Looking For advice on a gps/finder combo

[Sprocketman]

I am looking at purchasing a fishfinder/gps combo ,and was wanting the most compatible for a good choice of Ontaio inland lakes Simcoe ,Trent,ontario, nippising , is there anyone out their that has any information.......or can stear me into any

[RandyLinden]

Any of the Lowrance, Eagle or Humminbird Sonar/GPS combos will do what you want. They are capable of using the Navionics charts and they cover the lakes you mentioned.
If you require more detailed information feel free to contact me.
Randy

[Lunker Larry]

I've had a Humminbird Matrix 97 for the last 2 years and love it-love it-love it! Everyone I have in the boat is impressed with it.
Big screen, clear and easy to view and the menu is very user friendly.
I think the 97 has been upgraded to a newer version but I would highly recommend checking this unit out.

[JayB]

I picked up a Humminbird 757c Combo last year and LOVE IT!

I have used Lowrance products for years but I found the Humminbird unit to be a great one! For the most part the features are identical. However, there are a few features on the humminbird I found useful (shaded depth being one of them).

I have the unit mounted on the bow of my boat. Over time I plan on purchasing another 700 or 900 series Humminbird and link them in the boat. Almost have a enough in the piggy bank! LOL!

One trade off is the GPS reciever for the humminbird is separate. It is not a big deal as their is not power chord issues for this reciever, it hooks directly into the housing with no separate power chord (like older GPS/Sonar Combos from most companies).

The internal GPS module may be a feature that interests you. So far, I only think Lowrance models has this feature. However, I have heard the reception with the internal units is not great. It is also not recommended if you are planning to 'flush mount' the unit.

Good luck. Shopping for new gadgets is fun. If you have any questions let me know. I use GPS/Sonar combos regularly for work and play.

[RandyLinden]

If you plan on mounting the unit on the bow I would suggest using a external antenna model because in many cases the display will be tilted back to provide a better viewing angle. The internal antennas are located in the top of the units and by tilting them back the antenna is facing forward rather than upward.
The internal antenna models work perfectly mounted on an open console.
When flush mounting an external antenna model is also recomended because of the overhead obstructions.
The other advantage with a Lowrance external antenna model is that you can network the antenna to a 2nd unit. This makes the purchase of the 2nd unit less costly because you won't need to buy a GPS antenna.

Randy

[acuteangler]

They are all pretty reliable but I think Humminbird gives you nthe most bang for your buck. If your budget will allow get a997c with Side-imaging.

AA