We love controversy. We love drama. Despite claims to the contrary, outdoorspeople are quick to point fingers and hurl insults at anyone who does not practice the same techniques, hunt & fish in the same method they do. New technology is one of the biggest targets. At one time, the hatred was aimed at crossbows; now the target is Forward Facing Sonar.

Forward Facing Sonar has been a lightning rod for hate since its first tournament debut. Magazines, blogs and chat boards were soon filled with claims that FFS would ruin fishing, teach younger anglers to rely on technology rather than skill, and cause too many breeding-size fish to be taken. This debate was sent into overdrive when B.A.S.S. Tournament officials announced new regulations for the 2026 season, limiting the use of FFS.

Sounds familiar. Many of the same claims were made about crossbows. Now, 16 years later, Pennsylvania is seeing historic deer harvests, and plenty of hunters are still relying on traditional or compound bows and rifles. Even muzzleloaders remain a favorite platform, all despite the evil crossbow.

I suspect that Forward Facing Sonar will face a similar future. Haters will condemn it, supporters will embrace it, and, sometime in the near future, everyone will realize the truth is somewhere in the middle. It is a tool, but not an infallible one.

Despite what some may think, sonar does not let you sneak up on fish undetected. Not only is there the noise of your boat, motor, and associated equipment, but now there is noise from the sonar itself. Sonar works by emitting a signal, or ping, which returns to the unit once it comes in contact with an object. Living creatures, including fish, can detect the ping. Although it will not frighten all fish, that does not mean it will not frighten some of them. As more and more anglers utilize sonar, there is no telling how they will react to repeatedly being pinged.

Another disadvantage is that FFS does not work very well in some of the places where you will encounter the best fishing. In shallow water, the transducer can interfere with navigation, and feedback can make it challenging to detect fish among the many pieces of cover. Likewise, when fishing in heavy current, the movement of the water itself can make it difficult to pick up fish. While you will clearly see the bottom and large structure, everything else becomes lost in the clutter.

Despite its many advantages, FFS can not replace basic skills and reliance on your ability to see what is taking place on the water and identify irregularities in the current. Seeing shadows or hidden ledges in thick cover, a spot where your next trophy may lie. And do not forget about the birds. An unknown number of anglers have relied on watching birds feeding on baitfish chased to the surface to identify their next target.

Just like the crossbow, Forward Facing Sonar will find a place in the sport, but it will not turn the unskilled, undisciplined into masters of the sport. Some will find it an advantage, while others will quickly abandon it in favor of old-fashioned methods. Either way, there is plenty of room for both camps.