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Raymarine Dragonfly 7
Raymarine Dragonfly 7 Review Facts
Do you want a high-quality fish finder that offers accurate and clear images? The information below provides the scoop on one such fish finder, the Raymarine Dragonfly 7. Raymarine is breaking into the freshwater industry. They have provided saltwater products for years. Dragonfly 7 is an amazing unit in its price range. It is nice to be able to go out in deep water and finish interesting things such as sunken boats and old buildings.
For those who like to fish in shallow water that is between zero to 25 feet deep, most fish finders are pretty limited. The cone isn’t very wide at 12 feet when anglers go over points and bumps without making ten casts to find out what is around there. The down imaging on the Dragonfly 7 lets fishers know what is there and if fish are in the area. CHIRP dual channel technology allows anglers to look at the fish finder and down scan at the same time. They are not on the same frequency, so they don’t interfere with each other. The image is a clear picture of what is happening. The best quality is attained when traveling three to five miles per hour. 50-channel GPS is very accurate.
Editor's Pros & Cons
Pros
- CHIRP technology ensures transducer produces a highly accurate and detailed image
- Easy to use features and controls
- Excellent value for the money
- High definition and resolution offer some of the best displays available
- Highly portable
- No additional accessory purchases are necessary
- Sonar GPS tracks locations and stores them to an SD card to revisit successful locations
Cons
- Not the most recent version
- Only available in the US
- Short power lead
Basic Features
The Raymarine Dragonfly 7 weighs five pounds. It is 12” x 10” x 6” in size. No additional purchases are necessary when buying the Dragonfly 7. It comes with a user guide that is easy to follow, power cable, a transom mount transducer, and a bracket.
Advanced Features
The device can load maps with Micro SD card slots integrated into the design. Navionics silver and gold or Hotmaps can be used with the fish finder. The device ships with charts. Options include Navionics, Jepsen Sea Map, and Lighthouse.
The device can be purchased without any charts for those who already have on end don’t need another. Reviewers had problems with the Jepsen Sea Map. It does not support Apple computers for downloading updates.
One reviewer feels the Dragonfly 7 is no longer being produced but is still available on the market until the supply is depleted. It has been replaced by the Dragonfly 7 Pro which is an updated version that impressed the reviewer.
It feels sturdy. The device is solid and thinner than the previous model. The device feels as though it contains more electronics than the older version. They are well-balanced. Unlike the predecessor that feels as though it will fall over, the Dragonfly 7 Pro feels balanced no matter what way it is turned.
The device feels solid and sturdy. The front panel has been flattened. It no longer has a joystick. It was replaced with pads that have some traction to the controls. The device is compatible with Apple and Windows computers. The newer device has built-in Wi-Fi that allows others to download information on a smartphone that is the same as the fish finder.
The device can be purchased without any charts for those who already have on end don’t need another. Reviewers had problems with the Jepsen Sea Map. It does not support Apple computers for downloading updates.
One reviewer feels the Dragonfly 7 is no longer being produced but is still available on the market until the supply is depleted. It has been replaced by the Dragonfly 7 Pro which is an updated version that impressed the reviewer.
It feels sturdy. The device is solid and thinner than the previous model. The device feels as though it contains more electronics than the older version. They are well-balanced. Unlike the predecessor that feels as though it will fall over, the Dragonfly 7 Pro feels balanced no matter what way it is turned.
The device feels solid and sturdy. The front panel has been flattened. It no longer has a joystick. It was replaced with pads that have some traction to the controls. The device is compatible with Apple and Windows computers. The newer device has built-in Wi-Fi that allows others to download information on a smartphone that is the same as the fish finder.
Use
With its affordable price and compact size, the Dragonfly 7 is an excellent option for fresh or saltwater fishing. Using the color CHIRP sonar and GPS chart plotter hard bottoms rising from the depths can be easily pinpointed.
Everything from the bottom fish to the surface feeding yellowtail, tuna, and marlins can be detected. Switching to CHIRP down vision enhances the craggy details of the bottom while still delivering excellent target separation between fish in the bottom and fish of different sizes.
Everything is controlled by using three buttons and a rotary dial. Dial up the desired functions and press the joystick cursor control to select. It is easy to get the hang of operating the Dragonfly 7 without consulting a manual or instructions.
With no adjustments or set up to be done, the device is ready to be plugged in and used. The Dragonfly 7’s detailed trip display and accurate 50-channel GPS chart plotter help set up successful drifts to places where target fish are holed and their relation to structures.
Live bait and artificial lures are used to get those fish to bite. This style of fishing can be the difference between success and failure. The first time the fish finder is used can help locate fish and stay there. Over time, fishing needs and desires changed. The current fishfinder an angler has may be outdated. Those who want something current will find this information useful.
Everything from the bottom fish to the surface feeding yellowtail, tuna, and marlins can be detected. Switching to CHIRP down vision enhances the craggy details of the bottom while still delivering excellent target separation between fish in the bottom and fish of different sizes.
Everything is controlled by using three buttons and a rotary dial. Dial up the desired functions and press the joystick cursor control to select. It is easy to get the hang of operating the Dragonfly 7 without consulting a manual or instructions.
