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DEEPER SMART FISHFINDER 3.0: INTRO
The Deeper Smart FishFinder 3.0 is part of the Deeper brands lineup of advanced fish finders. The 3 latest fish finders that they have released are all reviewed on this website, and this model is the oldest that I have reviewed. The newer models are the Pro and Pro+, and I have included links to those two reviews in my “Separating Deeper Models” section below. All of these models share certain functions, but the newer models contain more advanced features including the use of WiFi instead of Bluetooth and GPS functionality. You can learn all about it on this detailed review for the Deeper Smart FishFinder 3.0.
If you would like to learn more about the basics of these tools, I recommend reading my Kayak Fish Finder Guide.
Unbiased Review
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Every article that I have written and included on this KFC site contains my independent opinions based on my personal knowledge and experience. I am very deliberate with the content of my posts, and I never give any products preferential treatment or alter stats. I value the trust of all of the KFC readers, even brand new members. I make it my priority to earn your trust and maintain it, and I try to be as transparent as possible. If you ever have any questions regarding any of my posts, articles, or reviews, please contact me or write a comment at the bottom of this page. i would love to clear up any questions that you have!
Identifying Deeper Fish Finder Models
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Shortcut to Deeper Smart FishFinder 3.0 Review
There are 3 primary Deeper Fish Finder models, and the names can make differentiating them complicated. I decided to include this brief description to help readers identify each one, and they are ranked from oldest to newest (cheapest to most expensive):
- Deeper Smart FishFinder 3.0 – This model uses Bluetooth to transmit info to your smart phone or tablet.
- Deeper Smart Sonar Pro – This model creates its own WiFi signal which it uses to transmit info to you smart phone or tablet. You can read my detailed Deeper Smart Sonar Pro Review & Analysis.
- Deeper Smart Sonar Pro+ – This model also creates its own WiFi signal to transmit data, and it also has GPS included. You can read my detailed Deeper Smart Sonar Pro+ Review & Analysis for more information.
DEEPER SMART FISHFINDER 3.0: REVIEW
This is a detailed analysis and review for the Deeper Smart FishFinder 3.0. I follow the same general steps in each of my product reviews. All KFC reviews include separate ratings for several categories relevant to each product group. In this case, I use the same process and category breakdowns for every kayak fish finder product analysis and review. The last score awarded is for the overall score, and it is calculated by taking an average of all of the other categories. I finish with my general recommendation and include product links for quality items.
Deeper Smart FishFinder 3.0 Accuracy
4.5 / 5
I consider accuracy as the most important aspect for fish finders. Inaccurate location information and false alarms can render these devices basically useless.. It is evident that the Deeper brand places a priority on accuracy, and this is true for the Deeper Smart FishFinder 3.0 as well. The device accurately alerts and displays the location of fish in addition to other underwater objects. GPS accuracy is not considered for this model because this feature is not included. I used this model when it was first launched in 2014, and I found it to do a good job of accurately locating fish. As a result, the Deeper Smart FishFinder 3.0 has earned this score of 4.5 out of 5.
Deeper Smart FishFinder 3.0 Reliability
3.5 / 5
I generally regard product reliability in terms of the number of hardware (physical) and software errors. It helps answer whether or not this product can be trusted to work at all times. The newer Deep models excel in this category; however, the Deeper Smart FishFinder 3.0 occasionally experiences connectivity issues related to its reliance on Bluetooth. Many KFC members have reported having trouble connecting their smart phone or tablet with the Deeper device. This is especially true when the transducer/sonar ball is a significant distance away from the kayak or boat. Keeping the device close helps alleviate this issue, but it eliminates one of the features that makes this product so flexible, the ability to cast into tight places. I consider the Deeper 3.0 model as generally reliable in all other areas. As a result, I have recorded a score of 3.5 in this category.
Deeper Smart Fishfinder 3.0 Battery
4 / 5
All of the Deeper models reviewed on this site include rechargeable batteries, and they all appear to utilize the same type. The manufacturer’s product description states that the Deeper Smart Fish Finder 3.0 battery can last for “up to 6 hours.” I have personally used my Deeper Pro+ for 10 hours on a single charge during a long day of fishing. That means that this model should have an even longer charge, because Bluetooth generally doesn’t take as much power as WiFi used by the Pro and Pro+. The recharge time is listed at 2 hours for 100% power, but I clocked it at 1 hr 45 min on my second full charge. I’m usually more concerned with my phone’s battery, and it is an essential part of using this fish finder. Always make sure to charge both your phone (or tablet) and fish finder prior to your fishing excursions.
This is the exact product that I use, but there are several other sizes that Anker sells as well. I prefer this size because it has the ability to provide a full charge for both my Deeper Fish Finder and my phone without requiring a recharge. The Anker power banks work with all major smart phones, but you must bring your own power cable for iPhones. I actually purchased an additional “lightning cable” to keep with my power bank. This Anker power bank is roughly the size of lipstick (or so I’m told), so it doesn’t take up very much space. That’s important for kayak equipment, especially electronics like this power bank that need to stay dry. I also like the reasonable price, which is currently $16, and it can be shipped quickly.
