FFS Survey Results

[rsimms]

SURVEY RESULTS - Regarding the survey I posted last week asking how many people have Forward-Facing Sonar (FFS, such as Garmin Livescope or similar Humminbird or Lowrance brands), the survey has now been closed.

Albeit TOTALLY unscientific, I am absolutely astounded at the results! With more than 500 people taking part, basically HALF of all respondents indicate they do have forward-facing sonar.

I never imagined the percentage would be anywhere near that high. Perhaps folks were more inclined to answer if they do have FFS? But no matter what - even if it is off by a significant margin - it is clear to me that there are LOTS more people using FFS now than I ever would have imagined!

FYI, of the people who “Commented” on the reasons they do not have FFS (53 comments), a large percentage indicated they have concerns about the technology impacting the resource.

EXAMPLES OF RESPONSES (from people who don't have FFS):
• It is depleting a renewable resource at a rapid pace
• Should be outlawed
• They’re a crutch for lazy fishermen. I can’t imagine a duller way to fish.
• Not willing to lose knowledge it has taken me a lifetime to acquire.
• Unfair
• Will eventually lead to too many fish being removed from lakes. State agencies will need to reevaluate the number of fish that can be taken out
• Too much technology in the sport already.
• I think they are unfair for sport fishing.
• It's not fishing, it's spotlighting
• Taking the “fishing” out of fishing
• I think they negatively impact the fish harvest.
• I think it’s a detriment technology. Two reasons, most resources are struggling and this highly effective tool will only damage it further. Second issue is the angler. The technology is dumbing down anglers. I’ve fished for a living for almost 50 years. I’ve watched a steady decline in anglers that truly understand all the elements and those that are successful almost solely through tech. We are losing our skill sets. I blame tech for that. I’ve seen the full arc of electronics and use modern electronics in my business. This just crosses an ethical line for me. To each his own though.