Whether you are fishing on a boat or a kayak, sometimes there comes a moment that you wanna cherish for a very long time. If you want to capture that exciting moment of action and magic GoPro is the best thing to capture those moments. Imagine telling a story to your friend of an exciting moment you have experienced while fishing. Now Imagine sharing that experience with a picture or video of that moment. That’d be amazing, ain’t it! So Why not use GoPro for fishing?
GoPro is capable of capturing very high-quality video. The latest go pro cameras come with lots of high-end technologies. You can add many suitable features to go with your GoPro camera too.
For capturing normal pictures any kind of GoPro will do but If you want to capture high-quality pictures from different angles and perspectives there are lots of great GoPro you can choose from.
Using GoPro for Fishing
If you want to capture your fishing experience, you need to know how to use a GoPro. You have to follow some methods to perfectly set up your GoPro and use it with much efficiency.
Comparing TOP 3 GoPro for Fishing
| GoPro HERO5 Black | GoPro HERO Session | GoPro HERO6 Black | |
| Video Quality | 4k is available. But 2.7k at 60fps is more preferable | 4k is not available. Can record either in 1440p or 1080p. | HERO6 Black has a unique video feature of a larger 4k video format of 4k 4:3. |
| Water Depth | Can go 33ft underwater without any extra housing. | Can go 33ft underwater without any extra housing. | Can go 33ft underwater without any extra housing. |
| Battery Life | The estimated battery life is 2 hours at 1080p at 60fps. | About one hour and fifty minutes if the recording is one. Don’t drain battery life in idle mode. | About one hour in 4k 60fps. One hour and thirty minutes at 1080p 60fps. |
| Field of View | The Aspect Ratio is 16:9 for medium and linear mode. For wide mode, it is 4:3. | This model has a superview option which has the most stretched FOV out there. | For Wide FOVThe aspect ratio is 16:9 and the Focal length is 16mm to 33mm. Focal length increases for Linear FOV (24mm – 49m). |
| Price |  | | |
All of these three models have great features which are good for capturing quality videos while fishing. But If you have to choose one, We recommend GoPro HERO5 Black for its exceptional video and image quality. That comes at an affordable price.
Top 11 Best Underwater Ice Fishing Camera For Sale
7 Best GoPro for Fishing
1. GoPro Hero5 Black
If you are looking for a Waterproof digital action camera with comfortable touchscreen use GoPro Hero5 Black could be a very good option. It also provides 4k HD videos and 12MP photos. This is arguably the best-selling model of the GoPro brand out there.
Settings and Features
Video Resolution – To get the best footage possible from your GoPro Hero5 Black you need to set the video resolution at fps at a certain range. You might want to set your video quality as high as possible but don’t do that. Set your video resolution at 2.7k and set the limit of fps at 60. That way you’ll get smooth video at the best quality.
Camera Settings – Keep your Portune turned on to change advanced settings like Shutter speed. Keep your shutter is more than double your fps limit.
Color Settings – You can keep the color settings suggested by the device. That way you don’t have to put extra effort into editing. You can set it to flat too. Then you might need to change it later.
Auto light – If you set your device to auto light, it’ll make lighting adjustments on its own depending on brightness.
Quick Capture – Keep the quick capture mode on so you don’t miss out on any exciting moments and capture them instantly.
Accessories
Housing – Although the built-in housing of Hero5 black is good enough for users, If you want more protection for underwater shots you can use ‘Super Suit Dive Housing’.
GoPro Smart Remote – Like Hero7 white you can use a smart remote to control your device from a suitable distance.
Battery and Charger – The Brunton All-Day 2.0 Extended waterproof Batteries are suitable for Hero5 Black. External power bricks will be more than enough to charge this device’s battery.
Memory Cards – External memory cards are a necessity for high-end GoPro models because of the storage capacity you’ll need to capture high-quality videos. Get a memory card that can handle fast write speed.
Anti-Fog Inserts– Generally You don’t need Anti-Fog inserts for Hero5 Black. It has waterproof housing that’s rated down to 33 feet. But If you want to dive deeper then Anti-Fog inserts might be necessary.
Advantages
- It provides great image quality.
- Has good quality image stabilization.
- It is waterproof.
Disadvantages
- If you leave the touchscreen on, Battery will die quickly.
- Responsiveness of the touchscreen is low.
2. GoPro HERO Session
This is a waterproof digital GoPro camera. The HERO Session camera has a unique design. This camera is versatile than other GoPro models.
