,,,,,,,,BRING IT!!!!!😎

[@electricblue3827]

Great video. I've used the 4+ for three years. Two points I will make. The 4+ has a bigger screen than the 4 and includes quickdraw for mapping. The bigger screen is actually taller than many larger finders. The height with A-scope is more important than width of the screen. I prefer the 4+ screen to the Echomap 7cv I use with livescope. Second, fish appear to come up from the bottom may be coming in from the side. They are shown as depth, but in reality, it is the distance from the transducer. This fact was apparent using the livescope. Livescope always shows the depth of the target. Regular transducers show only the distance from the transducer. With the 4+ I use the quickdraw feature on my boat in the summer to map my favorite lakes that aren't included in lake chips. This allows me to image the bottom as I move across the ice.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Agree with everything you said! I have a buddy with a 4+ and he used it to map the water outside his bay.

[@jayandrusiak]

I don’t leave comments much but this is one of the best, most well thought out, and detailed video on anything. Cudos my friend

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Thank you! I really appreciate that! :)

[@kylemadisonsdaddy]

Awesome information! I hope Garmin is supporting you for this! Thank you for taking the time to do this.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

LOL... No support from Garmin. Just really like this device for the price. :)

[@joshschwarzbauer8155]

I just pulled the trigger buying this guy, with both transducers for Ice Fishing and for my Kayak. I am pumped!

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Sweet! Enjoy!

[@leesuschrist]

By far the best tutorial about this unit that I've been able to find. This is my first fish finder and I'm just starting to get into ice fishing. This answered all the questions I had.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Glad I could help

[@benbourgon4980]

I have been looking for a video about this sonar that would teach me everything. Found it! Thank you! Love all the content.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Thank you! A big reason I made it is that I didn't see a video that covered more than just a few things (including my old ones). It is such a popular device (rightfully so).

[@mikestetler9289]

Unreal video, just got my unit yesterday fished 8 hrs today you have taught me more than l would have learned in a week fishing wow thanks again may GOD bless you

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Perfect! Exactly why I made the video!

[@tburd55]

Best video for beginners. Truly educational video.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Thank you!

[@tommathews3964]

Fantastic video! We've done extensive bottom work to our 15 acre lake, mucked out the bottom, added a ton of humps, channels and ridges, new shorelines (you've got to do something with all of that dirt!), etc. Our bass are now reaching the 5lb range and it's time to get back after them! I've just recently purchased this unit and look forward to learning our lake all over again, with your help! I have 2 units on my big boat but wanted this portable for the small lake. Thanks so much for taking the time to do a thorough demonstration/explanation video! Truly one of the best I've ever seen!

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Wow... it's always been my dream to have some private water like that and manage it. Sounds soooo cool!

[@tommathews3964]

@@WhiteDogTrailCompany Well.......if you get down around Eastaboga Alabama, holler! You're welcome anytime!

[@ralphwaltrts5994]

Let me start out by saying Garmin should hire you as a Garmin Striker 4 or Garmin fish finder instructor . This is by far the best Garmin Striker 4 video I have seen and believe me, I have watched dozens and I mean literally dozens of individuals trying to explain the setup and how to use the garmin Striker 4. You went through each setup step by step, and performed on the water live setup which was extremely useful. The simulator shows the fish in the shape of an arc, I rarely see arcs. You taught me through your video that the fish could be just a straight line coming off the bottom or straight line in the water column, and not necessarily have any color to it at all. It might be a white line. Before seeing that, I didn't know whether I was seeing fish or not, because there were no arcs too let me know as shown in the simulator. ill repeat that, there are not always arcs to show the fish unless it's a very large fish. Thank you so much for educating me on how to use the Garmin Striker 4 fishfinder. I will strongly recommend this video to anyone purchasing or who has purchased the Garmin Striker 4 fish finder.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Thank you so much! I'm glad it was helpful!

[@jamesblackledge4009]

Good tutorial on the Striker 4. One useful thing I can ad: With your A scope on, at the bottom of the A scope graph is a number. This is the diameter of the cone at that depth...

