5 Best Fish Finder GPS Combos Reviewed

Ahoy, fellow anglers! Today, we’re setting sail on the vast waters of technology to find the crème de la crème in fish finder GPS combos. This mission is not just about finding fish. It’s about unlocking a whole new world beneath the surface.

The quest for the best fish finder GPS combos has been nothing short of a thrilling expedition. Through murky depths and shimmering shallows, I’ve reeled in experiences that have shaped my understanding of what makes a fish finder truly exceptional.

I’m thrilled to share my top picks with you. And leading the charge is my personal favorite, the Garmin Striker Vivid 9sv. Its prowess in GPS and sonar technology is a game-changer. It is my go-to companion and suits seasoned pros and newbies alike.

There are other options as well. For every budget and every need. So, without further ado, let’s cast our virtual lines and get you set for your next aquatic adventure.

Why Buy a Chartplotter Fishfinder Combo?

Let’s get started with the holy grail of fishing electronics. The reason that brings us here today. The Chartplotter Fishfinder Combo.

I’ve been around the fishing block for over two decades, and let me tell you, this combo is the real game-changer.

Imagine you’re out on the water, scanning for that sweet spot where the big ones lurk. A dedicated fish finder helps you lock in those underwater treasures. It reveals the secrets of the depths.

With it, you not only locate the fish but also chart your course. It’s like having a GPS for fishermen. It guides you through the waterways and marks those hidden honey holes.

Keep an eye out for seamless integration of chart plotting and fishfinding capabilities. I personally use a combo with a vibrant, easy-to-read display. And I like that it shows me both the underwater terrain and my course.

Ideally, it’ll cover a range of frequencies for fish detection. You need a comprehensive view below the surface. And hey, touchscreen functionality is a bonus – but not a necessity.

This isn’t just a gadget. It’s your underwater guide, your navigation wizard, and your fish-whisperer. All in one.

Best Fish Finder GPS Combos Reviewed

Alright, with that little intro out of the way, it’s time to bring out the big guns.

Let’s get our detective hats on and find your ideal fish finder GPS combo.

---

Best Overall

1. Garmin Striker Vivid 9sv

• Display Size: 9 inches
• Resolution: 800 x 480 pixels
• Max Depth: 2,300 ft (Freshwater), 1,100 ft (Saltwater)

We’re kicking off this list with a standing ovation. Garmin really outdid themselves with this one.

Let’s start with the tech. The Striker Vivid 9sv boasts CHIRP Sonar Technology, which is a game-changer. This isn’t your average sonar. It’s a near-photographic wizardry that brings the underwater world to life.

And its vibrant scanning sonar color palettes: wow! You’re not just seeing blobs. You’re distinguishing fish species and underwater structures with ease. The Ultrascroll® technology is the cherry on top as it ensures high-speed scrolling. Real-time underwater clarity, baby.

It’s like turning your fishing expedition into a technicolor adventure. The display is so clear and the interface so user-friendly… even your grandma could navigate it.

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room—the transducer mount. I must admit it is a little flimsy. For some, that is a dealbreaker, but it was never too big of an issue for me while I had mine out.

It’s kinda like having a Michelin-star chef cook you dinner but complaining about the tablecloth. It’s just a side note.

In the grand symphony of fish finders, the Garmin Striker Vivid 9sv takes center stage. If you’re seeking not just fish but a fishing experience upgrade, the Vivid 9sv is your next best buy.

---

Best Splurge

2. Humminbird HELIX 10 CHIRP GPS G4N

• Display Size: 10.1 inches
• Resolution: 1024 x 600 pixels
• Max Depth: 1,200 ft

Next up on the list, a product that stands as a beacon of innovation.

The Humminbird HELIX 10 is designed for powerhouse performance. It will elevate your angling experience to unprecedented heights.

It’s got soft-key controls, a user-friendly menu system, and a sunlight-viewable, high-resolution display. Mastering the HELIX is as effortless as navigating your favorite fishing spot. Under any conditions. 

