Underwater camera for ice fishing

How not to make a mistake when buying underwater camera for fishing. Recommendations, ratings, prices and reviews of various models. Comparison of two popular models: domestic camera Ide 52, and Calypso (Calypso). How to choose a top camera, paying inexpensively, but acquiring a competent tool, purchase through Aliexpress. Using the camera using a smartphone or phone. Life hack on how to make an underwater video camera with your own hands!

Winter fishing has many fans who, regardless of weather conditions, rush for new sensations and, of course, a good catch. But not every fisherman, no matter how experienced he may be, can hope for an excellent bite if he chooses a place for winter fishing blindly. To find out if there are fish under a layer of ice, an underwater video camera .

This modern device will allow:

determine the presence of fish in a particular place and its quantity;
observe how the fish behaves;
note the reaction of the fish to the abandoned bait.

The camera, when located in a winter hole, produces a high-quality and clear image on an external monitor. In this way, you can capture interesting moments, get useful information and increase your fishing experience.

The video clearly shows what these cameras are like:

Technology penetrates every area of human life and winter fishing is no exception. An underwater video camera has already become a necessary device, without which winter fishing loses all meaning. This device consists of the following elements:

monitor;
sealed underwater camera with backlight function;
long waterproof cable.
Charger.

How to use an underwater camera when fishing

If you have an underwater video camera in your hands, then you are already guaranteed a good catch. Even those fish that prefer to be in the depths will soon fall on your fishing rod. Before using the camera for the first time, it would be good to study the instructions and operating manual, become familiar with the functions and capabilities of the device.

Although underwater cameras come in a wide variety of types and have a different set of functional features, they are still similar in terms of control. To begin studying the reservoir, in addition to the video camera itself, you will also need a cable for lowering and further raising the tracking device to the top.

The fisherman’s action algorithm should be approximately as follows:

Pick up the cable (most often it is a wire, the thickness of which resembles a thick fishing line) where it is attached to the camera body. It is convenient if the manufacturer has provided for ease of grip and equipped a special handle.
Start lowering the camera into the water with slow movements. Continue this until the underwater video camera is 5 cm below the hook level.
Now you can adjust the preferred direction for observation and fix the camera in this position (here you can’t do without studying the instructions).
Don't expect a clear picture right away - let the water calm down and settle around the camera. You'll have to wait a few minutes.
Carefully study the underwater world and pay attention to the closest fish: shape, size and its reaction to your manipulations with the bait.

Preparing the camera for use

Currently existing cameras for underwater photography can be made in two versions: with a built-in battery or with a battery connected separately. In this case, the camera and the cable that connects it to the surveillance screen are most often a single unit and cannot be disconnected in the usual way. The need for such a solution is explained by the fact that the place where the cable is connected to the camera is not in the water.

Preparing the surveillance device for operation is quite simple:

The cable from the camera is connected to the screen.
If you use an external battery, it is connected to the screen.
The screen should be installed in the boat in such a way that it is convenient for observation and it does not fall into the water. There are different ways to mount the screen, depending on its model. These can be side mounts, rod mounts, etc. If the screen is too bulky, it is placed either on a cross board or on the bottom of the boat.
It is necessary to turn on the camera and check its functionality without immersing it in water.
If the previous stage was successful, the camera can be lowered into the water. There are different ways to do this. Some camera models are simply lowered on their cable from the side of the boat, others use an additional fishing rod for diving.
If there is limited visibility in the water column (due to shading or turbidity), it is necessary to turn on the LED backlight.

Typically, cameras are equipped with a sinker and a stabilization system, thanks to which they sink well and do not carry out circular or yaw movements. However, it is still recommended to dive with an additional fishing rod, since it will be possible to adjust the camera’s position and depth.

Catfish fishing technique

It is believed that the best way to catch catfish is the one that uses a special means for its bait - kwok. For safety reasons, especially when hunting large prey, it is best to do this with two people.

When fishing from a boat, the fishing rods are located along the sides and on the bow. Since catfish is an omnivorous predator, bait can be almost anything. And the predator’s large mouth does not impose virtually any restrictions on the size of the bait.

First, a preliminary reconnaissance of the reservoir is carried out. The camera is lowered into the water approximately 2/3 of its depth, and rotated so that the bottom falls into the field of view. The direction of movement of the boat should be such that it is possible to explore the area of all areas of interest. At the same time, with the help of the quok, sounds are produced that attract prey.

The frequency of quoks should not be too high. Usually 2-3 beats per minute are done.