Settings and Features
Video Resolution – GoPro HERO Session doesn’t have 4k resolution. The largest video resolution HERO Session has is 1440p and 1080p. The standard aspect ratio of the HERO Session is 16:9 mode. That’s the most wider format available.
Protune – Although there is a Protune option available, the options are less than other higher-end models.
Field of View – There are three types of field of view available in this HERO model. Ultra-Wide FOV is the default wide mode. It has a fisheye mode. There are also Medium and Superview FOV.
Superview FOV has the most stretched FOV out there.
One Button Control – With the Shutter button You can capture the video with one press.
Auto Low Light – Auto Low Light adjusts lights based on brightness surrounding the area. It changes frame rate based on low lighting performance.
Accessories
Chomps. Hands-Free Mouth Mount – Its dual side vents help you to breathe easily even when using this mount. It can be used as a selfie stick too.
Dual Cam Adapter – You can attach more than one camera by using this mount. This will help you cover several angles at the same time.
GoPole FLARE – It is a waterproof LED light. This is lightweight and attaches to any standard GoPro mount.
Advantages
- Excellent Video Quality although 4k isn’t available
- Very easy to use
- It is waterproof even without using a mount
- Good audio quality
Disadvantages
- Too expensive
- Live recording preview is not available.
3. GoPro HERO6 Black
HERO6 Black automatically sends your footage to your phone where the app turns it into a quick story and an awesome edited video. HERO6 captures black capture smooth video with its advanced video stabilization.
Settings and Features – GoPro HERO6 Black has the core feature of GoPro. HERO6 Black’s default setup is generally suitable for most of the shoots. But You can set some advanced settings for some great pictures and videos.
Video Resolution – Like other GoPro models You can take videos at 4k and 1080p resolutions. There is a unique video feature of a larger 4k video format of 4k 4:3. You can’t set a resolution lower than 720p.
Protune – The Protune option is similar to HERO5 Black. Keep your Portune turned on to change advanced settings when needed.
Field of View – There are three types of field of view options available to choose from. The default ones, The superview FOV (a wider view) and the linear FOV (mostly used for filming from drones).
Digital Zoom – There is a digital zoom option. It doesn’t affect the picture/video quality much. It works like a normal zoom option you use on smartphones.
Accessories
There are some accessories you can use to enhance your GoPro HERO6 experience.
GoPro HERO6 Black Shorty – This is an extension pole that can be used for taking selfies and reaching hard angles. This mount can extend from 11.7cm to 22.7cm.
Memory Card – Since You are going to capture high-quality videos, You’ll need a very high-capacity memory card. For example, You can use the Lexar 128GB microSDXC memory card.
3-way Mount – 3-way mount is more comfortable to use and portable if you don’t like the Black Shorty. It can be used as a camera grip, tripod for ultra versatility, and extension arm.
Battery and Charger – You’ll need to bring additional batteries as GoPro HERO6 Black comes with just one battery. If You use a dual battery charger, You will be able to charge batteries at the same time.
Smart Remote – By using a smart remote, You’ll be able to control Your HERO6 Black from a good distance. It is also waterproof.
Advantages
- Fast Wifi Connection
- Good and Improved stabilization
- Can capture video in 4k at 60fps.
Disadvantages
- It is Kind of expensive.
- Little hard to control.
4. GoPro Hero4 Silver
GoPro Hero4 Silver has is well for great video quality. This GoPro has a touchscreen display which is important for easily controlling the camera, shot framing, and playback. The GoPro Hero4 Silver is well-liked by both experienced and new users for its great video specially for an action camera.
Settings and Features
Video Resolution – To capture high-quality video, the video settings should be 1080p at 60fps. It will be more effective to get more slow-motion videos using this setting.
Burst Mode – Set Burst mode either at 30 pictures at 1 second or 3 seconds. You won’t miss out on any action then.
Low Light – Set the light motion to auto low light. That way you don’t have to change the light settings now and then.
Quick Capture – By enabling quick capture motion you’ll be able to take pictures with a single click of the button. Even when your camera is off, you’ll be able to record videos instantly by pressing the shutter button.
Protune – To get the best quality video Protune should be on. This will help you capture and edit videos.
Accessories
Mounts – Hero4 silver can be used with all GoPro mounts. Three mounts are included in the box along with two adhesive mounts. Adhesive mounts make it easy to secure the camera to curved or flat surfaces. You can rotate the other three mounts at any angle.
