Instructions for using the Focusfish underwater camera

For many anglers, the advisability of using a camera for underwater photography is questionable. In order to dispel possible doubts, you should learn about the possibilities that underwater cameras offer.

The main advantages of using cameras for underwater photography:

1. The use of such a device allows you to find out about the presence of fish in a certain place in a reservoir.
2. With a camera you can get accurate information about the condition of the reservoir, the depth of the bottom, the amount of underwater vegetation, which in turn will allow you to choose the right fishing techniques.
3. The device makes it possible to monitor the behavior of different types of fish, their reactions to various types of baits and lures.
4. The camera allows you to fully control your fishing strategy, controlling it depending on the situation.
5. The use of electronics helps to monitor the activity of fish inside a reservoir.
6. For those who like to film the fishing process, an underwater camera will be the optimal tool, as it will eliminate the need to prepare a regular camera for filming the process.

The benefits of underwater cameras are largely seasonal. An underwater camera is especially useful for winter fishing. Due to the fact that fishing is carried out under ice, it is very difficult to obtain the necessary information about the selected area of ​​the reservoir, as well as about the presence of fish.

Using a camera will eliminate many of the difficulties associated with choosing suitable gear, bait, bait, and will also allow you to evaluate the chosen place.

The design and principle of operation of the camera

An underwater camera is similar in many ways to conventional land-based video cameras. The main difference between underwater options is the presence of a backlight system, which is necessary to obtain a clear image in the water column. In addition, such cameras are usually equipped with a thermometer to measure the temperature of the water inside the reservoir.

Standard underwater cameras consist of the following elements:

1. Optical video recording device.
2. Rotation mechanism.
3. Cable.
4. Monitor.
5. Control system.
6. Accumulator battery.

Obviously, the body of the recording device is made of waterproof material. The rotation mechanism, as a rule, has several operating modes that differ in speed. The camera viewing angle is 360 degrees.

Underwater camera monitors are equipped with liquid crystal displays - these are the most modern models. The screen diagonal ranges from 3 to 7 inches. Cheaper models with black and white images. The resulting video recording is stored in the device’s memory, the volume of which can be expanded using cards.

For ease of storage and use, as well as increased functionality, a set of add-ons is required in the form of:

1. Infrared illumination.
2. Camouflage means.
3. Sun canopy.
4. Storage container.
5. Additional memory cards.

The operating principle of an underwater camera is very simple: an optical device submerged in water transmits an image to a monitor. The immersion depth is controlled by a cable. If necessary, the camera can rotate using the remote control and also focus the image.

Camera device

Now let's take a closer look at the design of these useful devices. The key element is the camera itself, consisting of the following elements:

• lens - a set of lenses that receive an image from the external environment and transmit it for processing;
• matrices - responsible for converting the incoming image into digital format;
• electronic board - provides the device with the necessary algorithms for recording/processing video footage;
• housings - modern cameras are made in a plastic case with rubber gaskets at the joints; sealing is achieved through special gluing at the joints;
• LEDs - not available on all models of underwater cameras; they are installed next to the lens and provide illumination that is indistinguishable to the human eye.

Cameras for underwater fishing can be static or rotating. In the second case, the device comes complete with a remote control. This gives the fisherman the ability to point the camera lens at a specific area for detailed study. Typically, such cameras support 360 degree rotation.

Static cameras do not have this capability, but they are much cheaper. Their design is extremely simple, and therefore is considered more durable.

An important element of an underwater photography kit is the LCD display (unless you connect the camera to a smartphone). In most cases, small monitors with a diameter of 3 to 8 inches are used. Early models of underwater cameras used cathode ray tube monitors, but they were too bulky and the image quality left much to be desired.

A cable is used to connect the camera and monitor. When purchasing a set of equipment, pay attention to 2 key indicators:

1. Braid quality. It must be as strong as possible, since when the cable is twisted during transportation/storage, a bend may occur. If a crack appears in the braiding, the water will damage the electronics.
2. Length of cable. This parameter directly determines the maximum allowable immersion depth of the device.

