So you want to buy a camera to record your bass fishing adventures? Here’s a few specifics that should help you to choose the right one for your needs.
In short, the GoPro Hero 5 Black (Link to Check Price on Amazon) is the best choice for recording bass fishing. It’s reasonably priced and carries the dependability that the GoPro brand has built for itself. The Hero 5 Black records great quality at a manageable frame-rate for its price.
GoPro has been a leading brand in the photography industry for many years now and their cameras have shown great durability as well as high-quality footage as a part of the bass fishing industry. Some of the high-end GoPros are more suitable and can film at higher frame-rates than the Hero 5 Black but if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, the Hero 5 Black is the way to go.
Why I chose the GoPro Hero 5 Black
The GoPro Hero 5 Black was my first choice for bass fishing for a few very specific reasons.
The first is that the Hero 5 has advanced capabilities such as being able to capture 120 FPS (frames-per-second) while still recording 1080p quality. I feel like this feature is important especially when it comes to bass fishing because many times I’ll find myself wanting to capture slow-motion videos. Filming at 60 FPS just doesn’t suffice when recording slow-motion so I like to bump it up to 120 FPS on these occasions.
The second reason has to do with the camera’s touch screen. Before purchasing the camera, the touch screen seemed like an unnecessary bonus. After using the camera extensively for months now as a part of my YouTube channel, I’ve come to realize that the touch screen makes things a MILLION times easier when operating your Hero 5. It’s definitely not a necessity but if at all possible, a touch screen on your action camera certainly makes filming your bass fishing adventures a whole lot easier.
The third and most important reason for recommending the GoPro Hero 5 Black is the price. Most digital camera companies nowadays are charging $350 plus for their high-end cameras but the Hero 5 Black price is extremely reasonable and is going to provide you with all of the most important features that you’ll need to record your bass fishing.
Features to Look for in a High-Quality Camera for Bass Fishing
- High FPS
Like I discussed earlier, a high frame-rate is important for capturing slow-motion footage which will be a desire when bass fishing.
- Touch Screen
A touch screen isn’t essential but it definitely makes things easier when on the water.
- Waterproof
Most cameras come with waterproof casing but the GoPros are waterproof without a case. Putting on casing can seriously muffle your sound but the Hero 5 is waterproof by itself yet the sound still comes through fine
- Shockproof
Most cameras you find will be shockproof but it’s good to make sure of this before purchasing one.
- Different Mount Possibilities
Your camera should be able to mount at multiple angles such as on your chest, hat, and fixed angle (eg. your boat).
- Good Microphone System with Wind Noise Reduction
Your going to want to hear what your saying when playing back your videos so make sure your camera has a high-quality microphone system with wind noise reduction like the Hero 5 Black.
- Wide-Angle Capabilities
Filming at a wide-angle will ensure that you get the full view of your fishing surroundings. Make sure that your camera is able to film at a wide-angle point of view before purchasing.
- Long Battery Life or Rechargeable Batteries
Be sure to research how long your camera’s battery will last and if rechargeable batteries are an option. If not, you may want to be investing time researching different options.
- Motion Stabilization
Fishing is a very physical sport so ensuring that your camera comes equipped with motion stabilization will guarantee the smoothest footage possible.
What About the High-End Cameras?
There’s definitely something to be said for higher-end cameras such as the new GoPro Hero 8 Black (Link to check price on Amazon). There are three specific reasons why higher-end cameras can be worth the price.
Number one is the fact that they film at a higher frame-rate while continuing to film at a high-quality. The number one thing that I wish the Hero 5 Black had the capability of is filming in 4K while still maintaining at least a frame-rate of 60 FPS. The higher-tier GoPros can film at these high-rates which honestly just provides you with better footage. Period.
The second reason is audio quality. As is with anything, as products get newer, they get more advanced. The same is true when it comes to GoPros and their audio quality.