Thread: Livescope Questions for Deep Thinkers - Crappie Display Returns

Originally Posted by CrappiePappy

When I watched Randy's video, I understood what he was saying, as far as what's showing on the screen vs the "position" of the objects being scoped. But, I also noticed that the tree on the far left of the 5 trees showing on the screen was a thinner line of color vs the other 4 trees ... and when you look at the actual trees, sure enough the tree closest to the boat IS a thinner tree trunk than the others behind it. That's why I wonder how a fish pointed towards the transducer can make a bigger color blotch than one coming from the side of the jig, showing more surface area to the sonar ping.

My thoughts are "target density", similar to how a hard bottom shows up different on traditional sonar, down and side imaging.

Another thing to consider with live sonar is that the farther objects are from the center of the beam the more dim they become. I've explained it to guys using a flashlight with a very focused beam as an example. While we can see objects that are on the peripheral of the light, they aren't very bright and not as detailed.

This and $2.50 will buy you a cup of coffee in some places.

Justin, “That's why I wonder how a fish pointed towards the transducer can make a bigger color blotch than one coming from the side of the jig, showing more surface area to the sonar ping”
Target Density is an interesting point. Never considered that. Are you thinking that when a crappie is facing the transducer it produces a more dense target than when it is perpendicular? There is definitely more target depth when the fish is straight on, either facing towards or away from the transducer. Are you thinking that the circle (the dime) is displayed because of target density and not target shape?

Have I understood you correctly?

Originally Posted by DeadlyDan

Justin, “That's why I wonder how a fish pointed towards the transducer can make a bigger color blotch than one coming from the side of the jig, showing more surface area to the sonar ping”
Target Density is an interesting point. Never considered that. Are you thinking that when a crappie is facing the transducer it produces a more dense target than when it is perpendicular? There is definitely more target depth when the fish is straight on, either facing towards or away from the transducer. Are you thinking that the circle (the dime) is displayed because of target density and not target shape?

Have I understood you correctly?

I'm thinking it's both. I think when fish are facing directly at or away from the TD the image is brighter because of density. Have you ever noticed when a fish turns away, they seem to look like a ghost? I think the angle of the beam and where the fish are in relation to the TD contributes the shape.

I can tell you, I'm not a deep thinker, just ask anyone that knows me! LOL

So Justin, do you think the screen representation of the fish facing the TD will be round like a dime even though the fish’s body is narrow and tall?

BTW -
I am contemplating the best way to conduct the test mentioned above.
At this time I’m thinking a small diameter PVC pipe about 8’ tall (our waters are shallow) with a small cement base to hold the pole erect or simply push the pole into the mud bottom. Haven’t finalized exactly how to skewer the fish to the pole so that they remain in place. One fish facing the TD and the second positioned perpendicular to the first. Ideally fish of equal size. A directional arrow will be placed at the top of the pole and standing out of the water to indicate the position of the top fish. May place the apparatus in the middle of open water so in order to eliminate too much background noise.

If anyone has thoughts or suggestions for this test please let me know.

Originally Posted by DeadlyDan

So Justin, do you think the screen representation of the fish facing the TD will be round like a dime even though the fish’s body is narrow and tall?

BTW -
I am contemplating the best way to conduct the test mentioned above.
At this time I’m thinking a small diameter PVC pipe about 8’ tall (our waters are shallow) with a small cement base to hold the pole erect or simply push the pole into the mud bottom. Haven’t finalized exactly how to skewer the fish to the pole so that they remain in place. One fish facing the TD and the second positioned perpendicular to the first. Ideally fish of equal size. A directional arrow will be placed at the top of the pole and standing out of the water to indicate the position of the top fish. May place the apparatus in the middle of open water so in order to eliminate too much background noise.

If anyone has thoughts or suggestions for this test please let me know.

From seeing them swim up to a bait from behind, I do.