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

I will have to check that out... I never noticed it!

[@Smith04032]

I’m pretty sure I just bought this because of your wicked review I hope I’m as satisfied as the rest of the people that talk the world about this

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

It will be money well spent!

[@jkane1341]

I had my unit for 4 years now, I have been using it for years and barely scratched the surface of what the unit can do. I used to use dual screen mode all the time because I had no idea what the settings did or how to use them. I jigged over 60 fish this weekend, which isnt abnormal for me, but I watched so many fish eat my spoon, great video. I like chirp 77, ulstrascoll mode, and the A scope. I got my transducer to lay flat with a couple zip ties in the screw hole and wrapped on the cord too.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Perfect! LOVE the A Scope for jigging!!!

[@presacanariokw8943]

I wanted a fish finder for awhile now but they are all expensive and I thought the cheaper ones were no good. This video changed my mind. Awesome video thank you!

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Yeah... I know your pain. I had the same problem until I found this device!

[@jrlundman]

This is a fantastic video on exactly how to use all the functions of the Garmin Striker. I go to this video when I go out fishing to figure out how I want to set it up. So I want to thank you very much for your awesome review.

[@dynablade_1336]

I picked up the striker 4 plus ice unit a few years ago and I absolutely love it. I live up in Canada and it was a little more than 200 bucks. It's such a great unit for being cheaper than an ice-35 with way more features

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Best bang for the buck for sure!

[@becomingminnesotan5288]

Thank you so much for taking the time to make this. Helped me decide to get this as my first sonar. I used it up in the BWCA this past summer and am using for ice fishing this season and don’t regret purchasing.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Yeah... great device for the price! I don't think any one has ever regretted buying it 😂

[@deannaking1042]

Absolutely the best video I have seen on this unit so far! I have two of these because I love them so much, and after watching your video and learning things I had no clue it was capable of, I love it even more!

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

LOL! That's awesome! Glad it helped! :)

[@MrWhiteboy573]

Really looking forward to using mine! Got it originally for my kayak and came across this video right when my friends wanted to start getting into ice fishing this year.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

They're great for both! I have a video where I set it up on my solo canoe. kzbin.info/www/bejne/q6vRY3SJjLeLa68

[@meugenewesley]

This is the only video people need to watch. Thank you for making this. Excellent

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Glad it was helpful!

[@coz594]

This is clearly the best best review/tutorial on this unit in all of youtube land. Thank you kind sir. I have had my Garmin for over two years and have just now learned tons of extra info on it!

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Thanks! It is an awesome little unit packed with functionality and at great price! I'm glad the video helped! :)

[@dwag303]

Thank you for the info ! I was so confused on if I needed a ice transducer for this or not to ice fish and finally someone explained it all in English instead of mumble jumble

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

No problem! Glad it was helpful!

[@timberserpent]

Excellent video on this unit. I don’t use it for ice fishing but most of this information applies to jigging Kokanee and Trout from my kayak in the deep lakes near me in California. I appreciate the content.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Yeah... I use this unit in my solo canoe for both trolling and jigging! Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@jeremycarlson376]

I’ve been looking at the Striker Plus 4 as my first fish finder for ice fishing and this is by far the best video out there on the Striker series. Thank you for making such a detailed video, you’re great at explaining things too.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Thank you! You can't go wrong with this device as a starter device! Good luck!

[@MikeMike-eq7ic]

I came here knowing nothing about fish finders but wanting to buy one for my kayak. That was absolutely everything I needed to know about this product and will be buying it. Thanks, subscribed!

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Awesome! It is really a great device for both ice and kayak. I have another video you might like where I set it up on my Solo Canoe. kzbin.info/www/bejne/q6vRY3SJjLeLa68

[@MikeMike-eq7ic]

@@WhiteDogTrailCompany My Striker 4 arrived today, I watched this again while sitting in the kayak going through the settings with you. Thanks again.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

@@MikeMike-eq7ic No better way to do it! :)

[@EnigamiNetshinobi]

To know how to be able to read the screen is to look at it for hours and hours. Great review btw. Awesome explanation on the menu and setup.

