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Even though this company is well-known for their affordable fish-finding devices, it's important to note that they're also manufacturing more premium models as well. The Venterior Rechargeable & Wireless Sonar Sensor Fish Finder (VT-FF002) is one such device - it's a wireless, rechargeable model with a compact design that's capable of showing loads of useful information on its screen. It can detect both the size and the location of the fish, and even allows the user to utilize it as the depth sounder. Is it worth considering for purchase? Let's check it out!
The Specifications:
Weight - 0.3 ounces
Dimensions - 9.3" x 3.9" x 2.6"
Model Number - VT-FF002
Depth Capability - 2-120ft
Batteries - Built-in, rechargeable
Features
The Design
Just like all other fish finders manufactured by Venterior, the VT-FF002 also sports a design that's simple, functional and practical - it can easily compete with other highest-rated fish finder picks. Unlike their more affordable models, this one doesn't come in a combination of yellow and black - gray is the primary color here, along with the black color of the buttons. There's a big antenna on the top of the device, the battery cover on the back, and the big Venterior logo above it.
The model is textured on its sides, providing the user with a firm grip. A neck strap is included in the package, so you'll also be able to always have the finder right there in front of you. Overall, we like the look and feel of this finder - it fits perfectly
into the hand and can be conveniently carried around the neck.
Wireless & Rechargeable
This device is both wireless and rechargeable, which are the features that put it into the premium category in the first place.
This removes the need for a long and heavy cable for the device's transducer, while the two small holes in the finder's wireless sensor let the user attach it to his fishing line. This allows casting the sensor far away into the water, which is quite convenient and certainly makes the whole fishing experience much more enjoyable.
The power is provided by the combination of two built-in batteries (Lithium & Polymer), which are entirely rechargeable. You won't have to buy 4 X AAA batteries like with the cheaper finders, which is a serious money-saver in the long-term perspective. During our testing period, we found out that the batteries hold pretty well and allow an extended use before they're drained, which is always a big plus in our book.
The Venterior Rechargeable & Wireless Sonar Sensor Fish Finder works at depths from 2 feet (0.6 meters) to 120 feet (36 meters) and has a sonar frequency of 125 kHz. The angle of its sonar beam is 90 degrees and it can be used in temperatures ranging from 10 to 70 degrees Celsius. This makes the VT-FF002 quite convenient for your ice fishing adventures, and we're sure that many fishers will purchase it just because of this feature.
The Display
VT-FF002 comes with a 50 x 45mm Dot Matrix LCD screen with a white LED background. Even though it's colorless, it works flawlessly, just as we expected. It is capable of showing things like the water temperature, water depth, bottom contour, depth range & scale, and the water line. One thing we particularly liked is that it also shows the size of the fish - those looking for the "catch of the day" will find this feature extremely valuable.
Unlike some other models we've reviewed, this one actually allows you to change the language. One only has to press the "settings" button, find the language settings, and then choose one from the list. Of course, that's not the only thing you can do while there - the software of VT-FF002 allows you to adjust things like the sensitivity, the depth range, the alarm, and other things. You can also change the temperature and the depth units according to your need.
A thing that deserves special praise is the fact that this finder remembers your settings - it won't wipe them away once you turn it off. It's also worth mentioning that one can adjust the screen's contrast from 10% to 100% via the easy-to-operate controls, while the white LED backlight allows fishing at night.
What's in the Package?
Along with the hand-held wireless receiving host and the remote sonar sensor, you will also be getting a couple of USB charge cables and a user's guide.
The user's guide is well-written and easy-to-understand, containing all the necessary information one might need to figure out how this fish finder works. The USB cables, on the other hand, will allow you to charge the device even when there are no power outlets nearby.
Possible Considerations
Occasional Glitches on the Display
Even though the device's screen works very well and delivers a lot of valuable information, we've noticed the appearance of occasional glitches. They're nothing serious, but can be annoying at some times. This is something that Venterior needs to fix as soon as possible, as the glitches have no place in this price category.
Some Might Find VT-FF002 Quite Expensive
This fish finder is a lot more expensive than the company's more affordable ~$30 models and it's not an option for those looking for a budget-friendly model. Keep in mind that this device also brings a ton of valuable features to justify its price.
PROS
- Practical and functional design
- Shows the size and the location of the fish
- Rechargeable - no need to buy the batteries
- Wireless operation for a more enjoyable experience
- Easy-to-operate controls and intuitive UI
CONS
- Occasional bugs on the display
- Not a budget-friendly model
The Conclusion
This premium fish-finding device is undoubtedly one of the best we've reviewed so far. We found some flaws, yes, but the sheer number of its extremely useful features easily makes us forget about its disadvantages. It's guaranteed to make every fishing session a lot more enjoyable and productive - what more could one want from a fish finder?
