19 Best Fishing Drones of 2021
Which fishing drone is the best?
None of them and all of them! There is now no such thing as the very best fishing drones in the market. Each person that you ask to will inform you that what they use is the very best, which may be right for them. Still, everybody has different wants, needs, and individual experiences, which changes their view on what the very best fishing drone on the market is.
In this guide, we will attempt to go over what we regard as the ideal fishing drones would be (in our estimation) for specific applications because no all-in-one solution works for any fishing. Please be aware this won’t be a specs comparison at all.
How do you pick the best drone that will aid you in your fishing adventures?
There are numerous sorts of drones in the marketplace and, so you can choose the best one, below are a few factors you can consider.
Flying Style
Before we leap into buying a fishing drone and trying to fly like a pro pilot, we will need to see various flying styles, and which drone generally best suits that particular fashion.
Autonomous flying – This is quite an important manner of flight. Many flyers, particularly novices, seem to fly the drones without having a lot of controllers. For this, you’d require control that can do maximum functions like auto take-off and auto landing.
Sport flying – Sport flying is the most adventurous and exciting flying fashions of all. Additionally, this is somewhat distinct from autonomous flying because here, you would be asked to make rapid changes in flight, and you may need to change between very aggressive and incredibly passive manoeuvres. This flying style is not suggested while carrying out your payload, fast and aggressive manoeuvres would cause your payload to swing and your drone to attempt to correct that. In doing so, you run the risk of your line being picked up and wrapped around a propeller.
Price
You will find fishing drones in various ranges today, but you need to decide on the most suitable for your requirements. It’s ideal for a newcomer to decide on an inexpensive drone because this may get damaged in time. If you choose to go for a costly fishing drone, be sure that the drone’s grade is powerful enough for its cost.
Listed below are a couple of features to keep in mind to get Fantastic flight control:
Self-levelling – this can be a rather handy feature that permits the quadcopter to keep flat in the atmosphere by letting go of the pitch.
Orientation manner – a drone with an orientation manner provides the pilot with the opportunity to control the orientation of this drone.
Altitude grip – this feature allows the drone to hover and stay stable at a certain distance from the floor level, and the pilot doesn’t need to keep correcting the throttle.
Position grip – like the elevation hold, this attribute permits the drone to keep in a predetermined position or place.
Return home – this is a distinctive quality that’s present at many drones that permits the device to go back to its original place of takeoff (home point) even if the flyer loses control.
Waypoint navigation – that is just another fascinating feature in a drone. The apparatus may adhere to a few points marked out on a map as part of this flight program by the pilot.
GPS – this attribute has been gaining a great deal of value recently. It allows the drone to keep its location and maintains a list of the flying info for advantage.
GANNET PRO + FISHING DRONE
SUMMARY
The Gannet Pro drones have been designed as short-distance delivery drones, unlike most other drones that are symmetrical camera platforms, with a camera hanging from the bottom and able to fly at near identical speeds in any direction, the Gannets are streamlined to fly forward significantly faster and with less power usage than most camera platform drones.
As a result, Gannet Drones are unmistakably recognizable and very unique in shape.
Why This Fishing Drone
- Fully waterproof
- Sleek and stylish look
- Multiple auxiliary attachment points
- Easy to fly and control
- Smart specs and features
- Return to Home key
- Impressive distance range
- Withstands a wide range of winds and temperatures
- Control with a remote controller
- Smart battery management
- 5kg (7.7 lbs) payload
Model Features
It features an LCD display for drone telemetry, battery, and GPS status, use with or without a smartphone, (optional) Full HD (1080p) live video from the gimbaled camera so that it can be used as an effective search and rescue drone with clear live HD video.
Fail-safe electro-mechanical payload release that can be mechanically or electrically activated.
Its hovering is stable and doesn’t require any effort from the pilot.
Water and sand resistant remote so that it can be used on the beach without worrying that sand will jam the remote sticks.
Extended flight times due to high-efficiency rate with aerodynamics designed to be able to fly in high winds for longer.
With a 3.5 kg payload, it's capable of flying with your lines and baits attached. You can use it drop bait in inaccessible places where the fish you're after gather in plenty. However, you won't be able to lift big fish out of the water with it (Just yet).
Fully sealed electronics, preventing corrosion of electronics, despite needing uninhibited barometric pressure sensing.
It’s easy to operate with intuitive features and you can focus on what the camera is capturing.
