Vexilar FLX-12 Genz Pack w/12 Ice-Ducer Review

Let’s Talk About Vexilar FLX-12 Genz Pack w/12 Ice-Ducer

For years, the name Vexilar has been synonymous with ice fishing, and for good reason. Their flasher units are legendary, known for their reliability and ability to put anglers on fish in the harshest conditions. I’ve been an avid ice fisherman for over a decade, and while I’ve tinkered with various sonar technologies, I always felt drawn back to the simplicity and effectiveness of a flasher. This led me to the Vexilar FLX-12 Genz Pack w/12 Ice-Ducer.

My old flasher finally gave up the ghost last season, leaving me searching for a replacement that offered a blend of proven technology and modern features. I was looking for a unit that was easy to use, offered good target separation, and wouldn’t break the bank. After countless hours of research and comparing models, the Vexilar FLX-12 Genz Pack stood out.

Unboxing the Vexilar FLX-12, I was immediately impressed by the ruggedness of the Genz Pack. The case felt solid and well-built, clearly designed to withstand the bumps and bruises of ice fishing. The unit itself felt substantial but not overly heavy, and the included battery and charger were a welcome bonus.

I considered the Humminbird ICE HELIX 5 and the Marcum LX-7, both excellent units with their own strengths. However, I chose the Vexilar FLX-12 for its simplicity and reputation for rock-solid performance in cold weather. The bright display and legendary target separation tipped the scales in Vexilar’s favor.

My first impression was excitement tempered with a bit of nostalgia. Flashers are old-school technology, but the FLX-12 felt like a modern take on a classic design. I was eager to get it out on the ice and see how it performed.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Vexilar FLX-12 Genz Pack w/12 Ice-Ducer to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Vexilar FLX-12 was on a frigid January morning on Lake Simcoe, known for its deep water and challenging fishing conditions. The temperature hovered around -15°C, a true test for any electronic device. Setting up the FLX-12 was incredibly simple; the Ice-Ducer dropped easily into the hole, and the unit powered up without a hitch.

The FLX-12’s display was remarkably clear even in the bright sunlight, making it easy to discern fish and jig movements. The unit performed flawlessly despite the extreme cold, providing accurate depth readings and clear target separation. After a short learning curve familiarizing myself with the gain and range settings, I was marking fish consistently and landed several decent lake trout.

There were no major issues during the initial use, but I did notice the battery indicator dropping a bit faster than expected. This could have been due to the cold, but it was something I kept an eye on. The ease of use and clear display, especially compared to my old unit, were a pleasant surprise.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a full season of ice fishing, the Vexilar FLX-12 has proven to be a reliable and valuable tool. It has been subjected to numerous outings in varying conditions, from sub-zero temperatures to slushy, wet days. The unit has consistently performed well, maintaining its accuracy and clarity.

The Genz Pack has held up admirably, showing only minor signs of wear and tear. The battery life has improved with regular charging, and it now lasts for a full day of fishing without issue. Cleaning the unit is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.

Compared to my previous flasher, the FLX-12 offers significantly better target separation and a brighter, more readable display. It has definitely outperformed my expectations in terms of reliability and ease of use. The Vexilar FLX-12 Genz Pack has become an indispensable part of my ice fishing gear.

Breaking Down the Features of Vexilar FLX-12 Genz Pack w/12 Ice-Ducer

Specifications

The Vexilar FLX-12 Genz Pack w/12 Ice-Ducer is a flasher-style sonar unit designed primarily for ice fishing but also suitable for open water use. It boasts a range of features designed to enhance the angler’s ability to locate and catch fish. The manufacturer is Vexilar.

