Hola! Today, we explore the best underwater fishing cameras and a new futuristic underwater tool. An underwater fishing camera lets you view everything happening beneath the surface. It increases your chances of landing a fish, teaches you about fish-feeding behavior, and allows you to scout the terrain. Most include a submersible camera and a surface viewing screen.
Throughout our research, we focused extensively on the cameras’ key features. We looked at durability, quality, and size for the physical aspects. Internally, we focused on battery life, the ability to record clips, screen quality, and the screen display. With these in mind, here are the seven best underwater cameras on the market.
Our best overall pick is the Marcum RC5P Recon 5 Plus. The 5-inch display screen, durable carrying case, great price, and DVR check all the boxes of a good underwater camera. Many underwater fishing cameras cannot be controlled, nor can you distinguish which direction they’re facing. But with the Marcum, the forward-facing directionality of the camera truly sets it apart from its competitors.
Now I know the Marcum 5 Plus isn’t exactly the most affordable camera around. But don’t worry, that’s why our list has six other options. This list contains something for all anglers, with the most affordable camera being just $115.99 and the most expensive being $800+.
Now let’s dive into the top 7 best underwater fishing cameras!
Our Top 7 Picks
- Marcum RC5P Recon 5 Plus Underwater Camera Viewing System (Best Overall)
- Aqua-Vu AV 715c Underwater Camera 7-Inch LCD Screen (Best Splurge)
- PowerVision PowerRay Wizard Underwater Drone (Best Underwater Drone)
- GoFish Cam (Best For Trolling)
- Eyoyo 1000 TVL Underwater Fishing Camera (Best Carrying Case)
- Anysun Underwater Fishing Camera (Best Budget)
- Moocor HD 1000 TVL Underwater Fishing Camera (Best For Beginners)
The 7 Best Underwater Fishing Cameras
At the end of the list, there is a buyer’s guide explaining each important feature. Below, this list discusses wireless cameras, underwater drones, and cabled underwater cameras.
Best Overall
1. Marcum RC5P Recon 5 Plus Underwater Camera Viewing System
- Battery: Lithium-Ion – 6-Hour Continous Run Time
- Weight: 2 pounds
- Screen Resolution & Size: 800x480p, 5-Inch
- Cable Length: 50 ft
First up, the Marcum RC5P Recon 5 Plus Underwater Camera Viewing System is a fishing camera taking the market by storm. This camera has a large 5-inch screen, convenient carrying case, and a whopping 50 feet of cable.
The 5-inch HD LCD screen comes with a sun shade built in as a screen protector. The camera shoots in 800×480. And once submerged, it excels in high visibility and low current areas. Even if a cloudy day rolls in, the four-setting LED lighting system will illuminate the site and attract fish.
The camera’s image quality and screen size provide a comfortable view of the underwater footage. On-screen, some icons you’ll have are depth, temperature, and the forward-facing direction of the camera. Having the direction for your camera is a massive add-on for veteran anglers. But it still may prove difficult to turn without a camera paneer.
The battery is built-in and is a lithium-ion that will run for six hours continuously with a single charge. Once you’ve finished fishing, uploading files will be a breeze. Since the Marcum Underwater Fishing Camera uploads files in MP4 format, it’s easily compatible with both Mac and Windows computers. Just note that with its built-in DVR, you’ll need a Micro SD card reader to extract the footage.
Even though this camera is our best overall pick, there are some downsides to the Marcum Recon 5 Plus. The lack of ability to control the camera’s forward-facing direction and the smaller 90-degree field of view isn’t a big deal. But it could be a slight inconvenience for certain anglers.
At $369.99, this fishing camera is definitely on the higher-end of the spectrum. However, its directionality, camera and screen quality, and compatibility with Mac and Windows put it above every other camera out there.
If you’re looking for a fantastic underwater camera that checks off all the boxes across the board, look no further.
Best Splurge
2. Aqua-Vu AV 715c Underwater Camera 7-Inch LCD Screen
- Battery: 12V 7amp /8-hour Continuous Run Time
- Weight: 1.2 pounds
- Screen Resolution & Size: 800x480p, 7-Inch
- Cable Length: 50 ft
Up next, the Aqua Vu 715c was designed for rigidity and durability. This camera system has a huge 7-inch screen, a long-lasting 12V battery, and a convenient carrying case.
