Top Ice Fishing Flashers for 2023
Humminbird Ice-55 Six Color Flasher
This top-rated flasher is perfect for serious anglers looking for a reliable option with advanced features and a user-friendly interface.
- Large display for easy visibility in various weather conditions.
- Dual beam sonar for versatile depth detection.
- Some users reported issues with the charger quality.
Vexilar FLX-12 Genz Pack With 12 Ice-Ducer
This budget-friendly flasher is ideal for beginners and those looking for versatility without breaking the bank.
- Bright display suited for low-light conditions.
- Convenient built-in handle for easy transport.
- Lacks a protective carrying case, which may be a concern for some.
Garmin Striker Plus 4 Ice Fishing Finder Bundle
While not a traditional flasher, this fish finder is great for detecting fish under the ice, making it a solid choice for tech-savvy anglers.
- Combines sonar and GPS for enhanced fishing experiences.
- Durable carrying case with space for accessories.
- Some users found the display a bit difficult to read in bright sunlight.
Which ice fishing flasher is best?
When ice fishing, visibility beneath the frozen surface can be a challenge. That’s where ice fishing flashers come into play, providing real-time feedback about the underwater environment. We found the Humminbird Ice-55 Six Color Flasher to be our top pick due to its portability, ease of use, and ability to automatically detect water depth.
What to know before you buy an ice fishing flasher
Understanding Ice Fishing Flashers
Ice fishing flashers, often referred to as fish finders, significantly enhance your fishing experience. While they aren’t mandatory for ice fishing, they can greatly improve your success rate by using sonar technology to detect fish and underwater structures.
Differences Between Ice Fishing Flashers and Fish Finders
Although both devices utilise sonar, ice fishing flashers are specifically designed for stationary fishing, displaying fish in a vertical column. In contrast, fish finders can be used from boats and provide a broader range of information at greater depths.
How to Use an Ice Fishing Flasher
The sonar beam is emitted from a component called the transducer, while the display screen shows the presence of fish and other objects using colourful light bars. Typically, a green bar indicates smaller objects, while yellow or red signifies the presence of fish. If the display shows a thick bar, it often means a fish is approaching your lure.
Key Features to Consider
Display Quality
A bright, large LCD panel is essential for visibility under varying light conditions. Look for a model that offers a clear view, even in bright daylight or adverse weather.
Cone Angle
The sonar cone angle affects how wide the detection area is. A wider cone can help see more fish, but a narrower beam provides greater precision in specific spots. Ideally, choose a flasher that allows you to switch between cone angles.
Portability
Many flashers can be bulky, so opt for a model that comes with a weather-resistant carrying case. Some are designed to fit neatly within a five-gallon bucket, which is a common accessory for ice anglers.
User Instructions
If you’re new to ice fishing flashers, look for products that come with comprehensive instructions or even video guides to help you set up and understand the device.
Price Range for Ice Fishing Flashers
The price often reflects the build quality, battery life, and features such as screen clarity and depth adjustment. Most anglers will find themselves spending between £300 and £600 for a reliable flasher.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Ice Fishing Flashers Easy to Use?
A. Once you’re familiar with the display, they are generally user-friendly. However, it’s always wise to read the manual before heading out onto the ice.
What’s the Difference Between Cover and Structure?
A. In ice fishing terminology, ‘cover’ refers to underwater features like vegetation, while ‘structure’ denotes the permanent characteristics of the body of water, such as dips or rises in the lake bed.
Best Ice Fishing Flashers to Consider
Our Top Choice: Humminbird Ice-55 Six Color Flasher
Overview: This flasher features a sizeable display, durable construction, and advanced technology.
Pros: Its dual beam sonar allows for both wide and narrow settings, and the depth range can be adjusted manually or automatically.
Cons: A few users reported receiving units with faulty chargers.
Best Value: Vexilar FLX-12 Genz Pack With 12 Ice-Ducer
Overview: An affordable yet effective flasher that suits various ice fishing scenarios.
Pros: It has multiple depth settings and an easily readable display for low-light conditions. The built-in handle enhances portability.
Cons: It does not come with a protective case.
Worth Considering: Garmin Striker Plus 4 Ice Fishing Finder Bundle
Overview: Not a traditional flasher, but an excellent fish finder for ice fishing applications.
Pros: Combines sonar with GPS for effective tracking of underwater structures and fish, all in a robust carrying case.
Cons: Some users wish the display were clearer in bright conditions.