The Dual Spectrum CHIRP support, offering Wide Mode for expansive coverage and Narrow Mode for intricate details, ensures you’re not just seeing, but truly understanding what lies beneath.

Besides its high-speed scrolling and real-time clarity with impressive depth coverage, what propels the HELIX 10 CHIRP into a league of its own is the 1.2 MHz imaging and a plethora of networking options. 

But it does have a minor glitch—the lack of a touchscreen. That and its price, which is higher than any other product on this list.

Ready to splurge on the epitome of underwater technology? The HELIX 10 is your golden ticket to unparalleled fishing adventures. It is worth every penny.

---

Best Budget

3. Garmin Striker Plus 4

• Display Size: 3.5 inches
• Resolution: 480 x 320 pixels
• Max Depth: 1,600 ft (Freshwater), 750 ft (Saltwater)

Now, let’s dive into the Garmin Striker Plus 4, a budget-friendly marvel for anglers on a quest.

Compact at 4.3 inches, its display might be modest, but the clarity is anything but. The resolution, though not explicitly mentioned, is renowned for its brightness and crispness.

Equipped with CHIRP Sonar Technology, the Striker Plus 4 takes you into the depths, exploring significant underwater landscapes with precision.

The standout feature for me is the Quickdraw Contours mapping software. This budget champ transforms your fishing experience into a personalized cartography adventure. It allows you to craft and store extensive maps with 1-foot contours.

The battery life is impressive, which makes it a trustworthy companion on extended fishing escapades.

On the downside, I noted differences in the transducer mounts. While this might impact stability, it’s a compromise many are willing to make for the budget-friendly brilliance of the Striker Plus 4. I bought another one off of Ebay for it and have no complaints.

Dive into the waters of affordability without sacrificing excellence. Let the Garmin Striker Plus 4 guide your fishing odyssey. Happy budget fishing, fellow anglers!

---

Best Ease Of Use

4. Lowrance Hook Reveal 7

• Display Size: 7 inches
• Resolution: 480×800 pixels
• Max Depth: 300 ft

Moving further, we’ve got the Lowrance Hook Reveal 7. A visual treat for anglers seeking an edge in their fishing expedition. The Hook Reveal 7 presents underwater landscapes with clarity and precision.

Equipped with CHIRP Sonar Technology, this device plumbs significant depths. It unravels the mysteries concealed beneath the water’s surface.

A notable highlight is the FishReveal feature. By combining the benefits of Lowrance CHIRP sonar and DownScan Imaging on one screen, the Hook Reveal 7 makes fish not just visible but identifiable. Like having a fish detective at your fingertips!

The preloaded C-Map US inland maps include points of interest, fishing spot info, contour lines, and notes/symbols for various underwater structures. They’re so comprehensive!

I love the big screen, you could see from 10 feet away with enough brightness to combat the sun’s glare. The button layout is intuitive too, and menus are a breeze to navigate.

No device is without its quirks, though. The Triple Shot transducer, while feature-packed, can be a tad large and fragile. A reminder to handle your fishing gear with care, especially during aggressive maneuvers.

In the realm of fish finder GPS combos, the Lowrance Hook Reveal 7 is a visual marvel with features that set it apart. Let it be your guide and see for yourself.

---

Best HELIX 10 Alternative

5. Lowrance HDS-9 Live

• Display Size: 9 inches
• Resolution: 1280 x 720 pixels
• Max Depth: 600 ft

For our last device, we’ll dive into the epitome of high-end fishing technology. The Lowrance HDS-9 Live is a masterpiece designed to elevate your angling experience.

Its most notable highlight is the ActiveTarget Live Sonar. It transcends traditional sonar technology. It provides a clear, near-photographic image with detailed representations of objects, structures, and fish.

The HDS-9 Live doesn’t stop there; it also features Active Imaging 3-in-1 with Lowrance CHIRP, SideScan/DownScan Imaging, and FishReveal. It’s a full-on technological symphony. 

However, even in the realm of high-end devices, there are considerations. Some users find the built-in maps less satisfactory than other devices in the same range. And that severely impacts the user experience.

But still, the seamless compatibility with transducers and other marine technologies make up for it. This thing has got enormous potential.

