Humminbird is a fantastic brand that boasts a range of fish finders that suit different preferences and needs. In this article, we’re going to take a look at their HELIX 5 fish finder, which is one of their smallest products, though it is surprisingly advanced for its size.
Since it does lack some of the power of larger models, it is better suited for kayakers and fishers with smaller boats, but even those with larger vessels may turn their heads at the Helix 5’s laundry list of features.
Humminbird Helix 5 G2 Fish Finder Review
The Helix 5 G2 Fish Finder from Humminbird works like your standard fish finding device in that it makes use of sonar technology to detect fish, measure water temperature, and display the contour of the floor of the body of water.
The Helix 5 is one of the smallest fish finders on the market, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t boast some potent features. It comes with several functions that any fisher will appreciate, though we will once again say that it is much better suited for folks on smaller vessels due to its size.
Who is This Fish Finder For?
If you aren’t someone who fishes regularly, then you may not find any use from the Helix 5, or any fish finder for that matter. The Helix 5 (and all fish finders, in general) is for dedicated fishers who are looking to improve their catch and hook more fish in a day.
The Humminbird Helix 5 is specifically for fishers who are operating from smaller vessels, like kayaks, or for fishers who don’t want to have to carry around a large, clunky electronic device that they might drop into the water. The Helix 5 is extremely portable, lightweight, and easy to operate.
Related: Best Portable Fish Finders
What’s Included?
The Humminbird Helix 5 G2 Fish Finder comes with precision internal GPS chart plotting and integrated anima cartography, as well as a Micro SD card slot for optional maps or for saving customized waypoints. You will have to purchase your own batteries, as this device does not come with any.
Overview of Features
As we mentioned earlier, the Helix 5 is packed full of features. We’ll start with Side Imaging. The Helix 5 was one of the first fish finders to offer side imaging for less than $500. Since then, the technology has become more affordable, but many still believe that the Helix 5 does it the best.
It also offers Down Imaging, which allows you to see exactly what is beneath your boat with fantastic clarity, providing you with a massive advantage when trying to find fish. Essentially, you’re given a “fish eye’s view” of the water so that you can better see what is down there. The majority of Helix 5 models feature this technology, which allows you to see HD images that other devices can not provide.
SwitchFire sonar is the mark of a Humminbird product. It features two settings – Clear mode and Max mode – that allow you to better customize your sonar image. Clear mode, as the name suggests, provides you with more defined images so that you can see fish and small objects. On the other hand, Max mode works quicker and is better for observing bigger, man-made objects or thermoclines.
DualBeam and CHIRP sonar are two more features that can be found on the Helix 5, and they are both very different. CHIRP imaging is a sonar technology that uses a series of waves simultaneously, with the best image returned to you. This improves distance overall, while also making images clearer and allowing you to discern objects more easily.
DualBeam is also a sonar imaging technology that allows you to strike a balance between clarity and distance. You can choose a narrow beam if you are looking for high clarity, but this comes at the cost of short terrain coverage. Alternatively, you can opt for a wide beam for increased terrain coverage but reduced clarity.
How to Use Humminbird Helix 5 G2 Fish Finder
Be sure to watch this YouTube video to learn more about how to use the Humminbird Helix 5 G2 Fish Finder.
Pros
- Plenty of features
- Comes with Micro SD card slot
- Suitable for smaller vessels
- Various models available
Cons
- Not the most budget-friendly option
Alternative
There are many different Helix 5 models available, each one with different features. If the Helix 5 G2 doesn’t interest you, then you might enjoy the Helix 5 DI G2, which is more affordably priced while still offering Down Imaging and DualBeam sonar.
You could also opt for the Helix 5 CHIRP SI GPS G2, which offers Side Imaging. It costs a bit more but is a great option if you need Side Imaging.
Summary
The Humminbird Helix 5 G2 Fish Finder is a fantastic option for fishers who are looking for a fish finder to use on their small vessels. It is packed with features to make your fishing trips more fun and enjoyable.