Expandable with the option to add external long-endurance batteries and custom payload bays
GANNET PRO FISHING DRONE
SUMMARY
The Gannet Pro drones have been designed as short-distance delivery drones, unlike most other
drones that are symmetrical camera platforms, with a camera hanging from the bottom and
able to fly at near identical speeds in any direction, the Gannets are streamlined to fly forward
significantly faster and with less power usage than most camera platform drones.
As a result, Gannet Drones are unmistakably recognizable and very unique in shape.
Why This Fishing Drone
- Fully waterproof
- Sleek and stylish look
- Multiple auxiliary attachment points
- Easy to fly and control
- Smart specs and features
- Return to home key
- Impressive distance range
- Withstands a wide range of winds and temperatures
- Control with a remote controller
- Smart battery management
- 2kg (4.4 lbs) payload
Model Features
It features an LCD display for drone telemetry, battery, and GPS status, use with or without a smartphone, (optional) Full HD (1080p) live video from the gimbaled camera so that it can be used as an effective search and rescue drone with clear live HD video.
Failsafe electro-mechanical payload release that can be mechanically or electrically activated.
Its hovering is stable and doesn’t require any effort from the pilot.
Water and sand proof remote so that it can be used on the beach without worrying that sand will jam the remote sticks.
Extended flight times due to high-efficiency rates with aerodynamics designed to be able to fly in high winds for longer.
With a 3.5 kg payload, it's capable of flying with your lines and baits attached. You can use it drop bait in inaccessible places where the fish you're after are hanging out in plenty. However, you won't be able to lift big fish out of the water with it (Just yet).
Fully sealed electronics, preventing corrosion of electronics, despite needing uninhibited barometric pressure sensing.
It’s easy to operate with intuitive features and you can focus on what the camera is capturing.
Expandable with the option to add external long-endurance batteries and custom payload bays
DJI PHANTOM 4 PRO FISHING DRONE
SUMMARY
DJI is the pioneer in the consumer drones making industry. The Phantom 4 PRO is a very popular drone and one of their most iconic creations. The outstanding features that make the Phantom 4 Pro the best drone for fishing are its long-range and top of the line camera that captures amazing photos and video of the underwater world and makes it easy to find the best fishing spots.
Why This Fishing Drone
- High-quality camera and sensors
- Sleek and stylish look
- Titanium alloy and magnesium alloy construction are rigid yet lightweight.
- Easy to fly and control
- Smart specs and features
- Return to home key
- Impressive distance range
- Withstands a wide range of temperatures
- Control with a remote controller (Smart remote with built-in screen) as well as mobile device
- Smart battery management
- 800g – 1KG payload
Model Features
It features a powerful camera equipped with a 1-inch 20MP CMOS sensor. It can shoot 4K/60Fps. DJI’s stabilization system ensures smooth image and video quality. Exploring fish in their natural habitat will be a pleasure with this drone.
Its distance range of just over 3.5 miles is superior and plenty for drone fishing. Its hovering is stable and doesn’t require any effort from the pilot.
It has a long battery life which can do for as long as 5 hours, with a maximum flight time of 30 minutes on a full charge. This should give you about 25-27 minutes on air, which should be sufficient to cast your bait and hit the return to home feature.
With a 500g payload, it’s capable of flying with your lines and baits attached. You can use it drop bait in inaccessible places where the fish you’re after hang out in plenty. However, you won’t be able to lift big fish out of the water with it.
With the bright, 5.5in 1080p screen, viewing footage in direct sunlight is not a headache.
It’s easy to operate with intuitive features and you can focus on what the camera is capturing.
This drone also has self-protective features. It can sense obstacles from five directions and avoid them. You don’t have to worry about collisions.
DJI MAVIC 2 FISHING DRONE
SUMMARY
The Mavic 2 is an improvement in almost all aspects of the Mavic Pro including camera performance, video transmission, flight time, flight speed, low-noise, omnidirectional obstacle sensing, intelligent functions, and its unique Hyper lapse feature.
Why This Fishing Drone
- High-quality Hasselblad camera for amazing footage and images
- Very user-friendly with intuitive flight controls
- Solid build quality and can survive the occasional bump or fall
- Sleek look and feel
- Extreme distance range
- Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing
- Intelligent Battery
Model Features
The Mavic 2 is an improvement in almost all aspects of the Mavic Pro including camera performance, video transmission, flight time, flight speed, low-noise, omnidirectional obstacle sensing, intelligent functions, and its unique Hyperlapse feature.
It offers 29 minutes of flight time, which should be sufficient for scouting missions or dropping bait. Approximately 1.5 hours to fully charge.
