SwellPro Fisherman FD1+ review: discover whether this IP67 waterproof fishing drone is the best entry-level option in 2026. We examine its 4.8-lb bait capacity, 1.3-km range, GPS, water recovery, bait release, wind resistance, battery performance, pros, cons and value.
If you're looking for a fishing drone that does one thing exceptionally well—carry bait beyond conventional casting distance and release it accurately—the SwellPro Fisherman FD1+ deserves serious attention.
Unlike camera drones designed primarily for photography, the FD1+ is purpose-built around fishing. It combines a 4.8 lb / 2.2 kg bait capacity, 1.3 km stated maximum flight distance, IP67 waterproof protection, self-floating construction, GPS 9.0 positioning, automatic Return-to-Home and a dedicated bait-release system. (MidronePro)
That makes it particularly interesting for surf anglers, shore-based fishermen and beginners entering drone fishing.
In our Best Fishing Drones in 2026 guide, the FD1+ sits in a very specific position: it isn't the heaviest-lift model in the SwellPro range and it doesn't try to compete with camera-equipped fishing drones on imaging. Instead, it focuses on making long-distance bait deployment simpler and more accessible.
So, after looking closely at the FD1+'s specifications, design, fishing features and available owner feedback, is it actually the best entry-level fishing drone in 2026?
For most anglers starting with drone fishing, yes—with one important qualification: you need to understand what you're buying.
The FD1+ is a fishing tool first and a drone second.
SwellPro Fisherman FD1+ Quick Review
| Category | SwellPro Fisherman FD1+ |
|---|---|
| Current MidronePro price | $1,484 |
| Amazon | Check current price |
| Primary purpose | Fishing & bait dropping |
| Bait capacity | 4.8 lb / 2.2 kg |
| Maximum flight distance | 1.3 km / 0.8 mile |
| Waterproof rating | IP67 |
| Self-floating | Yes |
| Bait release | Yes |
| Camera | No |
| GPS | GPS 9.0 |
| Satellite systems | GPS + Galileo + BeiDou |
| Flight sensors | Calibration-free |
| Automatic RTH | Yes |
| Automatic flip-back | Yes |
| Maximum wind resistance | 18 m/s / approx. 65 km/h |
| Maximum takeoff weight | 4,491 g |
| Maximum no-load hover time | 27 minutes |
| Battery | 4,200 mAh 6S LiHV |
| Battery charging time | Approx. 120 minutes |
| MidronePro rating | 9.4/10 |
The current MidronePro listing shows the FD1+ at $1,484, while SwellPro's own U.S. store currently lists it at $1,256. Retail pricing can vary by market, package and promotion. (MidronePro)
Amazon: Check the SwellPro FD1+ on Amazon
Our Verdict
⭐ MidronePro Rating: 9.4/10
The SwellPro Fisherman FD1+ is one of the most convincing entry-level fishing drones available in 2026.
Its greatest strength isn't a single specification.
It's the combination of:
2.2 kg payload + IP67 waterproofing + floating design + GPS + bait release + automatic return + simple operation.
That combination makes the FD1+ unusually well suited to the realities of fishing.
It can carry a substantial bait setup, travel approximately 1.3 km according to its published specifications, release the bait offshore and return to shore without requiring a kayak or boat. (MidronePro)
The biggest compromise is equally obvious:
there is no camera.
That's intentional. SwellPro positions the FD1+ as a beginner-focused fishing drone and removes premium camera functionality to keep the aircraft focused on bait deployment.
If you want a camera, the FD3 is the better choice.
If you need substantially more lifting capability, the FD2 MAX is the better choice.
But if you want a straightforward, waterproof, purpose-built fishing drone, the FD1+ is exceptionally compelling.
1. What Is the SwellPro Fisherman FD1+?
The FD1+ is a dedicated fishing drone developed specifically for anglers who want to deploy bait farther offshore.
That distinction is important.
A normal camera drone is designed around:
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Photography
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Video
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Gimbal stabilization
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Obstacle sensing
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Intelligent camera modes
The FD1+ is designed around:
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Payload
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Bait release
-
Waterproofing
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GPS positioning
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Return-to-Home
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Water recovery
-
Wind resistance
SwellPro describes it as a fishing drone for first-time anglers and specifically focuses its design around carrying bait rather than adding unnecessary camera features.
This makes the FD1+ closer to a flying bait-delivery platform than a traditional consumer camera drone.
And that's precisely why it works.
2. 4.8-LB / 2.2-KG Bait Capacity
One of the FD1+'s strongest specifications is its payload capacity.