For housing, you can use GoPro standard housing which offers very good protection against knocks. It is easy to control and features a flat glass lens portal that is great for shooting below water. You can also use Dive housing besides regular housing for a good underwater view.
Battery – This device comes with a Lithium-ion battery that can serve you for almost two hours. It will reduce the battery limit if you connect wifi services or any other mobile application.
Storage – You can increase storage capacity by 64 GB by inserting a micro sd card. Which will give you five hours of video limit at 1080p quality.
Livestream – Hero4 Silver can be connected with smartphones and tablets. You can Livestream your captured videos via the Livestream application.
Hero4 Silver is one of the best GoPro out there for its video quality. If you are looking for a budget-friendly GoPro camera with good recording ability you should try this one.
Advantages
- It has a 1.7-inch touchscreen type LCD.
- Has fast wifi connection and it’s fast.
- Has a great video quality.
- Many good accessories are attachable.
Disadvantages
- Limited battery life.
- Can’t handle bright light.
5. GoPro HERO7 Black
If you are new to using GoPro cameras and want a budget model with good quality video capturing ability this might be the best choice for you. Although it can’t capture video at 4k videos, It offers good features at a very low price.
Settings and Features
GoPro Hero7’s features are very basic compared to other GoPro models.
Video Resolution– You won’t get a video resolution of more than 1440p. You’ll get this resolution at four different frame rates (60, 50, 30, 25) though. These videos won’t be high-quality but suitable for normal web use. This device’s aspect ratio is 4:3 the same width as 1080 but kind of taller.
Video Format – GoPro Hero7 is not the best for its video format. It makes normal mp4 files. But the video format is encoded with H.264 codec. Which makes it compatible with other devices.
Zoom – It has a digital zooming option. Although it’s not much of zoom than cropping.
Protune – There are no Protune options for video and picture modes.
Short Clip – There is a short clip option where you can clip 20-30 second videos to share online with others.
Slow Motion – This device has a slow-motion option. But it’s not as good as other models. You can capture slow-motion videos at 60fps. But It will play it back at 30fps.
Capture Button – To start capturing a video you can use either the shutter button or voice control.
Accessories
To protect your GoPro Hero7 and keep it functional, there are few accessories you can add.
GoPro 3-way mount – If you want to handle your Hero7 with comfort while fishing, the 3-way mount will come in handy. You may want to take a static shot, a selfie, or a picture from a difficult angle. This mount will help you get that. You can mount it to anything. It is also waterproof.
GoPro Swivel Mount-It is suitable to take pictures or capture video at any angle with 360-degree positioning of this mount.
GoPro Smart Remote– You don’t have to carry your camera around or mount all the time if you have a smart remote. You can control your GoPro from a good distance (up to 10m).
Battery and Battery Charger – GoPro Hero7 White is compatible with a dual battery charger that can charge two batteries at the same time. You can also bring an extra lithium-ion battery just to be safe.
Shoot Diving Dome – Shoot Diving Dome is best for capturing crystal clear view of underwater.
Advantages
- This GoPro model has good video stability.
- It is simple to use.
- Video quality is high for a cheaper model.
Disadvantages
- Doesn’t have any 4k resolution.
- The slow mode doesn’t work perfectly.
6. GoPro HERO3+: Silver Edition
GoPro Hero3 Silver is a classic GoPro model. It is smaller, lighter. Which is suitable for use in short boats or kayaks.
Settings and Features
Video Resolution – To get the best quality set your video resolution in 1080p 60fps wide mode. So that, You can get 30fps while playing it in slow-motion.
Spot Mode – Turn spot mode off to let your camera evaluate scenes for better exposures.
Portune – This model has Portune mode. But It is recommended to turn it off. Because it’s kind of hard to edit if kept on.
Color Settings – Normally you don’t need to add any filters to Hero3 to get a high-quality video. But for underwater shooting, some adjustments might be needed. You can use the Flip3.1 color correction filters to prevent your pictures from getting all green underwater.
Accessories
Jaws Clamp Mount – This mount will help you to attach your GoPro Hero3 in the smaller objects from 0.25 to 2 inches in diameter.
Suction Cup Mount – This mount is attachable to any kind of moving vehicle like Cars, Boats, etc. It has both a standard and quick release base.
Tripod Mount – The tripod mount is used for housing and quick release. You can switch between locations and shots quite easily.
Head Strap – The head strap mount is adjustable on any kind of helmet. If you go underwater, attach your hero3 using a head strap mount.
