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Does anyone have any pros or cons for this depth finder. I am wanting something with gps, charplotter, and si. And for 500 bucks this one seems to have it all. Anyone have any reviews. Thanks
Humminbird Helix 5 SI Fishfinder/Chartplotter | Bass Pro Shops
We sell them at the outdoor store I help run. One of my part time guys recently bought the Helix 5 SI/GPS. He has not had time to get out with it due to the ice on Truman to give me a report. As with all SI and Di units the bigger the screen the better the clarity. But with that said most anglers can not afford a $2400 1199 Humminbird. So these are a great way for guys to get the benefits of SI on a budget. It is capable of split screens. But while using SI I think you will want to only use that screen to give better details. Same for using the gps/map screen while running the lake on plane.
At that price I can put one on the kayak.
They have several versions with different options like DI/Gps. Plain sonar. Sonar/gps. All that are available with GPS will accept micro sd mapping cards. So you can run the LakeMaster cards in them.
I've been using the 587ci HD di (GPS, Sonar, DI) unit for a couple years and overall I like it and would buy again. I'm not that confident with GPS when attempting to hold on waypoint as it seems to reset sometimes (it's bow mounted and i don't use while on plane). Prior to buying, many people suggested to buy the biggest screen you can afford and I would agree. Viewing split screen can be a little tiring, not a huge issue.
Found link online may allow you to buy a few more jigs???
Humminbird Helix 5 SI GPS Side Imaging Sonar GPS Combo - Humminbird 409640-1 - Humminbird Helix Series Fishfinders - Humminbird Fishfinders - Fishfinders - Boatersland Marine
So my next question is. What is the difference in prices between this 500 dollar unit and more expensive units. Besides the larger screen for better clarity. Knock on wood I can't hear worth a darn. But I can see
The larger units have some "quick keys" that let you program screens you use most and quickly go back in forth between them with one button push. Not a huge advantage as the a Helix is pretty simple to navigate from screen to screen anyway. The big difference is the ability to "link" the units together to share waypoints. As far as screen size there is several places making mounts that are 12"-16" off the floor for the bow to get them up closer for better viewing. Same for console a ram style or Balzout mount can be used to get it closer and in a good viewing spot for you. Not sure how close you are to Truman but I would be glad to show you my 1199 and 1159 and even can show you the Hekix models at the store. They are not hooked up but can show you the size of the units.
Not to close. I am right down the road from smithville dam. I really appreciate the gesture though. I may just have to run down to bass pro and look at them. Also do they come with mounting brackets or are they extra?
I am looking at one myself and wonder if there is enough room to use the side image on boat with the motor bolted to the transom? Or does one have to use a Jack Plate or some other spacer to get enough room to shot the signal between the back of the boat and motor?
RHB
They will come with a simple base to mount them up with.
RHB it will mount low enough on the transom that it will actually shoot under the motor/jack plate.
Forgot to add that bps in independence had a Helix 5SI on display. I tinkered won it a little bit. Looks pretty simple to use.
Thanks for the reply but that is the question I do not have a Jack Plate the motor is bolted directly to the transom? Any and all help is appreciated!
RHB
Here is how I have my SI/DI ducer for my 1199 mounted.
Attachment 188307
Jigging15 how do you like the Stump Jumper mounted on the back of your boat. Looks like a good set up to me as I have busted a few transducers on Truman over the years mostly from letting the boat drift backwards and bump a stick-up under the water that I didn't see or know was there. I like the idea that it is made in Missouri too and local at that.
RHB
Love it. I have actually heard it snap back down after being hit by either a tree/stump. One year on Truman so far with it and have not busted a transducer yet. They are made locally here in the big metropolis of Tightwad. Jackie Albin is who designed them and built them. I'm sure a lot of MO CDC guys have met him at the Crappie.com tournaments. He came up with these after breaking 3 transducers in a short time and having to replace them. At upwards of $200 a piece it could get costly quick with out one.
Is that smaller unit I pilot compatible?
I just installed and used a helix 5 DI/SI and it is a great unit. I also bought a Ram mount to get it above the steering wheel and a little more in my face. I had to drill some more holes in the aluminum plate that the ram mount includes due to the newness of the helix 5. It will do everything they say it will. I can see logs on the bottom with the side imaging and the color palates are awesome. The side scan part of transducer will only work at slow speeds and you need to consider all that the instructions say about prop wash and interference. All that being said, the side image is a clear as an old Kodak negative. The down scan is equally good. Now that I have told you all of that, could you recommend a mapping chip?
Lakemaster is the best chip going in my opinion.
Danny W I am not sure about being compatible. If you go to the Minn Kota site it should list all units that it works with. May be new enough you would have to give Humminbird or Minn Kota a call.