Article by Capt. Steve Katz
Fishing Just Got Smarter:
Meet the new Furuno CHS10 Omni Sonar
During the winter boat show season, Furuno unveiled its highly anticipated CSH10 Omni Sonar at the Fort Lauderdale show in October 2024. This new 360-degree full-circle scanning sonar system is engineered to significantly improve both commercial and sportfishing endeavors, thanks to its advanced sonar technology and user-friendly design, delivering exceptional underwater detection.
Here is a glimpse at some of its standout features:
Unmatched 360-Degree Scanning: The CSH10 provides real-time, complete underwater awareness. It emits ultrasonic waves in every direction, instantly capturing details about fish schools, seabed structures, and net positions. Operating at 83.5 kHz, it offers sharp beam widths ideal for detecting near-surface fish and distinguishing them from the seabed.
Advanced Beam Stabilization: Even in rough seas, the CSH10 ensures clear sonar readings. Furuno’s unique beam stabilization technology uses a built-in motion sensor to automatically adjust the beam angle, compensating for vessel movement. This results in reliable fish detection and seabed imaging, even in challenging conditions.
Intelligent Targeting Features: The CSH10 includes smart functionalities to enhance fishing efficiency:
Target Lock Automatically tracks schools of fish or fixed targets, maintaining focus without manual adjustments.
Fish Quantity Mark: Estimates the size, distance, and depth of fish schools to help identify the most promising targets and improve catch rates.
Enhanced Imaging and User Interface: The CSH10 features a 32-color palette, doubling the previous standard for improved image clarity and easier differentiation between fish and the underwater environment. With detection ranges up to 900 meters (approximately 2,950 feet), it offers a comprehensive view. The redesigned control unit is more compact and intuitive, featuring controls like the RotoKey™, tilt lever, and a large trackball. Optional wired and wireless remote controls provide added flexibility.
Seamless Integration with NavNet TZtouchXL: The CSH10 fully integrates with Furuno’s NavNet TZtouchXL multifunction displays, allowing direct control of sonar settings, including range, gain, tilt, and event history, from the MFD. The unique Sonar Chart Overlay feature displays real-time sonar echoes on navigation charts, providing a comprehensive view of fish targets relative to charted objects and underwater topography.
Designed for Diverse Fishing Applications: The CSH10’s advanced features are suitable for a wide range of fishing, from targeting fast-moving pelagic species in sportfishing to tracking migrating species in commercial fishing, maximizing catch efficiency.
For those who are familiar with the prior model Furuno Omni sonar, here is a Comparison of Furuno CSH8LMK2 vs. CSH10 Full-Circle Scanning Sonars:
The Furuno CSH10 represents a significant leap forward in marine sonar technology, offering a powerful solution for enhancing fishing operations for both commercial and sportfishing professionals.
Due to high demand since its introduction in December, new CSH10 units are currently facing backorders extending into 2026. However, the CSH10 is priced similarly to the previous model when combined with the transducer extension. Many early adopters have upgraded to the CSH10 and are selling their existing omni sonar units. If a new CSH10 is not in your current budget, purchasing a good used omni sonar is an excellent way to start fishing with this valuable technology.
