And yet another plea for guidance . . .

[Cal]

I know this question has been asked in any number of ways, in this forum and 100's of others, but I've just gotta ask it "My way".

I have just recently become the proud owner of a 2000 Fisher Avenger Pro 17 SC that came equipped with 2 older FF's - the bow unit is an Eagle Silver Striker 600+, and the console unit is a Lowrance X-38. Obviously, these units are outdated and no longer available. This brings me to my questions:

1. Would you replace either or both of these units merely to get updated technology, or are they sufficient for a novice to learn on?

2. If you would replace either one, which, and with what (given a budget of $500 each)?

I ask these questions because I have never fished with electronics before, as I have never owned a "real" boat before!

Any advice for this 60 year old "Newbie" is appreciated!!!


Regards & Tight lines,
Cal
Fredericksburg, VA

[PaprHead]

If I have looked at the specs on these 2 units correctly you will probably eventually want to replace both units. The Lowrance has a pixel count of 128 vertical by 65 horizontal and the Eagle has a count of 160x160. They would possibly be OK in shallow water but in deep water details will be lost. If you decided to get a new unit below are some things to consider:
1. Probably would recommend a color unit with a 4.5" or larger screen
2. Would recommend a dual band unit such as 83/200 khz as you get
both narrow and wide cone angles which help spot fish
3. Screen resolution with at least 320 vertical pixels but would prefer
480 or 640 vertical pixels
4. Need to decide if a GPS is any benefit to you for marking waypoints
or creating travel routes. Also can add maps if needed.
5. Would recommend that you go somewhere like Bass Pro where you
can look at the screen displays and play with the menu systems
before buying.
6. When you decide what you want check pricing at J&H Products
before buying locally as pricing is usually better.
7. Would probably put first new unit on bow if you crappie fish in deeper
water or troll in flats areas

http://www.jandhproducts.com/

Sorry for rambling but I hope this helps,
Vance

[Cal]

Thanx, Vance, for the insight. I will probably spend this summer getting to know the units I have now, and decide in the fall whether they are sufficient for my purposes.

Again, thanx,
Cal

[Cane Pole]

Prob wouldn't hurt to go to Lowrance and Eagle web sites and download manuals. Reading helps sometimes.