Omnidirectional Sonar Launched to Improve Detection & Tracking in Sportfishing

Kongsberg Discovery has released the SY60, a next-generation omnidirectional sonar engineered to provide sportfishing operators with enhanced clarity, range, and target separation.

Built on the foundation of the SIMRAD by Kongsberg’s SY50, the new system introduces key performance upgrades, including a narrower vertical beam, increased transmitting power, and a redesigned transducer architecture.

These enhancements improve target separation and detection clarity, enabling crews to distinguish targets more accurately and track fish reliably from the surface to the seabed. Increased power also extends operational range, supporting the tracking of fast-moving or dispersed schools over greater distances. This results in a clearer picture of the water column from surface to bottom, even in challenging conditions.

To maintain image integrity in challenging environments, the system incorporates a new stabilization sensor, SteadyPing™. This technology delivers faster and more precise compensation in rough sea conditions, ensuring a stable and readable image at short range, where detail is most critical.

While the SY60 maintains the compact footprint and intuitive interface of its predecessor, the SY50, it features a more advanced sonar engine. The system retains signature capabilities such as QuadPing®, Dual Mode operation, and CHIRP and CW transmissions, alongside support for optional AI-powered target tracking and recognition.

Martin Tollefsen, Product Manager, commented, “With the SY60, we wanted to give sportfishing operations a tool that delivers true commercial-grade performance in a compact package. By refining the beam and increasing power, we’ve achieved a level of resolution and stability that was previously out of reach for this segment. The SY60 lets operators see more, react faster, and fish with greater confidence, no matter the conditions.”

Like the SY50, the system is engineered for straightforward installation on vessels with limited space. By integrating all transceiver electronics directly into the transducer, it reduces cabling and electronic noise while simplifying setup.

Existing SY50 users can upgrade to the new system and take advantage of its enhanced capabilities. The platform also supports full remote operation and automatic software updates, ensuring the system remains current as sportfishing requirements evolve.