See-Right-Marine

When a boat is "on plane" (meaning it's moving fast enough to glide on the water's surface), depth sounders often lose their ability to read the water depth accurately. This is because the transducer, which sends out sonar pulses to measure depth, is no longer submerged and contacting the water properly.Here's why and what you can do:Why Depth Readings Fail on Plane:

• Transducer Position:When a boat is on plane, the hull lifts out of the water, and the transducer attached to the hull is no longer fully submerged. 
• Air Interference:Air, being a much weaker medium than water, interferes with the sonar signals, making it difficult to get accurate depth readings. 
• Speed and Turbulence:The rapid movement of the boat and the water disturbance can also disrupt the transducer's ability to send and receive clear sonar signals. 

Helpful hints for Accurate Depth Readings on Plane:

• High-Speed Sonar:Some fish finders or depth sounders have "high-speed" sonar modes designed to minimize the effects of turbulence and air interference. 
• Proper Transducer Placement:Ensure the transducer is properly mounted and facing the correct direction to maximize its ability to receive clear sonar signals. 
• Device Settings:Some fish finders have settings that allow you to adjust the sensitivity and gain of the sonar, which can help optimize the readings at different speeds.

There are several reasons a transducer might lose a depth reading when travelling at high speeds. It could be related to the transducer's mounting location, device settings, or the vessel could be outrunning the return signal if it is moving too fast.