I am torn between a GPS/SONAR syetem ($449.00)or just a SONAR ($169.00)?Of course both less my 20% coupon at BPS. I just want opinions on whether or not I would really get much use out of the GPS part of it. I would rather use the money for other things but if it is really worth it I want a GPS/SONAR system. I already have a good sonar mounted on the trolling motor. I want another for the console. I am lost !!! Desperate soul needs help !!!

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MexicanSteve

I use it to mark spots out on the main lake of Toledo Bend. I know the lake well enough I don't need it to mark boat lanes.

I have a delima, I currently have a Bottomline 1100 depth finder at the driver seat area, the transducer is fixed inside the hull of my 2003 Skeeter. I don't believe that my 1100 is showing drop offs, structure, fish, etc like I want. I have noticed that the Eagle 320 may be able to do that and is not that expensive. Does someone have any comments on this subject that could assist me. I am wanting to mount the transducer in the hull also to keep from having to drill holes on the outside. Thanks, Ron

MexicanSteve,

If you tournament fish,night fish or go to large lakes then get the GPS option.Also get a compass just in case your GPS fails.

BassinFool,

I'm not familiar with your current finder.
There should be no problem with installing a puck transducer right next to your old transducer.The 320 is a fine fishfinder and you shouldn't have any problems with getting the pictures of the bottom and fish.
I recently put a X-125 Lowrance on the bow of my boat.It's like night and day from my old X-91. I get better target separation on the X-125 and it works great in shallow water.


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I have a Eagle F/M 320 and love it. It shows more detail than you could ever want. Mine isnt a thru hull type but Ive heard it will stil work the same. Someone told me that there is no comparing the F/M 320 to any Bottom Line on the market. I know a bunch of people that have a 320 and all of them love it. Hope this helps !

Check out this one at BPS. Its only $399.00 and its color. Anyone ever see or use this one ? http://www.basspro-shops.com/servlet/catalog.TextId?hvarTextId=52522&hvarTarget=search

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Jimmye4fish

[This message has been edited by jimmye4fish (edited 02-02-2004).]

Thanks for the replies, keep them coming.

MexicanSteve - Get the GPS also. It'll help locate/mark positions, help when things get dark or foggy...helpful in may situations. I have used the Eagle F/M 320 and love it ($179.55 from Gulf Coast Marine Supplies). I highly recommend it. As for jimmye4fish's mention of the M68C ($384.90), I never used it but it looks pretty good, especially being color.

I useSonar and gps and a compass. It's interesting that so few inland lake fishermen use nothing for navigation except for what they can see. On the gulf coast, navigation is super important if you are out on it often. I like separate units because if one fails, likely the other will work. Along with the instuments, carry good charts or lake maps. With theses tools you can find fish and find home even if you can't see it visually.

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CAPTAIN BOB

I fished Tawakoni for my first time by myself(driving my own boat) yesterday. I wqas fishing a tournament and didnt want to drive all the way over to the sate park to register. I put in at a public baot ramp and used the GPS to run to the park in the dark(6 am). I knew where it was at and also knew to stay out of the middle of the lake due to stump fields. SO it helped me hug the bank(100 yds off) to go around to the sate park. I knew where th points were and exactly where I was at all times. I use a Lowrance X-16(camparable to the 18) . The X-15 would be an excellent choice.(the color really doesnt help too much- just looks a little nicer).