When it comes to fishing, most of us are familiar with the old-school methods: a boat, a rod, some bait, and a whole lot of patience. But in today’s tech-savvy world, even the most traditional of pastimes has seen its share of high-tech upgrades. Enter the chartplotter fishfinder combo—the device that’s essentially the GPS, sonar, and superpower you never knew you needed for your fishing expeditions.
You may be wondering: “Why do I need a chartplotter and fishfinder combo?” Well, if you’re tired of aimlessly casting into the water hoping for a nibble, or perhaps you’re just keen on not wasting a good Saturday searching for fish where none exist, then it’s time to get acquainted with these nifty gadgets. They can show you exactly where the fish are, how deep the water is, and even where you might get the best fishing experience—all in one device. That’s right: one device. How convenient, right?
In this post, we’re going to take you through the best chartplotter fishfinder combos out there, without making your head spin in tech jargon or turning into a sales pitch. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or someone who thinks the closest you’ve been to fishing is watching it on TV, we’ve got you covered. We’ll also throw in some humor because let’s face it, fishing is just better when you’re not overly serious about it (unless you’re pulling in a 10-pound bass, then, by all means, take it seriously).
So, grab your fishing hat, sunscreen, and maybe a snack (because we all know how long fishing can take). It’s time to dive into the world of chartplotters and fishfinders.
What is a Chartplotter Fishfinder Combo?
Before we get into the best products, let’s first break down what a chartplotter fishfinder combo actually is, for those who might be new to the fishing tech game.
Chartplotter:
Think of the chartplotter as your boat’s GPS system, but way cooler. It not only helps you navigate your route with maps and coordinates but also provides a detailed look at underwater terrain. So if you’re cruising along a lake, river, or even the ocean, the chartplotter helps you steer in the right direction, saving you from unwanted detours (like running into underwater rocks or getting lost in the vast open sea).
Fishfinder:
This is the part that helps you, well, find fish. A fishfinder uses sonar technology to detect objects underwater. It emits sound waves that bounce off objects below the surface and back to the device, creating a visual representation of what’s under your boat. So, no more blind fishing. You’ll know if there’s a school of fish hanging out near the bottom, chilling by a submerged rock, or even just waiting to be caught.
When combined into one device, you get both the navigational power of the chartplotter and the fish-detecting power of the fishfinder. Together, they give you the ultimate fishing companion.
Best Chartplotter Fishfinder Combos
Let’s take a look at some of the best chartplotter fishfinder combos on the market. We’re talking about user-friendly interfaces, top-notch sonar technology, and sleek designs that are easy on the eyes (because no one wants to squint at a blurry screen while they’re trying to reel in the big one).
1. Garmin Echomap UHD 74sv
Garmin is one of the top names in the world of marine tech, and the Echomap UHD 74sv is no exception. With a sleek 7-inch display, this device provides crystal-clear images, thanks to Garmin’s high-definition sonar and advanced mapping capabilities. You’ll get access to the Garmin BlueChart g3 charts, which cover all kinds of fishing hotspots, making it perfect for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.
Key Features:
- 7-inch full-color display
- High-definition sonar with ClearVü and SideVü scanning
- Built-in Wi-Fi for easy updates and connections
- CHIRP sonar for better fish detection
Why We Love It: This device has it all: from detailed mapping to sonar that helps you find fish like a pro. Plus, it’s easy to use—no need to memorize a manual in Greek. And let’s be honest, the fact that it has built-in Wi-Fi means you can sit back and check your social media after catching your fish (just make sure you don’t post too many “just caught a monster” selfies).
2. Lowrance HDS Live 9
If you’re the kind of angler who likes to keep things extra high-tech, then the Lowrance HDS Live 9 is a chartplotter fishfinder combo that’ll make you feel like you’re commanding a spaceship instead of a boat. This beauty boasts a 9-inch touchscreen with excellent image clarity. It offers StructureScan 3D and Active Imaging for the clearest underwater views, and it even supports live streaming of sonar data. Yes, you read that right—live streaming your fishing experience.
