If you’re new to boating or just getting serious about fishing, picking the right electronics can feel overwhelming. But you don’t need a complicated or expensive setup to start catching more fish and navigating safely. At HawkEye Electronics, we design portable, powerful sonar and fish finders made for real-world beginners. In this guide, you’ll discover the top boat electronics for 2025, how to use them, and how to pair your gear with smart apps like Navionics for a better on-the-water experience.
🚤 1. Best Fish Finder for Small Boats: HawkEye FishTrax™ 1C
When space is limited, the FishTrax™ 1C is the go-to solution for small boats like kayaks, jon boats, and inflatables. It’s compact, reliable, and gives you pro-level sonar without the pro-level price tag.
🔍 Features:
-
Full-color HD VirtuView™ display
-
Dual-frequency sonar
-
Fish targeting & depth tracking
-
Works on boats, docks, or ice
Why It's Great for Beginners:
-
No complex wiring
-
Can be handheld or mounted
-
Battery-operated (no need for 12V power)
🎣 SEO Keyword Win: “best fish finder for small boats”
⚓ 2. Boat-Mounted Sonar Made Simple: FishPod® 10BX Bluetooth Fish Finder
The FishPod® 10BX is the ultimate solution for boaters who want the power of Bluetooth sonar without the hassle of wiring, drilling, or expensive installations. Designed to mount directly to your boat, this unit pairs seamlessly with your smartphone or tablet to deliver real-time sonar data via the FishPod® app.
🛥️ Best For:
-
Small boat and kayak anglers
-
Boaters who want wireless sonar
-
Users who prefer app-based displays over bulky units
🔧 Key Features:
-
Boat-mount transducer with non-permanent installation
-
Bluetooth Smart wireless connection to your phone/tablet
-
Real-time sonar depth, fish, bottom contour, and water temp
-
Operates on included USB-rechargeable battery pack
-
Compatible with both iOS and Android
Why It's a Game-Changer:
The 10BX removes all the friction of traditional sonar setups—no control head, no wires, and no permanent drilling. You get pro-grade sonar performance with full portability and total control through your phone.
🔗 Bonus: Pair with Navionics for GPS-based charts and mapping to create a fully integrated fishing and navigation system—right from your mobile device.
🧭 3. Pair Your Sonar with a Navigation App Like Navionics
Your fish finder shows what’s below—you need an app like Navionics to show what’s ahead. Combining sonar data with marine charts creates a smarter and safer boating experience.
✅ Why Pair Them:
-
Use sonar for fish & structure
-
Use Navionics for real-time maps, tides, and GPS plotting
-
Mark hotspots, set routes, and return to productive locations
📲 How To Set It Up:
-
Mount your phone or tablet on the boat
-
Open the FishPod® app or view FishTrax™ data
-
Run Navionics simultaneously to track GPS and sonar zones
🔗 Use both apps side-by-side to stay on fish and stay on course.
🛠️ 4. How to Install a Fish Finder – In Under 10 Minutes
You don’t need a degree in marine electronics. HawkEye’s fish finders are DIY-friendly and take just minutes to set up.
3-Step Install (FishTrax™ 1C):
-
Mount the transducer with a suction cup, bracket, or float
-
Power the unit with 4 AA batteries
-
Scan the water—no wires, no stress
🛡️ Beginner Tip: Always use marine-grade sealant around any installed cable holes (if you go that route).
🧠 Final Thoughts: Start Smart, Fish Smarter
Marine electronics don’t need to be expensive or complicated. Whether you’re on a kayak, small boat, or just casting from the bank, HawkEye’s sonar tools help you fish more effectively and navigate with confidence. Pair your devices with apps like Navionics to unlock even more data—and more fish.
👉 Ready to upgrade your fishing game? Explore FishTrax™ and FishPod® at HawkEyeElectronics.com