TOPIC:

Hi everyone, like to have your input about the value of a FishHawk unit. I run a 19 ft walleye boat that I am using for salmon/trout for the first time in several years. Lake Michigan being a different animal than Lake Erie has me considering the need for the ability to get speed at the ball and directionally due to current. I appreciate those with experience providing me with their thoughts,

thank you,

FishWish

Was never a fish hawk guy until last year. Made a huge difference for me. Usually start dropping it about may as March and April fishing super shallow. Anytime may through summer its a crucial Device to have.

I say YES!  Not because I am in the process of installing one on my rig, but because those I know who run them, have all had really good success. They produce!  No guess work with depth account of blowback, known speed at the ball/lure, and quick thermocline location.  Unfortunately, it does not guarantee you will catch fish!  Still have to figure out the rest; but fewer variables in the equation make it a little less complex. Like Tmik34 stated, not so much a need in the early season.  More for when the water warms, the fish scatter/go to deeper water, and the thermocline develops.  I expect my Fish Hawk to start paying dividend beginning in May. Tight Lines!  

A side note: There are basically 2 Fish Hawk systems available.  One has the clear, X4 probe and the newer version has a sealed Lithium Battery probe.  I am not a fan of ALL rechargeable electronics, so I opted for the clear X4 probe, which operates on 2 replaceable double A batteries. Once the Lithium battery in the newer style probe is shot, you have to buy a new probe at a cost of $450-$500; and Lithium batteries don't last forever!  You might be able to find a deal on the X4 model if they are on close-out. Just giving you my 2 cents. 

Yes a great tool. Although we didn't use a Fish Hawk we had Sun Troll. It does the same thing as a FH. Speed and temp at the depth of the fish is very important. If you want to catch more fish invest in some sort of probe. For us it was as important as having down riggers in the deeper warmer waters off shore.