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Top 5 Side Imaging Sonar Units for Fishing in Canada 2025 — Best Side-Scan Fish Finders

Published on Monday, August 25, 2025

Side imaging sonar scans wide swaths to show structures, drop offs, and fish holding areas beside the boat, enabling faster target finding and better area coverage than traditional downlooking units. This category is ideal for Canadian anglers who fish diverse waters from large lake systems and reservoirs to coastal bays and tidal estuaries, because side imaging delivers clear lateral coverage that makes structure, submerged timber, rock piles, and schooling fish easy to locate. Consumer preference in this market is driven by resolution and range, reliable transducer performance in cold water, integrated GPS and mapping, screen size and touchscreen responsiveness, compatibility with chart cards and networks, and rugged, splashproof design for all-season use. Anglers and guides favor units that combine MEGA or CHIRP imaging for detail, multi-frequency options for range-versus-resolution trade-offs, and easy-to-interpret overlay displays that reduce search time and improve catch rates. Price and support matter too: buyers often balance premium imaging hardware against value models that still provide dependable side-scan coverage for Canadian lakes and coastal fisheries.

Quick Menu

1. Best Midrange MEGA Imaging

2. Best Mapping & UHD Sonar

3. Best Live Imaging & Connectivity

4. Best Large-Screen MEGA Performance

5. Best Value Side Imaging

1
BEST MIDRANGE MEGA IMAGING

Humminbird HELIX 7 CHIRP MEGA SI GPS G4N

Humminbird HELIX 7 CHIRP MEGA SI GPS G4N

The HELIX 7 CHIRP MEGA SI GPS G4N is a compact, value-focused side imaging unit that brings Humminbird's MEGA Side Imaging CHIRP clarity and integrated GPS into a 7-inch package ideal for anglers wanting high-resolution side views without high cost. Compared to larger flagship models on this list it delivers much of the same MEGA SI detail with simpler networking and a lower price point, making it a practical choice for anglers who prioritize imaging performance per dollar.

4.3
★★★★☆

  • MEGA-side clarity

  • CHIRP depth reach

  • MEGA-side clarity

  • CHIRP depth reach

Review Summary

86%

"Long-term users praise the HELIX 7 CHIRP MEGA SI GPS G4N for its sharp MEGA Side/Down imaging and reliable GPS/mapping performance, noting it is a great value for serious anglers. Some report occasional firmware updates and a learning curve with advanced features."

  • Built-in GPS swagger

  • 7-inch display with CHIRP MEGA Side Imaging for ultra-detailed side scans.

  • Built-in GPS swagger

  • 7-inch display with CHIRP MEGA Side Imaging for ultra-detailed side scans.

Recreational Enjoyment

Time-Saving Convenience

Skill Development & Mastery

The HELIX 7 CHIRP MEGA SI GPS G4N is a compact, value-focused side imaging unit that brings Humminbird's MEGA Side Imaging CHIRP clarity and integrated GPS into a 7-inch package ideal for anglers wanting high-resolution side views without high cost. Compared to larger flagship models on this list it delivers much of the same MEGA SI detail with simpler networking and a lower price point, making it a practical choice for anglers who prioritize imaging performance per dollar.

  • MEGA-side clarity

  • CHIRP depth reach

  • Built-in GPS swagger

  • 7-inch display with CHIRP MEGA Side Imaging for ultra-detailed side scans.

  • Built-in GPS and AutoChart Live support for on-screen mapping and contour creation.

  • MEGA-side clarity

  • CHIRP depth reach

  • Built-in GPS swagger

  • 7-inch display with CHIRP MEGA Side Imaging for ultra-detailed side scans.

  • Built-in GPS and AutoChart Live support for on-screen mapping and contour creation.