FCC: 18 km (outdoors and unobstructed) CE: 3.5 km is its maximum transmission distance, which is good.
It has fold-up arms and snap on propellers that disconnect easily for easy and compact transportation.
DJI PHANTOM 3 PRO FISHING DRONE
SUMMARY
The DJI Phantom 3 Professional is well built, easy to set up, and flying it is simple. After admiring its look and feel - it's a beauty to behold with a sleek design, you'll be up and flying very quickly even if this is your first drone. It even has a beginner mode to help you learn how to fly in a safe, limited area. So would this make the best fishing drone for you? Read on and find out.
Why This Fishing Drone
- The high-quality camera takes amazing footage and images
- Very user-friendly with intuitive flight controls
- Solid build quality and can survive the occasional bump or fall
- Sleek look and feel
- Good distance range
- Beginner-friendly
- Live HD streaming
Model Features
Its standout feature is its stabilized camera. It can capture high-quality 12-megapixel photos and 4k UHD video at up to 30 frames per second. You'll love this feature whether you're studying the fish species you target, studying topography, or watching how the fish interact with your bait. You can view live HD video of what your drone's camera is seeing on your mobile device.
It offers 23 minutes of flight time, which should be sufficient for scouting missions or dropping bait. You can also opt to have a spare battery included with your purchase.
FCC: 5 km (outdoors and unobstructed) CE: 3.5 km is its maximum transmission distance, which is good.
It also features the standard DJI features: GPS navigation with auto takeoffs and auto landings, intelligent flight battery, and a built-in no-fly zones database. Control and stability are also great.
DJI PHANTOM 3 STANDARD FISHING DRONE
SUMMARY
The Phantom 3 Standard is designed for beginners and hobbyists looking for a ready-to-fly and affordable drone. Just like all DJI drones, it looks great, features solid build quality, and is super easy to fly and control with its intelligent flight controls. It is the perfect drone for a first-time flyer, or as a backup drone.
If you're looking for a drone to use in scouting fishing spots, getting a feel for the lay of the land and water, studying fish underwater, dropping bait, and for taking photos and videos, this drone will satisfy your needs.
This is one of the best deals you will come across. It's a high-quality quadcopter offering top of the line features and functionality at an accessible price.
What Makes This Fishing Drone Stand Out
- Amazing drone for the price and excellent value
- Easy to fly and control
- Excellent camera quality takes great photos and video
- Good control using the remote controller and mobile app
- Automatic takeoff and landing One key return to home function
- Intelligent flight modes
- Low battery alert
Model Features
The stabilized camera is capable of capturing 2.7K video and 12MP stills. Though not at the same level as the Phantom 3 Professional above, it takes amazing photos and videos. You can stream live HD view on your mobile device.
GPS assisted flight lets you concentrate on capturing images while the drone helps you fly safely.
The battery gives you up to 25 minutes of flight time, which is ample time for the fish to take a bite given that it shows you the best place to drop the bite so you can cast precisely. Its load capacity is about 1.2kg/2.6 pounds.
The maximum unobstructed range is 1000m. This range of about half a mile should be sufficient for most fishing missions.
Features intelligent flight modes. Waypoints make it possible for the drone can fly itself Follow me and point of interest hands-free controls enable shooting of high-quality images and video.
It is lightweight and well-built, which is a great feature if the wind sends it into a tree because of its lightweight, it holds up well to bumps.
DJI MAVIC PRO FISHING DRONE
SUMMARY
The DJI Mavic Pro is a small yet powerful drone that turns the sky into your creative canvas easily and without worry, helping you make every moment an aerial moment. Its compact size hides a high degree of complexity that makes it one of DJI's most sophisticated flying cameras ever.
Why This Fishing Drone
- High quality 4K camera for amazing footage and images
- Very user-friendly with intuitive flight controls
- Solid build quality and can survive the occasional bump or fall
- Sleek look and feel
- 13 km distance range
- Forward Vision System \ Downward Vision System
- Intelligent Battery
Model Features
The Mavic is smaller, lighter, and easier to carry with you thanks to its foldable design. Its OcuSync transmission system has a longer transmission range and 1080p resolution. Due to its larger size, the Phantom 4 has a higher maximum speed and can withstand stronger winds.
It offers 24 minutes of flight time, which should be sufficient for scouting missions or dropping bait. Approximately 1.5 hours to fully charge.
FCC: 13 km (outdoors and unobstructed) CE: 3.5 km is its maximum transmission distance, which is good.
