Let’s Dive into the Vexilar FL-18 ProPack II Fish Finder
The Vexilar FL-18 ProPack II Fish Finder isn’t just another piece of fishing gear; it’s a legacy forged in the ice and open waters, trusted by weekend anglers and tournament pros alike. From Vexilar, a name synonymous with sonar innovation, this flasher unit promises a reliable and detailed view of what lies beneath the surface.
My journey to the Vexilar FL-18 ProPack II Fish Finder began with the frustrating mystery of unproductive ice fishing trips. I needed a reliable way to identify fish-holding structure and actually see the fish, not just guess based on maps and intuition.
Unboxing the Vexilar FL-18 ProPack II Fish Finder, I was immediately struck by its robust, no-nonsense design. The durable Pro Pack carrying case felt ready for the harshest winter conditions. My initial impression was positive, sensing a well-built tool designed for serious anglers.
Compared to cheaper, digital fish finders I’ve used in the past, the Vexilar‘s flasher display offered an immediate and intuitive understanding of what’s happening in the water column. Other options offered more features but seemed to sacrifice real-time clarity. I chose the FL-18 for its reputation for reliability and the crisp, clear target separation it provides.
My first impression was excitement mixed with a touch of anticipation. This wasn’t just a gadget; it felt like a key to unlocking a whole new level of understanding the underwater world.
Real-World Testing: Putting Vexilar FL-18 ProPack II Fish Finder to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Vexilar FL-18 ProPack II Fish Finder was on a frigid January morning on Lake Simcoe, targeting lake trout through the ice. The wind was howling, and the temperature hovered around -15°C, a true test for both me and my gear.
Despite the extreme cold, the Vexilar FL-18 ProPack II Fish Finder performed flawlessly. The display remained bright and clear, and the sonar readings were easy to interpret even with gloved hands. It took a few minutes to familiarize myself with the flasher display, but I quickly learned to distinguish between different types of fish and even my own lure.
There were no issues. Within minutes of drilling my first hole, I located a promising drop-off and started seeing fish activity on the Vexilar.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full ice fishing season and numerous open water tests, the Vexilar FL-18 ProPack II Fish Finder has proven to be incredibly reliable. It has consistently provided accurate and detailed sonar readings in a variety of conditions.
Durability has been impressive. The Pro Pack case shows minor scuffs, but the flasher unit itself remains in perfect working order.
Maintenance is simple: wiping down the unit after use and occasionally checking the battery connections. It significantly outperforms any previous fish finders I’ve used. It has given me more confidence in locating fish-holding structure and maximizing my time on the water.
Breaking Down the Features of Vexilar FL-18 ProPack II Fish Finder
Specifications
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Manufacturer: Vexilar
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Color: Black
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Power Output: 400 watts
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Maximum Depth: 200 ft
- This allows for effective use in a variety of fishing environments.
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Size: One Size
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Length: 6 in
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Width: 2.5 in
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Weight: 1.1 lb
- Lightweight and portable for ease of transport on the ice or in a boat.
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Height: 4.4 in
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Additional Features: w/ 12 Degree Ice-Ducer
- The 12-degree Ice-Ducer provides a focused sonar beam for precise target identification.
These specifications combine to create a compact, powerful, and reliable fish-finding tool. The focused beam is particularly important for ice fishing, allowing for better target separation in confined spaces.
Performance & Functionality
The Vexilar FL-18 ProPack II Fish Finder excels at its primary job: providing real-time sonar data to locate fish and structure. Its accuracy and reliability are exceptional, making it a valuable tool for both ice and open water fishing.
The unit’s strengths lie in its ease of use and clear display. The only real weakness is that it lacks GPS capabilities, but that’s not what it’s designed for. The FL-18 exceeds expectations with its performance and rock-solid dependability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Vexilar FL-18 ProPack II Fish Finder is built with durability in mind. Its rugged construction and simple controls make it user-friendly, even in harsh conditions.
The unit’s weight is manageable, and the Pro Pack case provides comfortable carrying options. There is a slight learning curve with interpreting the flasher display, but Vexilar provides clear instructions, and the system becomes intuitive with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Vexilar FL-18 ProPack II Fish Finder should last for many years. Its simple design and robust components minimize the risk of failure.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and battery checks. The durability and ease of maintenance make it a dependable tool for serious anglers.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Vexilar FL-18 ProPack II Fish Finder comes complete with everything needed for immediate use: flasher unit, Ice-Ducer transducer, Pro Pack carrying case, and 12-volt battery with charger. The Pro Pack case features pre-drilled holes for mounting additional accessories like rod holders.
While the FL-18 is primarily a sonar unit, anglers can customize their setup with aftermarket transducer options or external GPS units. Vexilar offers a range of accessories designed to enhance the FL-18‘s functionality.
Pros and Cons of Vexilar FL-18 ProPack II Fish Finder
Pros
- Exceptional Target Separation: Easily distinguish between fish and structure, even in dense schools.
- Real-Time Display: Instant feedback allows for immediate adjustments to your fishing technique.
- Rugged and Reliable: Built to withstand harsh conditions and years of use.
- Easy to Use: Simple controls and intuitive display make it accessible for anglers of all skill levels.
- Portable Pro Pack Case: Provides convenient storage and transport for all components.
Cons
- Lacks GPS Capabilities: Requires a separate GPS unit for navigation and marking waypoints.
- Flasher Display Learning Curve: Requires some practice to interpret the sonar readings accurately.
Who Should Buy Vexilar FL-18 ProPack II Fish Finder?
The Vexilar FL-18 ProPack II Fish Finder is perfect for ice anglers, open water anglers targeting specific structure, and anyone who values real-time sonar data and exceptional target separation. It’s also well-suited for tournament anglers who need a reliable and accurate fish-finding tool.
This product isn’t the best fit for casual anglers who primarily fish large, open bodies of water and rely heavily on GPS and mapping features. A must-have accessory is a quality ice auger for ice fishing, and a boat mount for open water use.
Conclusion on Vexilar FL-18 ProPack II Fish Finder
The Vexilar FL-18 ProPack II Fish Finder is a top-tier sonar unit that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. While it may lack some of the bells and whistles of more modern fish finders, its core functionality is unmatched.
At $549.99, the price is justified by its robust construction, accurate sonar readings, and overall dependability. I would absolutely recommend the Vexilar FL-18 ProPack II Fish Finder to any serious angler looking to improve their fish-finding capabilities.
Ready to take your fishing to the next level? Invest in the Vexilar FL-18 ProPack II Fish Finder and experience the difference that real-time sonar data can make!