Pros
Great value
Easy to install
Great graphics
Easy to use
Perfect size for a kayak
Clear images
Useful additional features (water temp, speed)
Affordable compared to buying separate components
Allows marking course and avoiding structures
Great color choices
Cons
No sun protector cover included
No maps available
Poor customer support experience
Main Product Advantages
9 Ease of Use
The Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv is praised for its ease of use, with multiple reviews highlighting its simplicity and user-friendly interface.
9 Installation
Users found the product easy to install, which makes it accessible for individuals who may not be very technically inclined.
9 Value for Money
Many users find the product to be of great value given its performance and price point.
9 Versatility
The device is suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, making it a versatile tool for anglers.
8 Graphics/Display
Reviewers appreciate the clear and vivid graphics that make it easy to identify underwater structures and fish.
8 Portability
The 7-inch display makes it a good fit for small watercraft like kayaks, enhancing its versatility.
8 Additional Features
Features like water temperature display and speed tracking are appreciated, though the lack of built-in maps is a downside for some.
8 Durability
The product is deemed durable by users, and some even bought additional units for their other watercraft.
5 Customer Support
Customer support received mixed reviews, especially regarding the wait times and lack of immediate help.
Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv Overview
The Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv is a standout fishfinder, offering a 7-inch display that brings underwater details to life with vivid color palettes. This feature ensures that fish and structures beneath the water surface are easily identifiable, enhancing the user experience.
High-Contrast Color Palettes
The device is equipped with high-contrast color palettes, a significant upgrade that makes underwater visibility more vivid and detailed. This enhancement allows users to effortlessly distinguish between various underwater elements.
Sonar Transducer Excellence
Included with the fishfinder is a GT20 transducer, renowned for its top-tier Garmin CHIRP traditional sonar and CHIRP ClearVü scanning sonar. These technologies provide exceptional clarity and detail, making fish and underwater structures easily detectable.
High-Sensitivity GPS
The built-in high-sensitivity GPS is a valuable addition, enabling users to mark fishing hotspots, plan their routes, and monitor their boat's speed. This feature is crucial for both navigation and fishing efficiency.
Quickdraw Contours Software
The device comes with integrated Quickdraw Contours software, allowing users to create and save maps with 1’ contours. This feature is particularly useful for those looking to build a detailed understanding of the waters they frequent.
Built-in Wi-Fi Connectivity
Thanks to the built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, the Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv can connect to the ActiveCaptain app on a compatible smartphone. This connection enables the transfer of waypoints, reception of smart notifications, and access to the Garmin Quickdraw Community, providing users with a wealth of shared information and updates.
Mounting Hardware
The package includes a tilt/swivel mount along with transom and trolling motor mounting hardware and cable. This ensures that the fishfinder can be securely and conveniently installed in a variety of settings.
Conclusion
The Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv is a comprehensive and user-friendly fishfinder that excels in delivering vivid underwater visuals. Its high-contrast color palettes, exceptional sonar transducer, and robust GPS and mapping features set it apart. With additional conveniences like Wi-Fi connectivity and versatile mounting options, it’s a reliable choice for both amateur and experienced anglers seeking to enhance their fishing expeditions.
