Is forward-facing sonar simply another cool technology… or the end of sportfishing as we know it?

Since first arriving on the fishing scene in 2017, forward-facing sonar (FFS) has enjoyed a growing legion of fans, and for good reason. Not only does it let anglers scour the water column for fish and structure in any direction out to roughly 100 feet, it also reveals what’s happening beneath the surface in real time. So along with spotting fish, FFS also lets anglers observe how those fish are reacting to their baits, allowing them to refine their presentations accordingly.

As the technology’s popularity grows, however, so does the number of anglers wary of its implications. One such person is Andrew Vivian, who wrote to us “as a recreational angler concerned about the future fishing, and our collective ability to advance the discussion from our clubs and social media to the offices of our policy makers.” With that, we invited him to present the case for regulating FFS.

At the same time, we also invited a keen user of FFS to make the case in favour of leaving the technology unfettered, and to address any concerns from within the broader angling community. Enter Rapala’s Chris Hockley, a well-known and highly respected professional in Canada’s sportfishing circles. Let the great debate begin!

—THE EDITORS

THE CASE FOR FFS

By Chris Hockley

Electronics in fishing have always sparked debate, and forward-facing sonar (FFS) is no exception. Since the first recreational fishfinders of the late 1950s, anglers have seen a steady progression in technology, from LCR colour units in the 1980s to side-finding sonar and 3D scanning in the early 2000s, to 360-imaging followed by live-imaging in the past decade. We also now utilize GPS and mapping integration daily.

Each innovation faced initial skepticism, but all were ultimately accepted as their benefits became apparent, and suspicions of unfairness and detriment to fisheries faded. And remember, seasons and catch limits remain in place to prevent overfishing, regardless of any technological advancements.

One major source of initial resistance to FFS has been its cost. Early adopters did pay a premium, creating a perception that success in fishing can be bought. As with previous technologies, however, prices have dropped over time. Recently introduced all-inclusive FFS units, for example, are now available at a fraction of the cost of earlier transducer-only models, making the technology accessible to more anglers. This mirrors the evolution of earlier advancements, from LCR displays to GPS integration.

FFS is one of the most transformative technologies to emerge in modern angling. It offers anglers unparalleled insights into fish behaviour, location and environmental dynamics, leading to more efficient and enjoyable fishing experiences. While FFS has sparked debates within the angling community, the advantages underscore its potential to shape the future of fishing for the better.

THE BENEFITS OF FFS

One of the most significant contributions of FFS is the insight it provides into fish behaviour and habitats—so much so that I’ve put down my rod and reel to watch in wonder as a National Geographic moment unfolds on my screen. By observing fish in real time, anglers gain insights that were previously impossible to attain. For example, FFS has revealed how often fish suspend in open water, react to different lure presentations, and migrate in response to environmental changes. Along with improving individual fishing success, such information also contributes to the broader understanding of aquatic ecosystems.

Equally important, FFS has also proven effective in attracting younger generations to fishing. In a world dominated by instant gratification and technology, FFS offers a video-game-like experience that resonates with tech-savvy youth. It simply creates a more interactive and engaging way to fish, encouraging participation from those who might otherwise not take up the sport.

FFS offers anglers unparalleled insights into fish behaviour, location and environmental dynamics

It is essential to remember that FFS is a tool, not a magic solution. Success in fishing still relies on fundamental skills, such as selecting the right rod, reel, line and lure for the conditions at hand. FFS simply adds to an angler’s toolkit, enabling more informed decisions and efficient use of time on the water.

And as with any tool, the proper use of FFS requires skill, practice and an understanding of the technology—it won’t catch you fish just because it’s mounted on your boat. Rather, anglers must learn how to interpret the data FFS shows them, and adjust their fishing strategies as needed. Anyone who has used this technology can you tell stories of wasted hours in search of a bite, despite seeing many fish on their screen.

Professional tournaments illustrate this point vividly. While most competitors use FFS, the consistent top performers are those who have mastered the nuances of the technology. Conversely, anglers who merely install FFS without investing time in learning its applications often struggle to find consistent success. Consider Canada’s own Jeff Gustafson, who won the 2023 Bassmaster Classic utilizing his unique skills in a way no other competitor with FFS had figured out. Fishing remains an art and science, even with advanced tools, providing a humbling reminder that success cannot be guaranteed by any technology.

EMBRACING THE TECHNOLOGY

One of the most exciting aspects of FFS is the versatility it offers, with anglers and boaters discovering new uses for the technology every day. For example, it enhances safety by allowing users to navigate underwater structures or obstacles in front of their boat. This capability is especially valuable in unfamiliar waters and areas with hidden hazards.

The proper use of FFS requires skill, practice and an understanding of the technology

FFS also proves its worth in advanced fishing techniques. By shooting sonar beams to the side, anglers can monitor planer boards, ensuring their baits remain in optimal zones. Similarly, shooting beams backwards while trolling—including when using downriggers—provides real-time observation of how the fish are reacting to the lures. This allows anglers to adjust their presentations instantly, making trolling more dynamic and interactive than ever before.

Undoubtedly, FFS has revolutionized the fishing industry, heralding the introduction of new fishing techniques, lines, lures, rods and more (for examples of this, see the roundup of new fishing gear on page 58). It also clearly provides unparalleled educational opportunities. By fast-tracking the learning curve, it empowers anglers to explore open water and deep structures with confidence. At the same time, it reduces pressure on traditional fishing hot spots, potentially benefiting shallow-water and shoreline fish populations, as well as the anglers who fish them.

As with any innovation, FFS has its critics. However, history has shown that resistance to new technology often fades as its benefits become widely recognized. There is also a point of equilibrium, as fish become increasingly aware of sonar signals and avoid the pings of transducers, especially directional ones. Stories of fleeing fish are becoming commonplace. As technology advances, fish behaviour clearly adapts in tandem, forcing anglers to refine their techniques—and ensuring that fishing remains a rewarding, skill-driven activity.

Port Perry, Ontario’s Chris Hockley is an avid angler who enjoys embracing new technologies. He is Rapala’s North America product manager for VMC and Blue Fox, and a member of the global product development team.

And on the next page, the case against FFS…