Bass Fishing Forum

General Bass Fishing Discussion => Dock Talk => Topic started by: Steve81 on January 10, 2022, 04:55:10 AM

Title: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: Steve81 on January 10, 2022, 04:55:10 AM
With all of the major leaps in technology in the fishing industry, it got me to thinking about what could be next. I mean think about it. Remember when Power Pole was introduced? Greatest thing since sliced bread! Now we have sonar that is forward-looking and gives us a live readout. Regardless of what your feelings may be on that one, that's still a pretty incredible feature when you look back at where we were just a handful of years ago. It wasn't that many years ago when the Color Selector was all the rage!

Side scan, electric-steer trolling motors, GPS mapping, and waypoint sharing are just a few of the major steps yet those are the more recent innovations. You only have to go back just a few more years and you get to the first generation of each of those pieces of technology.

I'd love to hear from you all on this subject, especially you old heads. I know you got a ton to talk about on this!
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: FD on January 10, 2022, 05:01:29 AM
Awesome post!  I for one am for it.


Tech does NOT make the fish jump in the boat, but it sure keeps you from wasting time fishing deserted areas.

Sent from my SM-G781V using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: topdsm0138 on January 10, 2022, 09:30:13 AM
Technology can be a good thing, but could eventually be a bad thing (see end of post sentence). I am an old-school kind of guy who uses the K.I.S.S. principal (Keep It Simple S....fill in your word for dummy.) I have no qualms with using it or anyone who does, but rather have a simple question to go with your post. At what poi t in the curve of tech progress, does fishing become less skill and/or luck, and become all automated? As in it does all the work, all you have to do is drop whatever bait it tells you infront of the fishes nose.
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: stevemyoung on January 10, 2022, 12:00:41 PM
I'm pretty torn, honestly.  Randy Blaukus on YouTube has some pretty interesting opinions on how all this technology is ruining things at the tournament level.  I'm nowhere near worrying about that kind of fishing, but still - as I'm just getting started, it's easy to feel like I've got a huge financial barrier to entry.  I know I can do fine without all the fancy gadgets... I just try to remind myself that there are folks out there catching fish with nothing more than a hand line.

The bit that worries me is the explosion of fishing as a hobby due to this pandemic - and how much more pressured all the fish in the lake might be now that they can be fished effectively wherever they are.  Where does the technology go from here?  It's not hard to imagine better resolution and range on those scopes, for one thing.

Lastly, I don't know if it's a fact, but I heard someplace that when a fish gets caught, it might take a break from feeding for a couple of days.   Could it get to the point where you can't catch 'em without the livescope?
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: BassmanRudy on January 10, 2022, 12:16:29 PM
**Not directed at you Steve**

Randy has a TON of opinions! Mostly cus he can't WIN anything so he has to Blame something!! I used to think Ike cried the most but wow this guy takes the cake in spades!

Technology is what it is. Heck no one here uses a stick and bone hook with an earthworm anymore lol! Or uses a paddle to get around(kayakers aside!).
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: coldfront on January 10, 2022, 12:37:01 PM
had a choice recently on which technology to 'get'.  decided on the 'big screen' units AND the HB 360°...  decided against 'live scope' technology.  but boy do I love being able to 'paint' the bottom structural/cover and see what's there!
what I think is even better?  the cream on top?  ability to waypoint ACCURATELY stuff you see 'off to the side' and 'out there'.
I'm so looking forward to using this 'new' tech to find/identify those off-bank boulder/current breaks on the river AND run the miles and miles of grass lines but be able to see the points/breaks at depth where the weeds thin/die out...
the question is:  will it be enough to hang with DW Verts?
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: topdsm0138 on January 10, 2022, 01:22:38 PM


Quote from: BassmanRudy on January 10, 2022, 12:16:29 PM


Heck no one here uses a stick and bone hook with an earthworm anymore lol! Or uses a paddle to get around(kayakers aside!).

Ug feels attacked....
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: Smallie_Stalker on January 10, 2022, 01:42:34 PM
I am a tech nerd so I embrace all things technology. At the same time I'm old school and still wonder how many of these younger guys raised on the technology could actually win a tourney or even find fish on an unfamiliar body of water if they didn't have it. Anyhow.........

It wasn't that long ago that the Aqua-View underwater cameras were banned from tournament fishing with the idea that if you could see where the fish were and what they were doing it took the sport out of fishing and/or it gave the tournament angler an unfair advantage over the fish.

Personally I don't see any significant difference between the Aqua-View concept and the new sonar units.

I'm with Steve81 though. It will be really interesting to see where technology goes moving forward.

Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: Wizard on January 10, 2022, 02:45:48 PM
I still believe the sport is called FISHING.  Part of the sport's attraction is the anticipation of a strike on every cast. Even on the worst fishing day of your life, the anticipation of a strike keeps you fishing. Compare that to knowing a strike will probably occur. Ho Hum, looks like another bass is going to bite my lure. Now I have to get up and reel it in.  Maybe I'll buy an automatic reel so I don't need to get up and wind them in. Heck, I would still need to get up and take them off the hook. Well, I'll buy the reel because TECHNOLOGY should soon develop a way to unhook a bass. What a great sport. The excitement overcomes me.