The Mavic remote controller uses DJI’s OcuSync transmission technology, giving it an increased range of up to 4.3mi (7km) in open areas without interference, FCC compliant. When using a smartphone connected via Wi-Fi, the controllable range is 80m, and the maximum altitude is 50m, making it suitable for short-range shots like selfies and for setting up ActiveTrack. You can also download photos and videos directly from the Mavic to your mobile device via Wi-Fi. By sliding the Control Mode switch on the right-hand side of the aircraft, you can choose easily between Wi-FI and RC mode depending on which transmission type you need.
It has fold-up arms and snap on propellers that disconnect easily for easy and compact transportation.
The Mavic can withstand a level 5 wind, also called a fresh breeze. This is defined as wind speeds of 19–24mph (29–38kph).
DJI INSPIRE 2 FISHING DRONE
SUMMARY
The Inspire 2 takes everything good about the Inspire 1 and improves it. The image processing system CineCore2.0 has been upgraded to CineCore2.1, recording video at up to 6K in CinemaDNG/RAW and 5.2K in Apple ProRes when used with Zenmuse X7 camera. It goes from 0 to 50 mph (80 kph) in just 5 seconds and hits a maximum speed of 58 mph (94 kph) and has a max descent speed of 9m/s for unheard of speed and agility in an aircraft this size.
A dual battery system prolongs the flight time to a maximum of 27 minutes (with an X4S), while self-heating technology allows it to fly even in low temperatures. Flight Autonomy has been revised and developed specifically for the Inspire 2, providing two directions of obstacle avoidance and sensor redundancy. Increased intelligence adds multiple intelligent flight modes, including Spotlight Pro, giving even single pilots the ability to create complex, dramatic shots. An upgraded video transmission system is now capable of dual signal frequency and dual channel, streaming video from an onboard FPV camera and the main camera simultaneously, for better pilot and camera operator collaboration.
Why This Fishing Drone
- Large payload
- Dual battery
- Easy to fly and control
- Control using intuitive controller
- Robust
- Great features and capabilities for the second-hand market price.
- 5km Transmitting distance
- Dual User Capability
Model Features
A new propulsion system optimized for power creates a new level of flight performance. The Inspire 2 flys at up to 58mph (94kph) descends at 9m/s and ascends at 6m/s. It can accelerate from 0 to 50mph (80kph) in just 5 seconds and flies at a max attitude angle of 40°. The two controller sticks are tuned for more sensitivity, making delicate manoeuvres easier.
More power also allows the Inspire 2 to fly in more extreme conditions, including over 2500-5000m above sea level (using optional dedicated propellers), and in temperatures as low as -4°F (-20°C) using self-heating Intelligent Flight Batteries.
The main controller functions as the brain of the quadcopter. It receives data consistently, even in harsh weather. It makes sure that the craft responds to the pilot’s control commands.
Reliability has been further enhanced through the dual redundancy of key modules such as the IMU and barometer. The intelligent flight control system monitors the redundancy system, giving it accurate flight data.
Dual batteries mean that if a problem occurs on one battery the other can continue flight long enough for a safe landing. At the same time, the Inspire 2 propulsion system is driven by a PWM signal with serial port signal redundancy so that if PWM signals are lost, the transmission will continue through the serial port.
DJI is the pioneer of DJI-inspire-top-view brushless motors, which are now an industry standard. The curved magnets block airflow gaps and increase flight efficiency.
AERO KONTIKI – THE WORLDS ULTIMATE LONG LINE FISHING DRONE
SUMMARY
Aerokontiki Drones are purpose-built in New Zealand for recreational long line fishing as an alternative to fishing with a Fish Harvester, Sea Horse, or Predator. Engineered to be tough and safe, our drones can carry a total deadweight of 4 kg, handle 35 km/h winds, and boast a multitude of safety features to ensure its safe return to you. Perfect for fishermen with physical disabilities, RV’s, motor homes, camper vans, fishing kites and, kontikis.
Why This Fishing Drone
- Built with an intuitive flight controller
- No calibration is needed.
- Deploy in very rough sea conditions and strong breezes without entering the water.
- The unique fishing drone that can cast a set line with 25 baited hooks and 32 oz sinkers, 1200m out to sea.
- Solid and well built
- No drone flying experience needed and ideal for those new to beach fishing
Model Features
It is a serious machine engineered to give you high performance, reliability, and many hauling missions. Its rigid Y6 carbon fibre frame with six brushless motors has the power to lift 4kgs which is much more than many other fishing drones available on the market. It uses the industrial-grade Cube autopilot with backup sensors and is world-renowned for performance and reliability. Coupled with quality power reels ensures it works well as a portable aerial fishing system capable of hauling up to a 25 hook setline over 1000 meters and retrieving the entire catch.
