The Best Underwater Fishing Cameras for Catching Fish in Dark Water

Buyer's Guide to Finding a Premium Underwater Fishing Camera

Finding a reliable fishing camera can be daunting when you have multiple options. That’s why we have listed a few things you should consider to get your hands on the perfect fit.

Features to Look for in Underwater Fishing Cameras

Screen size and resolution

The screen size determines how you’ll view the footage captured by the camera. Underwater fishing cameras come with screens ranging from 4.3 inches to 7 inches in size, depending on the model you select. The larger the display, the more you have to spend.

Similarly, the screen resolution is an important consideration, as this determines the quality you’ll get when using this cam. Look for a unit with at least 800 TV lines (TVL) as this is considered standard, or even better yet, choose one with 1000 TVL for recording HD, realistic videos.

Cable length

The typical length of cables is around 16 meters, but the wire can be longer or shorter depending on the model. If you plan to use your unit in an area where the water is shallow. For deeper waters, consider a long cable.

Viewing angle

An underwater fishing camera is designed to record videos and take photographs. So you should go for one with a viewing angle greater than 90 degrees. It will allow you to easily view more of your surroundings and the fish you catch.

Temperature sensor

A temperature sensor allows you to monitor water temperature when looking for fish. Fish are most active at certain temperatures, so knowing the temperature can help you decide on the location of your next cast and determine whether there are fish nearby or not.

Battery life

Battery life is another factor to consider when buying an underwater fishing camera. You’ll be out on the water for hours, and you don’t want your camera’s battery to die before seeing what’s underneath the surface. So you should go for a device with a rechargeable battery that can last up to 8 hours on a single charge. Some cams also come with two charging ports — one for connecting a USB and the other for connecting a power bank.

Waterproof

The best underwater fishing cameras are designed to withstand submersion in water for long periods. If you’re fishing in calmer water, you may not need to worry about this factor but if you’re going out in a boat or kayak and the ride is not smooth, make sure to invest in a device with IP67 or IP68 waterproof rating.

Storage

Most underwater cameras have different options for storage. The most common choices are SD cards and built-in memory. The card size will determine how many pictures the camera can hold. The best underwater fishing camera will give you plenty of space for your images, ensuring you do not miss any of your favorite shots. Thus, it is up to you whether you need a device with an SD card or built-in memory.

IR lights

Infrared lights are a must-have feature in an underwater fishing camera because they allow you to see even if the water is muddy. Some cams come with 12 IR lights, while others are reinforced with one to three lights. So choose wisely!

Connectivity

You should always look for an underwater fishing camera with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity. You can easily connect the camera to your phone or any other device and start recording videos or taking photos. You can also share your videos with others through social media platforms with a Wi-Fi-enabled device.

Sun visor

A sun visor protects the lens from damage, but more importantly, it allows you to adjust your camera (and film) without opening up its housing and letting air in.

What Are the Benefits of an Underwater Fishing Camera?

An underwater fishing camera can help you:

• Increase your catch rate
• See what type of fish are in the water before you start fishing
• Easily find schools of baitfish, which can be used as a lure for larger fish such as salmon and trout
• Spy on fish during night fishing expeditions, especially in murky water, owing to the IR LED lights
• Determine the water depth and watch how fish react when they see your lure

Average Cost of an Underwater Fishing Camera

The average cost of an underwater fishing camera ranges between $130 and $350. Its actual price will depend on a myriad of factors. For instance, if it has a powerful lens with a wide-angle view and high resolution, the price will be higher than a low-resolution camera. Similarly, if your chosen product has a fishing line attached to the camera, its cost will be higher. So, you must get a camera that can capture HD images with enhanced clarity within your budget.

Tips for Using an Underwater Fishing Camera

Using an underwater fishing camera is not everyone’s cup of tea. You must ensure that your camera’s setup is appropriate and all the connections are secured. If you are still not confident with using the device, these tips will help:

• You can attach a weight or any additional support to the camera to prevent it from spinning underwater
• For ice fishing, clear as much ice from the water surface before submerging the camera; this will allow the sunlight to illuminate the water and stream clear images.
• While fishing in deep waters, it’s better to use a camera with infrared light to view everything clearly.
• If your chosen model comes with a cardinal direction on the screen, use it to orient your camera in the right direction underwater.