Top Water Thermometer for Fishing in 2024. Reviews & Analysis

Top Fishing Water Thermometers Reviewed and Compared

 

If you are interested in getting the best water thermometer for fishing, look no further, as we have the answer to all your questions. Our researchers focused on finding the number one model that checked all the boxes from an angler’s point of view and discovered the SAMSFX Fly Fishing Thermometer Streamside, a product with multiple features and benefits. It can measure the water temperature in both Fahrenheit and Celsius, and its range goes from 20F to 120F, which is between -10C and 50C. Housed by a plating copper case, the thermometer is not prone to suffering any damage, and it behaves well in any circumstances. You will get a velvet pouch sleeve for carrying the thermometer around and keeping it in top-notch shape. If you can’t find this product anymore, we recommend the Fishpond Swift Current as an immediate alternative that is almost just as good.

 

 

Comparison table

 

 

 

5 Best Fishing Water Thermometers (Reviews) in 2024

 

Whether you’re looking for the best salt water thermometer or one you can use in freshwater, you may want to have a look at our selection. The best products in this category are showcased below, and we made sure that we went through the owner feedback so that these units are well worth the price.

 

 

1. SAMSFX Fly Fishing Thermometer Streamside 

 

Fly fishing can be considered an art in itself, and rightfully so. The fickle fish can hide, be dormant, or become very active, as the temperature drops or rises, and knowing where to look is the sign of a seasoned angler. However, if you don’t have a lifetime to master such skills, you should get this thermometer from SAMSFX.

With its range that goes from 20F to 120F (-10C to 50C), it is a solid choice for fishing in all weather conditions possible. The water temperature doesn’t follow the same pattern as air temperature, so that is why you can count on the latter for evaluating fishing conditions.

This thermometer will show you, with high accuracy, the water temperature, allowing you to find the elusive schools of fish hiding underneath. Its robust plating copper housing is durable, and the stainless steel ring will suffer no signs of wear and tear. The pocket clip and the lanyard ring offer you the possibility to attach it to your clothes or backpack.

Pros

Lightweight and highly portable, this water thermometer is an indispensable tool you will be able to carry with you anywhere you go fishing.

Made with a copper housing and cap, it is evidently designed with durability in mind so that you can rest assured that you’re making a sound investment if you go for it.

A velvet pouch sleeve is readily included with your purchase, and you can carry the thermometer in your backpack without fear that it might break.

The thermometer can display the water temperature in Fahrenheit and Celsius, and its range is 20F to 120F, or -10C to 50C, covering all weather conditions possible.

Its lanyard ring cap makes sure you’ll never lose it by accident.

Cons

This thermometer is well known for being sensitive, and that can be considered a plus until you take it out of the water in the warm air and notice the reading going up right away.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

2. Fishpond Swift Current Thermometer, Gunmetal

 

This Fishpond model is one of the most critically acclaimed units in the line, with many fishermen raving about its capabilities. It’s designed to last through the years as it has been encased in rugged aluminum, which makes it possible for the thermometer to be protected against accidents. (and it will perfectly fit in your tackle box)

It’s reassuring to know that this model also offers the benefit of a lanyard attachment cap which might come in handy for people who tend to lose sight of small things such as thermometers for fishing. Just like with other products out there, this one can measure the water temperature both in Celsius and Fahrenheit. Anything from 20 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit or -10 to 50 degrees Celsius is manageable.

The design is unique and might matter a lot as this product can be purchased in a gun metal tone or in a blue tone. If you don’t want to lose sight of your thermometer, perhaps you might have to go for the color that you think will make it stand out from the rest of your gear.

Although the Fishpond Swift Current costs several dollars more compared to other units, we’ve seen that the owner feedback garnered by the product is mostly favorable. What this means is that you’ll get plenty of value for the price, and in the end, the thermometer still costs less than twenty dollars.

Pros

This thermometer for fishing will give you accurate readings for water temperature, so you can quickly identify the way schools of fish move.

The unit is encased in an aluminum housing that will ensure that you won’t be able to break it with ease; this also prolongs its lifespan.

The lanyard installed on it makes it easy for you to carry it around without risking to lose it by accident.

The temperature scale is easy to read, eliminating the guessing work that often accompanies the endeavors of any angler.

The thermometer can read water temperature that ranges between 20 and 120F, or -10 and 50C.

Cons

To get a clear reading, and allow the thermometer to stabilize properly, you will have to wait several minutes, at least, so make sure you have enough patience.