It has many inbuilt failsafe features to ensure its safe return. For example, the Aerokontiki battery management system monitors the battery charge for you, and if this charge reaches the amount that is needed for it to return to you and you have not noticed, it will release the fishing line and come back to land itself.
All AeroKontiki fishing drones use industrial-grade flight controllers which are factory calibrated and will work at any location in any country without needing re-calibration.
SWELLPRO SPLASHDRONE 3
SUMMARY
Enhancing and extending the features of the previous SplashDrone 3, the latest SplashDrone 3+ is the most reliable and versatile waterproof drone yet.
Coupled with several different payloads such as waterproof gimbal 4K camera GC-3, waterproof payload release with HD FPV live video PL-2, waterproof payload release with 4K camera and 1axis gimbal PL-3, and the upcoming waterproof payload release with low-light camera PL-4. SplashDrone 3+ can be adapted for a wide variety of uses. It is an all-purpose, all-weather, waterproof flying platform.
Why This Fishing Drone
- Striking new colour scheme
- Extended flight times
- New Smooth+ remote controls
- Power-Flip function when floating
- Circuit board moisture protection coating
- Return to home key
- Lost Drone Location Beacon option
Model Features
The SplashDrone 3+ fuselage is made from durable 3mm reinforced ABS to ensure a perfect waterproof seal.
Each drone undergoes at least two pressure tests during production for 100% waterproofness. All parts, both inside and out, are corrosion resistant and designed for use in marine environments.
The new S3 flight controller, integrated with new sensors and a powerful propulsion system, allows for greater sensitivity and accuracy than ever. This means you can fly SplashDrone 3+ safely and smoothly with more confidence on the water, in rain and snow.
Redesigned carbon-fibre propellers are light and stiff to efficiently transform the motors' power into thrust. A new quick-fit design enables fast and secure attachment of the propellers to the motors.
The SplashDrone 3+ comes with a custom-designed, fully integrated remote controller. Redesigned controls maximize ease-of-use and efficiency, while a fully integrated, high-brightness 5" FPV screen clearly displays live video and overlaid (OSD) flight data without the need for any additional equipment. Flight control, payload release, and camera controls are all at your fingertips.
If you inadvertently lose or crash your drone out of sight, you will instantly have the drone's location pinpointed on the APP’s map, even with low batteries. (GroundStation module required).
SHARKAN FISHING DRONE
SUMMARY
Sharkan fishing drones are Purpose-built waterproofed, corrosion proofed floating drones in 3 models.
No camera, no-frills, tough and rugged purpose-built for bait deployment over fresh or saltwater to go beyond normal casting areas consistently
Why This Fishing Drone
- 2kg Payload
- Auto Return and Auto Land function
- Manual Bait release
- Low Battery Failsafe
- Loss of signal payload drop
Model Features
This is a small wheelbase drone "44 x 44cm" in an X rotor layout with 12" Bullnose carbon propellers for ideal lift. The smallest of the series, easily transported, nimble, agile, and very Powerful. Suitable for Sea and Freshwater use. This Sharkan M6 uses 6S batteries in capacity from 3000-5000 mah
AUTEL X-STAR PREMIUM
SUMMARY
The X-Star's camera is ready to fly out of the box so that any pilot can capture stunning aerial imagery. Our camera is custom built with the highest quality optical glass to deliver crisp, rich colour every time. Beautiful colour profiles and custom camera settings create a unique experience for every environment.
Built with safety and security in mind, the X-Star Premium was designed to be used by any pilot
Beginner Mode limits your speed, distance, and altitude, making the X-Star Premium perfect for a new pilot. A hands-free hover provides a stable experience the moment you remove your hands from the controls.