Typically, underwater cameras come with a battery and charger. When purchasing a set of equipment, pay special attention to the capacity of the storage element, since the operating time of the camera in shooting mode depends on this. On average, this parameter is 6–8 hours, depending on the device model, battery size, and backlight power. For recharging, you can use a 220V network, and some models support connection to a powerbank.

Some models allow you to record video. To do this, they are equipped with either a built-in storage device or a slot for a flash card (the microSD format is most often used). Cameras of the second type are preferable for many fishermen, since they allow you to independently select the storage capacity for video recording.

Typically, an underwater camera kit may include additional accessories, including:

• a special case that disguises the camera as a fish (making it as invisible as possible in its natural environment);
• Sunshield;
• durable case designed for storage and transportation.

Features to Look for When Buying a Camera

When choosing an underwater camera, many factors should be taken into account in order to ensure that the future functionality and performance properties of the device fully meet the needs of the fisherman.

The most important characteristics that you need to pay attention to when choosing a camera for underwater photography:

1. Immersion depth. This factor is very important, since it largely determines the properties of the electronic device. Diving to great depths is associated with changes in pressure, which in turn affects the operation of the device. For use at great depths, you need a camera with good body strength, as well as reliable waterproofing.
2. Optical sensitivity. The quality of the image received on the monitor will directly depend on how sensitive the optical elements of the camera are. In addition, the features of the optical system affect the viewing angle and the distance at which fish and other objects will be visible.
3. Backlight quality. It is quite difficult to choose cameras with suitable lighting, since in some models the brightness is not high enough, while in others it is excessive. In the first case, the resulting image will be too dark, and therefore using the camera will bring virtually no benefit. If the lighting is too bright, the fish will most likely be scared, which will negatively affect the bite.
4. Number of recording devices. There are models of underwater cameras with two lenses. This design allows you to significantly expand viewing angles and also improves image quality.
5. Screen resolution. The higher the resolution, the better, the picture will be clear, contrasty, and your eyes will not get tired when observing the situation underwater for a long time.
6. Memory size. The ability to record video to external media will be a big plus, especially if the camera is used regularly.

When choosing an underwater camera for winter fishing, it is necessary to select a device whose characteristics will correspond to the conditions in which the fishing is carried out. The main elements of the camera should not react negatively to low temperatures. This is especially true for the camera lens and cable. By the way, the cable should be as thick as possible, as this will ensure stable operation, protecting the contacts from hypothermia.

In addition, you should make sure that the selected device is ergonomic. Working with the camera for a long time should not cause discomfort, and this directly depends on the design features of the device.

Criteria for choosing a camera for winter fishing

Online stores and local sales points will offer a wide selection of different underwater cameras for winter fishing. It will be easy for a beginner to get confused, because the choice is huge, and the difference in functions will confuse anyone.

Forums and advice from more experienced fishermen who have already tried this miracle of technology will help you decide. The majority also chose based on advice or by studying the ratings of Russian and foreign-made underwater cameras. There are several main criteria; below we will study them in more detail.

Sensitivity

The sensitivity of the matrix is ​​very important; the clarity of the image on the monitor depends on it. In other words, with low indicators, the fisherman will not be able to properly see either the bottom of the reservoir, or the accumulation of fish, or its size. It is necessary to choose options with sensitivity indicators as high as possible, only then the fishing will go perfectly.

Backlight

Infrared LEDs should be in sufficient quantity if their illumination at night or in cloudy weather is not enough. Accordingly, the fisherman will not be able to see everything.

Depth

A do-it-yourself ice fishing camera made from a smartphone can have different depths. Factory models offer anglers cord lengths from 15 to 35 meters. The minimum size is enough to inspect a small body of water; for deeper water areas, it is worth looking at products with a long cord.

Viewing angle

A clear image on the monitor can be achieved with a small angle, but a wider one will allow you to view a larger area in one dive of the camera.

Monitor capabilities

It is more convenient to use and attach to a fishing rod options with a diagonal of 3.5 inches, but with such sizes it will not be possible to clearly see everything that is happening in the reservoir. The 7-inch screen will show everything in more detail; you can see a lot on it. Special attention should be paid to expansion; this is an important parameter when choosing a product for fishing.