[@TSniper79]

I use this unit all the time for ice fishing. The best value out there bar none. Really liked your video. You explained everything really well. You sir have earned a sub.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

I completely agree and thank you for subscribing! We try to share as much information through our videos as we can! There are a lot of "How To" videos on the channel.

[@OceaReef]

The most detailed informative video for Garmin I had ever came across… although I am looking for Garmin striker 7cv, I still stay on and watch the whole video…

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Thank you! I haven't used the 7cv but I believe much of the interface and options will be similar.

[@OceaReef]

@@WhiteDogTrailCompany yap i guess it should be more or less the same as its a bigger version of 4

[@dhbfpv]

Top notch video!!! just pulled out mine after a couple years of not using it and found everything I needed answers to in this video..

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

That's great! Good luck with it!

[@simeonmccune2316]

10/10 super helpful video I just bought this unit and the instruction manuals were not all that helpful so thank you for explaining it, can’t wait to catch some monsters

[@browntrout611]

200 khz frequency and fast scroll for deep jigging, ice or summer. Got it! Sometimes the 77khz shows my spoon or jig deep with good clarity, but it's erratic. I can't always count on the 77khz for deeper water if I want to see the lure.

[@riverboyd946]

I am really excited to use this device after this video. I just got mine in the mail yesterday. OMG😁

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

That's awesome! You will definitely like it!

[@bobjackman8654]

Awesome job. Just bought my Striker 4 and feel like I'm ready go go. Thank you.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Awesome! Good Luck!

[@DingerOutdoors]

Best video I’ve seen so far great job man!

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Thank you! :)

[@j.a.langley70]

Really awesome tutorial! I just bought the ice fishing bundle and watching your video really got me excited - so happy I purchased this now!

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Yeah... you made a good choice for sure!!! Enjoy it!

[@northofdetroitoutdoors7404]

Thank you! So happy you made this video! I bought my unit a couple of seasons and have had good but not spectacular results. I tried to figure things out myself but found it hard to obtain good info. You provided everything I needed and more! I followed along with my unit as you “taught.” The A Scope is a game changer. You made my day!

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

That's awesome! I'm glad it helped! A Scope is the bomb!

[@docholliday87]

Picked the ice kit version up on Boxing Day, used it for the first time last night, this video cleared up a TON of questions I had with it. Thanks for all the fantastic in-depth information

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Absolutely! Glad it was helpful! One little thing can make a big difference sometimes with these devices!

[@westmichiganangler5419]

Without a doubt the most in depth video on this finder, packed full of information and straight to the point. Awesome man, definitely appreciated. Really helpful to figure some things out before I get out on the ice

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Thank you for the comment :) Hope you have a good ice season!

[@zackw1821]

I ended up buying the Striker plus 4 ice package because of this video. I used it a handful of times and I already love it. The plus 4 ice package actually comes with a dual beam ice transducer. I think if you buy the 4 in the ice package, you need to buy that separately. All depends on use though. I plan on using this in I'm kayak or in my boat with my Down Imagining, so I'll need to buy the other ducer anyway. But just an FYI if you are going to just use it for ice fishing. Great video, great product, thank you for the in-depth lesson!

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

You're welcome... Glad it is useful!

[@kylemartel5526]

This video is about to change my whole fishing life, thank you!

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

😂😂😂 What a great comment! I hope it does change your fishing life!

[@oldpolak5203]

I bought one of these for 99 bucks a couple years ago, but it was just the summer bundle .I works great . It was on sale at Cabelas . I wish I bought 5 of them . I had to buy the ice transducer separate , but you can use the summer one for ice . Great lesson on the settings you did on this unit . I am pretty sure I understand , but its a lot to take in . I had to re watch the A scope part afew times because there is o much there so fast . GOT IT ! Thank you

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Yeah... there is a ton of information in there. I put timestamps in the top comment so you can just click the time for the section you want to watch and it will jump you right there. I did that because you may want to pick out certain sections or watch certain sections over and over until you're comfortable with it. Good luck!