Why This Fishing Drone
- 4K Ultra HD video camera with quick-release 3-axis gimbal stabilizer
- HD Live View up to 1.2 miles away and autonomous flight modes via the free Starlink app for iOS or Android (mobile device sold separately)
- Dual GPS/GLONASS outdoor navigation, SecureFlyTM magnetic interference protection, and the Starpoint Positioning SystemTM
- Intuitive remote controller with LCD display and one-touch action buttons
Model Features
The Starpoint Positioning System measures the aircraft's flying height and optically tracks its position. This lets the X-Star Premium fly accurately, at low altitude, even when a GPS signal is unavailable. Also, dual GPS and GLONASS navigation ensure solid positioning even in low signal environments. Smart-Flight features like Follow, Orbit, and Waypoints allow you to focus on controlling the camera rather than the flight controls so that you can capture the most extraordinary scenes, while options like Beginner Mode can provide a geo-fence that limits your aircraft's range and speed. The X-Star Premium is powered by a powerful, lightweight, intelligent 14.8V LiPo battery that provides up to 25 minutes of flight time and 1.5-hour worry-free charging with the included fast charger.
The X-Star Premium has twice the HD Live View range compared to the X-Star, includes a larger 64-GB card, and comes packed in a semi-hard, splash-proof, zippered premium case.
The X-Star Premium is a sophisticated yet amazingly easy-to-fly quadcopter designed for superb aerial imagery. The 4K camera and 3-axis gimbal can record crystal-clear, smooth Ultra HD videos or take 12-MP photos with HD Live View up to 1.2 miles away. This drone is ready to fly out of the box and can be flown with or without the help of the free Starlink mobile app. Powered by an intelligent flight control system, dual GPS, and GLONASS satellite navigation and aided by the Starpoint Positioning System, the drone stays safe and stable, even indoors or at low altitudes. Where other drones might become erratic or fly away when there is magnetic interference, the X-Star is equipped with our exclusive SecureFly technology to help your drone come back home safely.
Learning to fly the X-Star is easy: you can start the motors, take off and land, hover, or have the drone automatically return home by using the one-touch buttons on the remote controller. The controller’s integrated LCD displays critical flight information, allowing the Starlink mobile app to show full-screen live HD video. Starlink brings a wealth of autopilot features such as follow, orbit, waypoints, and also lets you adjust camera settings and record images in flight. With the X-Star Premium from Autel Robotics, a new perspective is just one flight away.
UPAIR ONE
SUMMARY
The UPair One 4K is a basic 4K camera drone produced by UPair, a drone manufacturer based in China. They are also known as Shenzhen GTEN INNOVATION Technology Co., Ltd.
This affordable 4K quadcopter drone features a 16 MP camera. Also, the drone can record video in 4K and provide a live feed in 480p.
The One 4K has a flying time of 19 minutes and a range of 600 m which is a great value considering the price point.
Basic flight modes and features are also available to the drone pilot. These include Return Home (which the drone also does automatically on low battery), Altitude Hold, Follow-Me, and Headless mode.
Why This Fishing Drone
- Gimbal Camera
- Intelligent Battery
- Low cost
- Custom Flight Paths
- Quick-lock Propeller
Model Features
The Upair One Drone is one of the most affordable 4K camera drones currently on the market. The 4K camera is stabilised by a gimbal for smooth video footage and has a 120º field of view. It can transmit a live video feed up to 800m away and the overall control range is around 1000m. One of the advantages this drone has over other high-end drones is that it comes with a 7-inch LCD screen for HD FPV capability. No need for your smartphone or tablet. There is also a cheaper version that comes with a 2.7K camera. Looking for a budget 4K drone that can take awesome aerial photography? The Upair One Drone is perfect for you.
3DR Solo
SUMMARY
The 3DR Solo was one of the best drones of its time. This large and powerful machine was made to haul a GoPro, and it did so very well with a 3-axis stabilized gimbal (worth more than the drone itself) and quality peripherals to enhance the flight. 3DR themselves have shifted their focus greatly since the Solo began to lag behind others in the market. 3DR is almost entirely a services and software company now, offering site scan packages using drones from multiple other manufacturers, that said, these are drones that accomplish what the Solo did in the early days.
Why This Fishing Drone
- Take to the air in seconds with effortless pushbutton flight
- Unique safety features like pause and “safety net” mean you can fly with confidence
- Follow Me mode enables Solo to automatically track and film any subject
- The smart drone keeps getting smarter: LiDAR for super stable indoor flight; ballistic parachute system; flight rewind and more, all scheduled for release
- Flight time of up to 25min without payload, or up to 20min with GoPro and Solo Gimbal
- The controller battery life of up to 4 hours; built-in rechargeable battery
- Autopilot: Pixhawk 2
- Wifi range: up to 1km, depending on the environment
Model Features
The 3DR Solo has big, powerful motors, a large battery, and a versatile payload mount. The machine is sturdy with plastic housing and LED lights on each corner. The landing gear is not wimpy, but they are a little fragile feeling. Considering some of the antennae are in those legs, we recommend getting spares, just in case.