Deeper Smart FishFinder 3.0 Features
3.5 / 5
The Deeper Smart FishFinder 3.0 was very advanced when it was originally launched in 2014. The use of Bluetooth technology was already fairly widespread by that point, but it was new for fish finders. The new approach that was taken by Deeper when they launched these earlier models set them on the path that they continue down today. This model lacks some of the big features present on the newer Deeper models, including the use of WiFi as a more reliable method for transmitting data. It also lacks the GPS availability of the Deeper Pro+ and other competitor models. Many kayak anglers still rely on this model, even though it is dated. It is still a really good fish finder that has several cool features. If the use of Bluetooth and lack of GPS don’t bother you, you should still consider it.
Ease of Use
4 / 5
The Deeper branded fish finders are all fairly intuitive and easy to use. This is contrary to the difficulty of using and reading the display of other more traditional brands. This model, the Deeper Smart FishFinder 3.0, is more simple than the newer models because it lacks some of the more advanced features (like GPS). The Deeper app is required to be downloaded on your smart device in order to use this fish finder. This app has a sleek and intuitive design that makes it very easy to navigate. The only negative for this model goes back to the frustration experienced when trying to connect your phone or tablet to the fish finder. This can occasionally take several minutes, and it makes using the finder impossible during the downtime. It has earned a score of 4 in this category.
Deeper Smart FishFinder 3.0 Price
3.5 / 5
The price for this model is fairly high when compared to the newer models that have additional features. I found this model listed for $170-180 which is slightly cheaper than the Deeper Smart Sonar Pro (reviewed here). I would personally choose to purchase the Pro over this model at the current price points due to the improved signal of WiFi. The Pro actually transmits its own WiFi signal, so it can be used anywhere. A small fraction of people prefer Bluetooth (possibly due to increased battery life), and these people may want to consider purchasing this model new. For everyone else, I would recommend searching for this model on sale, purchasing it used, or purchasing a newer model. Due to the current price point of this product, I have assigned a score of 3.5 for this category.
Deeper Brand Customer Service
4.5 / 5
As I have stated in the newer Deeper model reviews, I’ve had a limited interaction with Deeper customer support. This is where the KFC readers come in handy, so I asked for their experiences! New technology requires a good customer service presence in order to answer questions from new or existing customers. Unfortunately, many of these teams are underfunded with other brands. This is not the case with Deeper, they actually seem to value the customer experience. After receiving feedback from several members, it is apparent that Deeper places focuses on keeping customers informed and happy. I have rated them a strong 4.5 in this category due to their strong customer service presence. If you have a personal interaction with this company good or bad, please shoot me a message or post a comment below. That is the best way for me to keep this section current.
Deeper Smart FishFinder 3.0 Overall Score
The Overall Score is calculated by averaging all of the category scores listed above. I generally consider a score of 4+ as really good and 4.5+ as excellent. The Overall Score for the Deeper Smart FishFinder 3.0 is 3.9, which is pretty good. Deeper is a solid company that is selling this accurate fish finder that is a bit pricey and has some connectivity issues. This product is still a great tool for helping kayak anglers catch fish. I recommend that most readers purchase the newer Deeper models to obtain the latest features. For those that decide to purchase this model, I suggest buying via a clearance sale or to purchase it used from a reliable vendor with an easy return policy.
My Experience with Deeper 3.0
I have purchased and enjoyed using all three Deeper fish finder models reviewed on this site. I love how this brand has taken a unique approach toward finding fish, and they do a great job of utilizing the latest technology in their products. I currently have the newest version of this model, the Pro+, installed on my kayak. I purchased the newer Pro+ in 2017, and I still absolutely love it. I will purchase the next model when it is released as well. The Pro+ and the fishing kayak cart that I use for transporting my fishing kayak are my two favorite pieces of kayak fishing gear.
Purchase Deeper Smart FishFinder 3.0
(Commissions Earned)
If you are interested in purchasing the Deeper Smart FishFinder 3.0, have included the link above. You can click on the picture or product title listed directly above.
DEEPER SMART FISHFINDER 3.0: CONCLUSION
The Deeper Smart FishFinder 3.0 is a quality portable fish finder that has been sold for several years and can be purchased at a reasonable price either new or used. It is not the newest Deeper Fish Finder, and it does not contain WiFi or GPS like the two newer Deeper Fish Finders that I have reviewed. If the lack of these features does not bother you, this is one of the best fish finders you can buy. If you would like to see more about the Deeper GPS Model, check out my associated review. The Pro+ is currently the model that I use, but the Pro is also a great product. You can’t go wrong with the Deeper Fish Finders, as long as you find the particular model that has the features that fit your needs. That’s what these reviews are used for! Heading to the beach? Make sure you’ve thought about the benefits of a Kayak Beach Cart for helping you’ve your fishing kayak along the sand!
Mastered your fish finder and ready to engage in a little competition? Learn more about kayak fishing tournaments and see if they would be a good fit for you!
Deeper Smart FishFinder 3.0: Comments
Do you own or have you ever used a Deeper Smart FishFinder 3.0? Did you have a good experience? What overall score would you assign to it? Please share your knowledge with the KFC Community by posting a comment below. I read and reply to all comments, and I love interacting with our readers!
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