What To Look For
GPS fishfinder combinations may offer other electronic boating help, including depth finders, different zooming capabilities, temperature alarms and tide announcements. Look for included warranties and GPS fishfinders that are made from waterproof materials. Maps may chart U.S. waters, including Hawaii and Alaska, or be international. Transducers, which convert one type of energy to another and are integral in the fishfinder portion of the device, may be included with the GPS fishfinder.
Common Pitfalls
Wherever you choose to fish, the GPS fishfinder should have maps and charts available to guide you. Do not consider GPS fishfinders that do not navigate the waters in which you boat and fish. High resolution screens and detection sensitivity are also two important factors to consider when purchasing a fishfinder. Many boaters opt for cheaper GPS fishfinders only to find that debris on the water's bottom are depicted as fish on the screen.
Where To Buy
Many websites offer GPS fishfinders, including Amazon.com and TheGPSStore.com. You may also purchase GPS fishfinders at sporting goods stores, including Dick's Sporting Goods and Cabela's. Manufacturers' websites are also a good place to start researching deals for GPS fishfinders. The local marinas, boating shops or bait and tackle shops in your area may also carry the device.
Cost
GPS fishfinders typically cost between $400 and $600, although they may cost more than $800. Purchasing a GPS fishfinder with the transducer included will up the price as they are required for the fishfinder portion to work. Other factors may also raise the price, including other electronic boating options and the size and type of screen.
Accessories
Transducers are necessary for the fishfinder to work. For fishfinders that do not include transducers, you can choose from a variety of mounting types. Some transducers use a suction cup, which allows the boater to move the GPS fishfinder from boat to boat or reposition it on the same boat. Other transducers will read the water through the hull or be mounted through a hole in the fiberglass hull.