Wizard
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: Smallie_Stalker on January 10, 2022, 02:52:24 PM
Quote from: Wizard on January 10, 2022, 02:45:48 PM
I still believe the sport is called FISHING.  Part of the sport's attraction is the anticipation of a strike on every cast. Even on the worst fishing day of your life, the anticipation of a strike keeps you fishing. Compare that to knowing a strike will probably occur. Ho Hum, looks like another bass is going to bite my lure. Now I have to get up and reel it in.  Maybe I'll buy an automatic reel so I don't need to get up and wind them in. Heck, I would still need to get up and take them off the hook. Well, I'll buy the reel because TECHNOLOGY should soon develop a way to unhook a bass. What a great sport. The excitement overcomes me.


Wizard

~roflmao ~roflmao ~roflmao ~roflmao
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: rb-nc on January 10, 2022, 03:37:44 PM
I just this past year updated my electronics. Old ones were over 15 years old. It is nice "seeing" stuff you never knew about. But the most fun days I had this year I never turned them on.
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: D.W. Verts on January 10, 2022, 04:08:37 PM
I'm an older guy. I think most of it sucks. I've known Randy for years, and I understand where Rudy is coming from, but I agree on the technology. I just like the old ways, and I have enough success in doing things the old way. Kinda makes me glad that I'm not fishing tournaments.

I did a YT video a while back on the subject, and I touched on an angle to the forward-looking/heat-seeking radar stuff that no one else has talked about and that is very disturbing, and NOT ONE person commented on it (probably because few view my fishin' stuff). But it is an ANGLE that could possibly be a real issue if it isn't already.

I digress. To each his own. That's one of the things that gives this sport, and life in general, flavor. Peace.

Dale
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: D.W. Verts on January 10, 2022, 04:14:30 PM
Oh, and by the way, as an answer to coldfront's question-

First, I'm flattered that you include me in your thoughts. Truly.

Second, no- you cannot beat me with the new technology. Nope.

And finally- it won't matter anyway, I'm retired. It was fun, but I've won both of the IBass tournaments I've entered. Good enough. My focus, and I need to get on this, is helping the guys improve this contest. There you go (and I was wondering how to make that pitiful announcement).

Dale
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: BassmanRudy on January 10, 2022, 04:28:44 PM
I do agree it would be fun to put some of the "young-ins" in a boat with basic 2D electronics and see how it goes! Watched some of a recent high school event recap and all of the top guys were glued to the livescope screen!
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: Smallie_Stalker on January 10, 2022, 04:36:52 PM
Quote from: BassmanRudy on January 10, 2022, 04:28:44 PM
I do agree it would be fun to put some of the "young-ins" in a boat with basic 2D electronics and see how it goes! Watched some of a recent high school event recap and all of the top guys were glued to the livescope screen!

How about no electronics at all? Just depending on time of year (for the fish not us) and type of fishery to tell you where the bass and the bait should be and having to use your lure or C-rig or whatever to tell you bottom depth, composition and all that fun stuff.

That kind of fishing is a dying art.   :(

Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: D.W. Verts on January 10, 2022, 05:10:05 PM
Quote from: Smallie_Stalker on January 10, 2022, 04:36:52 PM
Quote from: BassmanRudy on January 10, 2022, 04:28:44 PM
I do agree it would be fun to put some of the "young-ins" in a boat with basic 2D electronics and see how it goes! Watched some of a recent high school event recap and all of the top guys were glued to the livescope screen!

How about no electronics at all? Just depending on time of year (for the fish not us) and type of fishery to tell you where the bass and the bait should be and having to use your lure or C-rig or whatever to tell you bottom depth, composition and all that fun stuff.

That kind of fishing is a dying art.   :(


Huh. You mean like the way I won IBass Gold this year? It was part of the challenge to myself that I could do it with just good old-fashioned blood & guts & knowledge & thinking & being versatile & looking & smelling & tasting (wow, another recent YT video of mine, right there).

That whole "where does it end" thing won't cut it. I myself, and to save myself from bring called a hypocrite, had 2D, GPS and side-imaging sonar on my last bass boat. And I'd do it again, because, like my modern trolling motor; reels, rods and fishing line, I would consider them invaluable TOOLS. If you want to take it ALL away you would be at a place in bass fishing that almost has never happened- tule dippin' with a cane pole and cotton line comes to mind. And frankly, that would be slightly stupid. Fun maybe, but "caveman bassin" probably wouldn't be much of a thing.

Take the sport back to just using flashers would be cool, but again, pretty stupid. But I've caught a lot of bass just using a flasher.

And I think a GPS, especially from the standpoint of the safety it provides with navigation, is very cool.

