When you’re gearing up your kayak, space is at a premium. A fish finder is one thing you certainly don’t want to exclude from your loadout. Let’s face it, fishing is a lot easier when you go where the fish are.

If you’re new to the world of fish finders, the basic idea is the unit sends an electrical impulse to a part called the transducer. The transducer converts the impulse to sound waves that are sent downwards into the water, bouncing back images of the terrain, structure, and of course, fish.

Not only does finding fish greatly increase their odds, but knowing exactly what depth they’re holding at is a huge advantage.

Maybe you don’t need a huge screen, or are just starting out with fish finders and want to see what all the fuss is about.

The Lowrance Hook2 4X is one of the best entry-level fish finders on the market. Lowrance is one of the most trusted names in the fish finding world and this unit absolutely lives up to the Lowrance name.

Lowrance Hook2-4X Sonar Fish Finder

Lowrance is one of the most trusted names in the fish finder world. The Hook2 4X is one of their entry-level models and offers a great feature set packed with value.

Features

• Double Sonar Options: CHIRP and down-imaging. Lowrance calls this a perfect mix of simplicity and power. The Lowrance Hook2 4X features wide-angle CHIRP sonar and SideScan DownScan Imaging. CHIRP - stands for Compressed High Intensity Radar Pulse. This is a more advanced form of sonar and can show details 2D sonar isn’t capable of. CHIRP covers a wider range of frequencies and typically produces a more accurate and detailed view of what’s below you. Downscan gives a clear image of the structures below.

• High-Quality Screen: for a smaller unit. With its 4” screen, the Lowrance 4X manages a readable screen while keeping a small form factor. The screen can be comparable to many other finders at a much higher price. With its SolarMAX technology, this unit is always easy to read, even from a variety of viewing angles. The Lowrance 4X doesn’t just perform in the daytime, if you’re a night fisherman you’ll be happy to hear the Hook2 4X comes with a backlight that’s easy to read, while not being too bright to spook the fish

• Ease of Use: With the 4X being one of the Lowrance entry models, they’ve gone to great lengths to streamline its controls. With its streamlined functions, you’ll spend more time fishing than fiddling. Menus have also been updated for a more intuitive layout. Instead of endless pressing buttons to find what you need, many of the most common functions you’ll need are just a single button push away.

• Plenty of Mounting Options: With plenty of mounting options available, you’ll have to freedom to mount in a way that works best for your set-up. If you usually use a trolling motor, you’ll be happy to hear it’s compatible with a number of transom and trolling motor accessories.

• Capable GPS: Allowing you to add waypoints and follow trails, the GPS is perfect for those who only need basic navigation.

• Options for skimmer placement: The bullet skimmer accommodates both front dash gimbal and quick release bracket mounts. It’s also compatible with transom and trolling motor accessories so you’ll have plenty of mounting options and never be stuck with a single mounting solution.

Pros:

• Options for both CHIRP and DownImaging
• High-quality readable screen
• Good detail of structures and fishes
• Plenty of mounting options

Cons:

• Does not include lake maps or support addons for mapping
• No Support for SD cards.

Summary

The Lowrance Hook2 4X offers all the essential fish-finding features you’ll need whether you’re just getting started or have years of experience out on the water. The Lowrance Hook2 4X is an excellent combination of features, power, and price. You won’t have to give up a lot of space to get a lot of power with this unit.

With its wide-angle CHRIP, you can cover more water in less time. The Lowrance Hook2 4X offers double the coverage as most fish finders. Fish smart, not hard!

This would be a great option for almost any fisherman. The exception would be if you need powerful mapping features. The 4X does not include an SD card for expansion so there’s no way to update or upgrade any of your maps.

If you are in the market for something a little more powerful or need more mapping and GPS features than what the 4X offers the Lowrance Elite-7 Ti and Humminbird Helix5 would be 2 upgrade options to consider.

We know how difficult it can be to carve out some time to get out on the water. This is precisely why you need to maximize your time on the water. Don’t waste time guessing what’s beneath you, know for sure and target that monster!

Looking for something a little more powerful? If you need a fish finder with more mapping capability than what’s offered in the 4X, the Lowrance Hook2 5 would be a great option to consider

If you're just starting out and really only need something to ease yourself into the world of fish finders, then the Deeper Smart Sonar PRO+would be a great option to look into first. We have an in-depth review that will give you all the information you need to make a decision.

Verdict

The Lowrance Hook2 4X packs a punch in a small package. Convenience and power make this a great addition to your kayak fishing setup, even when space is at a premium. With easy mounting, intuitive features, and menus, you’ll have all the information you need to know what’s beneath you and start filling the net!