Standard Housing Lens Replacement Kit – This flat glass is used for great image clarity underwater. It is waterproof and has buttons for easy camera control.
Advantages
- Attractive Color
- It Comparably affordable than other high-end GoPros.
- Small and Portable.
- Built-in wifi connectivity is available.
Disadvantages
- Average video quality compared to its competitions.
- Battery life drains quickly if the wifi stays on.
7. GoPro Hero
Original GoPro Hero was released in 2004 and it revolutionized the industry. Although many latest models have been released since then, the original GoPro Hero always brings nostalgia with it.
Settings and Features
Video Resolution – You have several options to set your video resolution. The best video quality You’ll get if you set the resolution in 1080p at 60fps. There are also 960p and 720p resolutions.
Video Format – It provides mp4 video formats. The video format is encoded with h.264 compression.
Quick Capture Mode – This device has a quick capture mode. It can be used as an on and off switch. You can also use this as an auto record button.
Diverse Photo Capture – The variety of photo capture options will give you more options to take 5MP still photos.Time-lapse mode auto-captures picture every half a second.
Accessories
To enhance the quality of your GoPro HERO, You should add and use some accessories. There are few accessories you might add to your GoPro.
Mounts – More than 60 mounts are compatible with GoPro Hero. You can choose any kind of mount You think will suit your camera.
Memory – You can insert up to 32GB of external memory cards into this device.
Advantages
- Stunning Video Quality.
- Durable and Waterproof.
- Compatible with all GoPro Mounts
Disadvantages
- The touchscreen is not available
- Limited Video Resolution Option
Choose The Best GoPro for Fishing
A good GoPro for anglers to use should be waterproof and easy to use. It should be lightweight so that you can mount it from a fishing rod, boat, helmet, or any other small things that go underwater.
To choose a suitable GoPro for your fishing trip, You have to consider few things:-
7 Best GoPro for Fishing
Ease of Use
A good GoPro should be easy to use while fishing. If you are alone on a fishing trip, You would not want to waste time setting up the camera for a long time. A good GoPro should have an easy-to-access button. You can consider buying one with Super photo software to auto-set your camera settings.
If your GoPro has a voice command option that will be helpful. It will make your life on the boat much simpler.
Water Depth
Average water depth of a GoPro is approximately 33ft (10m). But if You want to use them underwater You have to use the housing. A good housing will give your GoPro a depth of 131ft (40m).
Memory and Storage Capacity
A good memory card will give you extra space to capture videos for a long time. You’ll need massive storage capacity if you are going to capture your fishing experience.
Video Resolution and FPS
Try to purchase a GoPro with a good video resolution that suits your budget. The higher the resolution you can set the more clear and high-quality videos you will get. The more megapixels Your GoPro has, the better.
FPS is the most important thing you have to consider while choosing your GoPro. The higher the FPS limit You can set, the more smooth the videos will be. Higher FPS will help capture the moments that end in the blink of an eye.
Battery Life
You’ll probably be fishing for a long time on your boat and kayak. If you want to capture all of your moments, You’ll need a GoPro with excellent battery life. Higher resolution videos will drain battery life faster. So you might want to bring extra batteries for the trip or rechargeable batteries.
Display
Almost all the GoPro models have LCDs. Make sure to choose one that is simple to understand.
Choose Your GoPro
Choosing a GroPro model that will be easy for you to control is important. There are lots of models available in the market. Try to pick one as latest as possible.
Here are some recommended models for you. The Hero4 Silver, Hero5, Hero6, etc. are preferable to use. Hero8 Black is highly recommended. It is waterproof which is suitable to capture while fishing.
Get some slow-motion shots
Try to take some slow-motion shots. Slow-motion shots are great for capturing casting and catching fish. Shoot slow-motion shots at the highest frame rate possible.
Hero 6, Hero 4 Black and Silver has the best quality to capture in slow motion.
Use Burst mode to take still photos
When you take a still picture use burst mode to take multiple still pictures. That way you will be able to take at least one perfect picture.
Set your frame rate higher– Set your frame rate at 60. Your captured video will be smoother and you’ll be able to edit your video without losing quality. Choose the maximum video resolution possible. Normally the resolution should be 1080p at 60fps.
Keep filming– Keep filming as much longer as possible while filming. That way the chance of missing a great moment to capture will be less.
Keep as many batteries and memory cards as possible– If you are going to film all day long, it’s possible to run out of battery. The average battery life of a GoPro camera is two hours. So bring as much battery as possible with you. You can use rechargeable batteries to avoid battery shortage too. You should bring extra memory cards too. Keep that in mind that you might run out of memory cards.