[@davidspeicher4890]

Great overview. I've used the GS4 lots but the advanced tips like dual screen and manual zoom are definitely helpful.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Glad it was helpful for even an experienced fisherman!

[@ikrunic23]

By far the best review on this unit! Nicely done!

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Thank you! :)

[@FreedomFishing]

Thank you for taking the time to make this video!

[@lawrencegarcia6717]

Great video!! My good friend got this same exact unit and today after striking out at both Sportsman’s Warehouse and Cabelas in Albuquerque, I’m ordering this exact unit this week. In the words of my friend Francisco, this is a game changer for ice fishing!!Best review vid on KZbin, thanks for taking the time.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

I agree with your friend... it is a game changer for ice fishing! Thanks for the kind words. Happy to help people!

[@byn1975]

Thank you for this great video! Could you please tell what makes this Garmin Striker 4 definitely better than Lowrance Hook 4x ?

[@riverrivers250]

How does it work… is there something u drop into the water for it to pick up the fish??

[@michaelcowan6254]

If you are running your boat across the lake. How quickly does the water depth update on the screen? Say at 30 mph and higher.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

I would say it updates more than once a second. I have used it on my motor boat a few times and it performs as well as other more expensive units that I've had. Any sonar I've had on my boat has had issues with keeping contact with the bottom at speed (usually 25mph or above). I believe this until actually did a little better than my other, more expensive units with this. We ran it on a vacation last summer speeding around and Adirondack lake and I don't think I really ever lost contact with the bottom and my boat maxes out at about 30mph.

[@michaelcowan6254]

@@WhiteDogTrailCompany Thanks for the reply.

[@dougbas3980]

Wow! I have fished with no fishfinder/sonar, but absolute novice at using such a device. This video was GOLD! Thank you and subscribed. Just bought inflatable 4 passenger boat with transom and 30 ft/lb motor. I also have a trip to a North Ontario lake this fall. My Garmin Striker 4 Plus is to be used both with my boat and their rental boat. Any suggestions about allowing Garmin to be used for both? It looks like you keep your garmin in a pack (maybe to shield sun light?) Is that what you recommend? Your video of fish chasing the lure was so helpful. One is to have the equipment, but more important is knowing how to use it. You have done me a great service; THANK YOU!

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

The pack I have is what I use for ice fishing. When I'm not on the ice I use it in a small solo canoe and I don't use the portable kit bag. I rig it with Ram Mounts and mount it to my canoe. I do have a video where I set it up a bit. Check it out here. kzbin.info/www/bejne/q6vRY3SJjLeLa68

[@joeconklin1275]

I'm saving this incase I need to make adjustments on the water. Thank you

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

That's what it's there for :)

[@RawRawly]

I just got this unit and can not wait to get out on the ice with it. Great video, very informative & very well done! Thank you very much

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Sweet! Good luck on the ice this winter! You won't be disappointed with it.

[@philtroskey7942]

I’m getting this thing in the mail tomorrow and this is the best video I have seen and I’ve lost all these they’re showing the actual fishing on it awesome awesome video you’re great

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Thank you! Glad it was helpful!

[@mikethompson5966]

best for the money no doubt. i have the striker 5 and it makes the split view fit well with a good bit of memory on screen still

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Nice! I think that is important. I have the Helix 7 now and that thing is incredible... although much pricier!

[@SamsShed]

Wow you killed this review. Thank you explaining this in a way that someone who is new to fishing electronics can understand!! Been fishing a long time but thinking I’d benefit from a fish finder. This really helps me out as I didn’t want something that would cost me a lot of money that I wouldn’t understand. This would be good for me! Thank you!

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

It is the perfect entry sonar. Great for use in all situations (boat or ice). Good luck!

[@micahread4795]

I put this on my kayak. Honestly it’s great for depth and water temperature. I really need to take the time and set it up for use on my kayak. After seeing what the capabilities are I’m hoping I can get some of the same results.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Cool... good luck!

[@micahread4795]

Thanks!