But the livescope-style technology. This is a new can of worms. Being able to WATCH a bass and see how he REACTS to each and every presentation. Wow. And folks say that me fishing "well stocked ponds" doesn't count.

Like an onion, Ogres have layers. Er, I mean, FISHING has layers. Heck I myself am one well-layered individual. But to be able to eliminate all of that water until you find bass, before you even fish? That's just weird. It's the NEW way for certain, but not my way. I spent too many years wasting hours and days and weeks looking for bass to try to do it any other way. What skills I developed as a bass fisherman were gleaned from all that time. So I don't look at it as actually "wasted" time.  But the kids of today are going to embrace it, as are many of the older dudes like FD. After all, time IS money. Kudos to you all.

I said in a YT video this summer (yeah, I know, I know) that I would always be a BETTER bass fisherman, fundamentally, than the modern technology-driven crowd, and I'm gonna stick to that. They will NEVER be as good as me. They may catch more bass, but that isn't the same as being better. I'll hold on to that little bit of whatever. Maybe it'll keep me warm at night. Peace.

Dale
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: topdsm0138 on January 10, 2022, 05:39:50 PM
Ok, ok, let me kind of rephrase part of my earlier post/statement.l here for clarity on where I stand. As one who likes a challenge, I believe in using electronics to the point where you still have to think and use the effort. IE: "Oh, the water temp is xxxx degrees and they we are on rocky bottom. Ok...so if I was a fish, id be holding to the shallower, sun "baked" rocks for a little warmth. Ok..now what kind of food/bait lives in those rocks?!...Ah! I'll use THIS bait today." As long as we can keep the thought process going, then it still stays challenging.
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: Eric-Maine on January 10, 2022, 05:51:34 PM
Quote from: Steve81 on January 10, 2022, 04:55:10 AM
With all of the major leaps in technology in the fishing industry, it got me to thinking about what could be next. I mean think about it. Remember when Power Pole was introduced? Greatest thing since sliced bread! Now we have sonar that is forward-looking and gives us a live readout. Regardless of what your feelings may be on that one, that's still a pretty incredible feature when you look back at where we were just a handful of years ago. It wasn't that many years ago when the Color Selector was all the rage!

Side scan, electric-steer trolling motors, GPS mapping, and waypoint sharing are just a few of the major steps yet those are the more recent innovations. You only have to go back just a few more years and you get to the first generation of each of those pieces of technology.

I'd love to hear from you all on this subject, especially you old heads. I know you got a ton to talk about on this!
I ordered Lowrance Active target last spring. It finally came in in November. It is still in the box.. I am though looking forward to using it.
In June I fished on Erie out of Presque Isle Bay. Lot of top finishers were all way off shore with their eyes locked on their forward looking units. The wind was blowing bows were cavitating water coming over the bow. I used a 1/2 and 3/4 Oz football head to do my forward looking to find shell beds and ledge. It worked out. I would not have done nearly as well had I had more than 2D to look at. It was a JOB just to control and stay in the boat. Erie shuffle.
In September I fished the TBF National Semi final on Winnipesaukee. Both of my boaters used the Garmin panoptics. John who won the event was throwing a jerk bait in 50' of water. Smallies would come up off the bottom to check it out. John would reel up and cast a drop shot. Twice he told me to get the net before he set the hook. Amazing to witness.


Sent from my SM-G781U using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: FD on January 10, 2022, 06:02:16 PM
I have most of the new "stuff" on my boat.  Does it make me a better angler, maybe not, does it help me catch more fish in less time, absolutely.

I think there are actually two completely unrelated questions here so I'll answer both.

As far as being good or bad in the competive fishing world, I don't have a comment because I don't play there anymore.  And for the ones who complain about tech changing fishing, no one says the only job they can have in this world is fishing.  If you don't like it, change it or leave, I for one am tired of the whining.  Those same whiners have no problems cashing checks from the companies that are making this equipment.

Now for the busted back, old man opinion who can only fish for a few hours at a time, I love it.  Or for the guide (also me) who makes a living putting people on fish, it sure makes life easier.

Is fishing the same for those of us who grew up fishing with hooks made from bone and line made or horse hair tied to a stick?  Nope.  Nothing else in the world is either.

Sent from my SM-G781V using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: Bud Kennedy on January 10, 2022, 06:39:58 PM
All I have on my boat is just some fairly  basic sonar capability.  I would be lying if I said I would not want all the newest doo dads on my boat but I just don't have the financial resources to acquire all those nifty tools.    The reality is that as a casual recreational angler, I have all I need. 

These things are just tools and if the job you are performing is enhanced by these tools that is a reasonable excuse to make the investment.  You can bet that those old guys that complain about the electronics today would have had them on their boats during their competitive years if they existed in those times.
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: topdsm0138 on January 10, 2022, 06:42:09 PM
Quote from: Bud Kennedy on January 10, 2022, 06:39:58 PM
All I have on my boat is just some fairly  basic sonar capability.  I would be lying if I said I would not want all the newest doo dads on my boat but I just don't have the financial resources to acquire all those nifty tools.    The reality is that as a casual recreational angler, I have all I need. 

