Humminbird 561 Fish Finder Review [Discontinued Model by Manufacturer]
I pick my bait, fishing reel, fish finder, line, and other equipment, and off I go. It’s fishing time, and all I can think about is my favorite fishing spot down at the lake. It’s a serene place, a quiet space, with lots of fish to catch. The problem is, without the right tools, my chances of catching any fish is reduced to slim or even none.
For the years that I’ve done this, I’ve seen the huge positive impact technology has had on the existence of contemporary fishing techniques. If you are serious about your angling career and you are looking to grow in it, step up and use a good-quality fish finder and see your catch get better.
Never underestimate the power of an innovatively designed fish finder. It might just be the only thing between a successful catch and a disappointing one. Technology has transformed fishing into a more enjoyable activity, as well as making it easier to carry out.
I have reviewed several of these products, but this is the first time I’m giving a Humminbird 561 review. This fish finder is both reliable and effective, which makes it a top choice for a monochromatic model.
Table of Contents
Display Screen
You can tell the quality of a fish finder just by the quality of its screen, though that’s not all. The display screen of this fish finder is rather small but is also more effective and clearer that those of most larger-screened models. The size of the Humminbird 561 display measured diagonally is 5 inches. It might not be the largest size on the market, but it is also not the smallest.
The quality of the display is excellent. Expect a sharp and clear display that elaborates even the littlest details. One of the features that make it unique is the split-screen view. You can see the Down Imaging on one side while on the other side, it allows you to view the image produced by traditional 2D sonar.
Transducer
One thing any first user would be drawn to in this unit is the numerous innovative features that it has. The Humminbird 561 boasts a sonar frequency of 200/82 kHz, which determines the cone angle of the area which the unit can cover under the water. You can spot fish within a wide area, which improves your chances of making a big catch.
Because it is a dual beam type, you get the privilege to choose either the narrower or wider beam depending on your needs. This unit has a sonar frequency that gives up to 800 ft. of depth capability. What makes the Humminbird 561 even more convenient is its high power output.
Switchfire Sonar
This is the feature that helps you to adjust how you’d like the sonar return to show on the screen. It all depends on your specific fishing conditions so that you can adjust screen setting to fit your particular needs. As a user, you can select between clear and max modes.
The unit display data in great detail when you select the max mode. It will display everything including the cover, fish, water currents, structure, and thermoclines. For a beginner, some of the details can be confusing, but they are easy to figure out. You might need to be guided once, and you will be good to go with your new fish finder.
Down Imaging
Maximum accuracy and precision are both put into consideration in the construction of this unit. This Humminbird fishfinder utilizes the Down Image technology alongside other numerous innovative characteristics. It also boasts of a Dual Beam Plus feature, which allows you to target the fish and structures so that you can differentiate between the two.
Thanks to this features, you will get a more realistic view of the water beneath you. It is a great improvement of the traditional imaging, which tends to just show blobs. Down imaging also produces beautiful, clear images, and it is the reason why you will see fish and the structures clearly. You can easily tell the difference between fish, bait, or tree.
Unit Mounting
You can mount the Humminbird 561 permanently or use it as a portable fish finder- the choice is yours to make. The unit’s portability is more useful if you are an angler who has to hire a boat every time you go out fishing. You can mount the transducer with so much ease, and remove it with the same ease when you are done.
But this is not always the case. The good thing about this fish finder is that it is a user-friendly device that is suitable for both professional and armature anglers alike. It has a simple user interface which makes it easy to navigate through all its settings. You can detect fish fast and easy and increase your catch.
Pros
- Waterproof design
- Built-in temperature sensor
- You can use it even at night
- Great sonar performance
- Large, clear display screen
- Ease of use
- Internal backlight
Cons
- The mounting base is a bit large, which makes installation difficult
- Lack color display
Humminbird 561
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does it work for summer fishing or ice fishing?
A: You can mount the sensor on a pole or stick and mount it stationary
Q: What kind of mount can I use with this unit?
A: It comes with a standard mount which is a quick disconnect type with a head that plugs into a mounting base
Q: How can I found the instructions on how to operate this device?
A: Just Google it in case you didn’t receive the instruction manual.
Final Verdict
From among the fish finders of its price range, the Humminbird 561 is such a superior model. It might not have all the frills and the advancement that the more expensive models boast of, but it is for sure an excellent performing device.
The fact that it comes from a reliable brand also adds to its amazingness. It is simple to operate, and that makes it an excellent choice for both professional anglers and armatures. To wrap it all up, I would recommend this device to any angler on a budget but still, want a nice fish finder.
Humminbird 561
Related Resources