The aircraft is rated for up to:
4.8 lb / 2.2 kg
That's enough for substantial bait and terminal tackle.
SwellPro says the aircraft is designed to maintain flight stability and speed while carrying bait and fishing equipment up to this capacity.
For an entry-level fishing drone, this is impressive.
It means the FD1+ isn't restricted to tiny bait configurations.
It can be used for:
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Surf fishing
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Large bait
-
Offshore bait deployment
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Multi-hook rigs
-
Larger target species
-
Shark fishing applications
The manufacturer also says anglers can deploy multiple baited hooks on a single fishing line.
Important consideration
A maximum payload rating should not be interpreted as the ideal payload for every flight.
As payload increases, flight time and performance can change substantially.
Wind, battery condition, distance and the weight of the complete rig all matter.
So while 2.2 kg is the published maximum, smart operation means leaving an appropriate performance and battery margin.
Verdict: 9.7/10
3. 1.3-KM Bait Deployment Range
The FD1+ has a published maximum flight distance of:
1.3 km / 0.8 mile
That's one of the features that fundamentally changes how shore-based anglers can fish.
Instead of being restricted to conventional casting distance, you can potentially transport bait much farther offshore.
This can be useful for reaching:
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Deeper water
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Offshore channels
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Sandbars
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Areas beyond the surf
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Difficult-to-reach fishing spots
SwellPro's published specification lists both maximum flight distance and maximum image-transmission distance at 1,300 metres.
But there's an important distinction:
Maximum range isn't recommended operating range.
Your usable distance depends on:
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Wind
-
Payload
-
Battery reserve
-
Signal environment
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Terrain
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Flight direction
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Local regulations
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Return requirements
For fishing, getting the drone back is more important than reaching the maximum theoretical distance.
Verdict: 9.4/10
4. IP67 Waterproof Protection
This is arguably the feature that separates the FD1+ from conventional camera drones.
The aircraft is rated IP67.
SwellPro says the aircraft is fully sealed against water exposure and designed for marine environments.
That makes it far more appropriate for:
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Beaches
-
Surf fishing
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Rain
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Sea spray
-
Wet launches
-
Accidental water landings
However, there's an important warning:
The aircraft is waterproof. The remote controller is not.
SwellPro's product information specifically warns that the remote controller should be protected from water. (MidronePro)
That's an important detail that shouldn't be overlooked.
Verdict: 10/10
5. Self-Floating Design
Waterproofing is only part of the story.
The FD1+ is also designed to float.
If the aircraft lands on water, its built-in buoyancy helps keep it on the surface rather than allowing it to immediately sink.
This is enormously valuable when flying over the ocean.
With a conventional drone, a water landing can mean:
impact → water ingress → sinking → lost aircraft.
With the FD1+, the situation can instead be:
water landing → aircraft floats → recover or right aircraft → return to shore.
That doesn't mean water landings are desirable.
They aren't.
But having a recovery mechanism dramatically changes the risk profile.
Verdict: 10/10
6. Automatic Flip-Back Feature
The FD1+ goes one step further.
If the aircraft lands upside down in the water, SwellPro says the pilot can use the controls to right the aircraft and restore it to its normal orientation.
This is a particularly clever feature for fishing.
When operating over water, the pilot doesn't have the luxury of simply walking over and picking up the drone.
The aircraft needs to be capable of helping you recover it.
The flip-back function therefore isn't just a gimmick.
It's a genuine fishing-specific safety feature.
Verdict: 9.8/10
7. GPS 9.0 and Position Holding
The FD1+ uses GPS 9.0 positioning technology.
The current specifications also list:
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GPS
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Galileo
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BeiDou
as supported satellite positioning systems.
For fishing, accurate positioning has an obvious advantage.
You can:
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Take off from shore
-
Fly toward your target area
-
Position the bait
-
Release
-
Return
GPS also helps with repeatability.
If you find a productive offshore location, being able to navigate back toward the same general area is useful.
SwellPro lists hovering precision of approximately ±0.5 m under its specified conditions.
Verdict: 9.5/10
8. Calibration-Free Operation
Another beginner-friendly feature is the FD1+'s calibration-free setup.
SwellPro says the drone does not require complicated manual calibration before each flight.
That's important for beginners.
Drone fishing already involves enough new concepts:
-
Aircraft
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Remote control
-
Fishing line
-
Bait release
-
Payload
-
Battery management
-
GPS
-
Wind
Reducing unnecessary setup makes the overall experience easier.