The listed dimensions seem to be wrong, and the manufacturer could have done a better job providing more accurate information.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

 

3. Andux Fly Fishing Accessories Thermometer Stream

 

If you’ve been tossing and turning about getting a thermometer designed for fly fishing but hardly know what to choose from the plethora of models available in the US market today, perhaps you ought to check out the specs of the Andux F-WDJ01.

This product is an affordable option that seems to be worth every penny as it has been encased in a metal housing and has several features that make it easy to use and convenient. The pocket clip and lanyard ring sure come in handy, particularly for anglers who don’t want to lose sight of their belongings.

Thanks to its metal case, the Andux F-WDJ01 is sturdy enough to withstand the fast currents that may be present in streams, rivers, and brooks. Also, the housing protects the thermometer as it should, allowing you to avoid worrying about whether it’ll hit a rock and get broken when being thrown or released on the bottom of the river.

There is a primary difference between the Andux unit and the ones we’ve presented above, in that this product can strictly be used to measure the water temperature using degrees Celsius. Otherwise said, if you aren’t accustomed to this system, you will have to look elsewhere. (a great tools to have when going fishing: Humminbird 409610-1 Helix 5 Fish Finder )

Pros

The metal housing will protect the thermometer, preventing small accidents and breakage, and also making the thermometer more durable.

The pocket clip allows you to attach the thermometer to your vest, and the lanyard ring provides extra attachment options.

You can safely use this model for river fly fishing, or for fishing in streams and brooks, with the same efficiency and performance.

There is no more trial and error to deal with since you will always get accurate readings on water temperature to monitor the way schools of fish move through bodies of water.

Any fly fisher will appreciate having this accessory, as it will help them determine water temperature fast and easy.

Cons

Be aware of the screw in cap, since one buyer mentions that their model came unscrewed and that caused them to quickly lose the thermometer in the water on their first use.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

 

4. River’s Edge 1291″Lunkers Bait and Tackle Thermometer

 

In spite of it being one of the most cost-efficient options out there, the River’s Edge 1291 is entirely capable of doing what it’s supposed to do. One of the core reasons you might feel tempted to purchase this model is that it can be employed to measure the temperature both indoors and outdoors, and it can stand up to the elements and various water conditions just as well.

Since the thermometer is considerably larger compared to other items we’ve seen, it is significantly easier for the user to read it. Therefore, the River’s Edge 1291 comes with all the advantages of a user-friendly design.

Just like with other alternatives, this one has been designed for all types of anglers, whether they reside in the United States or not. As such, it can provide readings both in Celsius and Fahrenheit. The limits are -40 to 60 for Celsius and -40 to -140 for Fahrenheit, which means that you’ll be able to use this thermometer even when the water is nearly freezing.

In short, the River’s Edge 1291 is a vintage-looking useful piece of equipment that can prove its worth when you might need it the most.

Pros

The nostalgic design of this water thermometer for fishing will be the first thing that will catch your eye when you are looking at it.

This model will offer you the possibility to quickly read the temperature values displayed, due to its larger than regular size.

You can use this thermometer for more than just fishing, as it fits well everywhere, due to its cool design.

The housing is powder coated, so expect your thermometer to work just fine in any conditions since its rugged construction allows it.

Outdoor enthusiasts will surely find plenty of uses for this thermometer and will appreciate its stylish appearance.

Cons

Some buyers mention that the readings are not the most accurate they have seen, but they say that they still enjoy its decorative design.

Other customers comment on the fact that they were expecting the thermometer to be bigger.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

 

5. Triple S Sporting Supplies In Fish Hawk Electronics TD Digital

 

If you’re an early adopter of new technologies and plan to make the most of your fishing trip, it’s high time you gave a shot to the Fish Hawk FH-TD. This model is a digital at-depth gauge that can provide readings in both Fahrenheit and Celsius, depending on the customization that you’ll prefer. The water temperature is displayed for every 5’ to 300’.

In spite of the fact that some people say that operating the device might take some time to get used to, particularly if you have no prior experience with using such digital alternatives, the Fish Hawk FH-TD seems like a safe bet.

The fact of the matter is that most of the people who took some time to express their opinions with regard to the performance offered by the Fish Hawk unit have nothing but good things to say about it. Some anglers use it for salmon fishing whereas others utilize it for bass, with the same great and accurate results.

The fact that it is covered by a one-year warranty and a five-year guarantee for the battery are two reassuring factors to keep in mind, particularly if you don’t intend on spending too many hours on the phone with customer support. (we have more -> check out our article on fish finders with gps combo)

Pros

This model is highly functional since it displays water temperature, as well as depth information, to help you in your quest to catch the fish you are after.

The temperature can be displayed in Fahrenheit or Celsius, and the pressure sensor can offer you the needed info in feet or meters, depending on your preferences.

