Marine GPS Chartplotters

For fishermen, the thrill of the catch is matched only by the adventure of navigating vast waters in pursuit of their prized targets. In today’s technologically-driven world, marine gps chartplotters have revolutionized the way anglers explore and conquer the open seas. These sophisticated devices offer a treasure trove of features, from GPS navigation and mapping functionalities to advanced sonar capabilities, all designed to maximize efficiency and enhance the fishing experience.

In this comprehensive comparison, we embark on a journey to uncover the best chartplotters available for fishermen. Whether you’re a seasoned angler seeking to upgrade your navigational tools or a novice eager to explore the possibilities of modern technology, join us as we delve into the world of chart plotters, dissecting their features, performance, and value to help you make informed decisions for your next fishing expedition.

From the rugged coastlines to the tranquil lakeshores, chartplotters serve as indispensable companions, guiding fishermen to their favorite fishing spots and uncharted territories alike. So, fasten your seatbelts and prepare to navigate the waters with precision and confidence as we unravel the mysteries of chartplotters tailored for the modern angler.

Simrad GO Chartplotter –  Best For Variety Of Mapping Solutions 

With its multifunction display, this device integrates GPS navigation, sonar support, radar capability, and more, making it a versatile tool suitable for various types of boats, including sportboats, center-consoles, and smaller cruisers.

Included with the chartplotter is the C-MAP Discover card, providing comprehensive mapping solutions with Vector Charts, Custom Depth Shading, Tides & Currents, and high-resolution Bathymetric contours, covering the US and Canada.

The Active Imaging 3-in-1 transducer offers CHIRP, SideScan, and DownScan imaging with FishReveal, delivering detailed views of underwater structures and fish, enhancing your ability to locate and target fish effectively.

The chartplotter is radar-ready, allowing for easy connectivity to Simrad radar solutions, enhancing safety and productivity while cruising or fishing.

Built-in connectivity enables you to mirror your display to a smartphone or tablet, providing access to charts, radar, and other functionalities from anywhere on board. Additionally, NMEA 2000 connectivity offers more integration options, allowing for a customized setup tailored to your specific needs.

In summary, the Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder is a powerful and adaptable tool designed to elevate your fishing adventures with its comprehensive features and performance.

Simrad Cruise 5 – Best Compact Option 

The Simrad Cruise 5 is a multifunctional GPS chartplotter designed to elevate your boating experience with its array of capabilities. Equipped with preloaded US coastal maps, it ensures you’re prepared for navigating various coastal environments. Its intuitive interface facilitates seamless navigation through easy-to-use menus and rotary dial controls, allowing for quick access to critical information.

One of its standout features is the on-screen monitoring functionality, which provides real-time updates on essential boat parameters like depth readings, position, and battery voltage. This continuous feedback enhances situational awareness, enabling you to navigate confidently and make informed decisions while on the water.

The Cruise 5’s CHIRP sonar technology is another highlight, delivering precise automatic depth tracking for clear and detailed sonar imaging. This feature is invaluable for anglers, as it helps identify underwater structures and locate fish with ease.

Despite its robust capabilities, the Cruise 5 maintains a compact and space-saving design, ensuring easy installation on your boat’s helm station without compromising on functionality. With its user-friendly interface, comprehensive mapping capabilities, and advanced sonar technology, the Simrad Cruise 5 is a reliable companion for any boating adventure.

Garmin Echomap – Wireless Networking

The Garmin 010-02595-01 ECHOMAP UHD2 7″ Chartplotter 74cv with GT20-TM Transducer is a robust and versatile tool designed to enhance your fishing experience. Here’s a detailed overview:

Equipped with traditional sonar and ClearVü sonar, this chartplotter provides crisp and clear imaging, ensuring that fish have nowhere to hide. The vivid scanning sonar color palettes make it easier to distinguish targets and structures beneath the water’s surface, improving your ability to locate and target fish effectively.

With support for a variety of Garmin transducers, including both traditional and ClearVü scanning sonars, you can customize your setup to suit your specific fishing preferences. The device comes preloaded with LakeVü g3 inland maps, BlueChart g3 coastal charts, or worldwide basemaps, providing comprehensive coverage and detailed mapping data for enhanced navigation.

Wireless networking capabilities allow for seamless communication and collaboration on your boat. Compatible ECHOMAP UHD2 chartplotters can wirelessly share information such as sonar data, waypoints, and routes, facilitating efficient coordination during fishing expeditions.

