When forward-facing sonar (FFS) first hit the water, anglers initially embraced the space-age technology.
What’s not to love about a fish finder that can find fish up to 200 feet from the boat? Forward-facing sonar allows anglers to see fish and structure on all sides of their boat. By turning the transducer, the angler gets a real-time image of fish and structure—he can see a fish dart out and hit his lure or watch a bass look at his lure and balk.
The love affair with forward-facing sonar didn’t last long. Social media is alive with criticism. One side supports the technology as a way to unlock the fish’s secrets. The other side of the debate protests against the changes forward-facing sonar has brought to tournament fishing. Anglers across the platforms have rallied to support either side of the debate.
Is Forward Facing Sonar Destroying Fishing?
One of the most vocal critics of forward-facing sonar in tournaments is legendary bass pro Randy Blaukat. On his YouTube channel, Blaukat says, “Using forward-facing sonar to catch your fish is cheating, that’s what it is.” He goes on: “The only reason forward-facing sonar is legal is because of the money the electronics companies are shoveling into the tournaments.”
One of the main points against FFS in tournaments is the effect on tackle companies. Blaukat explains, because anglers are focusing on tactics that complement FFS, companies that make tackle that doesn’t fit in the trend are losing money.
Blaukat is not alone. The Professional Musky Tournament Trail and the Touring Anglers Association banned forward-facing sonar. Since these tournaments award payout for the largest single fish, the organizers reason that forward-facing sonar allows a competitor to simply drive around searching for the largest fish.
As for the big three kayak fishing tournaments, forward-facing sonar is accepted. Kayak Bass Fishing tournament director Chad Hoover says, “Forward-facing sonar isn’t just another tool, it’s the most effective tool of our time.”
Hoover adds, “People say forward-facing sonar isn’t fair, but the definition of fair is equal competition for everyone.” Since everyone can go to the store and buy forward-facing sonar, the technology doesn’t offer anyone an advantage, he reasons.
Steve Owens, tournament director for Bassmaster Kayak Series, agrees, “There was never a question, we didn’t even have a conversation about banning forward-facing sonar.” Tournament anglers must master any new technology or tactic to stay on top. “Just because you have forward-facing sonar, doesn’t mean you will win.”
Owens lists off the names of tournament winners who weren’t using forward-facing sonar. “In last weekend’s tournament, the bite was shallow where forward-facing sonar wouldn’t help.”
Even the Hobie Bass Open Series, which recently lifted a ban on electric motors, approves forward-facing sonar. Tournament director AJ Mcwhorter says, “At any level of competition, people want to advance their abilities, and forward-facing sonar gives them every available advantage.” He points to armchair anglers making the most noise. “People always want to drag others down,” he says.
As for the competitors, Jake Suvak, a pro angler from Vibe, uses forward-facing sonar and doesn’t have any complaints. “Even pro anglers on the cutting edge of the sport have a lot to learn when it comes to forward-facing sonar.” Suvak does admit to a downside. “I get it, driving around with the trolling motor and looking for fish takes some of the excitement out of the competition.”
But, he says, the challenge is choosing the right lure and presenting it correctly. “Even if I see a fish on the sonar, I still have to get it to bite.”
Casey Reed, a pro angler for Old Town, also has concerns. “I don’t want to see anything hurt the fishery,” he says. Since the new sonar allows anglers to find fish they might have missed, some pundits predict the heavy pressure will have a negative effect. “Just like anything else, the fish will eventually outsmart us.”
In fact, anglers say FFS has made tournament fishing more challenging. Bailey Eigbrett, a Old Town pro, says, “If they banned it tomorrow, I’d be bummed.” Not because he can’t use the forward-facing sonar, but because he’s invested time and effort into learning how to apply the technology.
When it comes to forward-facing sonar in kayak fishing tournaments, Eigbrett sums up the feelings of most competitors and tournament directors, “If you’re afraid to lose the tournament because of technology, then maybe you had better stay home.”
“Just like anything else, the fish will eventually outsmart us.” —Casey Reed | Feature photo: Casey Reed