These things are just tools and if the job you are performing is enhanced by these tools that is a reasonable excuse to make the investment.  You can bet that those old guys that complain about the electronics today would have had them on their boats during their competitive years if they existed in those times.
I'll agree with you on that one. If you're someone like Lee or Lou, who's job is guiding, or touring is how you make your living, then 100% go for it. As for average guys like us, not soo much.
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: Capt. BassinLou on January 10, 2022, 06:50:18 PM
Quote from: topdsm0138 on January 10, 2022, 06:42:09 PM
Quote from: Bud Kennedy on January 10, 2022, 06:39:58 PM
All I have on my boat is just some fairly  basic sonar capability.  I would be lying if I said I would not want all the newest doo dads on my boat but I just don't have the financial resources to acquire all those nifty tools.    The reality is that as a casual recreational angler, I have all I need. 

These things are just tools and if the job you are performing is enhanced by these tools that is a reasonable excuse to make the investment.  You can bet that those old guys that complain about the electronics today would have had them on their boats during their competitive years if they existed in those times.
I'll agree with you on that one. If you're someone like Lee or Lou, who's job is guiding, or touring is how you make your living, then 100% go for it. As for average guys like us, not soo much.
I don't roll like that. I'm just fine with my basic tech, and old school ways. ;)
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: Bud Kennedy on January 10, 2022, 06:55:44 PM
Also, the high end tournament angler must have the technology tools if they expect to compete.  Remember the tournament guys are also up against the clock and any tool to better utilize their time is well worth it when it comes to cashing checks.  We have regional trails in the Carolinas where first place is $50K .  If you want to win you better have all the right tools.
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: Dog on January 10, 2022, 08:15:58 PM
I like the tech its interesting do I want it some yes some no.
I have my DI SI way point sharing between my units I can get and send texts from them lol.
I love having that stuff I do a lot of trout and salmon trolling and it really helps out for not dragging a trolling weight on the bottom and losing it.
There are days I dont even turn them on.
But my favorite way to fish still is fly fishing I tie my own flys and use no electronics.
I see both sides of it and will say its fun either way. May show me more fish and where they are and the conditions of where they are hiding but it is still up to me to find the right bait to entice them to bite up to me to present the bait properly up to me to set the hook right and play them in. no amount of electronics will ever replace that.
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: topdsm0138 on January 10, 2022, 09:13:33 PM
Quote from: Capt. BassinLou on January 10, 2022, 06:50:18 PM
Quote from: topdsm0138 on January 10, 2022, 06:42:09 PM
Quote from: Bud Kennedy on January 10, 2022, 06:39:58 PM
All I have on my boat is just some fairly  basic sonar capability.  I would be lying if I said I would not want all the newest doo dads on my boat but I just don't have the financial resources to acquire all those nifty tools.    The reality is that as a casual recreational angler, I have all I need. 

These things are just tools and if the job you are performing is enhanced by these tools that is a reasonable excuse to make the investment.  You can bet that those old guys that complain about the electronics today would have had them on their boats during their competitive years if they existed in those times.
I'll agree with you on that one. If you're someone like Lee or Lou, who's job is guiding, or touring is how you make your living, then 100% go for it. As for average guys like us, not soo much.
I don't roll like that. I'm just fine with my basic tech, and old school ways. ;)
. Sometimes oldschool is the bes desperation method. Too bad dynamite fishing is illegal.

And apparently there is one brand/model of fish finder that links up with my Suzuki. I heard it shows all my motor data like RPMs, oil pressure, water temp, etc. That would be something I'd consider.
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: Steve81 on January 10, 2022, 11:22:06 PM
Quote from: Smallie_Stalker on January 10, 2022, 04:36:52 PM
Quote from: BassmanRudy on January 10, 2022, 04:28:44 PM
I do agree it would be fun to put some of the "young-ins" in a boat with basic 2D electronics and see how it goes! Watched some of a recent high school event recap and all of the top guys were glued to the livescope screen!

How about no electronics at all? Just depending on time of year (for the fish not us) and type of fishery to tell you where the bass and the bait should be and having to use your lure or C-rig or whatever to tell you bottom depth, composition and all that fun stuff.

That kind of fishing is a dying art.   :(

I'm 36, so not particularly young but can I sign up? Because this sounds like a blast!
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: Steve81 on January 10, 2022, 11:30:42 PM
Quote from: Bud Kennedy on January 10, 2022, 06:55:44 PM
Also, the high end tournament angler must have the technology tools if they expect to compete.  Remember the tournament guys are also up against the clock and any tool to better utilize their time is well worth it when it comes to cashing checks.  We have regional trails in the Carolinas where first place is $50K .  If you want to win you better have all the right tools.