In summary, the Garmin 010-02595-01 ECHOMAP UHD2 7″ Chartplotter 74cv with GT20-TM Transducer offers a wide range of features to elevate your fishing experience, from advanced sonar support to preloaded charts and wireless networking capabilities.

Lowrance HDS PRO – Mult-function Fish Finder

The Lowrance HDS PRO Fish Finder/Chartplotter is a cutting-edge device designed to provide anglers with advanced sonar imaging and navigation capabilities. Here’s a detailed overview:

Equipped with High-definition 1.2MHz Active Imaging HD technology, this fish finder/chartplotter offers crisp and clear imaging through Lowrance CHIRP/SideScan/DownScan Imaging. This advanced sonar technology allows you to see underwater structures and fish with exceptional detail, enhancing your ability to locate and target fish effectively.

The device also supports High-resolution ActiveTarget 2 Live Sonar, enabling you to see real-time sonar images of fish movements and behavior. With support for two ActiveTarget Systems, you can view multiple perspectives simultaneously, providing comprehensive coverage of the underwater environment.

Featuring a SolarMAX HD touchscreen display, the HDS PRO is viewable at extreme angles and through polarized lenses, ensuring clear visibility in all lighting conditions. This intuitive interface allows for seamless navigation and control of the device’s features.

The HDS PRO offers support for new ActiveTarget Scout and Ghost Trolling Motor 360 chart overlay views, further enhancing your fishing experience with additional perspectives and insights into underwater terrain and fish activity.

Connectivity options include NMEA 2000, Wireless, and Bluetooth, allowing for easy integration with other marine electronics and accessories. Additionally, smartphone notifications enable you to stay connected and informed while on the water.

In summary, the Lowrance HDS PRO Fish Finder/Chartplotter is a versatile and feature-rich device that offers anglers advanced sonar imaging, navigation capabilities, and connectivity options. With its high-definition display and support for innovative sonar technologies, it provides anglers with the tools they need to maximize their fishing success.

Lowrance Elite FS – Active Imaging 3-in-1 Sonar

Equipped with Active Imaging 3-in-1 sonar, including CHIRP, SideScan, and DownScan with FishReveal, this fish finder provides detailed views of underwater structures and cover. This advanced sonar technology enhances your ability to locate fish and improve your fishing success.

The Elite FS 9 is also ActiveTarget Ready, supporting ActiveTarget Live Sonar. This feature allows you to see high-resolution images of fish swimming around structures and responding to your lure in real-time, providing valuable insights into fish behavior and enabling you to adjust your fishing strategy accordingly.

With full networking capabilities, including integrated wireless, NMEA 2000, and Ethernet connectivity, the Elite FS 9 seamlessly integrates into the Elite Fishing System. You can add additional accessories such as Halo Dome Radar or Outboard Pilot and share sonar, charting, waypoints, and other user data between displays.

The 9-inch multi-touch display offers high resolution and clarity, making it easy to use and install. Its intuitive interface allows you to navigate menus and access features with ease, providing a seamless user experience on the water.

Additionally, the Elite FS 9 comes preloaded with C-MAP Contour+ Charts, offering high-resolution 1-foot contours on 8,900 U.S. lakes. This feature helps you find key fishing areas and navigate with precision to fish-holding spots, ultimately increasing your success on the water.

In summary, the Lowrance Elite FS 9 Fish Finder with Active Imaging 3-in-1 Transducer is a comprehensive and advanced tool that provides anglers with the features and capabilities they need to enhance their fishing experience and maximize their success on the water.

Finishing Notes

As our exploration of marine gps chartplotters comes to a close, it’s evident that these devices are indispensable tools for fishermen seeking to conquer the waters with precision and confidence. Throughout our comparison journey, we’ve uncovered the diverse array of features and capabilities offered by chartplotters, from advanced GPS navigation to cutting-edge sonar technology.

Each chartplotter examined has its own strengths and unique offerings, catering to the diverse needs and preferences of fishermen and boaters. Whether you prioritize seamless navigation, high-definition mapping, or real-time sonar imaging, there’s a chartplotter out there to suit your fishing style and requirements.

As you embark on your next fishing or boating adventure, armed with the insights gained from our comparison, may your chosen chartplotter serve as your trusted companion, guiding you to bountiful waters and unforgettable moments on the open seas. With these sophisticated devices by your side, the possibilities for exploration and discovery are endless.