Using Humminbird Down Imaging and Dual Beam sonar to target treetop bass and crappie

[Jason Halfen #511]

Visiting a large body of water for the very first time, with a new target species in mind, can be quite intimidating for an angler. Where and when to fish, and what presentations to use, are only some of the questions that can swirl through an angler's mind when preparing for such an adventure. While many anglers avoid such situations and remain well within their comfort zones, tackling new waters for new species is the best way, the ONLY way to grow into a well-rounded, multispecies fisherman. I was recently faced with just this situation during my first trip to Table Rock reservoir in southern Missouri. For a walleye angler based in the upper midwest, the prospect of catching fish on a 50,000 acre reservoir with 800 miles of shoreline, unbelievable water clarity, 90 degree surface temperatures and air temps flirting with 100 degrees was daunting to say the least. However, catch fish we did. Check out this article to see how I used my Humminbird 1197c Fishing System, and its Down Imaging and Dual Beam sonar capabilities, to find key "shallow" structure and the bass and crappie that were associated with it:

Targeting treetop bass in reservoirs with Humminbird Down Imaging and Dual Beam sonar

[Cane Pole]

Finds fish out of water too I see.

[Billbob]

lol

[slimeyslab]

Finds fish out of water too I see.

:D

[rnvinc]

Jason, I always enjoy reading your informative articles..

Could you possibly explain, in layman's terms, the difference in the "wide" and "narrow" settings of the DI and how each of those settings can be used to a fisherman's advantage..??

[jaxsprat]

Finds fish out of water too I see.

Not only finds them out of wa-wa, but catches them kids also:D

[tritonman]

great article and good job!

[majflyboy]

Thanks for the article Jason. I'm still trying to learn how to use my HB998 & your article has some good pointers.