I agree. While I don't have any of the forward-looking sonar at the moment, I know full well that if I want to compete on a high level, I will either need to get that tech or hope that the circuits outlaw that tech at some point. Personally, I would love to have something like Livescope. Even so, I still have side scan, GPS, linked units, power poles, etc. I have had tournament success using all of that but my actual wins have all came on events where I didn't need any of that. I was simply fishing visual cover.
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: FD on January 11, 2022, 02:41:52 AM
Quote from: Dog on January 10, 2022, 08:15:58 PM

I see both sides of it and will say its fun either way. May show me more fish and where they are and the conditions of where they are hiding but it is still up to me to find the right bait to entice them to bite up to me to present the bait properly up to me to set the hook right and play them in. no amount of electronics will ever replace that.

Well said Dog!
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: Capt. BassinLou on January 11, 2022, 04:34:14 AM
Quote from: topdsm0138 on January 10, 2022, 09:13:33 PM
Quote from: Capt. BassinLou on January 10, 2022, 06:50:18 PM
Quote from: topdsm0138 on January 10, 2022, 06:42:09 PM
Quote from: Bud Kennedy on January 10, 2022, 06:39:58 PM
All I have on my boat is just some fairly  basic sonar capability.  I would be lying if I said I would not want all the newest doo dads on my boat but I just don't have the financial resources to acquire all those nifty tools.    The reality is that as a casual recreational angler, I have all I need. 

These things are just tools and if the job you are performing is enhanced by these tools that is a reasonable excuse to make the investment.  You can bet that those old guys that complain about the electronics today would have had them on their boats during their competitive years if they existed in those times.
I'll agree with you on that one. If you're someone like Lee or Lou, who's job is guiding, or touring is how you make your living, then 100% go for it. As for average guys like us, not soo much.
I don't roll like that. I'm just fine with my basic tech, and old school ways. ;)
. Sometimes oldschool is the bes desperation method. Too bad dynamite fishing is illegal.

And apparently there is one brand/model of fish finder that links up with my Suzuki. I heard it shows all my motor data like RPMs, oil pressure, water temp, etc. That would be something I'd consider.

I have something similar for my outboard. But mine connects via bluetooth to my phone or tablet and it provides me with live engine data.
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: loomisguy on January 11, 2022, 04:35:04 AM
Quote from: BassmanRudy on January 10, 2022, 12:16:29 PM
**Not directed at you Steve**

Randy has a TON of opinions! Mostly cus he can't WIN anything so he has to Blame something!! I used to think Ike cried the most but wow this guy takes the cake in spades!

Technology is what it is. Heck no one here uses a stick and bone hook with an earthworm anymore lol! Or uses a paddle to get around(kayakers aside!)
  You might want to check Randy's record again..
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: loomisguy on January 11, 2022, 04:43:08 AM
Randy has nearly a Million bucks in winnings and 8 classic appearances in BASS alone.  Also 11th in the  Toyota championship last year.
You gotta be kiddin with that nonsense.
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: Capt. BassinLou on January 11, 2022, 04:59:11 AM
 PoPo  I don't know much about Randy other that he has YT channel, fishes or fished professionally, and anglers either love him, or hate him. Regardless, that has ZERO effect on me. I have seen on other platforms how interesting discussions have become de-railed when Randy's name is mentioned. I'm just here to let everyone know, that's not happening on this thread. Let's stay on track and discuss the topic at hand, TECHNOLOGY.  PoPo

Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: loomisguy on January 11, 2022, 05:01:51 AM
All good.
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: Capt. BassinLou on January 11, 2022, 05:13:44 AM
Quote from: loomisguy on January 11, 2022, 05:01:51 AM
All good.

Awesome!!

Carry on.  ;) ~beer~
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: topdsm0138 on January 11, 2022, 06:16:50 AM
My fish finder from the early 80's still works after all these years. (Admit it, we're all guilty of trying this atleast once.)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20220111/3d5d426c22f77d2deac33e1f811223ff.gif)
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: stevemyoung on January 11, 2022, 08:30:20 AM
Wasn't sure if mentioning Randy's name would generate an off-topic debate - glad to see it's been kept civil!

You know, I've been trying to give it some good honest thought as I read through everyone's responses.  So far, I'm a very inexperienced bass angler (one river smallmouth to my name) and I've been mostly bank angling, with an eye on taking my sit-in kayak out a lot more come spring.  I'd love to figure out one of those jon boat to bass boat conversions this year, but I'm not holding my breath.  To get to the point, electronics almost certainly aren't in my near future for budgetary and practical reasons.  So I wonder just how much of my concern is sour grapes?  Especially considering that I anticipate many of my upcoming trips to be "an hour or two here and there" - exactly the situation where having a way to reliably locate fish would make a huge difference on whether or not I get skunked.