The manufacturer says the FD1+ can be prepared for flight quickly using its slide-in battery and screw-on propellers.
Verdict: 9.6/10
9. Level 7 Wind Resistance
Coastal fishing rarely happens in perfectly calm conditions.
Wind is one of the biggest challenges for a drone carrying a fishing payload.
The FD1+ is specified for maximum wind resistance of 18 m/s, approximately 65 km/h. SwellPro markets this as Level 7 wind resistance.
That's a strong specification.
But this needs to be interpreted correctly.
A wind-resistance rating isn't a recommendation to fly whenever conditions reach that limit.
The heavier the payload and the farther offshore you fly, the more important wind becomes.
A strong headwind on the return journey can consume significantly more battery than the outbound flight.
Verdict: 9.6/10
10. Battery and Flight Time
The FD1+ uses a:
4,200 mAh 6S LiHV battery
SwellPro lists a maximum no-load hover time of 27 minutes under its specified calm, no-load conditions. The battery weighs approximately 716 g and has a nominal voltage of 23.1 V.
This is where buyers need to pay attention.
27 minutes does not mean 27 minutes of fishing with maximum bait.
Payload, wind and flight distance all affect actual endurance.
SwellPro's current battery information says FD1+ flight time can range from approximately 9 to 27 minutes, depending heavily on bait weight.
That's exactly why we recommend thinking about battery management as part of the fishing strategy rather than simply looking at the headline flight-time number.
Verdict: 8.9/10
11. Bait Release System
The FD1+ includes a dedicated bait-release mechanism.
This is the core of the entire aircraft.
The basic workflow is remarkably simple:
Attach → Fly → Position → Release → Return
SwellPro's product documentation describes attaching the fishing rig to the payload release mechanism and activating the release from the remote controller when the desired fishing position is reached.
That is exactly what a purpose-built fishing drone should do.
You don't need complicated camera modes.
You don't need gimbal controls.
You don't need photography settings.
You need reliable bait deployment.
Verdict: 9.7/10
12. The FD1+ Has No Camera — And That's Actually the Point
At first glance, not having a camera might look like a weakness.
But consider the target customer.
If you're buying a fishing drone primarily to:
carry bait → drop bait → return
then a camera isn't essential.
Removing the camera can also mean:
-
Less complexity
-
Less cost
-
Less to damage
-
Less power consumption
-
Simpler operation
-
Greater focus on fishing
SwellPro explicitly positions the FD1+ as an entry-level fishing drone without a camera.
That makes the lack of a camera a deliberate product decision, not necessarily a missing feature.
Verdict: 9.0/10 for its intended purpose
13. Is the FD1+ Good for Shark Fishing?
Yes—but with an important qualification.
The FD1+'s 2.2 kg / 4.8 lb payload makes it capable of carrying substantial bait and terminal tackle.
That makes it relevant for shark-fishing applications.
However, anglers targeting very large sharks with exceptionally heavy bait and rigs may benefit from moving up to the FD2 MAX, which MidronePro currently lists at a 7.0-lb bait capacity. (MidronePro)
For the full comparison, see:
Best Fishing Drones for Shark Fishing in 2026
Verdict: 9.3/10
14. Real-World Owner Feedback
The available customer feedback is encouraging, particularly from anglers using the FD1+ for shore fishing.
SwellPro's current listing shows 31 reviews, with 90% rated five stars and 10% rated four stars.
Several reviews specifically mention:
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Ease of operation
-
Large bait deployment
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Shark bait
-
Surf fishing
-
GPS stability
-
Return-to-Home
One owner describes successfully using the drone to deliver larger shark baits and considers it a strong value for that purpose. Another highlights its straightforward operation and reliable return behavior in coastal conditions.
These are owner reports rather than independent laboratory tests, so they shouldn't be treated as proof that every pilot will experience identical results.
But they do reinforce the FD1+'s intended positioning.
15. What I Like About the FD1+
1. Purpose-built design
The FD1+ doesn't try to be a photography drone.
It is a fishing drone.
That's a strength.
2. Excellent waterproofing
IP67 plus floating capability is exactly what you want when operating over the ocean.
3. Strong payload
2.2 kg is substantial for an entry-level fishing platform.
4. Beginner-friendly controls
GPS and calibration-free operation reduce the learning curve.
5. Water recovery features
Floating and flip-back functionality provide valuable protection.
6. Good range
1.3 km is plenty for many shore-based fishing applications.
7. No unnecessary camera premium
If fishing is your priority, you don't have to pay for a camera you don't need.
