You’re out on the water, watching your fish finder’s screen, but all you see is a blur of noise. You know fish are below, but the unit can’t separate them from the structure. This is a common frustration for anglers using entry-level sonar. That’s where the Garmin Striker Plus 5cv comes in, promising clearer images and better target separation. In this review, we’ll dive deep into its features, performance, and value, helping you decide if it’s the right fish finder for your boat.

We’ve spent hours on the water with this unit, and we’ve also analyzed its specs against other popular models. This guide will cover everything from the CHIRP sonar and ClearVü scanning to the built-in GPS and Quickdraw Contours. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to expect from the Striker Plus 5cv and whether it’s worth your hard-earned money. If you’re on a tighter budget, you might also want to check out our best fish finder under $300 guide for more options.

Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Side Imaging Fish Finder

Sonar Technology: CHIRP vs. Traditional

Sonar is the heart of any fish finder. Traditional sonar sends out a single frequency, which can miss fish and provide less detail. CHIRP sonar, on the other hand, sends a continuous sweep of frequencies, offering a wider range of information and creating crisper fish arches. The Garmin Striker Plus 5cv uses CHIRP, giving you a significant advantage in target separation and clarity.

For instance, the Garmin 010-01872-00 STRIKER 5CV with Transducer offers both CHIRP traditional and CHIRP ClearVü scanning sonar. This dual-frequency approach lets you see fish and structure in stunning detail. If you’re serious about improving your catch rate, CHIRP is a must-have feature.

Display Quality and Size

A bright, sunlight-readable display is essential for a good on-water experience. The Striker Plus 5cv features a 5-inch display that remains clear even in direct sunlight. The intuitive user interface makes navigation a breeze, so you can focus on fishing, not fiddling with menus.

If you have a larger boat or want a bigger screen, consider the Garmin Striker Plus 9SV with CV52HW-TM transducer, which offers a 9-inch display. However, for most kayak and small boat anglers, the 5-inch screen is the perfect balance of size and portability. For more on this, check out our best fish finder for inflatable boat guide.

GPS and Mapping Capabilities

Having built-in GPS is a game-changer. It allows you to mark waypoints, create routes, and view your boat’s speed. The Striker Plus 5cv includes a high-sensitivity GPS, and with Quickdraw Contours, you can create your own custom fishing maps with 1-foot contours. This is a powerful tool for finding and returning to productive spots.

For anglers who want to share maps, the Garmin Striker Cast offers a castable option that connects to your phone. But for a fixed unit, the built-in GPS on the Striker Plus 5cv is reliable and easy to use. If you’re new to GPS fish finders, you might find our garmin castable fish finder review helpful for understanding the technology.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Garmin Striker Plus 5cv is a fantastic choice for anglers who want clear sonar, GPS, and mapping without breaking the bank. It’s an excellent all-around unit for freshwater and saltwater fishing. If you’re looking for a compact, budget-friendly option, the Garmin 010-01550-00 Striker 4 with Transducer is a great entry-level pick. For those who want the best of both worlds with a larger screen and side imaging, the Garmin Striker Vivid 9sv Bundle with Transducer is a top-tier choice. Whichever you choose, Garmin’s reputation for quality and durability ensures you’ll be fishing with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Garmin Striker Plus 5cv have side imaging?

No, the Garmin Striker Plus 5cv does not have side imaging. It features CHIRP traditional sonar and CHIRP ClearVü scanning sonar, which provides a down-facing view. If you need side imaging, you’ll need to look at models like the Garmin Striker Plus 9sv, which includes SideVü. For a comparison, you can check out our garmin striker plus 4 ice bundle review.

What is Quickdraw Contours on the Garmin Striker Plus 5cv?

Quickdraw Contours is a built-in mapping software that allows you to create and store custom maps with 1-foot contours for up to 2 million acres. This is done as you drive your boat, and it’s a great way to map your favorite fishing spots. The maps can be shared with the Garmin Quickdraw Community, giving you access to a vast library of maps.

Can I use the Garmin Striker Plus 5cv for ice fishing?

Yes, the Garmin Striker Plus 5cv can be used for ice fishing. It has a built-in flasher mode that works well for vertical jigging. However, you’ll need a portable ice fishing kit or a battery box to power it on the ice. Many anglers prefer the Garmin Striker 4 for ice fishing due to its compact size and flasher capabilities.

Does the Garmin Striker Plus 5cv come with a transducer?

Yes, the Garmin Striker Plus 5cv comes with a transducer. The included transducer supports CHIRP traditional sonar and CHIRP ClearVü scanning sonar. It’s easy to install on the transom of your boat, and it provides excellent performance in both freshwater and saltwater.