[@CatchLastCast]

By far most complete tutorial. I own the garmin and this is very very helpful! Thx

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@toddirvine5582]

Just bought the unit, and I love it. I am trying to figure out why my jig won't show up on the graph. I have tried every setting there is on the unit and nothing is working. Could be a problem with my transducer? Ice thickness? Any help would be greatly appreciated!

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Usually if you can't see your jig, the transducer is not lined up properly. It has to aim perfectly straight down.

[@jayirvin9882]

I bought the plus 4 last week. My first electronics I have gotten. Spent a long day drilling holes and moving. Got home tonight and the bag is soaking wet inside and out. Do I just open it up and let it air dry? Or do I need to take it all apart to dry?

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

I just open my bag on my sonar units after a day of ice fishing and let it air dry.

[@A.C._Taylor]

Thank you for creating this video. I purchased the Striker 4 package and an ice transducer from Cabela's (Bass Pro), for $10 cheaper than the Striker Plus 4 package, which only has the ice transducer. I really don't need to live map any lakes I'm on in the summer, so it was a pretty good deal that I couldn't pass up. I knew it was fairly feature rich but not in a way that you show. Should be arriving any day and can't wait to see if it makes me say "How have I fished for the last 42 years without one of these!?". Regardless if it does or not, I figure it is a good entry level unit for me to see if using a fish finder is for me or not. Tight lines!

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Great entry level unit. You will not regret your purchase!

[@zammit1683]

By far this is the most effective explaination on vertical fishing with sonar...i guess if u use it on a boat for bottom fishing, the screen would be kind of messy..? Still the bait and chasing fish can clearly seen?

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Thanks! The chasing is how we specifically target lake trout. They are much more likely to hit a bait that is fleeing. I have a buddy who does the same vertical jigging technique from his boat and kayak and as long as you are not drifting too fast it works the same. They key is your jig has to be in the cone of view on the sonar.

[@zammit1683]

@@WhiteDogTrailCompany thanks for the info. Really appreciate ur vids, keep up the great work. Thanks again.

[@_wyowild_]

Love mine! Had it for two seasons as well. open and hard water.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Love mine too! I use it for both ice and open water too. Had mine probably 3 years at least... maybe longer?

[@shanebarbeau4557]

Just picked up the ice bundle for my first sonar unit and I'll be trying it out tomorrow. This was super helpful, thank you!

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Awesome! This is the perfect device for your first! Good luck!

[@woodlandsnorth]

Thank you so much for this. Great Explanation! I just got a garmin striker plus with dual beam transducer...will this work for ice fishing or do I need a different transducer?

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

If you rig the transducer so it hangs perfectly straight down you do not need an ice transducer. I never bought the ice transducer for my Striker 4 and it works very well!

[@bryanswaykoski9779]

Just wondering when changing to an ice fishing transducer should this adjustment be made before connecting the transducer cable?

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

I've changed the setting on the fly. I don't think it matters.

[@titodelao443]

Going to buy one for my kayak and man u helped me decide on it before i buy it!! Definitely coming back to this video when i get it to set it up! Very helpful!

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

That's awesome! I have a video where I set it up on my solo canoe. There is a good mount you can get for it that you can attach to your kayak too. Check out this video... kzbin.info/www/bejne/q6vRY3SJjLeLa68 The mounts I used are linked in the description of that video.

[@titodelao443]

@@WhiteDogTrailCompany i just ordered it online no more than 10 mins ago and i can pick it up tomorrow at cabelas!! And will be sure to check that video out now!!

[@joeszymanski6936]

Great video. I’m thinking of purchasing this portable unit for back lake fishing. How long does the battery last between charges. I do not have access to electricity where I fish but plan on bringing a solar charger or small power pack.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

I think this is the perfect kit for what you want to do. The battery does tend to last a while but if you're carrying this device for back lake fishing then I would recommend using a Lithium-Iron-Phosphate battery. They're significantly lighter and they'll last way longer than the battery that comes with the kit. I rig this kit for some back country ponds in this video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/q6vRY3SJjLeLa68 I did not do the wiring for the battery in this though so maybe just get a Lithium battery that will connect directly.

[@NateEklund]

Awesome. Thanks! ?: if at 77, could the sonar work for two holes in a tent?