I guess it just rubs me the wrong way to have it feel like I've got to buy in to be successful.  I know that's not the case, and I'm sure it's just my own impatience.  I can't abide being bad at something I've really put my mind to, so I'm in a hurry to get this figured out.  I've been waffling on the idea of getting one of those castable sonar units like the Deeper, iBobber, or Garmin Striker Cast.  I like the idea of keeping the cost down by connecting to a device (my phone) that's got plenty of processing power, a great screen, etc.  It's really super tempting, because I just haven't been able to build the deep experience and confidence it takes to reliably catch fish.

On the other hand, it's teaching me patience and humility, and to appreciate all the beautiful parts of fishing that *aren't* the catching.
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: coldfront on January 11, 2022, 08:50:10 AM
Quote
How about no electronics at all? Just depending on time of year (for the fish not us) and type of fishery to tell you where the bass and the bait should be and having to use your lure or C-rig or whatever to tell you bottom depth, composition and all that fun stuff.

That kind of fishing is a dying art.   :(
key to a tournament like this?  no one gets to fish the lake prior.  has to be a clean slate.  you put a couple guys on that lake who've fished it their whole lives and know where every channel swing, rock pile, brush pile is... they don't need electronics.  but they have a clear advantage.
electronics level that playing field.
don't they?
what is also true:  they minimize the value of all that hard work/learning the old hands have amassed over time, and incredibly variable weather conditions.  that's THEIR advantage.do they get to 'keep it'?  is this really about recognizing pure talent/ability?
interesting thought.
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: topdsm0138 on January 11, 2022, 09:03:20 AM
Quote from: stevemyoung on January 11, 2022, 08:30:20 AM
Wasn't sure if mentioning Randy's name would generate an off-topic debate - glad to see it's been kept civil!

You know, I've been trying to give it some good honest thought as I read through everyone's responses.  So far, I'm a very inexperienced bass angler (one river smallmouth to my name) and I've been mostly bank angling, with an eye on taking my sit-in kayak out a lot more come spring.  I'd love to figure out one of those jon boat to bass boat conversions this year, but I'm not holding my breath.  To get to the point, electronics almost certainly aren't in my near future for budgetary and practical reasons.  So I wonder just how much of my concern is sour grapes?  Especially considering that I anticipate many of my upcoming trips to be "an hour or two here and there" - exactly the situation where having a way to reliably locate fish would make a huge difference on whether or not I get skunked.

I guess it just rubs me the wrong way to have it feel like I've got to buy in to be successful.  I know that's not the case, and I'm sure it's just my own impatience.  I can't abide being bad at something I've really put my mind to, so I'm in a hurry to get this figured out.  I've been waffling on the idea of getting one of those castable sonar units like the Deeper, iBobber, or Garmin Striker Cast.  I like the idea of keeping the cost down by connecting to a device (my phone) that's got plenty of processing power, a great screen, etc.  It's really super tempting, because I just haven't been able to build the deep experience and confidence it takes to reliably catch fish.

On the other hand, it's teaching me patience and humility, and to appreciate all the beautiful parts of fishing that *aren't* the catching.
A few tips for you friend. I am building my aluminum V-hull up and sites like Tinyboatnation and Tinboats have been a huge help. TBN does a lot of Jon & V conversions for average guys like us, even has a ton of YouTube vids to physicallysee and get your ideas to plan out. So check them out to start.

My next tip is, I just picked up, but haven't installed yet, The Vexilar T-Box SP200 for my boat. You permanently mount the transducer and power box, but it is a bluetooth device to broadcast to your phone or tablet. And for 140 bucks, it's right in our price range.

You don't need to spend a lot to enjoy our hobby, just "Fish within your means." Would I love to have a big fancy bass boat? Heck yeah, who wouldn't. But it's not within my financial means. I fish just a comfortably and good from either my 14' jon boat or 17' v-hull w/tillers and hand control trolling motors. Because they are still fun and affordable. You bank fish? NO problem there either. Atleast you are outdoors enjoying life and not stuck indoors. So whatever it takes, or whatever you have, enjoy it if it works for you.
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: Steve81 on January 11, 2022, 11:16:42 PM
Quote from: stevemyoung on January 11, 2022, 08:30:20 AM


I guess it just rubs me the wrong way to have it feel like I've got to buy in to be successful.  I know that's not the case, and I'm sure it's just my own impatience.  I can't abide being bad at something I've really put my mind to, so I'm in a hurry to get this figured out.  I've been waffling on the idea of getting one of those castable sonar units like the Deeper, iBobber, or Garmin Striker Cast.  I like the idea of keeping the cost down by connecting to a device (my phone) that's got plenty of processing power, a great screen, etc.  It's really super tempting, because I just haven't been able to build the deep experience and confidence it takes to reliably catch fish.

On the other hand, it's teaching me patience and humility, and to appreciate all the beautiful parts of fishing that *aren't* the catching.