When choosing this device for fishing, be sure to read reviews; only good things will be written positively. In addition, when choosing a camera, you should pay attention to the operating temperature of the product. For winter options, the minimum should be -20 degrees; this characteristic will allow it to be used even in severe frosts.

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:

1. JJ-Connect.
2. Bestwill.
3. Aqua-Vu.
4. Cabela's.
5. Chinavasion.
6. Panasonic.
7. 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:

1. Black and white monitor with special means of protection against moisture and sunlight.
2. 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.
3. High-quality LED backlighting that saves battery power.
4. 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:

1. The battery is designed for 6 hours of continuous operation.
2. The cable length allows diving to depths of up to 18 m.
3. Infrared illumination.
4. Black and white display.
5. 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:

1. Excellent equipment (monitor, several sets of loading cables, metal storage case, battery charger).
2. A set of additional settings.
3. 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:

1. The presence of a special coil that allows you to immerse the device to a depth of up to 100 m.
2. Two screen modes: black and white and color. Allows you to choose the right one in the right conditions and save battery power.
3. 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:

1. 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.
2. Screen diagonal – 4 inches. If necessary, it is equipped with a cone for comfortable work in bright sunlight.
3. Has a cable 50 m long.
4. 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:

1. 360 degree rotating camera mechanism.
2. High resolution screen, 7-inch display.
3. Has a built-in night vision device.
4. 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:

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

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

The best underwater cameras

Now you know much more about modern cameras designed for fishing, and therefore you can move on to a review of popular models. The devices listed below received high marks from experts, as well as ordinary fishermen who used them in real conditions.

The price range of these cameras is quite wide, which allows you to choose a good camera within your existing budget. However, it is worth considering that a high-quality, expensive camera is an excellent investment that will quickly pay for itself through an excellent catch.

Ide-52 is our choice

A camera with a sonorous name, well-rated by professional fishermen. Great for beginners as it is easy to use, practical, durable and versatile.

The Yaz-52 camera is designed specifically for ice fishing

The Yaz-52 camera was developed specifically for winter fishing. It perfectly withstands ambient temperatures down to –25 degrees Celsius, maintaining functionality and ensuring clear image transmission to the monitor.

Key characteristics of this model:

• 7-inch monitor;
• 12 infrared LEDs for high-quality illumination;
• working depth - 15 meters.

Some Yaz-52 models support video recording, but you will need to make sure this function is available. For convenient transportation, a durable case with a special cradle is used. This ensures the safety of the camera and monitor even when shaking.

Calypso (Calypso) UVS-3 - people's leader

This model is extremely popular among fishermen. It is actively used for recording training videos, as it is easy to use and highly reliable. Fishermen often use the Calypso UVS-3 even in adverse conditions, and at the same time the camera provides consistently high image quality.

This model has 2 attractive features:

1. Suitable for detailed study of the bottom of a reservoir.
2. Designed for winter ice fishing.

For ease of use, the camera is equipped with a card reader that connects to the USB port of the laptop. The kit comes with a microSD flash card with a capacity of 8 GB. This is quite enough to record high-quality video. If desired, the fisherman can install a card up to 32 GB.

Specifications:

• working depth - 20 meters;
• battery capacity - 4000 mAh;
• operating time - 8 hours in standard mode;
• presence of backlight - Infra-LED;
• video recording function;
• cable load - up to 20 kg;
• operating temperature - from –20 to +50 degrees Celsius.

Chip 503 - for great depths

Another interesting camera, the main advantage of which is its large immersion depth. The cable length reaches 25 meters. The camera is equipped with 4 IR LEDs, which allows you to get high-quality images at such great depths.

Another difference is the wide viewing angle of 135 degrees. For video recording there is a built-in 8 GB storage device. You can view video in real time using a 5-inch monitor with a resolution of 800 x 480 pixels. A special clamp allows you to install this camera on a fishing rod, which makes shooting more impressive and varied.

MarCum LX-9 - echo sounder with camera for fishing

A fish finder is a useful feature for many fishermen. With its help, the camera allows you to examine the bottom topography in detail, noticing large debris, branches, rocks, etc.

