The history of Aqua-Vu viewing systems dates to well before the invention of video cameras themselves! In 1975, Al Lindner, Ron Lindner, and Aqua-Vu's inventor Jeff Zernov founded the In-Fisherman magazine. In the very first issue of this famous pacesetting angler’s bible, the prospect of viewing fish in their underwater environment was introduced in a futuristic and legendary article proposing an underwater observation tower.
Thus, a quarter century ago, the Lindners and Jeff Zernov were formulating the innovative concept of below-the-surface observation-- seeing things through the fish's eye. They understood how the angling experience— set forth in the now-familiar In-Fisherman formula: F (know your Fish) + L (Location) + P (Presentation) = Success— could be enhanced by the ability to learn through firsthand underwater observation.
As the accompanying reprint explains, the Lindners assigned to Jeff Zernov the task of implementing that pioneering "observation tower" idea. Although financial and engineering limitations prevented the development of the sub-surface observation tower, the need for a convenient tool to conduct underwater study remained.
Zernov left In-Fisherman in the early 1980s to found an outdoor electronics company called Zercom Corporation. While CEO of Zercom, Zernov started a subsidiary company called Intercon One, which designed and manufactured precision video products and cables for the medical industry. He also launched Zercom Marine, manufacturer of sonar and marine electronics. Drawing on experience from both the precision video field and marine electronics industry, Zernov founded Nature Vision, Inc.
Twenty-three years after the In-Fisherman "observation tower" article first appeared, Jeff Zernov introduced Aqua-Vu, the first underwater viewing system.
Since 1997, Nature Vision, Inc. has been the angler’s underwater eye. Through its frequent on-the-water "product development meetings," the Nature Vision, Inc. staff is constantly exploring ways to make your time on the water more fun and productive. To some that means catching more fish, while others simply enjoy the excitement of viewing what’s below the surface of a favorite lake. However you define "viewing" fun, our continuing cutting-edge refinements make Aqua-Vu Underwater Viewing Systems more effective and easier to use for anglers and viewers everywhere.
Headquartered in Minnesota’s fishing-rich lake region, Nature Vision, Inc.’s staffers gain design inspiration from the varying conditions anglers face everyday. Surrounded by angling pioneers like Al Lindner, Gary Roach, Dave Genz, and the In-Fisherman staff assures that we’re constantly fueled by some of the most cutting edge fishing ideas available. All these factors help us build better products for anglers of all skill levels.
With over 150,000 systems in the field, anglers across the country continually experience the profound advantages offered uniquely by Aqua-Vu. Whether fishing for panfish, bass, walleyes, or trout — on open-water or on ice; from boat, dock, or winter fish house — there is an Aqua-Vu underwater viewing system that matches your style of fishing!