When a potential fishing spot is found (a catfish hole itself or a concentration of small fish), the boat should drift over it, while methodically tapping the quok on the surface, waiting for a bite. At the same time, using the camera, you can observe what is happening at depth and, depending on the behavior of the fish, take certain actions.

When you find a catfish, you need to move the bait on the fishing rods, moving the fishing line 5–10 cm up and down.

When the catfish takes the bait, it must be given the opportunity to pull out about 2-3 m of fishing line and only then make the hook. A video camera will help you choose the best moment for this. Moreover, with the help of the fishing rod on which it is attached, it can be moved in different directions depending on the behavior of the fish.

Recipes for bait for catfish

The catfish should be hooked with a sharp upward movement. After hooking, you need to select the extra line as quickly as possible and start reeling in the fish.

Using the camera, you can see where the catfish is heading, and if it is some kind of problem area (for example, a collection of snags or pitfalls), try to prevent it from doing so. After the catfish is exhausted, its fishing begins. You should not try to drag the catfish into the boat; it is best to take it to the shallows, and then either “bring it” to dry land or hook it with a hook.

Ide 52 is a Russian camera with very decent characteristics and quality

It performs well both in summer and winter, in harsh conditions. Detailed image of fish, stable operation, easy to learn and use.

Parameters and characteristics:

Monitor 7 inches.
Sony Effio CCD 2mpx camera.
Video cable – 15 meters.
Waterproof class IP 67. Sealed, water does not penetrate.
Operating temperature from -20 to +40 degrees.
Screen resolution 1024x768.
Battery 4500 mAh, 12 V.

See for yourself. Video with an overview and examples of shooting on the Ide 52 Active 7 .

buy it on the official website . Price 5980 rubles.

Popular camera models for underwater filming

Currently, there are many manufacturers of equipment for underwater video recording. The most popular among them:

Ide-52 (editor's choice)

A fairly high-quality and functional device, which unexpectedly became the most popular in 2021 among all underwater cameras. The length of the video cable allows you to extend the camera to a sufficiently large depth. And the waterproof case protects against constant splashes. Taking into account the wild discount on the manufacturer’s website, which is present there from time to time, this is the editor’s choice .

SONY EFFIO CCD video camera
Camera illumination
12 infrared LEDs
Monitor
7″ with a resolution of 1024x768 pixels
Video cable
15 meters
Battery
4500 mAh 12v, Li-ion
Size
170x110x65 mm
Moisture protection class
IP 67
Operating temperatures
20°С to +40°С

Buy on the official website of the manufacturer.

Alternatives with their own disadvantages:

JJ-Connect.
Bestwill.
Aqua-Vu.
Cabela's.
Chinavasion.
Panasonic.
Marcum.

These companies can offer customers a fairly wide range of underwater video cameras. Readers are presented with examples of the best devices, depending on their price category.

Budget options

Aqua-Vu Scout. The Italian-made camera is one of the most affordable models. Its advantages include:

Black and white monitor with special means of protection against moisture and sunlight.
The video recording device is externally disguised as a fish, which allows you not only not to scare the potential catch, but also to attract it.
High-quality LED backlighting that saves battery power.
Availability of connectors for connecting additional writing devices or for connecting to a PC.

The cost of the Aqua-Vu Scout underwater camera is 11,000 - 12,000 rubles.

JJ-Connect Basic. The camera is a great option for anglers who have not used underwater cameras before and want the benefits of such a device but don't want to spend a lot of money. This model is ideal for assessing the condition of a reservoir and the presence of fish.

Device characteristics:

The battery is designed for 6 hours of continuous operation.
The cable length allows diving to depths of up to 18 m.
Infrared illumination.
Black and white display.
Availability of slots for memory cards.

The price for JJ-Connect Basic varies between 5500 – 6000 rubles.

JJ-Connect Fish Eye Deluxe. The model differs from other budget options in that it supports color images thanks to a TFT screen with good resolution.

Main advantages:

Excellent equipment (monitor, several sets of loading cables, metal storage case, battery charger).
A set of additional settings.
9 LED lamps for illumination

The price of the JJ-Connect Fish Eye Deluxe is slightly higher than the cameras described above and is in the order of 13,500 – 14,000.

average price

Aqua-Vu SC-100. The main advantage is high-quality backlighting with optimal brightness. In addition, the image on the screen is protected from sunlight, which will allow the fisherman to see what is happening underwater better.

Other benefits of the Aqua-Vu SC-100 camera:

The presence of a special coil that allows you to immerse the device to a depth of up to 100 m.
Two screen modes: black and white and color. Allows you to choose the right one in the right conditions and save battery power.
The submersible recording device is shaped like a fish and therefore will not scare the fish.