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Yes... depending how deep you're fishing and how close the holes are. I've seen people do it.

[@TalonReagan]

Absolutely. I drill 3 holes, sonar in the middle. Works flawlessly for me. I’m only going like 25ft deep so not sure about water deeper

[@wgs6606]

Thanks! Just got mine and with your tutorial I’m catching fish. Why did I wait 30 years to get a fish finder? Because this wasn’t around 30 years ago, damn it.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

😂😂😂 Well you have it now! 😉

[@wgs6606]

@@WhiteDogTrailCompany The zoom feature is super cool, but how do you get rid of the Zoom and Depth bars at top? Many thanks in advance!

[@davidrogel1263]

Wow, without a doubt the best review and intro to a device that I have ever seen not on just KZbin but anywhere. I just ordered this Garmin for my Kayak and now wish I was back up north to use it ice-fishing. Well, maybe not,,LOL Anyhow thanks a lot for sharing your knowledge not only on this one but on the whole aspect of these units.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Haha.. Thank you! I'm glad it was helpful! It is great on a kayak too! I have a video where I set up my solo canoe with it.

[@gunadoo]

You sold me it. Just got it at Bass Pro today for this ice season. I'm really hoping Lake Champlain freezes well for those Lakers!

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Great devices for the price! You'll be happy with it! Good luck this year!

[@gunadoo]

@@WhiteDogTrailCompany Thank you, you too

[@Captkid1]

A lot of people say they like the Garmin ST 4. I have had terrible performance from my Garmin Striker 4 Plus. At just over a year old now, it has never performed well. One of the problems is the depth alarm. It will not stay OFF. I fish a shallow bay and when the alarm on the Striker goes off it keeps flashing. Mine “locks” on the depth that triggered it. I have rest, cancelled, tried zeroing… I still get stuck in a shallow bay with no depth finder. Another issue is the wires are super thin going to the battery. The wires came out of the crimp at the fuse. The wires were so small the crimp was not holding them. An easy repair, but it happened while under way, in a shallow bay of oyster beds. The screen will self change to night mode while underway, so in bright sunlight, its unreadable. You can just detect that it is on. The unit has trouble finding its transducer. When first starting up, it is hit or miss if it can find its transducer. Sometime I have to power it off and back on again four or five times. Now when the alarm does it failure, the only way to cure it is to power off…. Then it can’t find its transducer again and we go round and round. Terrible Depth Finder. I purchased a different brand and hopefully a better depth finder. Out $300. Don’t even feel right about selling it.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

I'm sorry to hear that... I have almost never heard of people having issues with theirs.

[@Captkid1]

@@WhiteDogTrailCompany Thanks. I know many seem to like this depth finder. I have used a lot of different ones over the years. Suspect I just got one with some bad electronics in it. But the thin power wires not being crimped tight, is a quality control issue.. Comes off as very cheaply assembled. It really should have been soldered on a marine unit and respectable wire guage. But, I am getting old and the world I lived in is pretty well gone away. Maybe I expect too much out of $300 here in 2022?

[@konstantinromkin847]

Hello! I'm trying to choose a winter transducer for the Garmin Striker 4 plus. Which is better to take - GT8HW-IF or GT10HN-IF? Which picture will be clearer and the jig will be seen more clearly?

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

I'm honestly not familiar with the 10 to know the difference. I know people with the regular Striker 4 (not the plus) have really liked the GT8

[@JM-po4hm]

Just received one of these for xmas and this video saved me tons of learning pains. Thanks for the excellent info!

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

You are very welcome! Enjoy the device!

[@mycatumz640]

You helped me with my unit. I have the DV7 and the split screen is awesome. My son has a Hummingbird and I sure liked the Ascope feature he has and now I have it .Thanks

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

A-Scope is awesome!

[@TheNyfishguy]

Best Vid on this Unit, HANDS DOWN ! The Concise Info of this Vid - is Exactly why I Purchased this unit for My Girlfriend ! Great Job & Keep them Vidz Coming. Fish On !....