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$1,100-1,500 CAD

2
BEST MAPPING & UHD SONAR

Garmin ECHOMAP UHD 93sv

Garmin ECHOMAP UHD 93sv

The Garmin ECHOMAP UHD 93sv is a market-leading unit for anglers who need ultra-high-definition SideVü and ClearVü imaging combined with Garmin's extensive mapping ecosystem and reliable sonar performance. Priced above entry-level units but competitive with other premium models here, it distinguishes itself by delivering exceptionally crisp target separation and mapping features that benefit anglers searching structure and schools at greater ranges.

4.4
★★★★☆

  • UHD crisp views

  • SideVü precision

  • UHD crisp views

  • SideVü precision

Review Summary

88%

"Owners consistently appreciate the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD 93sv for its clear CHIRP and UHD imaging, solid build and strong Garmin ecosystem integration. A minority mention map purchase costs and occasional software quirks but overall satisfaction is high."

  • Quickdraw map flex

  • 9-inch unit with Garmin UHD plus ClearVü and SideVü for high-resolution side imaging.

  • Quickdraw map flex

  • 9-inch unit with Garmin UHD plus ClearVü and SideVü for high-resolution side imaging.

Recreational Enjoyment

Time-Saving Convenience

Skill Development & Mastery

The Garmin ECHOMAP UHD 93sv is a market-leading unit for anglers who need ultra-high-definition SideVü and ClearVü imaging combined with Garmin's extensive mapping ecosystem and reliable sonar performance. Priced above entry-level units but competitive with other premium models here, it distinguishes itself by delivering exceptionally crisp target separation and mapping features that benefit anglers searching structure and schools at greater ranges.

  • UHD crisp views

  • SideVü precision

  • Quickdraw map flex

  • 9-inch unit with Garmin UHD plus ClearVü and SideVü for high-resolution side imaging.

  • Preloaded BlueChart g3 and Quickdraw Contours compatibility for custom maps.

  • UHD crisp views

  • SideVü precision

  • Quickdraw map flex

  • 9-inch unit with Garmin UHD plus ClearVü and SideVü for high-resolution side imaging.

  • Preloaded BlueChart g3 and Quickdraw Contours compatibility for custom maps.

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$900-1,300 CAD

3
BEST LIVE IMAGING & CONNECTIVITY

Lowrance HDS-9 LIVE

Lowrance HDS-9 LIVE

The Lowrance HDS-9 LIVE earns a top technical rating by combining LiveSight real-time sonar, Active Imaging side and down capabilities, and advanced mapping in a responsive touchscreen platform favored by tournament anglers. It outpaces many competitors on this list for real-time sonar feedback and networked charting, though that advanced feature set typically comes with higher cost and operational complexity compared with simpler units like the HELIX or Striker Vivid.

4.2
★★★★☆

  • LiveSight real-time

  • StructureScan 3D wow

  • LiveSight real-time

  • StructureScan 3D wow

Review Summary

85%

"The Lowrance HDS-9 LIVE is frequently praised for its excellent sonar performance, Live sonar options and advanced networking, making it a top choice for competitive anglers. Users note occasional firmware bugs and a higher price point, but most find the feature set worth it."

  • Responsive touchflow

  • 9-inch HDS LIVE display with Active Imaging (3‑in‑1) and LiveSight real-time sonar options.

  • Responsive touchflow

  • 9-inch HDS LIVE display with Active Imaging (3‑in‑1) and LiveSight real-time sonar options.

Recreational Enjoyment

Skill Development & Mastery

Time-Saving Convenience

The Lowrance HDS-9 LIVE earns a top technical rating by combining LiveSight real-time sonar, Active Imaging side and down capabilities, and advanced mapping in a responsive touchscreen platform favored by tournament anglers. It outpaces many competitors on this list for real-time sonar feedback and networked charting, though that advanced feature set typically comes with higher cost and operational complexity compared with simpler units like the HELIX or Striker Vivid.

  • LiveSight real-time

  • StructureScan 3D wow

  • Responsive touchflow

  • 9-inch HDS LIVE display with Active Imaging (3‑in‑1) and LiveSight real-time sonar options.

  • Built-in Genesis Live mapping plus compatibility with C-MAP and Navionics charts.