Key Features:
- 9-inch touchscreen display
- Active Imaging and StructureScan 3D
- FishReveal technology for clear fish imaging
- Wireless and Bluetooth connectivity
Why We Love It: The Lowrance HDS Live 9 isn’t just a chartplotter and fishfinder combo; it’s practically an entire fishing command center. It’s perfect for the angler who wants every fishing trip to feel like a James Bond adventure. Just try not to let the technology distract you from actually catching fish (although watching the sonar and imagining fish swimming by can be pretty mesmerizing).
3. Humminbird Helix 7 CHIRP MEGA SI+ GPS G4
Humminbird’s Helix 7 CHIRP MEGA SI+ is a favorite for its ability to produce clear, high-resolution sonar images. The MEGA Side Imaging+ feature allows you to see a broader area of the water, which is perfect when you’re hunting for schools of fish. This combo also includes GPS mapping, giving you full control of your navigation and making sure you always know where you’re going.
Key Features:
- 7-inch color display
- MEGA Side Imaging+ for better underwater viewing
- CHIRP sonar for clearer fish detection
- Built-in GPS with Humminbird basemap
Why We Love It: Humminbird has been a trusted name in fishfinders for years, and the Helix 7 continues that tradition. It’s easy to use, even for beginners, and the image clarity makes it easier to see those fish lurking below. If you’re into having a good time on the water with less guesswork, this combo is your new best friend.
4. Raymarine Axiom 7
The Raymarine Axiom 7 is all about simplicity and reliability. If you’re an angler who doesn’t want to spend hours figuring out how to use your device, this combo is designed for ease of use. With its intuitive interface and RealVision 3D sonar, you’ll be able to see the underwater world in a whole new way. Plus, it comes with detailed charts of both coastal and inland waters.
Key Features:
- 7-inch touchscreen display
- RealVision 3D sonar for advanced fish detection
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Preloaded with detailed charts for fishing
Why We Love It: The Raymarine Axiom 7 combines straightforward design with impressive sonar capabilities. Whether you’re navigating deep lakes or coastal waters, this device does it all. Plus, it’s so user-friendly that you might actually enjoy figuring out how to fish again (instead of just waiting for the fish to find you).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What’s the difference between sonar types like CHIRP and MEGA Imaging? A: Great question! In short, CHIRP sonar uses a continuous sweep of frequencies to provide a clearer and more detailed image of what’s underwater. MEGA Imaging, on the other hand, offers even higher resolution and better side-imaging capabilities, allowing you to see a wider area around your boat. So, if you want more detailed and broader views, MEGA Imaging is the way to go!
Q: Can I use a chartplotter fishfinder combo for both freshwater and saltwater fishing? A: Yes! Many of the best chartplotter fishfinder combos are versatile enough to be used in both freshwater and saltwater environments. However, always double-check that your device supports saltwater conditions, as some models might be more specialized for certain types of water.
Q: Is it difficult to install a chartplotter fishfinder combo? A: Not really. Most of the top models are designed for ease of installation, and many come with detailed instructions. If you’re not particularly handy with electronics, you might want to consider getting professional installation—but don’t worry, it’s typically not as intimidating as you might think.
Q: Do I need internet access for these devices to work? A: Not necessarily. While some models have Wi-Fi capabilities for updates and connectivity, the core functions—like sonar and navigation—don’t require internet access. So, feel free to unplug and enjoy some peaceful fishing time without worrying about your Wi-Fi connection.
Conclusion
There you have it: the best chartplotter fishfinder combos to take your fishing game to the next level. Whether you’re after clarity, ease of use, or a boatload of high-tech features, there’s a combo out there that fits your needs. The right device can save you time, improve your fishing experience, and, let’s be real, make you look like a fishing wizard in front of your buddies.
So, next time you’re gearing up for a fishing trip, leave the guesswork behind and let these devices do the heavy lifting. Who knows? With the right combo, you might just hook the fish of your dreams—and maybe even make a few fish jealous along the way. Happy fishing!