Which brand of handheld gps has the best software for lakes?
Derek

not to hijack the post, but, i also want to know which is best. can you put the navionics hot maps chip into any hand held unit?

I have a Lowrance iFinder H2Oc with a Navionics HotMaps Premium '08. It has been an excellent combo.

I also like the Lowrance Fishing Hot Spots Pro. I have one in my Lowrance LCX-15mt.

i know the navionics hotmap chip is about $100, how much is the handheld that will accept this? i just dont want to spend the large amount of money to purchase and install the 520 on my boat, i dont have the funds. any help?

h20 It cost 169 retail for the unit.
Johnny

I have the Ifinder & run the Navionics HotMaps Premium '04
I also have an Eagle 502C mounted with the 08 in it.

How is the Garmin lake software? Are the Lowrance Hot Spots or Navionics Hot Maps compatible with Garmin handhelds? Garmin has a handheld for tracking hunting dogs that I'm getting and had rather not have to buy more than one gps. I need that but also need lake mapping software of some type. Just trying to put it all together.
Derek

i think one main question i have is this: i have used a 332 with the hotmaps and i really liked it, it was on a friends boat. i just have an X52 on my boat and dont want to spend money. Is the handheld with a hotmap the same thing, does it give the contours and update in real time with location? it shows all the exact same features that would show up on a regular mounted GPS?

late4lake, i sent you back a PM. maybe we could meet up somewhere and you coudl show me? we are somewhat close. what area do you work in?

DaneKE,

The Lowrance chips and Navionics chips are not compatible with Garmin. Garmin has their own mapping software. I found their lake maps software to be very lacking.

Riverrat1973,

The H2O will perform just like a 332, minus the sonar of course. Also, as noted the monochrome H2O sells for $169. The color version, H2Oc, is around $250. Both chips are in the $100-$150 range.