Video from the camera can be viewed on an 8-inch monitor with control buttons. The entire set of equipment is packed in a special case. The working depth of MarCum LX-9 is 15 meters, and the device can withstand temperatures down to –25 degrees Celsius.

This model is easy to use, as well as reliable and practical. It is powered by a built-in battery and allows you to record video in good quality.

Lucky FF3309 - connecting to a smartphone via Wi-Fi

The key feature of Lucky FF3309 is simple and fast pairing with a mobile phone via Wi-Fi. Minimalism is the main advantage of this convenient underwater camera. You just need to connect it to your smartphone, from which you can view videos and control built-in functions. No additional monitors, batteries or chargers. Lucky FF3309 is ideal for fishermen who prefer to travel light on vacation.

Eyoyo 1000TVL - the best camera from AliExpress

One of the budget models that is suitable for both beginner fishermen and professionals. Easy to use, compact and quite powerful, equipped with a seven-inch display. This camera allows you to view video in good resolution, and its working depth has a range from 15 to 50 meters. For shooting in low light there is IR illumination.

The price of the camera is from 4 to 9 thousand rubles, depending on the configuration. The product has more than 300 positive reviews and high user ratings: look at AliExpress.

Making your own camera

You can make a camera for underwater video recording at home, but the functionality and operational capabilities of such a device will be limited. In addition, in order to make such a device, certain knowledge and skills in working with electronics are required.

First of all, you need to determine which video recording device will be used. In this case, there are several options: a video recorder camera, a digital camera, a mobile phone, a computer web camera.

One should take into account the fact that such cameras, as a rule, are not suitable for working underwater, and therefore the image quality will be very low. If you choose devices with better cameras, this will lead to significant costs, which, in general, are equal to the cost of a factory camera for underwater photography.

Next, it is very important to choose the appropriate material to create a waterproof case. In this case, you can purchase special cases for underwater photography, which are used for mobile phones, cameras or GoPro-type cameras. The body must be lightweight so as not to cause unnecessary difficulties during operation.

One option is to use a USB cable that connects the camera to a mobile phone or other electronic device. In this case, the telephone is the most convenient means, as it is compact in size. The disadvantage of this method is that normal operation of the USB cable can only be ensured if its length is no more than 5 meters. In addition, the video device must be quite sensitive.

Instructions for making an underwater camera with your own hands:

1. Preparation of necessary materials. To produce the device, you will need an optical recording device, which can be a car DVR or rear view camera. You can purchase such a device at the car market or radio stores. Also, for production you will need a 12 V battery, a monitor, and a cable. The camera kit, as a rule, includes two cables - for powering the device and for transmitting the video signal received to it, however, such cables are not suitable for use under water.
2. Battery assembly. The most economical and practical solution would be to assemble a 12 V battery from AA batteries. Standard AA batteries provide a voltage of 1.5 V, so to make a 12 V battery you will need 8 of these batteries. To make the resulting battery compact, it is recommended to use special containers. You can purchase a container for 8 batteries at once or 2 containers of 4 each. If two containers of 4 batteries are used for production, they must be connected in series with each other. It is best to use a soldering machine for this, and then rewind it with electrical tape to avoid short circuits.
3. Connecting the nutrient element to the chamber. The battery is connected to the recording device via a power cable. It is also best to connect the battery wires and camera power cable using soldering with further insulation.
4. Connecting to a monitor. It is best to use a car navigator as a monitor. A Chinese-made model is perfect for these purposes. The connection is made through the video signal cable located on the camera. If the monitor and cable connectors do not match, you can use adapters.
5. Waterproofing and lighting. The final stage of manufacturing an underwater fishing camera will be waterproofing. For these purposes, you can use waterproof boxes for regular cameras. A wide range of such products will certainly allow you to find an option whose dimensions will fit the dimensions of the camera. For illumination, you can use compact LED flashlights, which can be purchased at fishing and hunting stores. By the way, if the selected camera is sensitive enough, you may not need additional illumination.
6. Dive cable. It should be noted that long cables will be needed to dive to depth. When buying an extended version for immersion, you should pay attention to the density of the product. If necessary, if the camera will be placed at a greater depth, the cables should also be wrapped with insulating tape.

