Recreational fishing originated as a simple outdoor activity that included a fishing rod, reel and bait. Through the years, advancements in technology like global positioning systems, or GPS, were introduced to the fishing industry. GPS offers different models, types, features and functions, giving an angler the choice of a GPS system that matches her fishing technique and location.
Types
GPS units are available in several types of fish finders, including handheld, portable and mounted fish finders. Handheld and portable units feature a compact design that is ideal for anglers fishing from the shore, traveling to a remote fishing location or using several boats. Mounted fish finders can be placed in the front and back of a boat for easy access to the GPS features.
Functions
The major functions of GPS units for fishing include mapping routes, marking waypoints and tracking routes. These functions are all designed to increase the odds for success while fishing. Using the maps, waypoints and routes allows you to navigate across the water while the fish finder and screen display underwater structures where fish could be concentrated.
Features
Most GPS manufacturers add specialized features that allow the electronic device to adapt to the marine conditions. For example, the electronics, screen and batteries may feature waterproof seals. Some portable GPS fish finders will also float if accidentally dropped in the water. Other fish finder features include water depth calculations, low depth warning signal and moon phase data that can be used to predict fish movement patterns and the "best" fishing times.
Benefits
Not only do GPS units provide valuable information while fishing, the GPS can be used to pre-plan fishing trips and analyze the data after the trip. Before traveling to the fishing location, you can locate shorelines and possible "hot spots" for casting and trolling areas. You can also add specific data and information about specific waypoints throughout a lake or river.
Price
According to Galt Tech, the top brands for marine GPS fish finders include Eagle, Furuno, Garmin, Humminbird, Lowrance, Raytheon, and Magellan. These brands will typically offer a full-line of GPS fishing products including handheld, portable and mounted units. As a general rule, the price of the GPS fish finder increases as the technology and features increase. Base models with basic features and GPS capabilities can be purchased for around $100, while the top models can cost over $1,000 as of 2010.
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