  • LiveSight real-time

  • StructureScan 3D wow

  • Responsive touchflow

  • 9-inch HDS LIVE display with Active Imaging (3‑in‑1) and LiveSight real-time sonar options.

  • Built-in Genesis Live mapping plus compatibility with C-MAP and Navionics charts.

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$1,400-1,900 CAD

4
BEST LARGE-SCREEN MEGA PERFORMANCE

Humminbird SOLIX 10 CHIRP MEGA SI+ GPS G3

Humminbird SOLIX 10 CHIRP MEGA SI+ GPS G3

The SOLIX 10 CHIRP MEGA SI+ GPS G3 stands out for anglers who want a larger screen and MEGA Imaging+ performance—its 10-inch display and enhanced MEGA side/down imaging deliver exceptional detail and expanded mapping convenience. Compared with the smaller HELIX it offers a more capable, tournament-grade platform and often undercuts rival premium units on price for equivalent MEGA SI clarity, making it a strong contender for those who want big-screen imaging without stepping up to the most expensive ecosystems.

4.5
★★★★☆

  • Mega SI+ panorama

  • 10-inch command

  • Mega SI+ panorama

  • 10-inch command

Review Summary

89%

"The Humminbird SOLIX 10 CHIRP MEGA SI+ GPS G3 earns high marks for its large, bright display and very detailed MEGA Side/Down imaging, with responsive performance and robust mapping features. Buyers cite the premium price and rare software hiccups but report strong long-term satisfaction."

  • Autochart live magic

  • 10-inch SOLIX with CHIRP MEGA Imaging+ for exceptional side-scan clarity and target separation.

  • Autochart live magic

  • 10-inch SOLIX with CHIRP MEGA Imaging+ for exceptional side-scan clarity and target separation.

Recreational Enjoyment

Skill Development & Mastery

Time-Saving Convenience

The SOLIX 10 CHIRP MEGA SI+ GPS G3 stands out for anglers who want a larger screen and MEGA Imaging+ performance—its 10-inch display and enhanced MEGA side/down imaging deliver exceptional detail and expanded mapping convenience. Compared with the smaller HELIX it offers a more capable, tournament-grade platform and often undercuts rival premium units on price for equivalent MEGA SI clarity, making it a strong contender for those who want big-screen imaging without stepping up to the most expensive ecosystems.

  • Mega SI+ panorama

  • 10-inch command

  • Autochart live magic

  • 10-inch SOLIX with CHIRP MEGA Imaging+ for exceptional side-scan clarity and target separation.

  • Advanced mapping support including LakeMaster and AutoChart Live with precise onboard GPS.

  • Mega SI+ panorama

  • 10-inch command

  • Autochart live magic

  • 10-inch SOLIX with CHIRP MEGA Imaging+ for exceptional side-scan clarity and target separation.

  • Advanced mapping support including LakeMaster and AutoChart Live with precise onboard GPS.

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$1,800-2,300 CAD

5
BEST VALUE SIDE IMAGING

Garmin Striker Vivid 9sv

Garmin

The Garmin Striker Vivid 9sv targets anglers seeking vivid palette customization, solid CHIRP and SideVü/ClearVü imaging, and straightforward GPS functionality at an accessible price. It doesn't match the networking depth or raw feature set of the ECHOMAP UHD or Lowrance HDS LIVE, but it offers excellent imaging-to-cost value and is ideal for users who want clear, colorful side imaging performance without premium complexity.

4.1
★★★★☆

  • Vivid palette pop

  • Easy target ID

  • Vivid palette pop

  • Easy target ID

Review Summary

82%

"Anglers buying the Garmin Striker Vivid 9sv like its vivid sonar display, ease of use and solid value for money, especially for day-to-day fishing. Limitations in mapping features and less advanced networking are noted, but most users remain pleased."

  • Quick-start compact

  • 9-inch Striker Vivid with CHIRP plus ClearVü and SideVü imaging for budget-conscious anglers.

  • Quick-start compact

  • 9-inch Striker Vivid with CHIRP plus ClearVü and SideVü imaging for budget-conscious anglers.

