Hi guys. I've fished out the back of a boat for years but decided to take the plunge and get a starter boat. I'm researching GPS/FF systems and have a sinking feeling that I'm over my head. Tired of the bad puns yet? Ok, so I want to mark waypoints and would love it if the system on the dash spoke with the unit on the TM, but I don't have to have it. I also don't want a system the Coast Guard would be envious of nor do I want to spend a boatload of cash. I've been trolling eBay and other sites for a couple weeks and am about as confused now as I was then. Any suggestions on what I may be looking for or resources for me to investigate? I love technology but am just starting out on being a boat owner. I just want to cut my teeth and get comfortable. Thanks for your time.

Ugh! No love?

Humminbird has many GPS Mapping Model that I could recommend to do just what you want. But a budget amount would help eliminate and better suggest the most bang for your buck

They all have their pluses and minuses. I am slightly biased, as most of us are, but if you want good quality, a fair price, and simple to use, you really need to look into Garmin.

SE Kansas grass grower

Many thanks!

I really like the looks of the new Garmin too. Don't know if it is networkable or not but, give David at shut-up-and-fish a call. He handles all the major brands and is very knowledgable on them and will save you money! What more can you ask?

Doug's right. You've got to give us some idea of what your budget is. Two 1198 units or HDS-12 units will do everything you want. But unless you have $4k+ to spend, those aren't an option.

Your post reads like: I want a car. I'd like it to get good gas mileage, have a cool radio, and the ability to pull a boat is a bonus, but I don't have to have that. What should I get?

There are a hundred options. Just need to know where you fit in budget-wise.

Lol! Like I said, I'm in over my head. I'd like to stay under $500 if possible. I don't mean to test anyone's patience. I'm just honestly ignorant.

Some of the pics I see on here of readouts are awesome. In fact, I believe I saw a post of OkieBob's showing a pic of baitfish, followed by sand bass, followed by largemouths. So cool! However, the best electronics in the world won't help me if I have no context or understanding. The side views made no sense to me nor the orange pics on the lower right. Im sure I'll learn in time, but I can't drop $4k on a system and not get the info. Is it impractical to grow into something like that?

My bad. The post with the pic was by jfdawson. Very cool!

Umm ... help????