The NorCross HawkEye F33P Fish Finder: Ideal for Depths Under 100 Feet
The NorCross HawkEye F33P Fish Finder packs a powerful fishing tool into the palm of a hand. With exceptional ease of use and a small size, it can be operated by fishermen of any age. Choosing this NorCross in the sub-100 dollar price range will give fishermen a surprisingly robust fish finder for small boats and camping.
The HawkEye F33P is small and fits into even an average-size hand. The HawkEye F33P’s sonar sensor simply needs to be dropped into the water to begin operating. The sensor can be used for trolling and floats for stationary fishing. It can also be mounted on a boat. Mounting tabs are included in the package. With an adapter, the fish finder can be mounted to a pole for extra reach under docks, ice, or weeds. The sonar scans up to 45 degrees. The wide angle readings allow fishermen to cover more area in less time. The fish finder can perform between depths of 1.5 feet and 99.9 feet. This should handle most rivers, small to medium lakes, and near-shore ocean areas.
With NorCross’ proprietary search algorithms, the number of false readings is minimal. The fish identifier and a two stage fish notifying alarm will keep fishermen alerted to the presence of fish. The fish alarm is clearly audible and will be easily heard even on a breezy day. Accurate depth readings can assist fishermen in mapping out the bottom of the fishing area. The structure of the bottom can also be learned with the fish finder. With depth and bottom structure readings, fishermen can learn what kind of spots fish are hiding in and adjust their lures accordingly.
The HawkEye F33P is ruggedly constructed for any weather conditions that might be encountered. The LCD protector wards off condensation inside the display. A back-lit display will keep fishermen from straining their eyes. The screen remains readable in bright sunlight or in the evening hours. The fish finder accepts four common AAA batteries to power the unit. Other fish finders may only take pricey lithium-ion watch-sized batteries. These can be difficult to find when camping or fishing in rural regions. The fish finder’s simple battery requirements means it can be taken anywhere. And the batteries should last for up to 20 hours of continuous use. Fishermen will be able to fish all day without worrying about the fish finder dying out. It can handle temperatures down to 0 degrees Fahrenheit. Ice fishermen can take it out on the lake without worrying about the electronics freezing over or diminished operating speeds. With 35 feet of cable and a cable tie-off, the fish finder can be trolled behind a boat at a safe distance from the propeller.
The inability to fish find at deeper depths means deep water fishermen should choose another fish finder. Some people have also reported that the cable takes a lot of physical effort to snap into the fish finder’s jack. These are relatively small flaws for the price.
The NorCross HawkEye F33P Fish Finder has a suggested MSRP of $89.99. Although it is limited by only reading to a depth of 99.9 feet, the low price makes it ideal for smaller boats. Campers will also appreciate the portability. With the mounting tabs, the fish finder can make an excellent unit for canoe or kayak trips where gear space is at a premium. It comes with a five star recommendation for its small size and excellent fish finding. However, people who fish in waters deeper than 100 feet and those looking for a unit with every possible feature should choose another fish finder.