Looking for a fishfinder that’s both user-friendly and delivers detailed information? In this Garmin Striker Vivid 9sv review we’ll see if it stands out as a top contender.
This 9-inch color fishfinder boasts vivid scanning sonar color palettes, making it easy to spot fish and underwater structures.
It utilizes best-in-class CHIRP traditional sonar alongside CHIRP ClearVü and CHIRP SideVü scanning sonars (requires compatible transducer) for stunning underwater imagery.
The high-sensitivity GPS lets you mark fishing hotspots, plan routes, and track your boat’s speed.
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Garmin Striker Vivid 9sv Review
Enhanced Navigation and Mapping:
The built-in Quickdraw Contours software lets you create and save custom maps with 1-foot contours, enhancing your navigation experience. Wi-Fi connectivity allows you to connect to the ActiveCaptain app for waypoint transfer, smart notifications, and access to the Garmin Quickdraw Community – a valuable resource for sharing and finding fishing spots.
User-Friendly Design:
The 9-inch display features vivid scanning sonar color palettes, making fish and structures easily distinguishable. The high-sensitivity GPS allows you to mark waypoints, plan routes, and monitor your boat’s speed. Plus, built-in Quickdraw Contours mapping lets you create and save custom maps.
While a touchscreen would be a plus, the button interface is straightforward and easy to use. Overall, the Garmin Striker Vivid 9sv offers exceptional value for the price.
Unveiling the Underwater World:
With CHIRP technology, the Striker Vivid 9sv provides remarkable detail and performance (compatible transducer required). The vivid scanning sonar color palettes on the 9-inch screen make it easy to identify fish and structures.
Marking waypoints and creating routes is a breeze with the high-sensitivity GPS. Remember, a compatible transducer is needed for CHIRP ClearVü and CHIRP SideVü features.
High-Precision GPS:
The high-sensitivity GPS is a valuable asset for any angler. It allows for precise location tracking, letting you mark waypoints and return to your favorite fishing spots effortlessly.
Wi-Fi connectivity lets you update your software and share waypoints with friends. The 9-inch color screen offers vibrant scanning sonar color palettes for clear underwater interpretation, even in bright sunlight.
Keep in mind that the Vivid 9sv, while user-friendly and feature-packed, is not lightweight. It weighs 6.38 pounds and measures 8 x 11.5 x 6 inches. This shouldn’t be a dealbreaker for most, but consider your boat’s space limitations.
Effortless Mapping with Quickdraw Contours:
For fishing enthusiasts, the integrated Quickdraw Contours mapping feature is a game-changer. It allows you to create and save custom maps with 1-foot contours, providing a detailed view of the underwater terrain. This helps you locate fish hot spots and identify promising areas for future fishing trips.
The best part? No special tools are needed.
The high-sensitivity GPS also helps mark waypoints, plan routes, and monitor your boat’s speed, making your fishing trips more efficient and enjoyable. While dense vegetation or rocky areas might slightly affect the software’s ability to produce accurate contour maps, the benefits far outweigh the limitations.
Seamless Connectivity with ActiveCaptain App:
The Wi-Fi connectivity lets you connect the fishfinder to the ActiveCaptain app on your compatible smartphone. This allows for effortless waypoint transfer, smart notifications, and software updates directly on your device.
Beyond convenience, ActiveCaptain integration grants access to the vast Garmin Quickdraw Community, a valuable resource for finding great fishing spots and sharing your discoveries with fellow anglers.
This seamless connectivity enhances your fishing experience by ensuring a more enjoyable and productive time on the water. However, be mindful of using your phone excessively while fishing, as it can distract from the experience.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- User-friendly interface with vivid scanning sonar color palettes for easy fish and structure identification.
- Supports Garmin CHIRP traditional sonar, CHIRP ClearVü, and CHIRP SideVü scanning sonars (with compatible transducer).
- High-sensitivity GPS for waypoint marking, route creation, and speed monitoring.
- Built-in Quickdraw Contours mapping and Wi-Fi connectivity for ActiveCaptain app access.
Cons:
- Lacks a printed manual, but detailed instructions are available online.
- No touchscreen or mapping overlay (available in higher-priced models).
- Some users reported issues with the transducer mount, requiring a heavier duty option (sold separately).
Customer Reviews:
Many users appreciate the Striker Vivid 9sv’s feature-packed design and excellent value. The ClearVu feature, offering a detailed view of underwater structures, is a popular favorite.
While some recommend a sturdier transducer mount for specific boat types, installation is generally considered straightforward, even for first-time fishfinder users.
The lack of a physical manual in some cases has led users to rely on online resources for setup guidance. The 7-inch screen’s impressive clarity and the device’s performance in various boat placements are praised aspects.
Despite the absence of a touchscreen and mapping overlay, users find the Striker Vivid 9sv to offer great value for its price. It has proven effective for various fishing vessels, including kayaks.
Final Thoughts:
The Garmin Striker Vivid 9sv is a reliable companion for your fishing adventures. Its 9-inch color display, user-friendly interface, and vivid scanning sonar color palettes provide excellent underwater visibility.
Many anglers commend the ClearVu feature for offering a clear view of underwater structures.
There are a few minor drawbacks to consider. Some users found the transducer mount to be insufficient, requiring an upgrade for optimal performance. Additionally, the lack of a printed manual necessitates some online assistance for setup in some instances.
Despite these minor shortcomings, most users consider the Striker Vivid 9sv an excellent unit at a reasonable price point. So, if you’re seeking an affordable, feature-rich fishfinder that delivers on its promises, the Garmin Striker Vivid 9sv is definitely something worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- How does the 9sv transducer compare to other models?
The 9sv transducer offers exceptional performance with CHIRP traditional sonar, CHIRP ClearVü, and CHIRP SideVü scanning sonars (requires compatible transducer). It provides clear and detailed underwater images for locating fish and structures, making it competitive with other models in its class.
- What map types does the Vivid 9sv support?
The Vivid 9sv supports built-in Quickdraw Contours for creating custom maps with 1-foot contours. The Wi-Fi connectivity allows connection to the ActiveCaptain app for waypoint transfer, smart notifications, and access to the Garmin Quickdraw Community for map sharing and download.
- What are the key differences between the 7sv and 9sv models?
The primary difference lies in screen size. The 9sv boasts a 9-inch display, while the 7sv has a 7-inch screen. The larger screen on the 9sv offers better clarity and enhanced visibility, making data easier to read and interpret.
- How is the Vivid 9sv installation process?
Installing the Vivid 9sv is relatively straightforward, even for the not so handy diyers out there. The package includes a transducer, power/data cable, adapter cable, tilt mount, and hardware. Simply follow the included instructions for setup, and you should be up and running within a couple of hours.
- Can I add maps to the Striker Plus 9sv?
Yes, you can add maps through the Wi-Fi connection and ActiveCaptain app. Using the app on your smartphone, you can transfer waypoints and access the Garmin Quickdraw Community for sharing and downloading maps created by other anglers.
- Does the Vivid 9sv offer side imaging capabilities?
Absolutely. The Striker Vivid 9sv supports CHIRP traditional sonar and, with a compatible transducer, offers CHIRP ClearVü and CHIRP SideVü scanning sonars. This feature provides a detailed, high-resolution view of what lies beneath the surface, enhancing your overall fishing experience.
Check out the latest price of the Garmin Striker Vivid 9sv here.
