Bear with me on this, I am looking for some clarification. I have a FF (Garmin 160 Blue) but would like to get a GPS. I thought about a hand held but, the more I think about it the more I think I might be better off getting a new “multi-purpose” fixed unit. So, if someone with the knowledge would help me, as I understand it,
a fishfinder “finds fish” and gives depth readings, water temp, etc…
a chartplotter is a GPS, waypoints, etc… but does not “find fish” etc…
a Sounder does both of what a FF and chartplotter does.
Is this correct. If so, it sounds like I need to look at a Sounder. I do not have an unlimited budget ($500 or less), what should I look for?
Any help/info appreciated…as long as it is constructive.
a sounder is another word for sonar
sonar is the process by which the “fishfinder” finds fish and depth.
you want a multi function unit or “combo”
sonar and navigation (aka fishfinder and gps)
my personal favorite is the garmin 540. its a little over your budget, its about $539, but its the most bang for your buck right now. Also humminbird has a great new unit.
I like the Lowrance myself. Easy to use and easy networking. I just upgraded my screen to the larger 10" and have my 2yr old Lowrance 525c that I want to sell. The larger one uses the same cables so I used the wires that I had already installed in the boat. The head unit looks/works as new and the GPS antenna, DF transducer, and all power wires are brand new. Here’s a link if you are interested… http://www.lowrance.com/Products/Marine/Full-Size-SonarGPS-Chartplotter-Combos/LMS-525C-DF/ If you’re interested, let me know. The garmin is a great unit too.
I agree with Chris that Garmin is best for price and ease of use. You want a sounder or combo unit, with the largest screen you can afford. And look at what kind of maps are built into the unit, as additional maps, which usually come on SD cards, can cost $150 extra. The Garmin 530S and 540S are both combo GPS/chart/fishfinders. The screen diagonal is five inches. There is a 430 and 440 series with four inch screens. The 430 and 530 come with inshore maps of US rivers and lakes built in, while the 440 and 540 have offshore maps included. Be sure the “S” suffix is there if you want a depth sounder combo. I have a 430 as I mostly fish Lake Moultrie.
To find out more about Garmin go to http://www8.garmin.com/gpsacademy/
For a forum on ALL GPS brands go to http://www.gpspassion.com/forumsen/default.asp
“The amount of money I’ll be makin would hurt your parents feelings. Remember the class where I taught you all how to make it rain? That’s what I’ll be doin every night, dollar…dollar…bills y’all.”