Slipping the camera into the water, you’ll notice your display screen sits on top of 50 feet of cable. This puts the screen at an excellent height, making it convenient and comfortable for the “hard-at-seeing” angler.
On top of that, when you drop the camera down, the built-in LEDs will light up anywhere you need. Then, once light conditions become low, the light sensor will switch to black and white automatically. This translates to optimal viewing capability.
On-screen, the only display icon is the battery level, which could be more informative. Frankly, at this price, I’d like to see more. Another downside to the Aqua Vu 715c is there needs to be a built-in DVR. If you want to transfer files, you’ll have to buy the wifi adapter for an additional $149.99 (for easy transfers to Mac and Windows). Camera directionality is also a great luxury, though you’ll once again have to fork out an extra $69.99 for it.
With the price of this setup being $299.99, you should expect quality and durability. When purchasing the Aqua Vu, that’s exactly what you receive. I recommend buying the wifi adapter and the camera paneer too, to unleash this camera’s full potential.
If you enjoy being high-tech and having the best of the best on the water, the Aqua-Vu 715c would be the best underwater fishing camera for you.
Best Underwater Drone
3. PowerVision PowerRay Wizard Underwater Drone
- Battery: Low 4-hours/Medium 1.5-hours/Sport .5-hours
- Weight: 14 pounds
- Screen Resolution & Size: 4K, 1440p, 1080p, displays directly to your phone
- Cable Length: 210 ft
Third on our list is the PowerVision PowerRay Wizard Underwater Drone. This isn’t just an underwater camera. It’s a submersible, remote-controlled, battery-powered submarine. You’ll also have real-time footage displayed right on your cellphone.
Upon unboxing, you’re greeted with a convenient and durable carrying case (FAA-approved for a carry-on). Since this camera isn’t cheap or light, it’s imperative to have a protective case. With the battery installed, this drone weighs in at a hefty 14 pounds, so the handle and wheels are a great add-on.
This drone is also armed with 210 feet of cable, a wireless remote, and a phone holder. The camera has 4k quality capability, as well as 1440p and 1080p. Also, the two incredibly bright LED lights are affixed directly next to the lens. These provide a bright panorama that allows your recorded footage to be of quality.
The drone can dive 90 feet below the surface under three different speed settings. The first, slow, has a continuous battery life of four hours. The medium speed setting brings the battery life to 1.5 hours, and the sports mode, which is full power, will drain the battery in 0.5 hours. In this mode, you’ll zoom across a calm body of water at around four knots.
Now, if you’re worried about losing the drone underwater, PowerVision has got you covered. There’s a lost mode, which activates a bright blinking light for recovery at depths in murky water. Once finished with the fun, you’ll want to review the footage. For that, you’ll have three convenient options: built-in Wi-Fi, a direct plug-in to your computer, and a micro SD card accessory. 64GB of onboard storage is also available, enabling easy transfers to both Mac and Windows.
As the drone entered the water, I immediately noticed a few things. The camera doesn’t do the best in a lake or pond setting. It’s in one position without a gimbal, so orientation is difficult to grasp. Also, if you’re too close to the bottom, you’ll stir up quite a lot of silt from the power of the propellers (there are three metal props onboard). The camera has a 95-degree field of view, which should be better for the price.
The price tag is on the higher end. But this could be an investment worth making. You’ll get endless exploration and seascape scanning capabilities.
If you’re searching for the newest gadget that allows you to explore the underwater world at high speeds, this is it.
Best For Trolling
4. GoFish Cam
- Battery: Lithium-Ion 1-2 Hour Continous Run
- Weight: 3.3 ounces
- Screen Resolution & Size: 1080p, displays directly on your cellphone
- Cable Length: Attaches Directly to Your Fishing Pole
Up next, the GoFish Cam is like no other on our list. This underwater fishing camera is entirely wireless and Bluetooth operated, giving you the freedom to throw this camera anywhere your lure or bait goes. Since this is the smallest camera on our list, storing and protecting it won’t be an issue.
First off, you’ll attach this camera directly to your fishing line, giving you access to any point on the water. Once you connect and cast it into the water, the 1080p resolution is impressive and clear, allowing you to watch the striking patterns of the fish you’re hunting. When trolling with it, you’ll be able to watch the fish swim over and observe the lure until it strikes.