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@svennorman9138]

Have you tried the striker 4 cv vivid for lake trout? Curious what the screen looks like when the trout is running after the bait (not ice fishing, using swim bait from a boat)?

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

I have not unfortunately.

[@popsfishing]

great review! This probably the most comprehensive review I watched so far about garmin striker 4 😎👍

[@nathaniellarson8]

If you get the "Plus" version, you can map the lakes yourself and store it, so that's nice, especially for the small water guys who are fishing small lakes and ponds that are not mapped. It's something.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Yeah... my buddy bought the plus and mapped the bay and outside his bay on Lake George. He was somewhat less than happy with it though.

[@nathaniellarson8]

@@WhiteDogTrailCompany Oh, I imagine it isn't great at all, especially in deeper water, even with perfect transducer placement. I think that feature is aimed more at kayak guys fishing in smaller, generally un-mapped water bodies. That's why I got it, for ice fishing and to put on my canoe(that never happened). Now I just use the CMAP app to get me close to where I want to be for ice fishing.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

@@nathaniellarson8 Yeah... I did set mine up on my canoe (Hornbeck). I do really like it for that. I also just got a Humminbird Helix 7 for ice fishing :) I need ice to try it out though! I do use an app on my phone for pointing me to general places on lakes. I don't know the CMAP app. I use the Boat USA app.

[@nathaniellarson8]

@@WhiteDogTrailCompany jealous of the Hummingbird!

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

@@nathaniellarson8 I know... I have wanted it for a year. Another guide I know had it out on the ice last year with me. Loved it and wanted it ever since!

[@clarkman23]

Excellent review! I've had mine for almost a year, and this was extremely helpful (This is literally my first fish finder for fly fishing for tiger muskies out here in Washington). I've played with some of the settings while on the water, but it's tough when all I want to do is keep my fly moving. I don't know that it's really helped with specific fish (I never jig for them), but for structure and baitfish schools, it's been great. Also, it should come in handy this Spring when I try to get after some lake trout in Oregon with flies. Cheers!

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Thank you! I usually only use my sonar for depth and structure when I'm in a boat although it will certainly show you fish and bait. But when I'm on the ice and I'm jigging they are sooooo important!

[@nickhansen129]

Good review! I purchased one after I watched this. Thank you

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Awesome! You'll like it!

[@adhdandme]

@@WhiteDogTrailCompany I have one on my boat and kayak and you showed me a lot of stuff I didn’t know. awesome video

[@owneroftomtordsupremacyrea38]

what is the best transducer if you upgrade and what is the max depth...thank you appreciate the answer

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

I don't have any of the ice transducers for it but based on research and other people's experiences the GT8HW is the recommended ice transducer. I have links in the description of the video but here is the ducer... Recommended Ice Transducer (GT8HW-IF): amzn.to/3o6TR4N Also... I just googled the max depth and not sure it if is accurate but it says 1600 feet... Hope you're not using it that deep lol.

[@robertmaloney567]

Just put my Striker 4 Plus together so this video was excellent.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Awesome! Good luck!

[@bluedoggum8373]

Do you know if the 10ah Dakota you linked will fit in the slot in the portable kit bag. It take it the 7ah fits for sure.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Yes... they both fit in the slot in the portable bag.

[@julianigoe1291]

Would you recommend this depth sounder for kayak fishing or is it better for ice fishing

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

It is great for both! I use for both ice fishing and on my solo canoe. Check out my solo canoe set up with it if you're interested. kzbin.info/www/bejne/q6vRY3SJjLeLa68

[@mikeleemon]

Good job. You really have a gift for explaining this without a lot of extra noise. Thank you for the video.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Thanks! It actually took a few takes and edits to get there. After watching things back I realized there was soooo much to cover that it had to be quick and to the point for each section. You can see by the time displayed on the sonar that the final take was actually around 1am-2am. ugh...

[@mikeleemon]

@@WhiteDogTrailCompany So the one I watched was for ice fishing. I want to take the device out on a kayak and fishing raft soon. What video should i watch for that?