The 3DR Solo is a stable drone, hovering quite well and is fairly smooth. We don't recommend relying on the non-stabilized GoPro mount for your camera, but the results are not terrible. As mentioned, the stabilized gimbal sells for more than the drone these days, it also supports up to the Hero4 camera, so we have a really hard time recommending it at this point. Still, if you are looking for a solid and reliable drone for other uses, the 3DR Solo is a great option.
YUNEEC TYPHOON H
SUMMARY
Winner of the 2016 Consumer Electronics Show 'Best of Class'
The Typhoon H provides capabilities for enthusiasts previously only found in high-end professional drones, yet at a consumer price.
Easy and Safe to Fly
With GPS stabilized flight control, 5 Rotor Fail-Safe, and 8 smart flight modes including auto takeoff and land, the Typhoon H requires no experience to fly.
Why This Fishing Drone
- 6 rotor safety with 5 rotor fail-safe
- Powerful lift capacity 10.4kg (22.9 lbs)
- Collision Avoidance
- The landing gear retracts during flight
- Flight time of up to 25min without payload
- 8 flight modes
- 25 min flight time
Model Features
Typhoon H with Intel RealSense technology builds a 3D model of the world while navigating through it. Using a 3D model of its environment enables the drone to make intelligent choices about creating routes around obstacles.
Additionally, RealSense is capable of remembering its environment, further enhancing the prevention of possible collisions. It is not reactionary – if it avoids an obstacle once, it will remember the location of the obstacle and automatically know to avoid it.
Typhoon H uses GPS - not just vision - to track targets. From a tiny tree branch to a large building, Typhoon H can still navigate around obstacles, regardless of size, and stay in contact with the subject, even if it becomes obscured.
STUNNING VIDEO AND PICTURES: The 360-degree anti-vibration gimbal with the new CGO3+ camera allows unlimited panning for breathtaking Ultra High Definition 4K videos and 12-megapixel stills. The landing gear retracts during flight to seamlessly remove itself from the shot for unobstructed views. With Team Mode, one person can fly while the other films to capture just the right shots (Team Mode to be used with the Yuneec Wizard, sold separately)
EASY TO FLY: The Typhoon H adds 8 new flight modes including Point of Interest, Orbit, Curved Cable, Journey, and more. The GPS stabilized flight control holds its position. And a push of a button provides auto takeoff and auto landing It can even automatically return to home. SAFE TO FLY: Innovative new safety features include ultrasonic proximity detection to assist in avoiding large obstacles, and 6 rotor safety with 5 rotor fail-safe to keep it in the air even if a motor fails.
An additional benefit is the compact and user-friendly design of the Typhoon H. Quick disconnect props allow speedy removal from the motors, and each rotor arm easily folds down from its flight position to a resting position against the drone for easy and compact transportation using a custom-designed hard case/backpack. Carbon fibre is used extensively to decrease weight while increasing durability.
The Typhoon H comes with the professional quality Android-based ST16 controller, which has a large 7-inch integrated display and HD 720p video downlink for stunning real-time video reception. The Typhoon H also maintains the Typhoon family's focus on safety with features such as Geo-fencing, Variable Speed Control, Dynamic Return Home, Low-Battery Return Home, and FAA No Fly.
Splash Drone Spry+ Fishing Drone
SUMMARY
The aircraft and remote controller of Spry+ are Completely waterproof and corrosion-resistant so that you can bring the drone with you when surfing or in any weather. Even when you throw the drone and the controller into the water, they can safely float. Landing and taking off from the water with 100% peace of mind, dunking under the water for a quick adventure, Spry+ opens your sight to the limit.
Why This Fishing Drone
- 6 flight modes
- TrollSafe for fishing
- Compact & portable
- Intuitive App
- Waterproof housing
Model Features
Swellpro announced the Spry, waterproof drone, at CES 2019, followed by the Spry+ at CES 2020. Compared to their previous models, this is a compact machine that floats on water and enjoys time in the sky. The 4K camera sits inside of a waterproof housing that submerges below the surface when the drone sits on the water. You can fully submerge the drone, but it does not dive on its own, it's made to float. The Spry+ puts the GPS antenna in the disk on top, enabling better connectivity even while the drone is mostly submerged.
In case things go wrong, the remote control is also waterproof and made to float, making the Swellpro Spry one of the only drones you can safely take out surfing and kayaking, never mind boating or just flying at the lake.