With no adjustments or set up to be done, the device is ready to be plugged in and used. The Dragonfly 7’s detailed trip display and accurate 50-channel GPS chart plotter help set up successful drifts to places where target fish are holed and their relation to structures.
Live bait and artificial lures are used to get those fish to bite. This style of fishing can be the difference between success and failure. The first time the fish finder is used can help locate fish and stay there. Over time, fishing needs and desires changed. The current fishfinder an angler has may be outdated. Those who want something current will find this information useful.
Connectivity
There is just one cord that plugs into the back of the fish finder. Raymarine combined the power and transducer into one. It makes running cable easier. Plug the cor in, click it down to secure it in place, and it’s not going anywhere.
Other brands have two cords, one for the power and another for the transducer. Simplicity is one thing that users take away with the Raymarine Dragonfly 7. It is simple in a lot of aspects. The cradle that comes with the Dragonfly 7 attaches to the mounting base.
It fits perfectly. The ball attachment allows the device to be moved in any direction. The transducer of the Dragonfly 7 is pretty big. It is long and narrow and different from other manufacturer’s transducers.
It fits many kayaks and boats as is. Some require a modification to the scupper plate that holds the transducer. Cut out the holding bracket in the plate. The transducer will then fit. The cable for the transducer comes out of the top.
Other brands have two cords, one for the power and another for the transducer. Simplicity is one thing that users take away with the Raymarine Dragonfly 7. It is simple in a lot of aspects. The cradle that comes with the Dragonfly 7 attaches to the mounting base.
It fits perfectly. The ball attachment allows the device to be moved in any direction. The transducer of the Dragonfly 7 is pretty big. It is long and narrow and different from other manufacturer’s transducers.
It fits many kayaks and boats as is. Some require a modification to the scupper plate that holds the transducer. Cut out the holding bracket in the plate. The transducer will then fit. The cable for the transducer comes out of the top.
Power Source
For simple powering a fish finder, a 7Ah battery is recommended. It is a lead-acid gel cell. A decent battery charger for the battery is needed. The 7Ah capacity has enough reserve to run a standard fish finder for a long time. It will not take the battery to a discharged state that cannot be resurrected.
Accuracy
CHIRP technology is used on the fish finder. It is a feature that places the device among the best fish finders available. CHIRP permits the fish finder to use several frequencies in the spectrum. The result is high-quality images with excellent definition.
The Raymarine Dragon 7 trackback feature can be used for returning to an excellent fishing spot. The device keeps a log of waypoints stored in the system. It saves the hassle of manually keeping track of positions where stops were made on each trip.
On advantage of the feature is saving time when on a tight schedule. Fuel is also saved when the straightest path to a destination is taken. Make use of the integrated sonar GPS feature in the fish finder.
The Raymarine Dragon 7 trackback feature can be used for returning to an excellent fishing spot. The device keeps a log of waypoints stored in the system. It saves the hassle of manually keeping track of positions where stops were made on each trip.
On advantage of the feature is saving time when on a tight schedule. Fuel is also saved when the straightest path to a destination is taken. Make use of the integrated sonar GPS feature in the fish finder.
Durability
One reviewer’s first impression of the Dragonfly was underwhelming. He felt the build of the product was somewhat thick yet exceptionally lightweight, which gave it a flimsy feel. Thin plastic was used in the construction.
It was apparent that a lot of the electronics were in the front section. The reviewer thought the device had a weird feel to it. He feared it would fall on its face and needed to be handled carefully. After dropping it a couple of times, he discovered the fish finder held up well. It did not break or malfunction. Despite his feeling, it was durable.
It was apparent that a lot of the electronics were in the front section. The reviewer thought the device had a weird feel to it. He feared it would fall on its face and needed to be handled carefully. After dropping it a couple of times, he discovered the fish finder held up well. It did not break or malfunction. Despite his feeling, it was durable.
Ease of Use
Fishers enjoy how easy the Dragonfly 7 is to use. The fish finder is relatively easy to connect and disconnect. Only a few minutes are required to install or remove, making the device very portable. For those who want the option to move the fish finder around, hire boats, or have multiple boats, the portability feature is highly desirable.
Even those who have never used a fish finder find the device is simple to use. It is similar to using a smartphone. The controls are laid out well and easy to understand. Newbies will be finding fish in no time.
There are other fishfinders on the market that have a lot of bells and whistles, such as buttons and options. At a certain point, the angler loses time fishing by fooling around with those options, that button, this thing, etc.
Fishers want the fish finder to do what it is meant to do, which is give the temperature, indicate the speed, show the cover, show the fish, and show the traveling structures. The anglers can go from there.
When the device is powered on, a couple of taps bring up the sonar. A couple more taps bring up the split screen, the chart plotter, and the down vision. It is simple to use and has screen clarity.
Even those who have never used a fish finder find the device is simple to use. It is similar to using a smartphone. The controls are laid out well and easy to understand. Newbies will be finding fish in no time.
There are other fishfinders on the market that have a lot of bells and whistles, such as buttons and options. At a certain point, the angler loses time fishing by fooling around with those options, that button, this thing, etc.