This model is ideal for both experienced fishermen and those who are just getting acquainted with the benefits of cameras for underwater photography.

Purchasing an Aqua-Vu SC-100 will cost between 31,000-32,000 rubles.

Aqua-Vu ZT. The device for underwater photography differs from its analogues in its compact size and ease of use.

Among the main advantages of the presented model, the following should also be highlighted:

Water temperature measurement function. The measurement result is displayed on the monitor display. The measurement is carried out directly for the depth at which the device is located.
Screen diagonal – 4 inches. If necessary, it is equipped with a cone for comfortable work in bright sunlight.
Has a cable 50 m long.
The shape of the camera follows the shape of a brightly colored fish, which attracts fish to the place where fishing is carried out.

The Aqua-Vu ZT camera costs from 17,000 to 17,500 rubles.

Dear models

Sony CCD Effio 700. The camera is equipped with an echo sounder and is a universal tool for fishing in any season. It also has excellent battery capacity, which allows the device to operate continuously for 7-8 hours.

Other benefits of the Sony CCD Effio 700 include:

360 degree rotating camera mechanism.
High resolution screen, 7-inch display.
Has a built-in night vision device.
The cable length is 100 m.

The Sony CCD Effio 700 model will cost the buyer 47,000-48,000 rubles.

MarCum VS825SD . The presented camera is a universal device for fishing in any device. Displays the temperature of the water.

Main characteristics:

Cable length – 23 m.
Temperature range – from -10 to +40.
Display diagonal – 8 inches.
Possibility of changing black and white images to color.
Availability of video output.

The cost of this model is from 51,000 rubles.

Calypso UVS-03 (Calypso), demi-season camera

If you look at the video with the images that Calypso UVS-03 gives, you just get goosebumps. The fish, the bottom and the entire underwater world are so clearly visible. From the ice or boat you don't get the same feeling about the underwater world. The operating temperature range allows for use in winter fishing, up to a temperature of -20⁰С.

Characteristics:

Weight 489 g;
Breaking load on cable 20 kg;
Camera resolution 720x480;
Monitor resolution 960x480;
LED camera illumination;
Cable length 20 m;
Orange color;
Monitor Color LCD 4.3″ (11cm);
Digital zoom 4X Digital zoom;
MicroSD memory card support;
Memory card capacity up to 32 GB;
Operating temperatures from -20⁰С to +50⁰С.

The battery capacity of Calypso is 4000 mAh, which allows the device to operate for up to 8 hours.

Price 6650 rubles. buy it on the official website .

Price 6650 rub. Where can I buy? Official site.

Using a video camera to catch catfish

The optimal time for catching catfish is mid-summer or the beginning of the rainy season, with the most successful fishing being from 6 pm to 8 am. It is at night at this time that catfish most often come out into shallow water and can become relatively easy prey.

Typically, a video camera helps in detecting either a catfish pit or catfish feeding areas.

If previously for these purposes it was necessary to either observe the surface of the water, evaluate the characteristics of the current, or use an echo sounder, then with a camera the task is solved much faster - you can simply examine the bottom with its help and find the depression in which the catfish will be located.

Most often, catfish outside of its resting place can be found in places where small and medium-sized fish accumulate, which are the basis of its diet. This could be, for example, schools of crucian carp or bream. A catfish camera can be used to locate concentrations of these fish.

A video camera helps not only to detect a catfish, but also to determine the direction of its movement when biting and to guess the moment of hooking in time.

The use of a video camera when fishing makes sense if fishing is carried out from a boat, since when fishing from the shore, the process of searching for places where fish hunt or rest seems problematic. Stationary placement of a camera in places where bait is thrown is also not justified. This is due to the following reasons:

The casting location may be located at a considerable distance from the fisherman, and the length of the wires from the camera to the screen is limited to 10–20 m. Using longer communication lines between the camera and the screen is impractical, since the video signal will be transmitted with interference.
The stationary position of the camera during fishing and the inability to adjust it can make the camera completely useless. For example, because the bait may not fall into the field of view or the catfish may leave it with the bait, it may damage the camera itself, etc. And each time swimming up to the camera and installing it again is, to put it mildly, inconvenient.

Winter video footage from under-ice cameras

The following video is very indicative, demonstrating that there is a fish under water, but does not want to take it.