It is worth noting that homemade cameras for underwater photography are in many ways inferior to factory models.

This applies to almost all characteristics, ranging from image quality, size, maximum immersion depth, backlight brightness, and ending with ease of use. In view of this, buying a regular video device for filming underwater is much more advisable, especially when it comes to professional fishing.

Owner reviews

I purchased the AQUASPY LQ-N1 camera. Completely satisfied with the purchase. It cost me less because I ordered it online. There is an excellent overview and there is the opportunity to study the bottom. Grade:

Ivan, 32 years old

I bought a RIVOTEK DVR LQ-5025DR device and am a little disappointed with the purchase. The main disadvantage is the high price. Then I looked at other cameras and realized that I had overpaid. It is modern and beautiful, but you could have paid twice as much. Grade:

Evgeniy, 45 years old

I gave my husband a FISHCAM PLUS 750 ice fishing camera. My husband is absolutely delighted with the gift and sometimes goes out to the pond just to study the bottom. Each time he comes with a good catch and tells interesting stories about life under water. Grade:

Svetlana, 50 years old

I'm not happy with the FISHCAM 700 DVR camera. I wasted a lot of money in vain. By the time you install it, all desire to fish goes away. One day I didn't lose her. Now I have put it up for sale on the Internet. Grade:

Nikolay, 23 years old

I spent a lot of money on the FISHCAM 900 DVR+360 fishing device and, despite the fact that there were much cheaper models, I don’t regret it. The quality is immediately visible. With its help, I find places where fish accumulate and have already studied the bottom of the entire pond. In addition to fish, there were other finds. Grade:

Gregory, 56 years old

You can make a camera with your own hands, but you will need components for this. By purchasing parts separately and having an idea of ​​how it is assembled, you can make a good device and save a lot of money.

Remember! That goods from manufacturers pass all tests during production and have a guarantee, but individual parts do not have such advantages.

Preparing the camera for filming

It is important to prepare your camera before diving for video recording.

Required operations before using the camera:

1. Accumulator charging.
2. Cleaning the lens.
3. Checking the water resistance of the case.
4. Checking the rotation mechanism.
5. Assembling the device.
6. If necessary, install the monitor on the fishing rod.

Proper preparation of the device will ensure maximum effect from its use, thereby ensuring a good catch.

✔ VIDEO REVIEW

The top and underwater cameras shoot video files of 2 minutes each. The microphone is only on the top camera, and as I said, it is overly sensitive. Characteristics of the video captured by the upper camera.

And the underwater camera already has worse characteristics.

Example video.

The video is not mine, but it might work for a home archive.

Process of using the camera

The operation of an underwater camera begins with its immersion in water. In order to place the camera at the required depth, you must do the following:

1. Taking the cable near the camera, you need to place the device in water;
2. By gradually releasing the cable, the writing instrument is immersed. The camera should be 6-8 cm lower than the hook with bait;
3. The depth and direction of the camera are adjusted using a cable.
4. Next, the camera is fixed at the required depth. A clear image appears on the monitor screen only after a few minutes, which is due to the settling of water around the device.
5. After studying the bottom topography and other features of the selected area of ​​the reservoir, you need to move the camera so that the image shows a hook with bait.

During winter fishing, the camera is immersed a little differently: the hole in the ice must be cleared of small pieces of ice. Every 15-20 cm that the device is lowered, it is necessary to rotate the camera 360 degrees in order to have a better idea of ​​the condition of the reservoir and the presence of fish.

If the result of the study is positive, it is necessary to make another hole in the ice, intended for immersing gear with bait. After this, the camera is aimed at the hook and thus the bite is observed.

During such fishing, it is recommended to monitor the behavior of the fish. For example, how it reacts to the movement of bait, its appetite. For winter fishing, professionals recommend immersing the camera in a vertical position to get more viewing opportunities.

✔ MENU

The display can display either a picture from the upper camera, or a picture from the underwater camera, or two at the same time. Moreover, there is a picture-in-picture function - then the images from the underwater camera will be in a small square on top of the image from the upper camera. The most convenient division is this: on the right side is the image from the underwater camera, and on the left is from the upper camera.