• Depth Range: Offers five depth ranges, up to 120 feet. This is crucial for adapting to varying lake depths and structures.
• Transducer: Includes a 12-degree Ice-Ducer transducer. This provides a focused sonar beam for excellent target separation.
• Power: Runs on a 12-volt, 9 amp-hour battery. It provides ample power for a full day of fishing.
• Display: Features a flat-screen display with Vexilar’s exclusive brushless data transfer technology. It ensures a bright and clear image even in direct sunlight.
• Interference Rejection (IR): Boasts 20 steps of IR. This minimizes interference from other sonar units.
• Low Power Mode: Equipped with a low power mode. It is designed for use in shallow water.

These specifications are essential because they directly impact the FLX-12’s ability to perform its core function: locating fish. The depth range allows you to fish in various water depths, while the Ice-Ducer provides the necessary target separation to distinguish fish from structure or the bottom. The bright display ensures visibility in all lighting conditions, and the interference rejection keeps the screen clear even when fishing near other anglers with sonar units.

Performance & Functionality

The Vexilar FLX-12 Genz Pack w/12 Ice-Ducer excels at its primary job of locating fish and providing real-time feedback on their movement. The flasher display is incredibly responsive, allowing you to see even the slightest jig movements and how fish are reacting to your presentation. This real-time information is invaluable for adjusting your technique and triggering strikes.

The unit’s strengths lie in its simplicity and reliability. The controls are straightforward and easy to use, even with gloved hands. However, the FLX-12 could benefit from a more intuitive menu system for advanced settings. Overall, the Vexilar FLX-12 meets and exceeds expectations in terms of its core functionality.

Design & Ergonomics

The Genz Pack design is both functional and durable. The materials used are high-quality and feel like they can withstand the rigors of ice fishing. The unit’s weight is manageable, making it easy to transport across the ice.

The FLX-12 is exceptionally user-friendly, even for those unfamiliar with flasher-style sonar units. There is a slight learning curve to fully understand the display and how to interpret the sonar readings, but the basics are easy to grasp.

Durability & Maintenance

The Vexilar FLX-12 Genz Pack appears to be built to last. The rugged construction and high-quality materials suggest it will withstand years of use. Maintaining the unit is simple; regular cleaning and proper battery care are all that’s required.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Vexilar FLX-12 Genz Pack w/12 Ice-Ducer comes with everything you need to get started, including the Genz Pack carrying case, a 12-volt battery, and a fully automatic battery charger. Aftermarket options are available to further customize your experience. These include different transducers for open-water use and various mounting solutions for different fishing applications.

The FLX-12 is compatible with most standard 12-volt batteries and chargers, providing flexibility in terms of power options. Some anglers add a Vexilar soft pack to further protect the unit.

Pros and Cons of Vexilar FLX-12 Genz Pack w/12 Ice-Ducer

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Who Should Buy Vexilar FLX-12 Genz Pack w/12 Ice-Ducer?

The Vexilar FLX-12 Genz Pack w/12 Ice-Ducer is perfect for ice anglers of all skill levels who are looking for a reliable and easy-to-use sonar unit. It is also a good choice for those who prefer the simplicity and real-time feedback of a flasher-style display. It also works well for anglers who also want to use the unit for open-water fishing from a small boat or kayak.

Beginners might prefer a more advanced unit with GPS and mapping capabilities, while those who fish in extremely deep water may need a unit with a greater depth range. A must-have accessory is a spare battery, especially for long fishing trips in cold weather. A protective soft pack can also help extend the life of the unit.

Conclusion on Vexilar FLX-12 Genz Pack w/12 Ice-Ducer

The Vexilar FLX-12 Genz Pack w/12 Ice-Ducer is an excellent choice for anglers seeking a reliable and effective flasher-style sonar unit for ice fishing. While it may lack some of the bells and whistles of more expensive units, it excels at its core function: locating fish and providing real-time feedback. At $479.99, the price is justified by the unit’s performance, durability, and ease of use.

I would definitely recommend the Vexilar FLX-12 to anyone looking for a dependable and affordable ice fishing sonar. It’s a tool that will undoubtedly help you put more fish on the ice. Grab yours today and experience the Vexilar difference!