You most definitely do not have to spend big money to be successful at bass fishing. Considering that your free time in life seems limited as it is, it makes sense that you need to to make the most of what little time you can when fishing. Therefore, spending serious money is probably not going to give you the "return" you would be happy with. Instead, I think the better route would be to figure out the smart purchases. For example, you mentioned that you are a shore-bound angler that can typically only take a fishing trip for an hour or two. I take that to mean that your fishing spots are also small. I think that a smart purchase here would be to figure out what baits fit the cover/depth scenario of these spots and buy those. Personally, I don't see the need for one of the castable sonar units. I understand the concept. I just don't see how it's practical.
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: apenland01 on January 12, 2022, 07:40:22 AM
Up until now, I have only had 2D sonar on my boat for both the bow and console.  For Christmas, I got a Lowrance Live 12 with 3-1 transducer which will go on the console and I splurged on a Carbon 16 for the bow, since I found it on sale and wanted the biggest screen I could for older eyes.  I will now have side scan and down scan, so I'll have to spend some time learning what I'm looking at now.  Everything should be installed by mid February.

I have no plans to get the forward looking stuff, but certainly can see how it would benefit high dollar tournament anglers.  I fish tournaments frequently, but most are well run local tournaments for a top check of around $2,000 for a win.

I'm fishing as a co-angler at the WON Bass Laughlin Open at Mojave Lake in March and the California Open at Clearlake in April.  I will get a chance to see some high dollar rigs and what electronics setups they are running....

Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: Wizard on January 12, 2022, 10:09:53 AM
I grew up before electronics. You gained knowledge anyway, anywhere and from anyone possible. The point is you learned most by being on the water. It is called "intuitive" fishing. Your brain, the best fishing device you'll ever have, puts the knowledge together into thoughts which tell you where and how to fish at the moment. Everyone knows this but even with every technological fishing device available, your brain still makes the final decision. On any day of fishing there are two things you need to know....is there something for bass to eat and the depth of their food. The original LGB is all that's needed.
If I were tournament fishing in today's world, I would want every device available to compete. Whether I need it is another matter. One thing I truly believe, with all the electronics available to you, there will still be days you smell like a skunk.

Wizard

Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: D.W. Verts on January 12, 2022, 01:35:07 PM
"One thing I truly believe, with all the electronics available to you, there will still be days you smell like a skunk."

One of the absolute and wisest things that I have ever read on the interweb. Genius.

Dale
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: Nutt on January 12, 2022, 01:52:18 PM
I hate to burst anyones bubble, but all of the new technology you can buy doesnt make the fish jump in the boat.  Yes, it helps.  I have 12" graphs at the console and bow, power poles and also the Lowrance Active Target.  I still suck at fishing.  ;D
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: coldfront on January 12, 2022, 02:38:20 PM
Quote from: Nutt on January 12, 2022, 01:52:18 PM
I hate to burst anyones bubble, but all of the new technology you can buy doesnt make the fish jump in the boat.  Yes, it helps.  I have 12" graphs at the console and bow, power poles and also the Lowrance Active Target.  I still suck at fishing.  ;D
nutt:  not to argue, but if you want fish to jump in the boat... head over to Kentucky lake... cruise around some of the backwaters a bit.  they DO jump in the boat!
as for all this technology:  it's a lot of fun, frankly.  aggravating at times too... but not nearly as aggravatin' as the danged smallmouth bass.
;D

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pw/AM-JKLU_uS0ANiyfAY7k2oQguiMk1scpNbN2EMVQLi5jSiOQAbHU2C5u6--ODIpmDMoKBzYuOzZLRth60ObTCrpsaZIEpkOV9oE2aIhLqvUrxupMJu7AhQ2Zx-C-3Nb2I9H43Edw5mEVCDLlN8qir9hBa5vn=w695-h955-no?authuser=0)
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: Nutt on January 13, 2022, 07:48:22 AM
I will say that the most used piece of technology on my boat are my power pole blades.  Really not sure how I did without them for so long. 
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: FD on January 13, 2022, 08:17:12 AM
Quote from: Nutt on January 13, 2022, 07:48:22 AM
I will say that the most used piece of technology on my boat are my power pole blades.  Really not sure how I did without them for so long.
For me it's my talons if I'm going down wind and spot lock if I'm headed into the wind or current.

Sent from my SM-G781V using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: coldfront on January 13, 2022, 08:29:46 AM
might ask the question this way:  what about the ability to waypoint key areas/spots?  the opportunity to identify it, mark it and get RIGHT BACK to it?
spot lock makes holding easier.  as do anchors...  but getting back to something you've found?  sure triangulation works... but not if you're out in the middle of a lake without good identifiable features in sight.
the LGB was and is amazing.  but addition of GPS really unlocked so much on top of it all.  doesn't matter if we're 'painting' images or just using flashers.
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: topdsm0138 on January 13, 2022, 08:43:43 AM
Quote from: FD on January 13, 2022, 08:17:12 AM
Quote from: Nutt on January 13, 2022, 07:48:22 AM
I will say that the most used piece of technology on my boat are my power pole blades.  Really not sure how I did without them for so long.
For me it's my talons if I'm going down wind and spot lock if I'm headed into the wind or current.

