Graphs

[Bassmod]

I'm just wondering what ya'll think the best tool is and what you can live with out on graphs. I'm looking to get a new one but would like some input on di si and gps. Thank you.

[5bites]

Imo it's all necessary. It's an invaluable tool that can turn slow days into treasure hunts. Brand is purely personal preference as they all make good units. I run humminbird because the good out weighed the the bad for me personally. There are features on other brands I wish they had though.

Another must is lakemaster mapping. I'm pretty sure that means you are stuck with a humminbird though because I don't think they're compatible with other brands. The map cards alone will change your game.

If you have any specific questions just ask. My preferences may not be the same as others. That doesn't make either one of us wrong though.

[Sore Thumbs]

In my opinion you would only need a good sonar if that's what budget allows. Second would be the addition of GPS. Then side or down imaging. I'm with 5bites on needling all of them. I do and it is a definite advantage to have all phases working together at one time.

[Bassmod]

Thanks a lot! I guess I won't skimp out on a graph! I just upgraded my trolling motor from 12 to 24 and that's played a big roll with my main lake fishing and that's led to needing a graph upgrade to find structure a little better now that I have the boat controlled

[Bgctrading]

I'm in the same spot can't decide if a 500 dollar one will do or if I need/have to get 2000 dollar one.

[kjackson]

Look at Humminbird's new Helix 7, although a Helix 5 may do what you want up front. The MSRP on these units is very low, and there are a range of different models.

The really cool new combo is the Lawrence HDS Gen3 with StructureScan 3D...but it is a budget buster. That will map your lake in three dimensions and locate just about every fish in the lake.

[5bites]

The helix 5 may be a tad small to have at your feet looking down at it. The 7 may be good though if you are content knowing you can never link it. If you do think you might want to link units in the future you can find used 898's and 998's in that price range.

The 3d thing is neat but imo I think it's more of a novelty or gimmick. More of something to convince people they need it rather than an actual useful tool. I may be totally wrong though.

I was thinking I might look into garmin in the future but they just lost a lawsuit to humminbird so I don't know what that going to mean. I'd say at a minimum it will mean higher prices.

[Bgctrading]

I definately want to link my two units together

[Blll]

Helix 5 at the wheel 2 months ago.Very pleased so far. Lotta stuff for under 5 beans. Big enough for me, would want bigger in the bow. Sharp screen and easy to use if you know HB. Side imaging works great only downside is the fish marks are pretty tiny. Works well in sunlight too.

[Bassmod]

That's the only thing that's kept me from the helix is them not linking.