Side Scan Fish Finder for a Kayak... Does it work?

[Nitefly]

Greetings, I am in the process of selecting a fish finder for my new kayak (Nucanoe Frontier). In some of my research, I came across a video that explained that the side scanning sonar only works well if going 4-6mph. Is this accurate? Should I consider side scan if I'm willing to pay the extra money? Currently, the Hummingbird 597ci HD DI is my front runner. I'm looking into a deployment arm for the transducer. Still have to do more research on everything I need to do to set it up.

[Memory Maker]

I think it said it works best at slow speeds 4-6 mph ........ it works fine on a Yak as long as the transducer is in the water outside the yak for the side scan. Several of us have the side scan.

[DOGFISH]

Side scan will work from a kayak. Several of the folks on the forum use side scan. The 597, which I also use, is a down imaging sonar, not side imaging, even though it has a wide angle scan. If you are looking for an arm to put the transducer on, for placement in the water, look at the MadFrog Gear Liberator. It comes in a larger model and a mini model. I also use a modified Liberator for my 597. I like the 597ci HD DI alot. Hope this helps out.

[ronaultmtd]

Side scan will work from a kayak. Several of the folks on the forum use side scan. The 597, which I also use, is a down imaging sonar, not side imaging, even though it has a wide angle scan. If you are looking for an arm to put the transducer on, for placement in the water, look at the MadFrog Gear Liberator. It comes in a larger model and a mini model. I also use a modified Liberator for my 597. I like the 597ci HD DI alot. Hope this helps out.

Plus 1 on the Liberator arm- I have the mini and it works like a champ on my Elite 5 DSI

[Nitefly]

Liberator looks like what I need. I'll definately check that out. For those using Side scan imaging, would you say it is worth an extra $180 (598ci Hd SI)? It looks pretty amazing!

[Memory Maker]

yes

[dsiekman]

Plus 1 on the Liberator arm- I have the mini and it works like a champ on my Elite 5 DSI

You guys ever get tangled up in those mounts? It seems like I could get wrapped around a zit on a flys butt if he were sitting on my deck. I wanted to go external but ended up doing a shoot thru for my elite 4 but haven't tested it yet.

[Nitefly]

Liberator looks like what I need. I'll definately check that out. For those using Side scan imaging, would you say it is worth an extra $180 (598ci Hd SI)? It looks pretty amazing!

Ended up ordering the 598ci. Thanks all!