As Vodoglaz shows:

GoPro Here 3

A few tips that can help a careful study of the underwater landscape help you determine a place for successful fishing:

large fish like to hide in snags and uneven surfaces;
when immersing the camera for the first time, it is advisable to reach 10-15 cm above the bottom;
Stop in time when diving, because hitting the bottom of a reservoir and colliding with obstacles can cause the camera to break and damage its body.

DIY underwater camera assembly for winter fishing

To make your own underwater video camera, you can use the following materials:

Car battery for power.
Sealed box for underwater shooting.
Extension.
Inverter.
A small TV or a modern conventional video camera.
Lead for the weight.
Ultraviolet dioids for illumination.
Super glue.
Sealant.
Plastic container.
Insulating tape.

To select the right materials, you should use the following tips:

It is better to use small small models as a camera, as they are the most practical. In addition, it must have a very high quality image.
The underwater camera housing must be completely sealed, otherwise even a drop of water can ruin everything. In addition, it must completely fit the dimensions of the device.

Camera selection criteria

Choosing a video camera is always a rather responsible process, because this will determine how it will work, what functions it will have and how it will cope with its main task - transmitting high-quality images under water.
Experienced fishermen recommend paying attention to the following criteria in these devices:

Sensitivity. It should be as high as possible, because the quality of the transmitted image will depend on this. Low-sensitivity cameras will show a blurry bottom, which will be quite difficult to see anything properly.
Availability of backlight. This is a must for a good camera, because when there is a backlight underwater, this significantly improves the visibility of everything that is happening. However, it is important to consider that too bright light in the water will scare away the fish, so you need to find a middle ground here.
Permissible immersion depth. It is desirable that it be medium, because the greater the depth, the higher the requirements for the waterproofing case, which protects the video camera from pressure and water.
Angle of visibility. It is important to know that the wider the overall visibility, the worse the quality of the transmitted image. You should choose housings with two built-in lenses, but with a small viewing angle. This is how you can get a really good image.
Monitor Features . This includes size and expandability. The clarity of the transmitted image depends on this. This usually depends on the manufacturer.
A reliable manufacturer is always a guarantee of quality, so it is better to give preference to proven companies rather than counterfeits of unknown production, of which there are now a huge number on the markets. To ensure the authenticity of the purchased product, you should ask the seller for a quality certificate and a guarantee for the product. If he does not have any of these documents, it means that the product is not of high quality.
The overall size of the camera is quite important, because it should easily fit into a small hole and just as easily be pulled out of it, because if it is pulled out of the water by force, the cable may come off, which will threaten to break the device. In order not to make a mistake with the size, it is recommended to test the product before purchasing to ensure its quality and suitable size.

How and where to buy an underwater video camera

When choosing an underwater video camera, pay attention to the presence of infrared illumination, since it makes it possible to use the camera even in the complete absence of external lighting. This is not the only parameter that influences the final decision regarding the purchase of a video camera for winter fishing.

The photosensitive matrix is a characteristic of the camera that determines the ability to capture details and display a high-quality image on the screen.
The camera angle is responsible for the device’s ability to operate in shallow water conditions (120 degrees is considered the optimal parameter).
The presence of fog protection comes in handy in cases where the water in the reservoir is cloudy.
Contrast and screen resolution are of great importance if the camera is planned to be used not only for winter fishing (bottom exploration, search for sunken objects).
The DVR function allows you to record your underwater observations, which you can view at home in front of your computer or TV. This is necessary for a more detailed study of your chosen fishing spot and honing your skills not only as a fisherman, but also as an observer.
The zoom function and the ability to work in night mode increase the ability to explore the underwater world, regardless of the level of turbidity of the water.

Regardless of where you live, you can use the Internet store and the camera can be delivered to you for relatively little money, whether you are from Voronezh or Vladivostok.

How to choose a video camera for fishing

If you want to buy an underwater video camera for fishing that will exactly meet your requirements and expectations, focus on 7 key parameters when choosing:

Matrix. The higher its sensitivity, the better the image;
Backlight. The more LEDs, the brighter the lighting. But it is precisely this that provides a good overview;
Viewing angle. A wide-angle lens covers a larger area, and a small angle indicates a clearer picture;
Monitor. The larger it is, the easier it is to view the image. However, if you are used to a smartphone, you will find it more convenient to use a 3.5-inch screen;
Temperature. An ice fishing camera must be able to withstand low temperatures. Choose a working range from -20 degrees;
Cable. Its length should correspond to its depth. For small rivers and lakes, 15 meters is enough, and for large bodies of water, a cable 20-30 meters long will be the optimal solution;
Additional functions. Before purchasing, think about what will help you and what does not make sense to overpay for. You can choose a model with two cameras, a recording function or sensors. If you often use several tools at once, then one device can easily replace them.

