I've got the bug to improve my game and electronics. Currently I've got:

Garmin Echomap 53cv....Has great maps, sonar, and down scan for structure.

Navionics phone app for additional maps and hotspots.

MISSING is side scan. I found a rebate offer on the below link for Hook 7X Tripleshot. It would be $299 after mail in rebate (deal expires tomorrow 10/31!!!!). Seems like this may be the cheapest option to get side scan and add another screen rather than trying to spend a bunch of money on a single nine inch model to do split screens. After all, isn't 5 inches plus 7 inches better than 9 inches of a new expensive unit? I don't need the maps on the Lowrance unit since i have the Garmin and Navionics already.

https://www.basspro.com/shop/en/lowrance-hook2-7x-tripleshot-gps-plotter-fishfinder

What would you do and how do you like the Lowrance side scan? are their transducers all created equal? - is this model worth spending $300 on or should i just continue to save for livescope or some higher end model.

Thanks for your input!

After my lowrance experience., I would save for the livescope I think you will be happier in the long run.

is 5 plus 7 better than 9? Not really when it comes to SI IMO. You usually want the largest screen that you can afford when it comes to SI. 2D and DI you are generally looking at a small cone below the boat usually 25' or less. Not hard to see things. On SI you are shooting a beam out, lets just say 50' on a smaller unit. That is 100' total. Think of how small a fish or even a boulder might look that far away. Easy to miss things. Then there are other factors like how many pixels does the screen have. Especially if you are in a bass boat and standing on the deck. The FF will then be 4-5' away from you so things will be even smaller. If you are in a kayak or something similar then it is a different story.

If it were me and I didn't have the budget for a larger screen, I'd look at some of the used units for sale and get more for my money. I've used the 5,7,10 and 12" screens. Now I'll never go less than 10 again.

I have a Hummingbird Helix 7 and I can say I use side scan as best I can but after seeing it on a larger screen I was surprised how much more you could actually see . If you think you can afford better then I would recommend saving for a larger screen.

This ^^^^^

Yep, bigger is definitely better.

Thanks. What did you not like about it? My dad just bought a HDS 7 but haven't gotten to use it enough to know if it's a great unit.

Everyone needs sidescan electronics, first...then livescope, second.

I was told years ago, get the manufacturer that is easiest to use (Lowrance/Hummingbird), for sidescan tech. For me, that was Hummingbird. And get the largest screen you can afford. I am amazed at the difference between 8/9 inch screen info and 12 inch screen info...so let that be your guide.

Livescope, I don’t have it, but have been introduced to it. Sure seems to be the next big thing, IMO. Here’s why. Sidescan opens up thelake, terrain, features, structure, etc., and livescope opens up the fish within that given terrain, features, structure, etc. personally, I have never cared for Garmin products, and I hate the fact they stole (allegedly) the livescope team from Hummingbird...but I do love the livescope results, despite not really being a tech type guy.

I hope this perspective helps...

Thanks all. After this feedback, i'll save my money and put it towards a 9 inch Garmin and then maybe add livescope the following year. I can't believe the price jump on the 10 inch screens!

Below is a reburb echomap 94 for $700 with transducer and sidescan. this one does not have the lakevu maps, and does not sound like i could use my existing echomap memory card in it.

https://g.factoryoutletstore.com/de...tegory_id=84674&catalogitemid=545074

I also plan to watch the black friday sales and maybe a deal will come out.

First for sidescan, bigger is definitely better. If you want to eventually use Garmin for sidescan and livescope be sure the Garmin you buy will accept both types of transducers. Not all Garmin's will.

Next, to effectively use livescope you also need spotlock on your trolling motor. Without spotlock my livescope would be worthless. (to me) You need to be able to drive (point) the livescope, control the boat and fish at the same time. Hard to do with only too hands and one brain.

You also need to locate the livescope high enough (close to eye level when sitting down) to avoid severe eye strain and neck and back issues.

Good luck. If I can help you call me.

Be sure you get more than 1 micro SD card slot . My Helix 7 only has 1 and its filled with a Lakemaster chip . It would be nice to have a 2nd for all kinds of different reasons .

Purchase the biggest one available that has good definition. Your eyes will not improve with age.

Call David at Shut Up and Fish and tell him your budget. He can recommend the best unit for your $$$$.

One of the most efficient ways to fish is often overlooked.
I have not driven over a waypoint nor used a buoy marker in years. Lowrance-Lowrance-MotorGuide, Humminbird-Minn Kota and now Garmin-Garmin all offer a go-to feature.
We have been selling, installing and educating many anglers with this system and they all simply love how efficient they have become in moving to there next fishing spot and being much more accurate in finding their spot without spooking the fish.

Total Boat Control...

Humminbird-Minn Kota (I-Pilot Link)
Lowrance-Lowrance-MotorGuide (PinPoint GPS)
Garmin-Garmin (Wireless Network)

Let us know how we may assist you...

Garmin
https://youtu.be/4gEDonhXGDw

Humminbird
https://youtu.be/TtDDJKhnN_o

MotorGuide
https://youtu.be/wK3CEHc14UM

Total Transducer control...

If you go with the Garmin Livescope at the bow you will want a transducer mounting system that will allow for you to point the transducer at your intended target. Something that gives you total control. We have created the "The PoleDucer" transducer mounting system to give you that total control.

The PoleDucer
https://youtu.be/RtkthwU5E5Y

The Pole Ducer allows for the end-user to keep in touch with there target 100% as seen in this video.
https://youtu.be/4Jq36nrSFRU





Shoot me a PM or give me a call direct as I would be happy to talk with you and answer any questions you may have. Garmin just introduced there brand new echoMap UHD 93sv with a GT54 UHD sidevu/clearvu transducer $999.99 w/o transducer for the bow teamed up with the LVS32 Livescope transducer and GLS10 Livescope module $1499.99. At the console go w/transducer GT54 UHD sidevu/clearvu for $1049.99
The 93sv is a 9" touch display.

With Garmin introducing this new echoMap 93sv we may see a big sale on the current model 93sv Plus coming very soon (black Friday) throughout the holidays.

We can assist you from answering all of your questions to the sale to installation to education for the equipment you purchase (i.e) Garmin, Humminbird, Lowrance.

With Garmin product, you acquire an additional 1-year warranty on top of the manufacturer warranty if purchased and installed through shut-up-and-fish as we are your Authorized Dealer and Certified Installer.

This close to the holidays - Black Friday sales, I would not do anything except same my pennies!

We know there will be some good sales, just not sure what.

good luck!
Ken