Thread: Anyone use a handheld gps?

Originally Posted by dfar

I have a Garmin Etrex that is one of the earliest ones made and it still will put me right on the spot. I mean within less than 2 feet.
A lot of people have trouble finding the waypoint when they get close wheather on water or land. The reason is that most everyone slows thier speed of travel way down.
As soon as you slow way down the gps has trouble determining your movement. This especially true when you get within a 30ft radius of the marked spot. When you get fairly close it may start telling you to go diferent directions.

There is a trick that I found that will help you to get dead on the spot. If possible keep moving at quick step or just above idle speed in a boat.
Keep moving inthe direction of the arrow on the unit and the distance to way point. While still moving when it gets to zero or just before drop a bouy or marker .
I have used this method many times in open water and on land. I have found a single tree top limb under the water many times this way. Have actually tangled the line around that limb a few times.

hope that helps you out.

What he said x2 . I have had one for years and now own 3 units. ( 2 both same marks as one is a backup for home lake and 1 for other waters) I get best results going straight to mark within 100' shut off big motor . It is usually close and still moving as I drop trolling motor. Important to keep moving and drop a bouy as you pass over. I seldom drop bouy without it being within 10' and most times in small condo or on a stump. Would not be without a inexpensive handheld GPS.

Tip : If you fish much buy batteries in large pack to keep in the boat. I won't go on my home lake without my Etrex.

Originally Posted by missnu

Once you drop the phone over board its done.

That takes "marking a spot" to a new level.

Originally Posted by missnu

looking at the Garmin 78 or 78s.

The "S" has a premium pricetag while the base product has almost all of the same features (and they both float.)