The digital device will offer information once every 5 seconds, up to 300 seconds, to make sure you are well informed all the time.

The readings are accurate, and they are displayed for the entire water column, which comes in handy for anglers who want to eliminate all the guessing work from their tasks.

A one year warranty is provided by the manufacturer.

Cons

The battery cannot be replaced, which means that when the battery dies, you will have no other option but to replace the entire product.

Buy from Amazon.com

 

 

 

 

Buying guide

 

What is the best thermometer for checking water temperature? Why should you get one in the first place? How can you tell the difference between a well-made model and one that fails to meet your expectations? You’ll find all the answers to these questions in our comprehensive buying guide as it is packed with all the factors you need to take into account if you want to get the right product and the best value for the price. Check it out below.

Purpose

If you aren’t a well-seasoned angler, there’s a high chance that you’re asking yourself what the hype is all about getting the best fly fishing thermometer. It stands to reason that, during the middle of the day, fish usually get a bit weary when it comes to feeding, which is why you’re probably not going to have a lot of success. Why does this happen? The short answer is that the water temperature increases throughout the day, which means that you probably have to do your angling in the morning and in the evening. In theory, this general rule is good enough, but in months like August when the water temperature might not even become low enough in some areas, you might have to use a thermometer.

 

Ease of use

Usability is the first detail to consider when deciding on one model over the next. While purchasing a digital thermometer for fishing might look like a good idea, you have to think about your technical expertise, but also focus on several features pertaining to the device. For instance, if it doesn’t come with a backlit screen, you’ll have a lot of trouble reading the figures unless there’s some shade around. Sometimes, even if the display is backlit, you can’t understand it well enough if you’re wearing polarized sunglasses, and there are high chances that you’re doing so if you intend to engage in some fly fishing.

That’s why many anglers still prefer the traditional type of thermometer that’s been constructed of thick glass. Most of these basic units feature loops at the top that you can use to tie several feet of line so that you’re able to dangle the thermometer in the water. If you want a convenient model, you ought to look for this feature, as well.

 

Accuracy

Although this part might be a bit of a nuisance, you’ll have to try your best and go through some of the best fishing thermometer reviews. Unfortunately, if you’ll be buying the product online, there is no physical way of telling whether it is accurate or not. That’s why you have to refer to the opinions of other anglers, but they can help you make a perfect choice. Typically, you will require the services offered by the best thermometer for measuring water temperature between 20 and 120 degrees. Even if you normally do your fishing in the same area, you can’t know when your angling adventures will take you to distant waters, where the temperature preferred by local species might differ from the one you might encounter at home.

 

Durability and design

It goes without saying that, by definition, the best thermometer for fishing is one that can withstand the test of time. Once more, you’ll have to look at some ratings in this sense. Also, you will have to consider the construction of the item, the thickness of the glass, and whether there is some metal part or cover that might make it even sturdy. As for the design, while such a product doesn’t have to be breathtakingly beautiful, it ought to stand out from the rest of your equipment, which is why bright or different colors are to be preferred.

 

While we have provided you with some of the best examples and reasons to use a fishing thermometer, non-seasoned anglers might still need more proof in order to be convinced of its effectiveness. As a result, we thought we’d also include some actual tips on how to become more successful using the great tool. 

For instance, when it comes to finding fish that are actively feeding, a thermometer comes as close to magic as humanly possible. A stream thermometer, for instance, can be an amazingly effective fishing tool if you know how to use it and this is what we are here to show you.

 

What is a stream thermometer?

As the name might suggest, a stream thermometer is an instrument that was designed for a single yet very important purpose: to get an accurate reading of the stream’s water temperature and then combine that with the known temperatures in which trout and other fish like to dwell in. The result? You get to know if a fishing place increases or decreases your chances for a catch.

This level of an advanced understanding of the water temperatures can really help out an angler who is struggling to find some prime spots for his or her craft. Furthermore, the way to do it is not overly complicated at all: you just need to submerge the item in the water for about 10 to 15 seconds or as long as the instructions say that it takes it to acclimate.

When you pull it up, one look at the mercury should tell you if the water is warm or cold enough to be in prime fishing range. You don’t know what is the adequate water fishing temperature or why it is important? Not to worry, we’ll get into that in just a minute. 

Why is water temperature important for trout?

Even if you don’t have a fly fishing thermometer, the number of degrees in the water is not something that you can ignore if you want to be a successful angler. Along, of course, with other environmental factors such as food, adequate cover, and the quality of the water, alterations in water temperatures can have a profound impact on a fish’s ability to survive and its behavior.