If trolling isn’t your cup of tea, this camera is also great for baitcasting and ice fishing. The total weight is 3.3 ounces, so casting is possible with the right equipment. With that said, be sure to have a solid braid line with a medium to heavy power pole. The strength will ensure you get a safe cast without sending your brand new camera to the sea without a return line.
If bait fishing is your preferred style, the GoFish Cam includes a bobber attachment too. This attachment lets you use both the camera and bobber together. This is the best way to use the GoFish Cam; you get the best quality image and can be sure you won’t lose the device to a snag.
The biggest cons of this camera are its short battery life and lack of live video feed. You’ll only receive an hour to two hours of play on a full charge. Also, you’ll have to wait until after the catch to view your footage. But you can directly upload it to your phone with the wifi option, USB, or micro SD card.
The wireless capabilities of this camera are incredible and like no other on this list. Rock and tree snags are ever-present risks though, which means your investment is on the line every cast. Also, buyer beware, when fishing in current and waves, the camera will move around a lot, resulting in disorientation.
Best Carrying Case
5. Eyoyo 1000 TVL Underwater Fishing Camera
- Battery: Lithium-Ion – 8-Hour Continous Run Time
- Weight: 3.75 pounds
- Screen Resolution & Size: 800x480p, 7-inch
- Cable Length: 100 ft
Next on our list, the Eyoyo 1000 TVL Underwater Fishing Camera is a great bargain buy. The camera has a durable carrying case, a 7-inch screen, and 100 feet of cable.
Starting with the unboxing, we see a durable, metal “briefcase” shape. So, you won’t have to worry about your equipment in the back of the sled or boat while searching for the perfect spot.
Once you’ve found the ideal location, it’s time to pull out the Eyoyo. You’ll notice the weight is 3.75 pounds, making it one of the heavier cameras on the list.
In calm, clear water, the 800x480p resolution looks great. The Eyoyo has an 8-hour continuous run battery life, letting you catch fish all day. Once your day is over, you’ll have the opportunity to review some of your recorded segments.
The Eyoyo also has a built-in DVR that records in AVI format. This makes file transfers a little tricky for Mac users compared to their competitor Windows.
A major shortcoming I noticed is the weight of the display screen. Once you’ve emptied the carrying case, you’ll have to prop the screen up (It’s top-heavy and tends to fall over). Moreover, there is an obvious drop in quality in murky water compared to other cameras with 1080p.
Another drawback is the small field of view. With only 92 degrees, what you can see is limited. It does perform well in low light conditions though. On cloudy days or even for night fishing, there is infrared lighting to provide you with the ability to see just about everything under the surface.
You’re paying for what you get, and with the price being $200 cheaper than our best overall pick, Eyoyo went above and beyond. If you’re trying to spare your wallet but don’t want the most basic camera, the Eyoyo is an ideal option.
Best Budget
6. Anysun Underwater Fishing Camera
- Battery: Lithium-Ion – 8-Hour Continous Run Time
- Weight: 1.87 pounds
- Screen Resolution & Size: 800x480p, 4.3-inch
- Cable Length: 49.2 ft
Coming in at number six is the Anysun Underwater Fishing Camera. This camera includes a 4.3-inch screen, 49.2 feet of cable, and a carrying case.
As soon as you unbox this camera, you’ll see that the material on the viewing screen and video camera are solid plastic, making it relatively light. As such, at 1.87 pounds, this is quite a portable underwater fishing camera.
Once you’ve located the best spot on the lake, it’s time to drop the camera in the water. While lowering the camera, I immediately noticed the high-resolution 800x480p feed. As well, the large 120-degree field of view.
On cloudy days, the infrared capability allows you to see what’s beneath the surface and find fish with ease. Furthermore, if you intend to spend all day on the ice or water, you’ll be glad to hear that this camera has an 8-hour battery life.
Unfortunately, this camera does not include a DVR option. So this isn’t the best underwater fishing camera for you fishermen trying to upload your videos. But if you’re looking for the cheapest option, you’ll love this price tag.
Best For Beginners
7. Moocor HD 1000 TVL Underwater Fishing Camera
- Battery: Lithium-Ion, 8-10 Hour Continous Run Time
- Weight: 1.43 pounds
- Screen Resolution & Size: 800x480p, 4.3-inch
- Cable Length: 50 ft
Finishing things off, the Moocor HD 1000 TVL Underwater Fishing Camera is the second cheapest, but the quality doesn’t reflect the price. The Moocor Underwater Fishing Camera comes with a carrying case, a 4.3-inch screen, and 50 feet of camera cable.
