Front Fish Finding Options

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04-01-2018, 08:36 PM
Chevync20

Front Fish Finding Options

After trying out my new front spider setup, I realized how important in having a front mounted fish finder helps. Using a single 5" Humminbird Helix 5 in my dash in a 20' boat makes things difficult. Here is my dilemma. I want to upgrade to at least a 7" screen, thinking Garmin Echomap Plus 7 SV and then moving my Helix up front. Funds right now are a little low after buying multiple new rods and reels, double seats, holders, etc. My question, I was thinking about adding a small unit, like a Raymarine Dragonfly 4 or Garmin Striker 4 unit to the front until I can upgrade to a larger unit in the back and also in the front. Thought behind this is I could add the smaller unit to my kayak once I upgrade. Thoughts on this? Or if someone has a good deal on a used unit I could do, I would certainly entertain that as well. Thanks!
04-01-2018, 08:42 PM
2boatjoe

I would make sure you get GPS that you can mark way points.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N920A using Crappie.com Fishing mobile app
04-01-2018, 08:45 PM
Chevync20

Quote:

Originally Posted by 2boatjoe

I would make sure you get GPS that you can mark way points.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-N920A using Crappie.com Fishing mobile app

My current Helix 5 is GPS and SI/DI. It the first generation from a couple years ago, so no chirp. After posting I was thinking, without GPS I will not have speed to view either. So many decisions to chose from.
04-02-2018, 02:09 AM
skunked again

You mentioned the plus series, are you wanting touch screen? If touch isn't necessary, get a echomap 73 sv chirp. 2cnd generation, so to speak.
Striker or echomap?
Striker has GPS, basemap. Striker plus units have quickdraw.
Echomap has pre-loaded contoured mapping.
Should be able to find some deals on the striker's and echomap chirp units.
04-02-2018, 08:28 AM
ET Fish

Personally, I think that is a very viable option. I run a Lowrance Elite 4x up front, sonar and di, and it is quite functional. My opinion is, you always want the latest and greatest, and there is nothing wrong with that. Problem is, it’s a revolving door. Of course, my opinion is not popular with the manufacture! Having a decent unit on the kayak is a lot of fun as well!
04-02-2018, 08:41 AM
pab1981

Quote:

Originally Posted by skunked again

You mentioned the plus series, are you wanting touch screen? If touch isn't necessary, get a echomap 73 sv chirp. 2cnd generation, so to speak.
Striker or echomap?
Striker has GPS, basemap. Striker plus units have quickdraw.
Echomap has pre-loaded contoured mapping.
Should be able to find some deals on the striker's and echomap chirp units.

The earlier models won't share waypoints with the Plus units I don't believe. No way I would consider running a setup that wouldn't share waypoints between front and back anymore. I did without it for a long time and just too much trouble. I would save or patiently shop used until I found a unit that fit that criteria.

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