I am going to buy a new fish finder. Im looking to spend $300-350.
What do I look for in a unit. I know nothing about any of it.
I found this, Lowrance® Elite-5X HDI Sonar for $299.
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I am going to buy a new fish finder. Im looking to spend $300-350.
What do I look for in a unit. I know nothing about any of it.
I found this, Lowrance® Elite-5X HDI Sonar for $299.
I had a Low E5DSI and what I didn't like was no 2D. (had it mounted on the bow) That model may be different but think it's just the lack of maps...the rest is the same. With DI you have to be moving to get a image. Other than the 2D issue I liked it. Clear images and the screen was big enough for my needs, Will your new unit be going on the bow or console?
I say go with what you want. Do some research and figure out what you do and don't want. Lots of good stuff out there from different brands.
The "X" in Elite 5X means it does not have GPS. You might also find that it does not come with a transducer (if it says "head only" or "no transducer") and that's another $80-$100
HDI means "Hybrid Dual Image" ... which is regular color 2d broadband sonar, plus Down Image sonar. 2d sonar puts out a cone shaped ping & registers on the screen as colored patches/blobs to represent what's being "seen" within the confines of that cone shaped signal. Down Image puts out a "fan shaped" (wide/thin) sonar ping & registers on the screen as a picture-like image of what was just passed over.
Humminbird & Lowrance both have good units in that price range. But, first .... we need to know what you expect/want the unit to do for you, where you're going to mount the transducer & head unit, and what style or fishing methods are you going to be using. If you need to know your speed ... you're going to have to go with a unit that has GPS capabilities.
... cp :kewl
I would at least shoot for something with GPS.
This is why I am on here asking for input. Thanks for the great info so far.
I dont know what I want or dont want because I know nothing about any of it.Quote:
Originally Posted by Brn2fsh
CrappiePappy, glad you mentioned the unit not having a transducer because the one I found doesnt have.
As for GPS, Is it really that necassary? I dont need to know my speed for any reason I can think of. What else will GPS give me that I don tknow about? I am sure saving waypoints is very handy but I really only fish one maybe two lakes.
Keep the info coming.
GPS is good for speed, marking underwater structure, tracks you trolled and many other things. Most of all it gets you in safely if a fog sets in and keeps you away from shallow or dangerous areas. I would go get the Humminbird 597 hd di that bass pro is selling for $379 the 14th of March. It's a great deal.
Thanks, I cant find a 597. I did find a 587. Is this the one you are talking about?Quote:
Originally Posted by crappielimits
Never mind, I found it. I dont live close to a Bass Pro store.Quote:
Originally Posted by Inthehollar
Check and see if it's a in store deal only or if you can go online and get it during that time. Also check with Brian at BBG Marine...he may be able to hook you up for the same price if not better. Great guy and place to deal with.
For 450.00 you can buy a hummingbird 688 CI DI with gps. Its a great little unit. I just picked one up from gander mtn and really like it. Trust me when I say you will kick yourself for not having GPS. Its such a great tool not to mention it could save your life. I know the 688 is out of the price range you set but its worth it. Save up for a little longer and at least get something with GPS. Oh and cabelas is the only place ive seen the 688 DI for 450.00 but many places will price match. (thats what gander mtn did for me) Good luck wih what ever you choose and be safe!!!
GPS capability allows you to use a map card, which I find extremely useful in finding specific channels, etc.
If you only fish a couple of lakes, and you're pretty familiar with them ... a depthfinder would only help you find new spots more quickly.Quote:
Originally Posted by Inthehollar
GPS units will show you where you are on a lake, and how fast you are moving. Speed is important when trolling methods are being used. Having a variable speed trolling motor makes staying at a certain speed, easier, as you have more control than you do with a 5spd trolling motor.
Again, how you fish is going to be the key factor in what the unit's capabilities need to be. If you tie up or anchor, or continually fish the same spots ... a depthfinder may not be a necessary purchase. The more variety of fishing methods that you use, the more capabilities the unit will need to have to aid you in maximizing your time on the water.
Another question that comes to mind is, if you don't know anything about depthfinders or what you want them to do ... why do you think you need a depthfinder ?? Tell me that & how you normally fish ... and we'll see if we can point you in the right direction on what unit would benefit you the most.
... cp :kewl