Best For Kayaks And Canoes
Garmin Striker 4 Review
Developed in 2016, Garmin Striker 4 is one of the most affordable fish finders in the Striker series. As a pretty basic unit, it is ideal for beginners and casual fishers.
Note that there are two part numbers for this unit, 010-01550-00 and 01001550-01 with English and worldwide documentation, respectively. When it comes to specifications, however, these two models are basically the same, including the provided transducer.
Keep reading our detailed Garmin Striker 4 review to learn more about this budget-friendly unit and discover how well it performs.
Pros & Cons
- CHIRP sonar
- 77/200 kHz capable transducer with a temperature sensor
- Built-in high-sensitivity GPS
- Numerous sonar functions
- Up to 5,000 stored waypoints
- Budget-friendly
- Limited networking options
- No unit cover
- No current coordinates
Specifications
| Specifications | Garmin Striker 4 |
|---|---|
| Type | Down Imaging |
| Sonar | Dual Frequency CHIRP |
| Transducer | CHIRP 77/200 kHz |
| Display (size, resolution, backlit, color) | 3.5'' diagonal (1.9''x2.9''), 480H x 320V pixel resolution, HVGA color, backlit |
| Dimensions | 3.6'' x 5.9'' x 1.6'' (91.6 x 150.8 x 42.8 cm) |
| Weight | 0.51 lb (230g) |
| Batteries | Li ion |
| Depth Capability | 1,600 ft (487 m) freshwater, 750 ft (228 m) saltwater |
| Frequency | 2D Sonar: 200 kHz / 15° and 77 kHz / 45° |
| Power Output | 200 W (RMS) |
| Power Input | 10-20 VDC |
| GPS | High-precision, internal |
| Maps | No |
| Routes, Waypoints, Tracks | 5000 Waypoints |
| Waterproof | yes |
| Wi-Fi Connectivity | n/a |
| MicroSD card slot | No |
Display/Screen
Garmin Striker 4 has a rather small 3.5” HVGA display with a 480 x 320 pixel matrix. Having said that, it does come with a split-screen mode with a maximum of two simultaneous panels. The unit allows you to observe your readings without any problems at night or in direct sunlight thanks to its excellent backlight.
Although it features a bit sturdier construction than echoMAP devices, for example, Garmin Striker 4 still features IP-X7 waterproof rating, which means it can handle water splashes and rain as well as complete immersion in 3.3ft of water for up to 30 minutes. However, it has not been tested against dirt and dust.
Sonar & Transducer
Striker 4 comes with a 4-pin 010-10249-20 transducer capable of covering 77/200 kHz. It utilizes two conical beams at 45° for 77 kHz and 15° for 200 kHz. Note that the unit itself is also capable of pinging at 50 kHz – but only if you upgrade it with a 50/200 kHz capable transducer.
When it comes to maximum depth, Striker 4 can reach 1,600ft in freshwater and 750ft in saltwater. Note that this is the available scanning range WITH the 5-/200 kHz transducer. In other words, with the equipment provided in the package, you will max out at 800ft.
One of the most important features of Striker 4 is its CHIRP sonar that allows for better target definition/separation as well as clutter removal.
Garmin Striker 4 also comes with a number of traditional 2D sonar functions, including Fish Symbol ID, Auto Gain, Flasher mode, Ultrascroll, A-scope, and more. The provided transducer features a temperature sensor as well.
Note that even with Ultrascroll, you will start losing image quality at speeds over 50 MPH.
Navigation
Garmin Striker 4 features a built-in high-precision GPS module that allows you to record up to 5,000 waypoints, including your favorite fishing hotspots or just general places of interest. Moreover, you have numerous suggestive icons at your disposal for optimal orientation.
Striker 4 does not have a chartplotter, which means the GPS system will basically use a blank sheet as your navigational starting point. It will, however, measure the overall speed of your vessel.
Networking
Garmin Striker 4 does not offer a lot in terms of networking since it does not feature any NMEA ports or microSD card slots. However, you CAN switch your waypoints between Striker 4 and echoMAP units using the provided data cable.
What's In The Box
- STRIKER 4
- Dual-beam transducer
- Transom and trolling motor mounts
- Tilt/swivel mount
- Power cable
- Documentation
Garmin Striker Series Overview
In this Garmin Striker series overview, you can check out some of the most important features of other models from the series to determine if any of them is a better fit for your needs.
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Garmin Striker 4 Read ReviewVerdict
Garmin Striker 4 is a small and affordable unit ideal for beginner fishers who do not want to spend a lot of money on their first fish-finding unit. The device features a dual-frequency CHIRP sonar and comes with a pretty decent transducer for the price. It also provides you with an internal GPS system, but it does not come with any maps or chartplotting capabilities.
Bottom line, this Garmin Striker 4 review revealed a pretty basic and budget-friendly device that is perfect for casual kayak or canoe fishing trips. On the other hand, if you are getting ready for a serious off-shore expedition or tournament participation, you should definitely look for a more feature-rich device.