Upper chamber.

Underwater camera.

You can switch the camera to photo mode. A questionable feature given the low resolution of the cameras.

Long pressing the Mode/Menu button allows you to enter setup mode. First of all, let's switch the menu to Russian.

Pip set - picture-in-picture mode.

As with car recorders, it is possible to overlay time and date on the video.

But I would advise turning off the sound, I frankly didn’t like the microphone, it is sensitive to such an extent that it even records interference inside the recorder.

When the recorder is turned off, the time is not reset, but if you remove the batteries to recharge, you will have to reset it.

To save battery life, there is a mode to turn off the recorder screen.

And in addition to energy saving, they added an auto-shutdown function when the recorder is not recording anything.

Perhaps somehow it is possible to reflash this recorder, but I think this is from the realm of science fiction, just information about the firmware, resetting the settings and the format of the memory card.

Blitz tips

Some tips for those who want to take full advantage of an underwater camera:

1. Contrary to existing opinion, the larger the camera's viewing angle, the lower the quality of the picture. If the need, first of all, is for a clear, high-quality image, you should choose a model that has a smaller viewing angle.
2. You should not choose cameras with significant backlight brightness. Bright lighting will increase visibility underwater, but it will certainly scare the prey. An underwater camera is primarily necessary to monitor the baited hook. Cameras with bright lighting should be used to study the bottom topography, the amount of underwater vegetation, etc.
3. It is worth noting that the dimensions of the camera must correspond to the size of the hole if fishing takes place in winter. You should not try to guide the camera through the ice if it does not fit into the hole. Even if you manage to place it in water, it will be much more difficult to get it back;
4. If the camera sinks to the bottom, you should be extremely careful. Hitting an underwater rock can cause damage to the hull;
5. It is also recommended to examine the pond for the presence of algae. If there are a lot of them, the camera may get tangled, which will not only cause a lot of discomfort, but also frighten the fish.
6. It is recommended to have a spare battery for your camera in case the main one runs out.
7. It is best to have several cameras for underwater photography. One for winter fishing, the other for summer fishing.

✔ MONITOR

Monitor with a diagonal of 5.6 inches and a resolution of 1280*720 pixels. The body is made of plastic with a soft-touch coating. To protect from the sun and glare, the manufacturer has provided a visor, which can be removed if necessary. At the bottom there are four control and selection buttons.

At the center during operation, a blue LED lights up, barely noticeable.

On the right side there is a 3.5 jack socket for connecting an external underwater camera.

On the left side there is a slot for microSD memory cards up to 32 GB.

In the back there are mounting grooves and a battery compartment covered with a lid.

The recorder is turned on and off using a small button at the bottom of the recorder.

Compartment for two 18650 batteries.

The camera installed on the top of the recorder allows you to shoot video in 720P resolution - 1280*720 pixels at a frequency of 30 frames per second. The camera can rotate around its axis by 270 degrees.

In addition, the camera can be raised or lowered at an angle of approximately 60 degrees.

Underwater camera position modes

Manufacturers in different countries produce cameras with 2 position modes:

• depending on where it is directed , the image will be displayed on the display in real time;
• The direction of the object is recognized using a compass built into the product and is also displayed.

Both methods allow you to effectively position the device and learn a lot of interesting things about the place and the fishing itself.

Price

Fishing rod with video camera

Everything here is relatively simple - the price of a particular product depends on the following parameters:

• matrix resolution and sensitivity;
• color and display dimensions;
• availability of additional options.

Simple and cheap solutions will come with a minimal set of features, unassuming displays and short cables to immerse the camera. In such devices, for example, the functions of IR illumination may even be significantly limited.

Advanced options will have more sensitive matrices, larger viewing angles, sufficient length of cables, backlight power, etc. “Top” solutions use the most sensitive cameras, additional sensors (depth gauge, barometer, gyroscope, etc.) and options - recording and HD video storage, zoom function, large displays, etc.

Naturally, you have to pay for everything, so when choosing a camera you should weigh the pros and cons of certain functionality. There should always be some kind of reasonable balance to ensure that the fishing hobby does not become too financially burdensome.