OK, this should probably be listed in a "never ending debate section", but I am confused. I am in the market for a GPS/Fish Finder combo, and was seeking input from all of you.

First, money is kind of an objective. While I think the $1000 units are sweet, I can't justify it. I'd like to stay at a max of perhaps $500-$550. And to top it off, yes- I like color. Or, convince me otherwise....is the color THAT much better?

I'd sure appreciate your input with this difficult decision.

Thanks in advance!

Yep, go with color if u can $$$$ it.

The best one is the one you research and end up with on your boat. I think they are all good.

For your price range.

Look at Eagle Fishelite series http://www.eaglenav.com/en/Products/Fishfinder-Chartplotters/

And the Lowrance LMS series http://www.lowrance.com/Products/Marine/Full-Size-SonarGPS-Chartplotter-Combos

Or the Humminbird 500 series or even the 300's http://store.humminbird.com/ccombo-ccombo500.html

It comes down to, Display Resolution (like 480 x 480) the higher the better, Screen size (for your price about 5" is it).

Then decide internal or external GPS reciever, I like external just so I can share (network) with other units on the boat and to be able to trade up units as time goes by and keep the old GPS reciever.

Also consider internal Lake maps or purchase you own separate (on SD card). I like separate purchased card again so you can trade up (and trade in) and keep current.

As you have more specific questions, ask away.

Any idea which card has the best maps of Lake Palestine?

Navionics Premium 2008 SD card.

Is there somewhere I can see a demo of that card?

Understandable. I was at a local store asking questions last week on a Lowrance unit with built in maps. The clerk was not very helpful. Between that and not being able to figure out the Lowrance emulators, I am starting to get a little frustrated.

Bass Pro Shops and Cabelas have demo chips and they will show you what they look like on their display units.