New for 2025: Hummingbird EXPLORE Series Fish Finder
In the world of recreational fishing, having the right technology can make all the difference between a frustrating day on the water and a successful catch. Today, we’re taking an in-depth look at one of the most impressive fish finders on the market: the Hummingbird EXPLORE Series. This premium unit combines cutting-edge sonar technology with user-friendly features to help anglers of all skill levels locate and catch more fish.
First Impressions: Hummingbird Explore Series Fish Finder
Upon unboxing the Hummingbird EXPLORE Series Fish Finder, the first thing that stands out is its impressive display which is available in 9″, 10″ or 12″. The unit feels solidly built with a high-quality finish that suggests it’s ready to withstand the rigors of life on the water. The mounting hardware is included and installation is straightforward, whether you’re setting it up on a console, dash, or gimbal.
Display and Interface
The 9″, 10″ or 12″ screen is truly the star of the show here. With 1280 x 800 pixel resolution and exceptional brightness (1500 nits), the display remains clearly visible even in direct sunlight—a common challenge for many fish finders. The touchscreen is responsive and can be operated even with wet hands or while wearing gloves, which is a practical feature for real-world fishing conditions.
The user interface is intuitive and customizable. You can set up your preferred layout with split-screen options to simultaneously view different sonar readings, mapping, and other data. The menu structure is logical and easy to navigate, making this advanced piece of technology accessible even to novice users.
Sonar Capabilities
The Hummingbird EXPLORE Series comes equipped with CHIRP dual-spectrum sonar technology and connects to MEGA Live Imaging, MEGA 360 as well as MEGA Side and Down Imaging, which offers impressive depth range and crystal-clear imaging. The standard CHIRP sonar provides excellent fish detection in waters up to 1,200 feet deep, making it suitable for both shallow lake fishing and deeper offshore adventures.
The unit also features Down Imaging and Side Imaging sonar:
- Down Imaging provides detailed views directly beneath your boat with remarkable clarity, allowing you to distinguish between fish, structure, and vegetation.
- Side Imaging scans up to 200 feet on either side of your boat, giving you a broader picture of the underwater landscape and helping you locate schools of fish that might otherwise go unnoticed.
The MEGA Imaging+ technology delivers some of the clearest underwater images I’ve seen, with exceptional detail that helps identify not just the presence of fish but also their size and species in many cases.
Mapping and Navigation
The Hummingbird EXPLORE Series comes preloaded with Hummingbird Basemap, which provides decent coverage of over 10,000 U.S. lakes plus coastal areas. However, for serious anglers, it’s worth upgrading to the LakeMaster or Navionics chart options for more detailed mapping.
One of the most impressive features is AutoChart Live, which allows you to create custom maps of your favorite fishing spots with 1-foot contours as you boat around. This real-time mapping capability helps you discover and remember productive fishing areas that might not appear on standard maps.
Advanced waypoint management also just got easier with the ability to sync up to 10,000 waypoints with your smartphone. The GPS system is accurate and reliable, with waypoint management that makes it easy to mark and return to productive spots. The unit can store up to 2,750 waypoints, 47 routes, and 50 tracks—more than enough for even the most dedicated angler.
Networking and Connectivity
In today’s connected world, the Hummingbird EXPLORE Series doesn’t disappoint. It features:
- Bluetooth connectivity for updates and app integration
- NMEA 2000 compatibility for connecting with other marine electronics
- Ethernet networking to link multiple Hummingbird units
- Wireless connectivity for easier software updates
The unit is also compatible with Hummingbird’s One-Boat Network, allowing it to integrate seamlessly with Minn Kota trolling motors and other accessories for enhanced control and fishing capabilities.
Power Requirements
The Hummingbird EXPLORE Series requires a 12V power source and draws approximately 4.5 amps at full brightness. While this is higher than some smaller units, it’s reasonable given the large display and powerful processing capabilities. In typical use, you can expect it to run all day on a properly maintained boat battery without issues.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Built to IPX7 waterproof standards, the EXPLORE Series can withstand temporary immersion in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes. While I wouldn’t recommend testing this capability intentionally, it’s reassuring to know that the unit can handle rain, spray, and the occasional splash without problems.
Product Specifications
- Display: 12.1″ diagonal, 1280 x 800 pixel resolution, 1500 nits brightness
- Sonar: CHIRP Dual Spectrum, Down Imaging, Side Imaging, MEGA Imaging+
- Depth Capability: 1,200 feet (standard CHIRP), 200 feet (Down Imaging), 200 feet per side (Side Imaging)
- Frequency Ranges: 50/83/200 kHz (traditional), 455/800/1200 kHz (imaging)
- GPS: Internal, precision 10Hz receiver
- Memory: 8GB internal memory for AutoChart and screenshots
- Connectivity: Ethernet, NMEA 2000, Bluetooth, Wireless
- Card Slots: Dual SD card slots for mapping and data storage
- Power: 10.8-20V DC, 4.5 amps max draw
- Mounting: Gimbal or in-dash options included
- Dimensions: 13.4″ W x 7.9″ H x 4.2″ D
- Warranty: 2-year manufacturer warranty
Value for Money
With a premium price point, the Hummingbird EXPLORE Series represents a significant investment. However, when you consider the advanced technology, exceptional display quality, and comprehensive feature set, it offers good value for serious anglers who spend significant time on the water. The ability to upgrade and expand the system through Hummingbird’s ecosystem also adds to its long-term value.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional display quality and visibility in all conditions
- Outstanding sonar clarity with multiple imaging options
- Intuitive user interface with customizable layouts
- Excellent mapping capabilities with AutoChart Live
- Comprehensive connectivity options
- Expandable through Hummingbird’s One-Boat Network
Cons:
- Premium price point
- Steeper learning curve for some advanced features
- Base mapping could be more detailed
- Higher power consumption than smaller units
Final Verdict
The Hummingbird EXPLORE Series is one of the most capable fish finders available today. With its combination of crystal-clear imaging, advanced mapping features, and user-friendly interface, it provides anglers with the tools they need to locate and catch more fish. While the price point places it in the premium category, the technology and features justify the investment for dedicated anglers.
Whether you’re fishing familiar local waters or exploring new territory, the EXPLORE Series delivers the information and capabilities you need to make the most of your time on the water. For those who can justify the investment, this fish finder will not disappoint.
Rating: 9/10