Fishers want the fish finder to do what it is meant to do, which is give the temperature, indicate the speed, show the cover, show the fish, and show the traveling structures. The anglers can go from there.
When the device is powered on, a couple of taps bring up the sonar. A couple more taps bring up the split screen, the chart plotter, and the down vision. It is simple to use and has screen clarity.
Display
The patented display of the Dragonfly 7 has the most precise graphics and highest quality. Everything beneath the water can be seen clearly. The transducer of the CHIRP technology searches downward to show all land, fish, and objects in full color.
Multiple frequencies are simultaneously used to scan. The system gives a detailed display of the area around the boat with lifelike and clear accuracy. A 640 x 480-pixel screen resolution is offered. Regardless of the daylight brightness, the LED backlight ensures the view is clearly displayed. The clear images and high-quality color display are also beneficial.
The joystick can be a little quirky to function because there is no traction on the base of it and the fingers can slip over it when wet. It may be challenging to get the device to do what is intended. The buttons on the fish finder are rather small and have clear plastic on them.
If the fingers are wet or water gets on the device, an effort has to be made to pus in the buttons. The screen of the Dragonfly is excellent. The device has super sharp imagining and clarity.
In the bright sun, the brightness setting can be cranked up to allow seeing the information with the sun shining down on the device. Navionics chips are included. The rotary dial is used to zoom in and out.
The down vision is better than many other fish finders reviewers have used. It gives a crisper image than its competition. Down vision is likely to become more prevalent in the future. Side vision is useful for being able to scan an area. To be able to tell whether a bass is on a piece of structure, the Dragonfly 7 is better. A screen lets the fishermen know where to cast. The 5.7 cm screen is a generous color screen.
Multiple frequencies are simultaneously used to scan. The system gives a detailed display of the area around the boat with lifelike and clear accuracy. A 640 x 480-pixel screen resolution is offered. Regardless of the daylight brightness, the LED backlight ensures the view is clearly displayed. The clear images and high-quality color display are also beneficial.
The joystick can be a little quirky to function because there is no traction on the base of it and the fingers can slip over it when wet. It may be challenging to get the device to do what is intended. The buttons on the fish finder are rather small and have clear plastic on them.
If the fingers are wet or water gets on the device, an effort has to be made to pus in the buttons. The screen of the Dragonfly is excellent. The device has super sharp imagining and clarity.
In the bright sun, the brightness setting can be cranked up to allow seeing the information with the sun shining down on the device. Navionics chips are included. The rotary dial is used to zoom in and out.
The down vision is better than many other fish finders reviewers have used. It gives a crisper image than its competition. Down vision is likely to become more prevalent in the future. Side vision is useful for being able to scan an area. To be able to tell whether a bass is on a piece of structure, the Dragonfly 7 is better. A screen lets the fishermen know where to cast. The 5.7 cm screen is a generous color screen.
Price
Priced a bit over $500 the Raymarine Dragonfly 7 is very affordable when compared to other high-end fish finders available. It has many excellent features that include a high-definition screen and CHIRP technology.
The Dragonfly 7 is at the higher end of Dragonflies. The 4, 5 and 6 models are less expensive. CHIRP sonar usually costs thousands of dollars and requires a giant transducer and a 12-inch screen. Raymarine has placed CHIRP sonar on an affordable level. It is two-beam sonar - 3D and traditional.
The Dragonfly 7 is at the higher end of Dragonflies. The 4, 5 and 6 models are less expensive. CHIRP sonar usually costs thousands of dollars and requires a giant transducer and a 12-inch screen. Raymarine has placed CHIRP sonar on an affordable level. It is two-beam sonar - 3D and traditional.
Key Features
* Built-in sonar GPS
* CHIRP technology
* Hotmaps and Navionics silver and gold
* Micro SD slot media storage
* Trackback stores history and enables retracing waypoints
* CHIRP technology
* Hotmaps and Navionics silver and gold
* Micro SD slot media storage
* Trackback stores history and enables retracing waypoints
Bottom Line
The many features of the Raymarine Dragonfly 7 provide plenty of reasons to choose the reliable fish finder. It helps on single fishing missions and saves time and fuel by remembering the history of some locations to be revisited.
Other features such as the excellent display and CHIRP sonar scanner provide accurate results every time. The Raymarine Dragonfly 7 is a unit that gives CHIRP sonar and a chart plotter in a compact unit.
The device gives fishers a lot for the money. Dual fuel chart plotting and dual channel CHIRP sonar are all packaged with a transom mount transducer and also included is Navionics+ chart guard. The CHIRP sonar mode optimizes the display of fish targets while wide-angle down vision mode is used to portray structures in lifelike detail.
Other features such as the excellent display and CHIRP sonar scanner provide accurate results every time. The Raymarine Dragonfly 7 is a unit that gives CHIRP sonar and a chart plotter in a compact unit.
The device gives fishers a lot for the money. Dual fuel chart plotting and dual channel CHIRP sonar are all packaged with a transom mount transducer and also included is Navionics+ chart guard. The CHIRP sonar mode optimizes the display of fish targets while wide-angle down vision mode is used to portray structures in lifelike detail.
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