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

@@mikeleemon I use a lightweight solo canoe.. It would basically be the same or similar setup. This video may help. kzbin.info/www/bejne/q6vRY3SJjLeLa68

[@mikeleemon]

@@WhiteDogTrailCompany Thank you.

[@andys1170]

It has a nice simulation mode to help you tune in off the water

[@gregstabryla9945]

I know I'm late in comments, but the only way you can see your bait and fish is flash/ ice fishing? How can this work, or does it, for fishing from a kayak during ice out? Have the Striker 4, looking for ways to expand use.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

You're not late at all. Ice fishing is much easier to see your bait when vertical jigging because you obviously are not moving and the bait is directly below you. However, I do have friends who use the Garmin while in a kayak and vertical jig in open water! They key is having your bait in the cone of view on the sonar. Widening the beam will help! But you need to be as still as possible. He actually uses a drift sock so that the kayak stays put and only drifts very slowly and steadily and as it drifts it keeps the kayak in a position directly into the wind. Having a consistent position and drift allows him to angle the sonar in the proper direction to follow his bait... so the sonar is not aiming straight down but angled toward his bait. He catches lake trout and watches the lake trout chase his bait all the way up. He has caught some great fish doing this! It is tricky but it can be done.

[@gregstabryla9945]

@@WhiteDogTrailCompany Thank you for reaching out. I fish smaller lakes and impounds, 900< acres in S.W. PA. Will be getting on the 3 Rivers this year.(PGH). Got my kayak in July , love it. Just looking to expand my applications. Thanks

[@corybeaverbone300]

Do you have any open water fishing videos? Just wondering what angle you put the transducer and how you mount yours onto your boat.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

I do. I have a video where i set it up on my Hornbeck solo canoe and what mounts I use. Here is that video kzbin.info/www/bejne/q6vRY3SJjLeLa68 Typically the angle should be straight down unless you are trying to watch you lure below you and there is a slight drift to the boat. Then you can angle it in the direction of your lure.

[@corybeaverbone300]

@WhiteDogTrailCompany thank you

[@johnsamothrakis4621]

Thank You , This is by far the Best video on the Garmin Striker 4, very helpful and informative, love the on water Tips 👍👍👍

[@johnsamothrakis4621]

Best Hands on Video on Utube 👍

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Awesome, thank you!

[@bazbbeeb7226]

Wonderful review/tutorial, i noticed youre at 42 degrees north, im at 42 degrees south here in southern Tasmania, no ice fishing here though but plenty of trout, sea runner season is not far away.

[@ifishadk9357]

Just got the striker ice bundle for Christmas, thanks for the in depth review! Couldn’t seem to find a good one. Now we just need Lake George to freeze haha.

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Awesome! Good Christmas then :) The lack of ice is killing me right now. I had 2 weeks off and had no ice to fish... was really frustrating. Now I'm back to work and the cold is coming... bad timing. gonna have to be a weekend warrior.

[@davidsdetailingco.9635]

Is that the 4 plus or just the striker 4, do you think ill be able to mark fish jiging in 100 ft of water, for lakers?

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

I use the 4 with the standard transducer (with boat mount) and mark lakers and my lure in over 100 feet of water very clearly! You do not "need" the 4 Plus. the 4 with standard transducer will work fine.

[@MrJump12k]

I see that your screen shows the tracking of what is seen a you move....How do you et the Garmin to do that?

[@MrJump12k]

Mine just shows it sliding on by>>>>

[@michaelhammond4937]

Is there a way just to see the fish and depth of the water I'm way to old to do all these steps ?

[@JuanJDumeP]

Woooooooooow the best review on this unit hands down. Not even the Garmin company themselves were able to demonstrate the unit as well as you did my friend. Amazing work. @garmin send this man all your stuff #garmin

[@WhiteDogTrailCompany]

Well I love this comment!! 😂 Thank you! I am not in anyway getting anything from Garmin.. just knew it would be useful for people to see the options and show what the different modes look like while actually on the water! Thank you so much for your comment! 😀

[@laksikafernando9839]

as you mentioned this is only for soft water fishing! is there anything like this for fishing in the ocean. if anyone can recommend any for me please