Lowrance Elite FS Fishfinder/Chartplotter - 9in Multi-Touch

In this review of the Lowrance Elite FS Fishfinder/Chartplotter the bottom line is clear: this unit is aimed at anglers who want detailed sonar imagery and a modern, networked display without excessive complexity. The biggest reason to buy is the included Active Imaging 3-in-1 sonar that combines CHIRP, SideScan and DownScan with FishReveal to show structure and fish with strong clarity. Setup is straightforward for someone familiar with marine electronics, and the 9in multi-touch screen makes on-water adjustments fast and intuitive.

Key Features

• Active Imaging 3-in-1: Combines CHIRP, SideScan and DownScan with FishReveal to separate fish from structure and reveal fine detail around cover.
• ActiveTarget Ready: Supports Live Sonar so anglers can watch fish react to a lure in real time when paired with an ActiveTarget system.
• Full Networking: Built-in wireless, NMEA 2000 and Ethernet let you share sonar, charts and waypoints with other displays and add accessories like radar or autopilot.
• 9in Multi-Touch Screen: A high-resolution touchscreen that simplifies navigation, chart zoom and on-the-water adjustments with responsive controls.
• C-MAP CONTOURplus: High-resolution 1-ft contours on thousands of lakes help pinpoint ledges, drop-offs and ditches where fish congregate.

Who It's For

This unit is best for freshwater and inshore anglers who want a modern chartplotter with advanced sonar imaging and the ability to expand into a full networked fishing system. Tournament anglers, guide boats and serious weekend fishermen will appreciate the clarity of SideScan and DownScan and the real-time feedback option with ActiveTarget.

Less appropriate for casual boaters who only need a basic depth readout or for users who prefer a simpler non-touch interface; also consider units with included ActiveTarget hardware if live-target capability out of the box is essential.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent image quality from Active Imaging that improves target separation and structure recognition.
• Flexible connectivity with wireless, NMEA 2000 and Ethernet for system expansion.
• Large, responsive 9in multi-touch display that speeds on-water adjustments.
• Accurate pre-loaded lake contours for better navigation and fish location.

Cons

• Active Imaging HD requires an optional S3100 module for the highest-resolution imaging.
• Some users may find the feature set more than they need if they only want a simple depthfinder.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Lowrance Elite FS is a strong choice for anglers who want advanced imaging and a modern, networked chartplotter without unnecessary complication. It delivers excellent value through detailed sonar, reliable mapping and a responsive 9in touch display, and it is especially worthwhile for users planning to expand into a full Elite fishing system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this include ActiveTarget live sonar?
It is ActiveTarget ready, but live-target hardware is sold separately and needs to be added for live sonar views.

Can the unit share waypoints and charts with other displays?
Yes, the Elite FS supports Ethernet and NMEA 2000 networking so charts, waypoints and sonar can be shared between compatible displays.

Are high-resolution lake contours provided?
Yes, the unit ships with C-MAP CONTOURplus offering 1-ft contours on thousands of lakes for precise navigation and fish-holding area identification.