When selecting a fishfinder, understanding how different models perform at various depths can significantly impact your fishing success. Three popular choices are Lowrance's Active Target, Garmin's Livescope, and Humminbird's MEGA Live. Each system has its unique features, including different cone angles that affect coverage and detail.
Cone Angles
- Lowrance Active Target: 18º
- Garmin Livescope: 20º
- Humminbird MEGA Live: 25º
The cone angle determines the width of the area covered by the sonar beam. A narrower cone angle provides a more detailed view of a smaller area, while a wider cone angle covers a larger area but with less detail.
Coverage Comparison
Here’s a detailed table showing the coverage for each fishfinder model at various distances. The values indicate the approximate coverage at each distance from the transducer.
| Distance | Active Target Coverage | Livescope Coverage | MEGA Live Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 Feet | 3.2 Feet (1.0 m) | 3.6 Feet (1.1 m) | 4.2 Feet (1.3 m) |
| 25 Feet | 8.0 Feet (2.4 m) | 9.0 Feet (2.7 m) | 10.5 Feet (3.2 m) |
| 50 Feet | 16.0 Feet (4.9 m) | 18.0 Feet (5.5 m) | 21.0 Feet (6.4 m) |
| 75 Feet | 24.0 Feet (7.3 m) | 27.0 Feet (8.2 m) | 31.5 Feet (9.6 m) |
| 100 Feet | 32.0 Feet (9.8 m) | 36.0 Feet (11.0 m) | 42.0 Feet (12.8 m) |
Interpretation
- Active Target: With an 18º cone angle, Active Target provides detailed imagery but covers a smaller horizontal area compared to the other systems. This is particularly useful for pinpointing specific structures or fish at close range.
- Livescope: The 20º cone angle strikes a balance between detail and coverage, making it versatile for various fishing conditions. It provides slightly more coverage than Active Target while still delivering high-resolution images.
- MEGA Live: With a 25º cone angle, MEGA Live covers the widest area but with less detail compared to the other two options. This is advantageous when searching for fish or structures over a broader area.
Conclusion
Choosing the right fishfinder depends on your fishing style and needs. If detailed imagery in a smaller area is crucial, Active Target might be your best choice. For a balance of detail and coverage, Livescope is a strong contender. If you need extensive coverage, MEGA Live provides the widest view.
Understanding these differences can help you select the best fishfinder for your fishing adventures, ensuring you have the right tool for every situation.
Looking for the best settings for Livescope, Active Target, and MEGA Live? Check out our Settings Guides.