Sent from my SM-G781V using Tapatalk
Even though it's outta my price range, I think the spot lock is nice and not a bad thing to have.
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: Oldfart9999 on January 13, 2022, 11:49:09 AM
I have down and side scan at the console and down scan at the bow and GPS on both units, also the first generation of spot lock. Which gets used the most, other than GPS, varies. GPS gets used first, if I'm not sure where I'm going to start I generally start close to the launch, mostly I fish fairly shallow, docks and other cover, if nothing is happening I'll start moving deeper following my waypoints until I start catching. The fish will tell me where they setting up. At times I'll cruise along the out side grass edge with my sides scan as I go, basically looking at the shape of the edge, points and cut ins, also checking the bottom at the base of the grass and moving out. I really don't want all the doo dads like forward looking and live scope, I'm looking for fish or cover I think might hold fish. When I'm actually fishing I'll leave my down scan on with 2D also, I really don't care to spend much time staring at a screen, I'm concentrating on the rod and line to feel for fish.
I will record any trail that I've caught fish on and run it backwards and forwards to see if I cab catch more fish, I use this feature quite a bit, I don't need to lock at the trolling motor at all.
Rodney

Sent from my SM-T290 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: apenland01 on January 13, 2022, 04:54:50 PM
Power poles are nearly worthless in Arizona, there's very few places you might use them, as the water is relatively deep in most places...
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: D.W. Verts on January 13, 2022, 11:03:30 PM
You know, I haven't seen it mentioned I don't think, and that's the MAPPING. I learned more from my Garmin in two months than I'd known my whole life. The close contours showed me some things that I didn't have a clue about (YouTube video coming soon, sorry!)

Dale
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: Steve81 on January 13, 2022, 11:53:58 PM
Quote from: D.W. Verts on January 13, 2022, 11:03:30 PM
You know, I haven't seen it mentioned I don't think, and that's the MAPPING. I learned more from my Garmin in two months than I'd known my whole life. The close contours showed me some things that I didn't have a clue about (YouTube video coming soon, sorry!)

Dale

Mapping is huge! It's great for so many reasons. Obviously, it's useful to find some hidden gems but it greatly increases navigation. I fished a tournament on Lake Seminole once. That lake is basically just one giant stump field with a couple of boating lanes cut through it and some backwater canals that run for miles. Without GPS mapping, I would have been lost or dead!

It's also helpful to do scouting at home. Sometimes, when I am sitting in the boat at home and have just finished rigging rods, I'll fire up the graph and start looking at the map. This helps me sort of build a gameplan just before a trip or a tournament. I also have the Navionics app on my phone where i can do the exact same thing anywhere in the world.
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: Steve81 on January 14, 2022, 12:06:16 AM
My power poles get use every time I go out. Now maybe they don't get used while I am actually fishing but they at least get a little work when I launch/load the boat when I'm by myself.
Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: coldfront on January 14, 2022, 12:10:48 AM
Quote from: D.W. Verts on January 13, 2022, 11:03:30 PM
You know, I haven't seen it mentioned I don't think, and that's the MAPPING. I learned more from my Garmin in two months than I'd known my whole life. The close contours showed me some things that I didn't have a clue about (YouTube video coming soon, sorry!)

Dale
dale, I'd LOVE to get into a deeper discussion about mapping.  about accuracy of the maps we get 'given'.  it helps to have made 'em and actually gone out on the water and checked 'em for accuracy.
1-foot contours can be no more accurate than 2-foot contours.  if the contours aren't in the right place to begin with.  and there's a whole 'thing' about how sonar works on increasing depth vs decreasing depth.  cones and ovals are interesting things


Title: Re: Technology sure is something!!!
Post by: D.W. Verts on January 15, 2022, 06:01:15 AM
Quote from: coldfront on January 14, 2022, 12:10:48 AM
Quote from: D.W. Verts on January 13, 2022, 11:03:30 PM
You know, I haven't seen it mentioned I don't think, and that's the MAPPING. I learned more from my Garmin in two months than I'd known my whole life. The close contours showed me some things that I didn't have a clue about (YouTube video coming soon, sorry!)

Dale


dale, I'd LOVE to get into a deeper discussion about mapping.  about accuracy of the maps we get 'given'.  it helps to have made 'em and actually gone out on the water and checked 'em for accuracy.
1-foot contours can be no more accurate than 2-foot contours.  if the contours aren't in the right place to begin with.  and there's a whole 'thing' about how sonar works on increasing depth vs decreasing depth.  cones and ovals are interesting things


There was a topic started here a few years ago that was to delve into all of that deeply, but it never took off. It does get complicated (this coming from a guy who never had a
graph on his boat last year and who triangulated several times to get on the right spot and who figured if he couldn't ouch bottom with his flippin' pole then that meant he was fishing deep). THAT guy.

Dale