Ever cast a line into the water, only to wonder where all the fish are hiding? Knowing the best spots makes all the difference between a great day and a frustrating one. Modern anglers have powerful tools to solve this mystery: the Fish Finder and GPS combo unit.
Choosing the right combination unit can feel overwhelming. Do you need high-frequency sonar, or will a basic display work? How important is detailed mapping for finding those secret structures? These devices combine two vital functions—showing you what’s beneath the surface and marking exactly where you are. Getting the wrong one means missing out on prime fishing territory or struggling with confusing technology.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down the key features, explain sonar technology simply, and show you how to match a unit to your fishing style. By the end, you will confidently know which Fish Finder and GPS combo will help you catch more fish.
Top Fish Finder And Gps Combo Recommendations
- Includes transducer for built-in Garmin CHIRP traditional sonar plus CHIRP clearer scanning sonar
- Built-in Garmin quickdraw contours mapping software lets you create and store maps with 1’ contours for up to 2 million acres
- Built-in GPS lets you mark waypoints, create routes and view boat’s speed
- Bright, Sunlight-readable 5” display and intuitive user interface
- Rugged design for every fishing environment
- Clear Vu scanning Sonar shows you more of what is in the water around your boat; This high frequency sonar gives near photographic images with detailed representations of objects, structure and fish
- The power of simple offers a keyed interface with dedicated buttons; The device is easy to use and easy to install; Available in 3.5, 5 and 7 inch display sizes; Water rating IPX7
- Waypoint map: Use the way point map to easily view, mark and navigate to locations such as brush piles, stumps and docks; Maximum depth 1,600 feet freshwater, 750 feet saltwater; Current draw at 12 volt: 0.23 Ampere
- Chirp Sonar sends a continuous sweep of frequencies which provides a wider range of information; Chirp Sonar is able to create crisper fish arches with better target separation
- Built in flasher: View your sonar data in the classic flasher format; Ideal for ice fishing or vertical jigging. Display size: 1.9 x 2.9 inches (4.9 x 7.3 centimeter); 3.5 inches diagonal (8.7 centimeter)
- easy-to-use 7” color fishfinder with new vivid scanning sonar color palettes to easily distinguish fish and structure
- supports garmin chirp traditional sonar plus chirp clearvü and chirp sidevü scanning sonars (requires compatible transducer)
- high-sensitivity gps to mark waypoints, create routes and view your boat’s speed
- includes built-in quickdraw contours mapping
- wi-fi connectivity allows you to connect to the activecaptain app with compatible smartphone to transfer waypoints, receive smart notifications (including software update notifications) and access the garmin quickdraw community
- CHIRP Down Imaging: Filters out visual noise and clutter for a clear view beneath your boat; CHIRP Digital Sonar processing delivers detailed imaging to simplify fish finding
- Dual Spectrum CHIRP Sonar: Delivers views of fish arches and fish-holding structure with two ways to search — Wide Mode for maximum coverage and Narrow Mode for detailed scanning; Precise 2D target separation powered by Low-Q transducer
- Enhanced GPS Navigation: Equipped with Humminbird Basemap, this chartplotter includes coverage of 10,000+ lakes and continental U.S. coastlines; Compatible with premium LakeMaster, CoastMaster, and Navionics charts
- Real-Time Mapping: AutoChart Live creates maps of depth contours, bottom hardness, and vegetation while boating with eight hours of built-in recording time; Compatible with AutoChart Zero Line SD cards for expanded mapping capacity
- Reliable Keypad Control: User-friendly menu system operated by softkey controls allows reliable operation in any weather conditions; Access pre-loaded views and settings through intuitive button interface
- Includes transducer for built-in Garmin CHIRP traditional sonar plus CHIRP clearer scanning sonar
- Built-in Garmin quickdraw contours mapping software lets you create and store maps with 1’ contours for up to 2 million acres
- Built-in Wi-Fi for access to ActiveCaptain app so you can receive smart notifications, access Quickdraw contours community and transfer waypoints and software update notifications
- Built-in GPS lets you mark waypoints, create routes and view boat’s speed
- Bright, Sunlight-readable 7” display and intuitive user interface
- Dual Spectrum CHIRP Sonar: Delivers views of fish arches and fish-holding structure with two ways to search — Wide Mode for maximum coverage and Narrow Mode for detailed scanning; Precise 2D target separation powered by Low-Q transducer
- Enhanced GPS Navigation: Equipped with Humminbird Basemap, this chartplotter includes coverage of 10,000+ lakes and continental U.S. coastlines; Compatible with premium LakeMaster, CoastMaster, and Navionics charts
- Enhanced GPS Navigation: Equipped with Humminbird Basemap, this chartplotter includes coverage of 10,000+ lakes and continental U.S. coastlines; Compatible with premium LakeMaster, CoastMaster, and Navionics charts
- Real-Time Mapping: AutoChart Live creates maps of depth contours, bottom hardness, and vegetation while boating with eight hours of built-in recording time; Compatible with AutoChart Zero Line SD cards for expanded mapping capacity
- Reliable Keypad Control: User-friendly menu system operated by softkey controls allows reliable operation in any weather conditions; Access pre-loaded views and settings through intuitive button interface
- FISHREVEAL: Fish are easier to find and easier to identify. FishReveal combines the target separation of Lowrance CHIRP sonar and the high-resolution images of structure from DownScan Imaging to makes fish light up on your display.