While most species share this characteristic, it is especially important for trout, which we define as a large number of freshwater fish found in most rivers or, in other words, most of the prey you catch when you’re fishing.

The reasons are not particularly complicated to understand either. First and foremost, trout are cold-blooded so their body temperature more or less adapts to the water surrounding it. When your fishing thermometer tells you the water is quite cold you should know that the fish there metabolize food more slowly, causing them to obviously eat less, so this is your first clue.

Furthermore, people who didn’t skip the chemistry class in high school remember how water temperatures affect dissolved oxygen levels. In a nutshell, the warmer the drinkable liquid is, the less dissolved breathable gas it is able to hold. 

Also, like pretty much any other beings, fish enjoy living within a specific temperature range so it’s only normal that this is where you are going to have your most chances of landing a catch. While the exact value varies across different species and water bodies, trout-friendly ones will generally land within 45 to 65 degrees so aim for that as your sweet spot. 

This is so sensitive a subject, in fact, that even small fluctuations can completely change the entire environment and turn off the bite for no apparent reason. Experienced anglers out there, we’re sure you’ve had one of those days where it’s simply not there, and this could be more of a part of the reason than you thought. 

 

Will I catch more fish if I use a thermometer?

The short answer to this is, of course, “yes”, as long as you actually remember to use it. If you’re in the habit of keeping your fly fishing thermometer strapped to your vest or pack, you might have a problem doing so. However, it’s all about simple adjustments that you can easily make. For instance, whenever you change flies, allocate an extra 20 seconds to take a reading.

Also, if you notice a hatch getting started or you land a good catch, whip out your trusted fishing thermometer and write down that temperature so you can use it in the future to catch even more!

Veteran anglers also know how to use insect activity as a way to check if the fish are biting in a certain area. If you pay attention, you’ll notice that the mosquitoes in your area get extremely agitated when the temperatures hit a certain level in the springtime. The same is true for the insects that serve as a meal for trouts so you can take measurements and use that too. 

 

As we said earlier, fly fishing thermometers can also contribute to your success with this particular type of angling. The thing is that stream temperatures can even vary from bank to bank depending on depth and structure so the best thing you could do if you are in a drift boat is to dunk it in early in the day and keep watch for temperatures that are too cold for trout.

It’s also important to know that not all fish fit in the 45-to-65 category. For instance, the smallmouth bass is best found in the 65 to 68 degrees range, bluegill goes up to 69, while carp go as high as 73 degrees so a fishing thermometer is always going to be important for a self-respecting angler.

One last piece of advice would be about the type of thermometer you are going to use. While you will generally find two main varieties, analog and digital, the analog one is considered to be more versatile and reliable. Composed of your standard mercury or alcohol-based glass tube thermometer, it is fully submersible and more trusted than the digital version. 

 

 

Unavailable products

 

Bavnco Instant Reading Thermometer

 

Many anglers say that this Orvis model is the best thermometer for water temperature ever to have been developed.

The neat thing about is that it is reasonably priced and won’t ruin your budget. We’ve seen that most online retailers sell it for less than twenty dollars, which is a fair cost for such a well-constructed and helpful product. With its assistance, you can measure the temperature both in Celsius and Fahrenheit, which might be of use at some point or the other, particularly if you’re set on going on a fishing trip with a friend who isn’t US-based.

When it comes to estimating the durability of the item, there doesn’t seem to be anything to worry about.

The model is packed in a compact and slender metal housing that manages to protect the thermometer yet allows water to flow in so that it provides a quick reading. As is the case with other units, this one has a loop at the top that you can use to tie some line, wire, or string of your choice so that you’re perfectly capable of dropping the thermometer on the bottom of the stream without having to bend down. All in all, the Orvis unit seems like a sound investment.

Pros

You can use this water thermometer for fishing, no matter what scale you prefer using, be it Fahrenheit or Celsius.

You will find this thermometer to be quite durable, and you can use it for fly fishing, as well as when fishing in streams and brooks.

You can easily pack this model in your vest, or any backpack since it takes little space and it is easy to carry around.

In case you don’t want the thermometer for yourself, you can quickly offer it as a gift to anyone who is a fly fishing enthusiast.

You will surely appreciate the durable construction and the overall design of this model.

Cons

The thermometer does not seem to be ideal for kayaking, as it will not sink quickly to measure water temperature at higher depths unless you stop your boat completely.

Some reviewers say that durability should be improved to get a maximum score.

 

 

Bibliography:

1) The Right Water Temperature For Fishing

2) Measuring Water Temperature

3) How to Use a Stream Thermometer to Catch More Fish

4) What’s the perfect weather for fishing?