Which finder/depth gauge to get?

[krono]

I have been looking at entry level units like Humminbird p-max, Garmin Echo and Lowrance 4 series units...but I have a few questions that don't seem to be addressed on the mfrs websites.

How long are the ducer cables?

I have a garmin p-max on the front of the boat, will that signal interfere w/the second unit and vice versa?

Which unit is best at giving depth at speed?

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Which finder/depth gauge to get?

Properly installed I've never had a problem with any of my locators dropping out depth at speeds up to 45 mph. The issue with depth finders and speed is by the time the depth is indicated as too shallow to boat in you've already run aground or torn off the lower unit..

 

[krono]

Re: Which finder/depth gauge to get?

Good point. I guess I should have said from standstill all the way up to speed. For instance, I was in a very stumpy area and didn't know it. Fortunately I was only going about 5 mph, but I still ran up on a stump and high-centered the boat. Had to jump out and push it off. I would like to have a finder that still operates at any speed for that reason...along with the area I'm in...where there are long, gradual depth changes in certain places where you would be able to anticipate and slow down/raise engine.

What about ducer cable length...is it standard with most units...about 20'?

Also...what if you have multiple units...do the signals interfere w/one another?

I think I have narrowed my search down to the Lowrance Mark 4 Combo or the H-bird 365i Combo. Any thoughts on the differences between the two? Should I spend more $ and go with another unit that has DI/DSI???

I am a complete noob at this...so I am learning as I go along. Thanks for the help and replies!

 

[krono]

Re: Which finder/depth gauge to get?

Now looking at DI/DSI. So far, the Lowrance Mark 4 DSI and the H-bird 581i DI...both under $300 online.

Can I get some other opinions on these two units?

Gratchias

 

[krono]

Re: Which finder/depth gauge to get?

Well...went with the H-bird. Maybe I can avoid high-centering my boat on a stump (like I did last week) after I install it.

Who has some DI set-up tips? Shoot through hull or transom mount?

Feel like I'm talking to myself though, sorta like when I'm w/my teenage sons...is this thing on (tap...tap)?

 

[foodfisher]

Re: Which finder/depth gauge to get?

"tap, tap" Huh? oh, you're still going to ride that stump. F/F only read what's there or was there. What's going to be there is sonar and very expensive.

 

[krono]

Re: Which finder/depth gauge to get?

"tap, tap" Huh? oh, you're still going to ride that stump. F/F only read what's there or was there. What's going to be there is sonar and very expensive.

You must have missed the operative word..."maybe"...and perhaps also the lightheartedness of my post. I don't plan on blasting into unknown areas with my new H-bird, but I reckon it might be a little easier to determine stumpy areas other that relying on only running directly into one. Sheez...

Is it always this difficult to engage in a conversation around here?

 

[foodfisher]

Re: Which finder/depth gauge to get?

This, absorb what's offered. The only way to know what's ahead of you is, 1) local knowledge-talk to people and listen. 2) Get a chart of the area and read it. 3) get a Coast Guard escort. Out

 

[s freud]

Re: Which finder/depth gauge to get?

Some cranky people in this thread. Wish I could help, but have no clue and am just lurking for info when I buy one. To refocus, his last question was here:

Well...went with the H-bird. Who has some DI set-up tips? Shoot through hull or transom mount?