16. What I Don't Like About the FD1+
The FD1+ isn't perfect.
No camera
If you want aerial scouting or fishing footage, you'll need the FD3 or another camera platform.
Remote controller isn't waterproof
This is an important limitation for marine operation.
Maximum range requires careful battery management
Long-distance flights carrying bait can consume considerably more energy than no-load hovering.
FD2 MAX offers substantially more payload
Serious heavy-lift anglers may quickly outgrow the FD1+.
Higher initial cost than conventional drones
At around $1,484 on the current MidronePro listing, this isn't an inexpensive toy drone. It's specialized fishing equipment. (MidronePro)
17. FD1+ vs FD3 vs FD2 MAX
The three SwellPro fishing drones now form a clear product ladder.
| Feature | FD1+ | FD3 | FD2 MAX |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Entry-level fishing | Fishing + camera | Heavy lift |
| Payload | 4.8 lb | 4.4 lb | 7.0 lb |
| Maximum range | 1.3 km | 1.3 km | 1.5 km |
| Waterproof | IP67 | IP67 | IP67 |
| Camera | No | 4K | 4K |
| Bait release | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Self-floating | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Beginner focus | Excellent | Very good | Advanced |
| Big bait | Very good | Very good | Excellent |
| Shark fishing | Very good | Very good | Best |
| Scouting | — | Excellent | Excellent |
| Value for beginners | Excellent | Good | Good |
MidronePro's current FD1+ product page lists the FD2 at 7.0 lb payload, 1.5 km range and 28-minute maximum no-load flight time, while the FD3 is listed at 4.4 lb, 1.3 km and 25 minutes. (MidronePro)
18. Who Should Buy the FD1+?
The FD1+ is particularly well suited to:
🎣 First-time drone anglers
If you've never used a fishing drone before, the simplified feature set makes sense.
🏖️ Surf fishermen
The waterproof construction is a major advantage.
🌊 Shore-based anglers
The aircraft allows bait deployment without requiring a kayak or boat.
🦈 Shark anglers using moderate-to-heavy bait
The 2.2 kg capacity provides considerable flexibility.
💰 Buyers who don't need a camera
This is probably the most important category.
If you don't care about aerial video, don't pay for it.
19. Who Should Buy the FD3 Instead?
Choose the FD3 if your fishing drone also needs to be a camera platform.
The FD3 adds a 4K camera and is therefore better suited to:
-
Aerial scouting
-
Fishing content
-
YouTube
-
Social media
-
Recording fishing sessions
-
Visual inspection of offshore water
Read our:
SwellPro FD1+ vs FD3: Which Waterproof Fishing Drone Is Better in 2026?
20. Who Should Buy the FD2 MAX?
If your main requirement is maximum payload, the FD2 MAX is the obvious step up.
It's the better choice for:
-
Very large bait
-
Heavy rigs
-
Big-game fishing
-
Serious shark fishing
-
Maximum payload
-
Longer-distance deployment
Read our:
SwellPro FD1+ vs FD2 MAX: Which Bait Drop Fishing Drone Is Better in 2026?
21. FD1+ Value for Money
At first glance, the FD1+ isn't cheap.
But that's the wrong comparison.
You're not really comparing it with a $300 camera drone.
You're comparing it with the cost and logistics of getting bait offshore using:
-
A kayak
-
A boat
-
A bait boat
-
Specialized casting equipment
-
Additional fishing equipment
The FD1+ can potentially replace some of that complexity for shore-based anglers.
Its value therefore depends heavily on how often you'll use the drone.
Occasional angler
The investment may be difficult to justify.
Regular shore-based drone angler
The value becomes much stronger.
Serious surf/shark fisherman
The FD1+ can become a practical fishing tool rather than an expensive gadget.
22. MidronePro Performance Scorecard
| Category | Score |
|---|---|
| Bait capacity | 9.7/10 |
| Bait release | 9.7/10 |
| Waterproofing | 10/10 |
| Floating recovery | 10/10 |
| GPS positioning | 9.5/10 |
| Range | 9.4/10 |
| Wind resistance | 9.6/10 |
| Beginner friendliness | 9.8/10 |
| Battery performance | 8.9/10 |
| Durability | 9.5/10 |
| Shark fishing | 9.3/10 |
| Value | 9.1/10 |
| Camera capability | N/A — not designed as a camera drone |
| Overall | 9.4/10 |
23. Final Verdict: Is the FD1+ the Best Entry-Level Fishing Drone?
Yes — for the right angler.