It shoots at 800x480p and records directly to the 16GB built-in memory card, allowing for real-time playback. Also, you can transfer your files to any computer with a USB.
The best part of the Moocor HD 1000TVL Underwater Camera is its supreme battery life. With an 8-10 hour continuous run, your day on the water or ice just got extended.
In Moocor’s case, the 4.3-inch screen could be more prominent, and just like most cameras on this list, there isn’t a forward-facing directionality option.
This camera is one of our cheaper options. It is lighter than the Eyoyo at the same price. The choice is between the heavier 7-inch screen for the Eyoyo, and the lighter 4.3-inch screen for this video camera.
What To Consider When Choosing An Underwater Fishing Camera
Understanding what you need when looking for an underwater video camera is vital. Each digital camera has different pros and cons, but overall, these are the characteristics you need for each camera.
Durability
When we assess the camera’s durability, we need to remember the environment we will be in. Water will be the biggest concern whether you’re ice fishing or boat fishing. Yet, travel to any fishing spot can be less than smooth. Some form of abuse is bound to happen, whether bumping around in an ice sled or sliding across the boat.
Your camera needs to be durable enough to withstand your fishing habits. Be sure to consider how sturdy a camera is before purchase.
Cable Length
Although cable is necessary for every camera, the length depends on the angler’s location. A sunfish/crappie fisherman isn’t going to need 145 feet of cable, whereas a lake trout fisherman will to reach deeper waters.
Come into your camera purchase with knowledge of where you’ll be fishing. Hauling around 100 feet of extra cable may get annoying if not needed.
Weight
The weight of your video camera and viewing system may not be a need but a comfort. Depending on your fishing environment, you may prefer a 3.3-ounce digital camera like the GoFish Cam as compared to a 14-pound underwater drone such as the PowerVision PowerRay Wizard.
Be sure to research and confirm the weight of the camera system you buy.
Screen Resolution And Camera Quality
The most important consideration (besides price) is the resolution and the camera’s quality. Once more, the location is critical. If you’re fishing in low light, it’s crucial to have either infrared capabilities or resolution adjustments.
The camera quality and the resolution go hand in hand. If the camera capability is 4k, you’ll need a high-resolution screen. Yet, if the display isn’t 4k compatible, you lose HD capability.
But buyer beware, just because a camera shoots in 4k doesn’t mean visibility, current, and condition won’t affect the line of sight.
Screen Size
With an enormous crowd of senior anglers in the fishing community, the screen size plays a big part in knowing what’s going on in the underwater scene. The difference is incredible when comparing a 4.3-inch screen to a 7-inch screen.
Suppose you wear glasses or are visually impaired; lean towards a bigger screen. The bigger screen is going to help you in the long run. With a larger screen, you can also have an ice fishing hole placed further away to secure a larger field of view.
SD Card Slot
Having DVR capabilities isn’t necessary for every angler. Even so, with fishing videos trending on Youtube, many anglers are starting to record their catches. When considering this option, you’ll need to factor in whether you have a Mac or Windows computer. You’ll also want to get a camera that can upload in MP4.
Battery Life
Battery life may be the most important factor for you if you’re a fisherman who enjoys spending the entire day on the ice or water. Generally, lithium-ion batteries hold the longest charges. These batteries can last anywhere from 2-10 hours.
For comparison, the GoFish Cam has a battery life of 2 hours, whereas the Moocor HD Camera can last from 8-10 hours. For ice anglers, this tends to be a big consideration due to the time spent in an ice shelter without power.
My Verdict
After looking at these seven cameras, we have a couple of options for everyone: some budget-friendly and higher-end options. We’ve explored three categories of underwater cameras and have learned a lot along the way. After compiling my research and personal knowledge, I’d like to leave you with a recommendation.
In my opinion, few, if any cameras can beat the Marcum RC5P Recon 5 Plus. The large 5-inch display screen, great price, and DVR are features that any angler will be glad to see. The camera’s directionality, long battery life, and sleek look also put it on a whole other level than its competitors. With a fairly reasonable price of $369.99, this is a smart investment and likely the best underwater camera for most anglers.
Get out there on the water and start hooking lips. But before you do, don’t forget to charge your camera before heading out!
P.S. If you happen to be in need of a rod or a reel or just fishing gear in general, check out our fishing gear guides.