Recreational Enjoyment

Time-Saving Convenience

The Garmin Striker Vivid 9sv targets anglers seeking vivid palette customization, solid CHIRP and SideVü/ClearVü imaging, and straightforward GPS functionality at an accessible price. It doesn't match the networking depth or raw feature set of the ECHOMAP UHD or Lowrance HDS LIVE, but it offers excellent imaging-to-cost value and is ideal for users who want clear, colorful side imaging performance without premium complexity.

  • Vivid palette pop

  • Easy target ID

  • Quick-start compact

  • 9-inch Striker Vivid with CHIRP plus ClearVü and SideVü imaging for budget-conscious anglers.

  • On-device Quickdraw Contours mapping to record lake contours as you fish.

  • Vivid palette pop

  • Easy target ID

  • Quick-start compact

  • 9-inch Striker Vivid with CHIRP plus ClearVü and SideVü imaging for budget-conscious anglers.

  • On-device Quickdraw Contours mapping to record lake contours as you fish.

Order Now
From 899.99$

How Side Imaging Works and the Evidence Behind Its Benefits

Side imaging sonar uses acoustic pulses sent at oblique angles to sweep the water column and seabed beside the boat, producing a wide, photograph-like view of structure and targets. Modern systems use CHIRP and high-frequency imaging to improve target separation and reduce noise. Scientific and applied research in hydroacoustics and fisheries science supports the core benefits of side imaging: better spatial coverage per pass, improved detection of aggregated fish and structure, and more efficient habitat mapping compared with single-beam downlooking approaches. Government and university studies, and practical trials by fisheries managers, show that side-scan data improve identification of hard substrate, submerged vegetation, and complex bottom features that attract fish, which helps anglers and resource managers make faster, more informed decisions.

Acoustic principle: side imaging sends fan-shaped pulses and measures return intensity to create a lateral image, providing much wider horizontal coverage than straight down beams.

CHIRP and MEGA imaging: frequency-modulated pulses increase signal-to-noise ratio and resolution, improving target separation and detail in high-frequency bands.

Frequency trade-offs: higher frequencies (e.g., 800 kHz) deliver finer detail at shorter ranges; lower frequencies extend range but with less resolution. Selecting the right frequency depends on water depth and target size.

Validation studies: fisheries science and hydroacoustic literature, including applied work by agencies like Fisheries and Oceans Canada, show side-scan sonar is effective for habitat mapping and locating fish-holding structure.

Operational advantages: side imaging reduces search time by covering swaths alongside the boat, which is especially useful on large Canadian lakes where efficient coverage saves fuel and daylight.

Environmental factors: side imaging performance depends on water clarity, thermoclines, bottom type, and transducer placement; proper setup and calibration are important for reliable results.

In Canada, side imaging sonar is a game changer for anglers who need fast area coverage and clear views of structure and fish holding areas. The five top options covered here — Humminbird HELIX 7 CHIRP MEGA SI GPS G4N, Garmin ECHOMAP UHD 93sv, Lowrance HDS-9 LIVE, Humminbird SOLIX 10 CHIRP MEGA SI+ GPS G3, and Garmin Striker Vivid 9sv — meet a range of budgets and needs from compact, value-focused units to large-screen, professional-grade systems. For most Canadian anglers wanting the best balance of screen size, advanced MEGA imaging, and modern mapping features, the Humminbird SOLIX 10 CHIRP MEGA SI+ GPS G3 stands out as the top choice on this list. We hope you found what you were looking for; use the search to refine by price, display size, or transducer type, or expand your search to compare features and accessories.

Discover More
  • CHIRP Sonar Units for Fishing
  • Dual Frequency Sonar Units for Fishing
  • Down Imaging Sonar Units for Fishing
  • Combined Side and Down Imaging Units for Fishing
  • High Resolution Multibeam Sonar Units for Fishing
  • Portable Handheld Sonar Units for Fishing
  • Kayak and Small Boat Sonar Units for Fishing

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