The SwellPro Fisherman FD1+ succeeds because it doesn't overcomplicate the concept.
It focuses on what fishing drone users actually need:
carry the bait, fly offshore, release it, survive the marine environment and come home.
Its 4.8-lb / 2.2-kg payload is substantial.
Its 1.3-km stated range gives shore anglers meaningful offshore reach.
Its IP67 aircraft, self-floating construction and flip-back recovery system are particularly valuable around saltwater.
And its GPS-assisted, calibration-free operation makes it approachable for newcomers.
The lack of a camera is the biggest limitation—but also one of the reasons the FD1+ makes sense.
If you want a dedicated fishing drone rather than a flying camera, the FD1+ is an excellent choice.
🏆 MidronePro Editor's Choice for Entry-Level Fishing
SwellPro Fisherman FD1+ — 9.4/10
Best for: Beginner drone anglers, surf fishing, shore-based bait deployment and anglers who prioritize simplicity.
Upgrade to FD3: If you want 4K aerial scouting and fishing footage.
Upgrade to FD2 MAX: If you need substantially more payload for big bait and heavy rigs.
Shop the SwellPro Fisherman FD1+ at MidronePro
Check the SwellPro FD1+ on Amazon
FAQ: SwellPro Fisherman FD1+ Review in 2026: Best Entry-Level Fishing Drone?
Is the SwellPro FD1+ worth buying in 2026?
Yes, particularly for anglers who want a purpose-built waterproof fishing drone without paying for an integrated camera. Its 2.2-kg payload, 1.3-km stated range, GPS, bait release and floating design make it highly capable for shore-based fishing.
How much bait can the FD1+ carry?
The published maximum bait payload is 4.8 lb / 2.2 kg.
Is the FD1+ waterproof?
Yes. The aircraft has an IP67 waterproof rating and is designed to float after a water landing. The remote controller is not waterproof.
Does the FD1+ have a camera?
No. SwellPro specifically positions the FD1+ as a camera-free entry-level fishing drone.
How far can the FD1+ fly?
SwellPro specifies a maximum flight distance of 1.3 km / 0.8 mile. Actual practical range depends on environmental conditions, payload, battery and signal conditions.
Can the FD1+ be used for shark fishing?
Yes. Its 2.2-kg payload makes it suitable for many shark-fishing bait configurations. For exceptionally heavy bait and rigs, the FD2 MAX is the stronger option.
Can the FD1+ land on water?
It is designed to float and can be recovered following an accidental water landing. It also has a flip-back recovery function if it lands upside down.
Does the FD1+ return automatically?
Yes. The FD1+ includes automatic Return-to-Home functionality, including automated return behavior associated with situations such as low battery or signal loss. (MidronePro)
Is the FD1+ good for beginners?
Yes. SwellPro specifically markets it toward first-time drone anglers, and its calibration-free flight setup and GPS positioning help simplify operation.
Explore the Complete Fishing Drone Cluster
The FD1+ review should act as one of the main hubs for MidronePro's Fishing & Bait Drop Drones content.
Buying Guides
Best Fishing Drones in 2026: Top Waterproof Drones for Bait Dropping
Best Drones for Bait Dropping in 2026: Top Fishing Drones for Long-Range Bait Deployment
Best Long-Range Fishing Drones in 2026: Top Drones for Offshore Bait Drops
Best Waterproof Fishing Drones in 2026: Top IP67 Drones for Bait Dropping
Best Fishing Drones for Shark Fishing in 2026: Heavy-Lift Drones for Big Bait
Comparison Guides
SwellPro FD1+ vs FD3: Which Fishing Drone Is Better for You in 2026?
SwellPro FD1+ vs FD2 MAX: Which Bait Drop Fishing Drone Is Better in 2026?
SwellPro FD2 MAX vs FD3: Which Fishing Drone Is Better for Long-Range Fishing in 2026?
SwellPro FD1+ vs FD3: Which Waterproof Fishing Drone Is Better in 2026?
SwellPro FD2 MAX vs FD3: Which Is Better for Shark Fishing in 2026?
And browse the complete:
Fishing & Bait Drop Drones collection
Editorial note
This review is based on the current SwellPro specifications, MidronePro's current product listing and available owner feedback. The performance assessment and MidronePro scores are editorial judgments; they should not be interpreted as independent laboratory measurements. The manufacturer's published maximum figures are tested under specified conditions and actual fishing performance will vary with payload, wind, battery condition, signal environment and operating conditions.