Try-out different mounts– If you want a variety of footages try different angles and mounts possible. Try different mounts for different kinds of casting and underwater shots. Head straps are the go-to mount for your GoPro when trying to capture point-of-view footage. But if you want your footage to be smooth, and not nauseating, try using a chest strap instead.
Keep your GoPro lens clean– You’re using a GoPro camera to capture your fishing moments. Of course, it’s gonna get wet.
But to avoid blurring your lens with water drops, you can use Rain X treatment to coat your GoPro lens. That way water drops won’t stay on your lens and blur your vision.
GoPro Accessories You can use
If you want to make your fishing experience with GoPro more interesting and comfortable, there are some accessories you can add to your GoPro. These accessories will not only help you with the comfortable use of GoPro but also help you take the best footage possible.
1. Extendable Pole
An extendable pole can be used for many things. From taking selfies to underwater shots. You’ll be able to cover a big area using an extendable pole.
Recommended Extendable Pole- SANDMARC Pole – Black Edition.
This item is waterproof. To handle it properly they added a rubber grip and has an adjustable wrist strap. Can use it with GoPro hero 9, 8, 7, 6, fusion, and hero 5, 4, 3.
2. Chest Mount
To get smooth POV footage you must have a good quality, Chest Mount. You’ll be able to use your GoPro more comfortably with twisting and turning to get the right angle.
Recommended- GoPro Performance Chest Mount (All GoPro Cameras).
It is lightweight and flexible. Comfortable to use. Fully adjustable to fit a wide range of body types and over heavy winter jackets. It has a stable platform to capture great footage.
3. Tripod
If you want to take some distance shots, use this mount on your fishing journey. You will get a more stable shot than any other mount with Tripod.
Recommended- UBeesize Tripod S
Made of rubber and metal. It has flexible Octopus-style legs made of metal which gives this tripod good stability. It has a wireless remote control feature to help you get pictures from a distance.
4. Color Filters
Color filters are used to take underwater shots with more accurate colors.
Recommended- SOONSUN 3 Pack Dive Filter for GoPro Hero 5 6 7 Black Super Suit Dive Housing
It provides great improvement of underwater shots. This professional 3 in 1 diving filter enhances colors and improves contrast in various underwater video and photography conditions.
5. Jaws Flex Clamp
If you want to move around your GoPro to take pictures of different angles with utmost quality and safety, you must have this accessory. You can show your creativity because this accessory is very solid to hold your GoPro.
Recommended- GoPro Jaws: Flex Clamp (All GoPro Cameras).
Optional neck adjusts to enable a variety of shooting angles. The camera can be attached directly to the clamp for low-profile mounting. Most importantly, it’s a lightweight mount.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Best GoPro for Fishing?
GoPro HERO5 Black has all the features that make it the best GoPro for fishing.
Why do I need a GoPro for fishing?
GoPro models have the best features to help you capture the exciting moments You enjoyed while fishing.
Can You attach GoPro to Your rod?
Yes, You can attach GoPro to your rod with the help of Jaws Flex Clamp Mount.
Which GoPro is best for underwater photos?
GoPro HERO6 Black is best for taking underwater photos.
Is GoPro better than iPhone?
GoPro cameras are far better than iPhones in terms of focusing on fast movements because of their incredible stabilization.
Does GoPro 7 need a waterproof case?
If you want to deep dive underwater You’ll need waterproof housing. Otherwise, It can go 33ft underwater without any extra protection.
Is the GoPro HERO7 worth it?
GoPro HERO7 is one of the most unique action cameras You’ll find right now.
Can you film upside down with GoPro?
By using Auto Image rotation mode enabled you can film upside down with your GoPro.
How do you take fishing selfies?
If you want to take fishing selfies You might need a holding mount like a 3-way mount. That way you can move your camera freely. You can also use the time-lapse mode to time your picture.
Can You make a documentary with a GoPro?
If You want to make a documentary with a GoPro you’ll need to add some accessories. Then You can make a documentary.
Conclusion
Choosing the best GoPro to capture your exciting fishing moments can be tricky. Because there are tons of options to choose from. We have covered unique features and advantages for you to find the most suitable one for you.
All of these three models have great features which are good for capturing quality videos while fishing. But If you have to choose one, we recommend GoPro HERO5 Black for its exceptional video and image quality. That comes at an affordable price.
