Last updated on July 18th, 2024 at 06:00 pm
Drone fishing is growing rapidly, and SwellPro has been leading the industry in innovation and technology. They recently released an upgraded version of their highly successful Fisherman FD1 fishing drone the new SwellPro Fisherman FD1 Plus.
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The SwellPro Fisherman FD1 drone is being discontinued and replaced with the new advanced SwellPro FD1+. The SwellPro FD1+ offers a slightly heavier payload capacity, longer battery life, automatic calibration, enhanced controller for easier flight controls, and automatic return to home in case of low battery or loss of signal. The new SwellPro Fisherman FD1+ is designed for newcomers to drone fishing, and is much easier to fly and control, and only slightly more than the original Fisherman FD1.
The SwellPro Fisherman series, consisting of the FD1, FD1 Plus, FD2 Fisherman Max, and FD3 models, exemplifies this innovation. These drones enable shore-bound anglers to deliver bait to precise locations much farther, and safer, than they ever could by casting or even kayaking. With the introduction of the new SwellPro Fisherman FD1 Plus drone, the original SwellPro Fisherman FD1 model is being discontinued.
My aim here is to provide an honest insight into the new SwellPro Fisherman FD1+. If you’re considering adding a fishing drone to your fishing arsenal, understanding the capabilities and differences of these drones will help you make an informed choice when selecting a drone for your fishing style. If the FD1 Plus is not exactly what you’re looking for, you can check out all the SwellPro Fishing drone models Here: Review of the SwellPro Fisherman Series of Fishing Drones.
Upgraded Capabilities of the SwellPro Fisherman FD1 Plus
The FD1 Plus builds upon the solid foundation that the FD1 established, bringing more power and versatility to your fishing experience. A primary differentiator lies in the increased payload capacity, letting you deploy bigger baits further out into the water.
In a direct comparison with its predecessor, the FD1 Plus boasts an improved battery life, extending flight times and reducing the need for frequent recharging. Those extra minutes can make a significant difference when targeting the perfect spot or waiting for the right moment to release your bait.
The FD1 Plus’s technological enhancements include an advanced GPS system that affords more precise flight patterns and reliable stability, even in less-than-ideal conditions. The new 9th generation GPS utilizes up to 9 satellites and self-calibrates, unlike the FD1 which requires the user to go through a calibration process before a flight. The new FD1+ can automatically calibrate its sensors to maintain stability and control during flight.
Withtweaks to the flight controller, the response times and maneuverability have seen improvements, allowing for smooth, precise movements and making it very beginner-friendly to fly. Drone Anglers will also appreciate the inclusion of additional smart features to the SwellPro Fisherman FD1+ like the ability to return home on low battery or in case of a lost signal.
These features aren’t just convenient they make for a more worry-free fishing experience and minimize the risk of losing your drone over water. My recommendation for drone fishing, regardless of which model drone you are fishing with, is to never launch your drone on a bait deployment with less than 50% battery life remaining.
However, if you do, and you are using the new SwellPro Fisherman FD1+, it will calculate when it reaches the point that it only has enough battery to return home. And, it will automatically drop the payload and return to its launch point.
This is a great feature because, in the past, most drones that were lost by anglers were due to flying on low batteries and losing signal as a result. Now, with the advanced GPS of the FD1+, the drone remembers where it launched from and knows how much battery it needs to get there.
With improved satellites connectivity, the latest 9th-gen GPS provides unparalleled precision and stability when anglers are navigating FD1+ to the specific fishing spot. The drone will maintain its position and course even in windy condition.
The integration of sine wave ESCs (electronic speed controllers) in the FD1+ ensures gentle and progressive motor acceleration, increasing stability when the drone starts lifting additional weights off the ground. The precise control provided by these ESCs also allows for delicate maneuvering and stable hovering, which is essential when positioning baits at specific GPS coordinates.