Read our article on how to choose a camera for fishing

Comparison of prices and parameters of different models

Although the video camera for winter fishing is just beginning to conquer the hearts of fishermen and win worldwide love, many manufacturers have already managed to translate into reality their vision of what the device should be. A large choice regarding the manufacturer and model always gives rise to a storm of doubts in the consumer. To prevent this from happening, it is worth carefully studying the available offers.

Let's start with the pioneer - the company under whose logo the world's first underwater video camera was released - Aqua-Vu (AquaSpy) . This manufacturer has many achievements, its own technologies, bold functional solutions - everything that any fisherman wants to get from an underwater camera. Micro Plus AV has entered the market , which will not leave the slightest chance for the fish to get away from you. This model is an expensive device - the cost is within 19 thousand rubles. There are simpler models that are also capable of producing high-quality images.
The Vodoglaz underwater camera takes second place in the ranking and has ardent fans who appreciate its advantages: compactness, high performance and accessibility. The operation of cameras under the Vodoglaz brand is in most cases designed for a depth of 15 meters. Although this figure is not the highest, it is quite sufficient for ordinary winter fishing.
An underwater camera from China JJ-connect trademark , which is already loved by Russian echo sounder users. As for cameras, you can choose from four models. The cost starts at 6 thousand rubles and ends at 15 thousand rubles. In addition to the affordable price, JJ-connect cameras attract consumers with their compactness, the introduction of a large number of additional functions and bold solutions.
LQ series of ice fishing equipment , you will notice a clear similarity with Aqua-Vu products. The manufacturer decided to focus on compactness, the ability to work in water with a high level of turbidity and the production of good operating results in harsh temperature conditions.

Budget (cheap) models

When choosing any equipment, not just underwater cameras, based on high cost is, to say the least, stupid, especially when finances are limited and purchasing expensive equipment is not part of your plans.

Among the inexpensive equipment for winter fishing, there are very worthwhile specimens that deserve attention from specialists and ordinary fishing enthusiasts. Camera Color ONE fishing camera can become your friend - it is lightweight, compact in size, and has a large color screen with a resolution of 320 by 240. The cost does not exceed 6 thousand rubles. Competition among budget cameras for the JJ-connect company is a company from Hong Kong Chinavasion , which owns the LQ brand. LQ-3501 has proven itself well , which can be purchased for 7.5 thousand rubles.

Reviews from underwater camera buyers

When there are doubts about choosing something, be it a phone, tablet, bicycle or underwater video camera, Internet users begin to study the reviews that were left by the owners of the equipment model we are interested in. What do they write about the most common models of underwater video cameras?

For example, the Vodoglaz-2 8IR underwater video camera for fishing raises some complaints about its insufficient depth of operation, but in general the reviews are positive. Another budget option, the LQ-3501, is getting surprisingly positive reviews , including a lot of praise for its viewing range. Aqua Vu Micro camera successfully collects reviews . Almost every user notes the small size of the device and the ability to carry the camera in their pocket.

Piranha Camera is an underwater fishing camera from the budget range. Based on the reviews, we can judge that the camera is a solid mid-ranger. She pays for her 8000. Unfortunately, people have had cases when it was flooded and it stopped working, but usually in this case the sellers are always willing to meet and replace the product under warranty.

Fishing with an underwater video camera will not compare to the way you fished before. Say “no” to prolonged and fruitless sitting over the hole. With an ice fishing camera, your catch will increase.

Some craftsmen get sophisticated and make fishing cameras with their own hands. A homemade camera is often based on a rear view camera for cars. Watch the video tutorial below for instructions and a description of the assembly process.

How underwater fishing cameras work

A fishing video system is a portable electronic device that is used to film, transmit, record and visually observe the underwater world. The principle of operation of underwater cameras for fishing: using a video device, the bottom topography is examined, it is possible to monitor the habits and activity of the inhabitants of reservoirs.

The design of the video camera consists of:

lens in a waterproof molded housing;
long cable;
display with a visor for protection from sunlight;
infrared illumination;
temperature and depth meter;
packing case.

To obtain complete information about what is hidden under the surface of the water, you must:

immerse the underwater camera in water;
the cable is wound onto the reel and smoothly lowers the camera to the required depth;
the signal to the display is supplied via cable;
transmitters process the received signal and a picture appears interactively;
An underwater fishing camera produces images in color or black and white.

When choosing a video device for fishing, you should adhere to the technical capabilities of the installation and compliance with the requirements of lovers of passive recreation for the equipment of the device.