Needing new Graphs. Recommendations?

[Foxman]

I have a hummingbird 728 and 798 on my boat (Basscat Cougar). Yep there old like me. Don’t even know where to start with all the choices and options available. Would like to stay around $2000 for the pair. Any thoughts on the Lowrance ti2?  Only concern is that LONG transducer. I don’t care if it is a Ford or Chevy. Your help is greatly appreciated. Thank you!

[aarchdale@coresleep.com]

Its really hard to go wrong with any of the Top Brands. Ive had Garmin, Lowrance, and Birds.  I think Garmin may have the best bang for the buck as far as screen size. I just got a new boat and it has old graphs too.  Im going to wait until after ICAST when all the new stuff comes out. Usually you can find some deals on last years models.  www.theGPSStore.com usualy has some sales after ICAST

[motoman]

Good post Foxman........I’m in the market for new electronics too. Don’t want to break the bank either; but would like something to help me quickly rule out unproductive water.

Side imaging seems like it would be handy to idle past shoreline/pockets for at least a quick look-see; but what do I know. It’ll be interesting to hear folks opinions who regularly fish the rock.

[Dutch]

I recently moved to Humminbird from Lowrance.  I did it because I switched to a MK trolling motor and wanted to get the most from it.  I have struggled with the language and command differences.  So my recommendation is stick with Hbird to shorten any learning curve.  Helix. has been on sale lately.

 

 

[fozzype]

They all have pluses and minuses.  I have used all 3 extensively.  The elite ti 2 is the best for me for the money.   However, they do require a setup and ongoing adjustments to be really great.  Garmin's are simple and dont require much setup, but the 3d down imaging isnt good.  Also, they have limited zoom adjustments for drop shotting.  Humminbird are good too, especially 2d, but side imaging isn't my favorite.  

The elite ti 2 will wirelessly transfer data and waypoints and are touch screen.  Screen quality is great and the fish reveal really works to find fish in trees.  These the biggest selling points for me.  

They are all good, just really up to you.

 

[Dutch]

I am at the Bass Pro outlet right now.   They have a bunch of units of different brands and sizes. I imagine that these are discontinued models.

[Guest]

Get the livescope, just be sure to hide the receipt from yerr wife. 

[WWM]

On 5/28/2019 at 10:22 AM, Dutch said:

I am at the Bass Pro outlet right now.   They have a bunch of units of different brands and sizes. I imagine that these are discontinued models.

The outlet is LOADED with electronics of all 3 brands right now. Wish I had an extra $1500 laying around. They have big mix of lowrance units (live, carbon, ti2), mostly helix for birds, and a few garmin over by the taxidermy. Lots of good deals. 

Personally I have a original Ti unit with the big transducer. I really like fish reveal for trees. Also, being able to use an iPad to mirror and control the unit works out well for me with the WiFi in the unit. The graph is mounted on the deck and I use an iPad mounted at drivers seat to scan when idling. *If I won the lottery would probably switch to solix and ultrex. Seems like the best right now. Until I-cast that is... 

[Sore Thumbs]

My opinion is Hummingbird for side image, Lowrance for 2d and Garmin for Live. Don’t be afraid to mix and match brands to get the best setup for you. 

[Bill Babler]

This is a pretty sticky Wicket right now.  I will tell you that my national rep for my bass boat has just had a dickens of a fit with his bird.  My two best clients both have birds and they both have had trouble plus I think their pictures are complete crap.  My good friend and sometimes tournament partner has birds on his new boat and said they are impossible to master and have to be continually updated.

I'm staying with Lowrance and taking a very close look at Garmin.  A-Mart gave Hummingbird a very good advertisment in winning a drop shot eye in the water war, but even with them having a pairing relationship with Minn Kota I don't want one .

Right now you can buy HD Elite units at fantastic prices.  This is year old technology, but absolutely fantastic sonar picture quality and excellent side imaging.

Remember this.  Everything out there for 2020 will be old news in 2021 so this is a battle that is never won.

Let your pocketbook be your guide.