The Sonar Dead Zone

This is the year that everyone is getting back on the big water up north. Many of those lakes are unique in that they are really deep and have super steep drops. It's no secret that lake trout are hot targets up there and deep water and steep drops is where you'll often find them.

There's something unique that happens in that water if you are using standard 2D sonar or a flasher. The deeper the water the bigger your sonar cone gets. So while the depth beneath you might be 125 feet, your sonar might only show it being 110 because of where your sonar cone hits. That's why you'll notice your lure often dropping much deeper than the depth your sonar shows.

I call this the dead zone because you can't see what is going on. This dead zone is often one of the the most productive places to target trout. They are cruising down there targeting benthic prey like gobies or sculpins. It's interesting to be jigging blind in that zone but it can be so productive.

Live sonar changes that game some, it will paint a much better picture of the bottom. Although it will have limitations in that deep water also. Great Lakes currents and small presentations in that deep water can be challenges.

That's just one of the things to be aware of this year. It is going to be a great season for getting out on the hard water and going on some real adventures. I'll be heading north soon!