In the world of fish finder GPS combos, the Lowrance HDS-9 Live is not just a device; it’s a technological marvel. If you prefer better maps and the ability to switch between modes, get the HELIX 10. Otherwise, if you want to be able more detailed imaging, this is the fish finder for you.

---

Choosing the Best Fish Finder/GPS Combo 

Let’s now dive into the nitty-gritty of choosing the perfect fish finder/GPS combo. Below are some of the things to look out for to guide you in making a decision.

Sonar, Transducer, and Imaging

I personally use a combo with advanced sonar technology. The transducer is the MVP here – it sends out sound waves, and when they bounce back, voila, you’ve got a fish on the radar. Look for CHIRP technology; it’s like upgrading from black and white to high-definition. It offers clearer images, especially when you’re in deeper waters.

Ever wish you had X-ray vision underwater? Down and side imaging makes it happen. It’s like having eyes on the sides and beneath your boat, revealing every nook and cranny where the fish might be hiding.

We’ll go more in-depth into each of these right away.

CHIRPs

Starting with CHIRPs — they’re not just for the birds; they’re a must-have in your fishing arsenal. Frequency modulation allows you to distinguish between small and big fish. It gives you a more accurate view of what’s lurking beneath.

Dual, Single, and Multiple Frequencies

Here’s the deal: different frequencies work better in different situations. Dual-frequency is your all-rounder, ideal for various depths. Single frequency is perfect for shallow waters. Multiple frequencies are the go-to for crystal-clear images in deep, open waters.

Down/Side Imaging

Imaging is pretty simple. Down Imaging provides a detailed view beneath your boat. That’s perfect for identifying structures and fish holding spots. Side Imaging, on the other hand, extends your vision to the sides. And that reveals a wider area and enhances your chances of spotting fish.

GPS and Mapping

Lost in the water? Not with a GPS-enabled combo. I usually go fishing with a device that not only finds fish but also maps my journey. Look for one with detailed mapping capabilities, so you can mark those sweet spots for future adventures.

Beams and Cone Angles

In the vast expanse of water, the beams and cone angles of your fish finder play a crucial role. It’s a delicate balance between coverage and detail. Wider beams sweep larger areas, ideal for open waters. Narrower beams offer intricate details, perfect for navigating tight spaces. 

Consider your favorite fishing spots – are they expansive lakes or cozy coves? The choice of beams ensures you’re equipped to uncover the secrets hidden beneath.

Display and Interface

Size doesn’t matter, friends. But it might make a difference to the right person.

A vibrant, easy-to-read display is a game-changer on bright, sunny days. Touchscreen interfaces? They’re not just for your smartphone. And although not exclusively necessary, they make navigation a breeze.

Mounting

Choosing the right mounting style for your fish finder is akin to selecting the right sail for your boat. It defines your journey. There are options aplenty – transom, trolling motor, or thru-hull. Each comes with its perks, but personal preference and your fishing style say a lot.

Durability

Fishing can be rough – trust me, I’ve been there. I know you have too. Make sure your combo can handle a splash or two. Look for waterproof and rugged designs that can withstand the elements. You gotta have something sturdy!

Power

Wattage influences the performance of your sonar. Higher wattage means more power. That allows your signals to dive deep and provide clear, detailed images. For shallower waters, a lower wattage (around 200-300 watts) might suffice. Serious deep-sea anglers may opt for 1000 watts or more for enhanced clarity.

My Verdict

And there you have it, a comprehensive guide to navigating the waters of fish finder GPS combos. Fishing is more than a pastime; it’s an art. And the right fish finder is your brush, painting vivid pictures of the world beneath.

In the grand tapestry of fish finders, the Garmin Striker Vivid 9sv stands tall. It casts its technological brilliance far and wide. If I were to pick one for my next expedition, that would be it.

A fish finder is your reliable companion. Every sonar pulse is a heartbeat, guiding you to more and more of those dreamy catches. If you’re looking for even more fish finders, here are the best fish finders.

Until our next angling adventure, tight lines and happy fishing, everyone!