You are out on the water, the sun is bright, and you are trying to find that school of crappie hiding near a submerged brush pile. Your current fish finder shows a blurry mess, and you are guessing where to cast. That is frustrating, and it is why many anglers are looking for a clear, reliable side imaging fish finder. This review focuses on the Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 SplitShot, a compact unit that brings advanced sonar to small boats, kayaks, and ice fishing setups. We have evaluated several models from Lowrance and compatible accessories to help you choose the right one for your fishing style. If you are considering upgrading your electronics, you might also want to check out our guide on the most reliable fish finder for more insights.
Buying Guide
Sonar Technology: CHIRP and DownScan Imaging
The core of any fish finder is how it sees below the boat. The Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 SplitShot uses a SplitShot transducer that combines wide-angle CHIRP sonar with DownScan Imaging. CHIRP sends a range of frequencies to give you better target separation and fish arches. DownScan provides a high-resolution, photo-like image of structure, bottom composition, and fish holding tight to cover.
FishReveal technology overlays CHIRP fish targets onto the DownScan image, making fish appear as bright, easy-to-identify arches. This is a huge advantage when fishing around weeds, docks, or rock piles. For anglers who want even more detail, the Lowrance Eagle 5 SplitShot HD offers similar capabilities with an upgraded IPS display.
Display Size and Readability
A 5-inch display is a sweet spot for small boats, kayaks, and ice fishing. It is large enough to see detail without taking up too much console space. The Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 uses a SolarMAX display that is bright and clear even in direct sunlight, and it is viewable with polarized sunglasses. The Lowrance Eagle 5 SplitShot HD features an IPS screen that offers wide viewing angles and great contrast.
If you fish in bright conditions, consider adding a sun cover like the TUSITA Sun Cover 000-14174-001 Compatible to protect the screen and reduce glare. You can also explore our roundup of best fish finders with side scan imaging for larger displays.
Mapping and Navigation Features
Good maps help you find fish faster. The Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 comes preloaded with C-MAP US Inland mapping, covering nearly 4,000 lakes. The Lowrance Eagle 5 SplitShot HD includes C-MAP inland charts for more than 17,000 American lakes. For even more detail, the HOOK Reveal 5 supports Genesis Live, which lets you create custom 1-foot contour maps as you fish.
If you fish both open water and ice, the Lowrance Hook Reveal 5 SplitShot All Season Pack includes an ice transducer, battery, charger, and a carrying bag. That makes it a versatile choice for year-round anglers. For a deeper dive into mapping options, check out our lowrance HOOK reveal 7 tripleshot review.
Ease of Installation and Use
Nobody wants to spend hours setting up a fish finder. The Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 features AutoTuning Sonar, which automatically adjusts settings as conditions change. The SplitShot transducer can be mounted on the transom, inside the hull, on a trolling motor, or through a scupper hole. The Lowrance Eagle 5 SplitShot HD also has a twist-lock connector for easy installation.
For replacement or upgrade parts, the Lowrance SplitShot Skimmer Transducer is a direct fit for HOOK2 models. If you need a power cable, the Lowrance 000-14172-001 Hook² / Reveal & Cruise Power Cable is a reliable option. These accessories ensure you can keep your unit running smoothly.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right side imaging fish finder comes down to your specific needs and budget. For most anglers, the Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 SplitShot offers an unbeatable combination of FishReveal technology, easy-to-read display, and solid mapping for a reasonable price. If you want a slightly more affordable model with a bright IPS screen and even more lake coverage, the Lowrance Eagle 5 SplitShot HD Fish Finder is a fantastic alternative. Both units will help you find more fish and enjoy your time on the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is FishReveal on the Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5?
FishReveal combines CHIRP sonar and DownScan Imaging to display fish targets directly on the high-resolution structure image. This makes fish stand out clearly against weeds, rocks, and other cover, so you can identify them at a glance. It is a key feature of the HOOK Reveal series.
Can I use the Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5 for ice fishing?
Yes, the standard HOOK Reveal 5 can be used for ice fishing with an optional ice transducer and a portable battery. For a complete kit, the Lowrance Hook Reveal 5 SplitShot All Season Pack includes an ice transducer, battery, charger, and carrying bag, making it ready for open water and ice fishing right out of the box.
How does the Lowrance Eagle 5 SplitShot HD compare to the HOOK Reveal 5?
The Eagle 5 SplitShot HD has a similar 5-inch IPS display that is bright and easy to read in sunlight. It also features FishReveal and AutoTuning Sonar. The main difference is the included chart: the Eagle 5 comes with C-MAP inland charts covering over 17,000 lakes, while the HOOK Reveal 5 includes preloaded maps of about 4,000 lakes. The Eagle 5 is also slightly more affordable.
What accessories should I consider for my Lowrance HOOK Reveal 5?
Popular accessories include a sun cover to protect the screen, a replacement transducer like the Lowrance SplitShot Skimmer Transducer, and a power cable for easy installation. For ice fishing, the All Season Pack is a great choice. You can also check our guide on top fish finder Black Friday deals for potential savings on accessories.