The cruise mode controls the SwellPro Fisherman FD1 Plus to automatically fly at a constant speed and direction, making long-distance drone-casting effortless. Without constantly adjusting the drone’s flight, anglers can focus more on the fishing aspects. In short, these features make it a very beginner friendly fishing drone right out ot the box.
Practical Comparison – SwellPro FD1 vs FD1+
So, what are the differences between the SwellPro FD1 and The new SwellPro FD1 Plus? Of course, the first important difference is that the FD1 is being discontinued and replaced by the FD1 Plus. You can still get parts and service for the SwellPro FD1 but they are not producing any more new drones in this model.
The FD1 Plus is pricier, about $200, but with that extra investment comes features like an improved camera, advanced GPS, automatic return home, and extended battery life. And, it is much more beginner-friendly for those new to drone fishing. Think of it as the difference between a standard fishing rod and one with ultra-sensitive detection for the slightest bite.
Fishing drones are not toys, they are advanced and specialized additions to your fishing gear. However, compared to fishing kayaks for bait deployment, drones are comparable in price, much safer, and easier to use for dropping baits.
The new SwellPro Fisherman FD1+ has slightly more, 4.8 lbs vs 4.4 lbs, payload capacity than the original SwellPro FD1. If you will be fishing with heavier baits and gear, you may want to check out the SwellPro Fisherman MAX FD2, or the 8.8 lb capacity Cuta Copter Trident Boss+. They can handle the big baits. But, for most drone fishing situations, the SwellPro FD1+ will be more than enough.
Feature Differences of the SwellPro FD1 Versus the SwellPro FD1 Plus
| Feature | SwellPro FD1 | SwellPro FD1+ |
|---|---|---|
| Flight Time | 28 minutes | 30 minutes |
| Operating Range | 1.5 km (1 mile) | 1.6 km (1.1 mile) |
| Payload Capacity | 2.0 kg (4.4 lbs) | 2.2 kg (4.8 lbs) |
| Flight Modes | GPS and Operator Flight | GPS, Operator, Return to Home, and Anit-Pendulum Features |
| Learn More | SEE PRICING AND REVIEWS | SEE PRICING AND REVIEWS |
The FD1+ is an entry-level, calibration-free option, optimized for bait dropping. It’s cost-effective and designed for new, and unexperienced, drone fishermen. Unfortunately, the FD1 is no longer in production. However, you can still get parts and service for the SwellPro Fisherman FD1.
Choosing the Right SwellPro Drone for Your Fishing Adventures
After a thorough evaluation of the SwellPro Fisherman FD1 and FD1+, it’s clear both drones offer unique benefits to the angler. Your choice ultimately hinges on your specific fishing requirements and how much you value the latest upgrades.
If you’re attentive to your drone’s battery capacity, the FD1 is still a great and proven fishing drone. Its reliability and functionality are more than sufficient for most drone fishing enthusiasts. On the flip side, if you take your angling seriously, seeking to deploy heavier baits farther, in search of larger catches, the FD1 Plus provides the superior range, payload, and technological enhancements necessary to make the most of those opportunities.
Investing in the FD1+ might seem like a significant upfront expense; however, consider it an investment in the longevity and flexibility of your fishing drone experience.
Improved specs can translate to fewer limitations and more time with your line in the water, which is invaluable.
As fishing technology continues to evolve, SwellPro’s dedication to innovation suggests that future models will only enhance the angler’s experience further. Until then, weigh your options, consider what you truly need from a fishing drone, and choose the model that will serve you best out on the water.
As always, stay safe, enjoy the journey and please try to leave it cleaner than you found it. If you have any comments, questions, ideas, or suggestions please leave them in the comment section below and I’ll get back to you ASAP. You can follow us on Facebook: Rex The Beach Angler, Instagram: thebeachangler7, Twitter: @AnglerBeach, and YouTube: Man Art Creations.
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A life long surf fisherman with 50+ years of experience, I am also an avid hunter and outdoorsman. I will be sharing my passion for the outdoors with you so be prepared for hunting, fishing, camping, hiking and more. Along with gear reviews and the latest trends and innovations in the outdoor industry.