Poseidon Pro V2
SUMMARY
Poseidon Pro V2 waterproof fishing drone has received several excellent updates over the previous model. The atmospheric pressure valving has been replaced providing outstanding flight stability. The bait release mechanism has been completely redesigned with fewer moving parts and the 720P HD camera.
Model Features
- High-Level Dust/Waterproof Rating
- High Rated Wind Capability
- Real-Time HD Video Streaming
- Unloaded flight time of 32 minutes
- Large Load Carrying Capacity
Why This Fishing Drone
Poseidon Pro V2 fishing drone has been specifically engineered and constructed for fishing – It is quite literally Born for Fishing. Poseidon Pro V2 features updated atmospheric pressure valving greatly improved flight stability. Also, V2 boasts a re-engineered waterproof bait release mechanism enabling reliable delivery time and time again. Poseidon Pro V2 features the high-end DJI NAZA M V2 flight controller, is IP67 waterproof, can handle wind gusts up to Beaufort wind level 6, and has a 32 minute unloaded flight time!
The brute power and strength of the Poseidon Pro V2 provides an extremely stable flight experience with a very high load-carrying capacity of 1.5kg
Cuta-Copter EX-1 6S
SUMMARY
The all-new EX-1 is the result of over 5 years of extensive research and development – producing the most advanced fishing drone on the Planet.
EX-1 is loaded with user-friendly features, is incredibly rugged and durable with multiple advanced safety features
Why This Fishing Drone
- Performance Flight Controller and GPS
- SkyDroid T10 10ch Radio
- Water Proofing
- Robust Design
- Waterproof Electronic Bait Release
- 5KG Payload Capacity:
Model Features
The EX-1 has the pilot and people safety at the centre of its’ design. How the EX-1 flies and regulates the pilot is an essential element in assisting with the overall protection of the asset. Platform reliability and stability is paramount, and this has been achieved by using advanced software enabling multiple safety features and multiple hardware redundancies such as dual gyroscopes and dual accelerometers.
The 6S variant features powerful 40A 'ESC' Electronic speed controllers, a 6S battery, and 13″ Carbon fibre propellers enabling this bad boy to carry up to 2.5 kg
The EX-1 features the Pixhawk 4 mini, one of the most advanced flight controllers on the market. The Pixhawk 4 Mini features a 32-bit ARM® Cortex® M7, 216 MHz Processor with 2Mb flash memory, and 512kb RAM. Breaking that down into layman’s terms – It Rocks. The sheer speed data is processed results in supreme flight stability, and this is especially noticeable when carrying baits in high winds.
Rippton Mobula Fishing Drone
SUMMARY
The MOBULA is a drone for professional fishing purposes. It consists of a drone (with a built-in camera for spotting fish as well as berley/fishing line release devices), a controller with an LCD screen, and a mobile device clamp. Among the most important features are the auto-casting function and the berley/fishing line release function.
Why This Fishing Drone
- Autopilot flight to 1500m
- Keeps hands free to hold the fishing rod
- Compatible with most smartphones and tablets
- Bigger payload for bigger fish
- Mobula has powerful 400kv motors that can fly 25 hooks out to your desire fishing spot
- 5KG Max Payload
- Take out up to 25 hooks
Model Features
When we think about drones, most of us would either conjure up a picture of a busy bee working hard for the hive or a fantastic piece of filming kit that brings us the superb, sweeping landscape shots on TV wildlife programs. TTW checked out Rippton’s Mobula drones and discovered there’s a lot more to it than that.
Rippton is a joint Australian-Dutch venture with its products being assembled in China. It specialises in technology-oriented fishing products, including what is currently the world's most intelligent fishing drones (and smart fishing rods) aiming to benefit anglers worldwide from the rapidly advancing hi-tech products. The mission of Rippton is to use its Mobula drone to improve fishing in a new, effective, safe, and environmentally friendly way, and to improve the success rate of anglers.
Along with the hardware, Rippton also has its exclusive social platform, named Rippton App. This is an interesting app that is available to anglers across the world, who are then able to swap information on the best or the worst fishing spots. The app features all kinds of events, competitions, and activities that have been designed to break down barriers and allow anglers to communicate and interact with one another.
The Mobula is equipped with a patented high-performance sonar and megapixel camera that allows the user to identify what is below the water, in up to 100m depth, and at distances as far as two kilometres. It is the world's first drone of its kind, which is both foldable and waterproof. It can land and float on the water, and via electric or standard reels it can deliver up to 3.5kg of bait to your desired spots, so a perfect piece of machinery for carp or beach fishing.