New depth finder for pontoon/float tube?

Robb R · Post by **Robb R** » Tue May 28, 2013 10:35 am

Ok , so here's my question to all you guys with good depth finder expierience.
I am looking to add a depth finder to my 9 foot pontoon /float tube .
Here's what I am thinking I need and the parameters.
Less than $500 , do not need color-- black and white is OK , would like GPS functions and some type of maps option. . Down imaging would be nice , so would side imaging , but only want to hassle with ONE transducer .
Some of my concerns , I have heard that down imaging does not work unless you are going at least 5 -8 MPH , not sure if that is brand specific? Ease of use is important , so a brand that is user friendly would be preferred.
The two brands I am looking at are either Hummingbird or Lowrance
Any advice would be appreciatted.
Tight lines ,
Robb

dwise · Post by **dwise** » Wed May 29, 2013 10:04 am

You need to do a little research at the Lowrance and Humminbird website. Once you read all the specifications, details, etc., you can pick a unit that will meet your needs. Then you can either buy new or buy used, depending upon which will fit into your budget.

I don't know if they still manufacture GPS capable units that are black and white.

If you buy a new GPS/sonar unit, you may also need to buy a mapping chip to go with it. Those run around $150.

I don't think you won't find a new GPS/Broadband Sonar/Down scan/Side scan unit for $500. The Lowrance Elite 7 HDI Combo unit will have GPS/Broadband Sonar/Down Scan Imaging but they retail for $699.99 and you still need to buy the Hot Maps Premium chip.

dwise · Post by **dwise** » Thu May 30, 2013 8:15 am

Lowrance Elite 5 Color DSI/Chartplotter is $499.99 at Tackle Warehouse. You will need to buy a map chip for the chartplotter.

Tarpon120 · Post by **Tarpon120** » Thu May 30, 2013 1:59 pm

Don't worry about the 5-8 mph thing you heard. I have an Elite 5x dsi installed on my kayak and it works just fine. If anything, I heard some have problems at higher speeds with the dsi.

Robb R · Post by **Robb R** » Fri May 31, 2013 4:26 pm

thanks guys ,
I will look into those units .
I have seen Hummingbird has a B/W unit with D/I , and GPS and Maps & GPS for $300 .
It's the HD581 di ,
anybody have one of these?
Robb

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