Optimize Your Lowrance HDS 12 Settings with Pro Angler Dustin Connell [VIDEO]
Looking to get the most out of your Lowrance HDS 12 Fish Finder/Chartplotter? Whether you're fishing shallow flats or scanning deep water for hidden brush piles, fine-tuning your sonar settings can make all the difference. In this in-depth video tutorial, Bass Pro Tour Champion Dustin Connell shares his personal setup and expert tips to help anglers improve sonar clarity, detect structure more effectively, and catch more fish. Shop Lowrance Now!
Dustin Connell’s Lowrance HDS 12 Best Practices
Custom Screen Layouts
Dustin begins by customizing his screen layout with a split view of Side Imaging, Down Imaging, and 2D Sonar. He explains how organizing your display to show key sonar data at once helps with real-time decision making on the water.
Choosing the Right Frequencies
From scanning shallow flats to targeting offshore structure, Dustin walks through when to use 455 kHz vs. 800 kHz on side imaging—and why he prefers 455 kHz for scanning up to 80 feet on clear lakes like Table Rock.
Contrast & Color Palettes
One of the most overlooked features in sonar optimization is the color palette. Dustin recommends Palette #8, which helps him see fish and structure clearly, even at a distance. He also demonstrates how slight adjustments to contrast can bring submerged brush piles and fish schools into sharp focus.
Dialing in Down Imaging
Out of the box, Lowrance units perform well—but Dustin shows how bumping up the contrast on Down Imaging allows him to pick out individual fish hovering near structure. In the video, you’ll see clear visuals of crappie and bass as he adjusts the settings live on the water.
2D Sonar Tips
Dustin doesn’t neglect traditional 2D sonar either. He keeps his sensitivity around 82%, making it easier to track baitfish while running at higher speeds. His setup helps pinpoint fish schools in real time without sacrificing speed or clarity.
Transducer Mounting Matters
A key takeaway from the video: sonar performance hinges on correct transducer angle and placement. Dustin explains how even minor adjustments to mounting can dramatically impact your sonar returns.
Pro Tips at a Glance
- Contrast: Increase for clearer returns, especially in deeper water
- Side Imaging: Run 455 kHz and adjust range to match depth/target area
- Down Imaging: Use contrast adjustments to highlight fish near structure
- 2D Sonar: Turn up sensitivity to spot bait while running
- Color Palettes: Choose based on your vision, sunglasses, and water clarity
- Mounting: Ensure your transducer is angled properly for accurate readings
“Getting these settings right means everything. Just a few tweaks can help you spot fish and structure you’d never see otherwise.” – Dustin Connell
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Gear Up at Bass Pro Shops
Ready to upgrade your electronics or need help dialing in your sonar settings? Visit your local Bass Pro Shops or Cabela’s and talk with our experts about Lowrance fish finder models and accessories. Our team can help you get set up just like the pros.
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