Lowrance 000-12635-001 Hook-3X Sonar, W/ 83/200 XDCR What about this one? Going to pick me up a Jon boat 12 footer for $50.00.

I believe that you can still pick up the Garmin Striker 7 at BPS for $399 without side view and $499 with. I've got one of the side view Striker 7SV's, and for the money, they're hard to beat.

I've got a Lowrance Elite 5 CHIRP (head unit only) I'll sell for $200. It is in great shape. Only used a few times on my yak. Unfortunately the HD transducers are kind of pricey unless you find a good deal.. that's the only downfall.

I have a Helix 7 Sonar with GPS for $50. Only needs a transducer and a new screen. Lol.

Actually, it still works. It just ran into a 3/8ths tungsten one day. And the transducer ran into a rock and attached itself to it.

A really good deal if ya don't mind a cracked screen cover.

To answer your question though, I have heard that is a great starter unit. Go for it!

Unless your eyesight is excellent, you might have problems seeing what's on the 3X screen. The stores will start putting the 2015/16 models on clearance around Thanksgiving. Then around February, they'll go on close out.

Thanks! I can wait till then. Never had a fish finder before it can wait till February.

I agree with collincountytx, don't get anything smaller than 5".