- HIGH-DETAIL INLAND MAPS: Get high-detail maps of almost 4,000 US inland lakes. Create custom contour maps with even greater detail over any map or GPS plotter with Genesis Live, so you can get onto the fish faster.
- SPLITSHOT TRANSDUCER: Perfect for anglers who want the best views below the boat, SplitShot features the fish-finding capability of wide-angle high CHIRP sonar and the high-resolution images of fish-holding structure from DownScan Imaging.
- AUTOTUNING SONAR: Spend more time fishing and less time reworking your sonar settings with HOOK Reveal autotuning sonar, which ensures you get the best sonar image every time by automatically adjusting settings as fishing conditions change.
- 5-INCH DISPLAY: Enjoy crisp and clear views of your display no matter the conditions – even in direct sunlight – with excellent clarity and daylight visibility of HOOK Reveal’s SolarMAX display.
- Easy-to-use 7” color fishfinder with new vivid scanning sonar color palettes to easily distinguish fish and structure; tilt/swivel bailmount bracket included
- Includes a GT20 transducer for built-in Garmin CHIRP traditional sonar and CHIRP ClearVü scanning sonar
- High-sensitivity GPS to mark waypoints, create routes and view your boat’s speed
- Includes built-in Quickdraw Contours mapping
- Wi-Fi connectivity allows you to connect to the ActiveCaptain app with compatible smartphone to transfer waypoints, receive smart notifications (including software update notifications) and access the Garmin Quickdraw Community
Your Essential Guide to Buying a Fish Finder and GPS Combo
A fish finder and GPS combo unit is a powerful tool for any angler. It helps you locate fish and know exactly where you are on the water. Choosing the right one can make your fishing trips much more successful. This guide will help you pick the best unit for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, look closely at what each unit offers. Some features are more important than others for a good experience.
Sonar Technology
The sonar technology is how the fish finder “sees” underwater. Look for units with CHIRP sonar. CHIRP sends a continuous sweep of frequencies, which gives you clearer images of fish and structure than traditional sonar. Also, check the down imaging and side imaging capabilities. Down imaging shows what is directly beneath your boat, while side imaging lets you see what is to the left and right.
GPS Accuracy and Mapping
Good GPS is vital for navigation and marking spots. Ensure the unit has a fast, accurate GPS receiver. Built-in base maps are helpful, but look for units that support detailed, high-resolution mapping (like C-MAP or Navionics). This lets you see depth contours and important landmarks even when you are far from shore.
Screen Size and Brightness
You need a screen you can read easily, even in bright sunlight. Bigger screens (5 inches and up) are easier to view, especially when viewing split screens (like sonar and map views at the same time). High-resolution screens offer sharper details.
Transducer Quality
The transducer sends the signal into the water. A good transducer is crucial for clear readings. Some units come with an all-in-one transducer that handles both sonar and temperature readings.
Important Materials and Durability
Your fish finder will face water, sun, and bumps. The materials matter for how long it lasts.
- Waterproofing Rating: Look for an IPX rating, like IPX7. This means the unit can handle splashes and brief submersion.
- Housing Construction: Sturdy, UV-resistant plastic housing protects the electronics from sun damage and rough handling.
- Mounting Hardware: Check that the included mounting bracket is made of strong, corrosion-resistant metal or heavy-duty plastic.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several factors directly affect how well your combo unit performs on the water.
Factors That Improve Quality:
- Processor Speed: A fast processor allows the screen to refresh quickly, especially when moving fast or viewing detailed sonar history.
- Networking Capability: Units that can network with other devices (like trolling motors or radar) offer more advanced features.
- Ease of Use: Intuitive menus and customizable hotkeys make adjustments simple while you are actively fishing.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Slow Refresh Rates: If the screen lags, you might miss a school of fish swimming by.
- Poor Sunlight Visibility: A dim screen forces you to squint, which is frustrating and tiring.
- Limited Depth Capability: If you fish deep water, ensure the sonar is rated for those depths. A unit only good down to 300 feet won’t work well for offshore fishing.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use the unit should guide your purchase. Different anglers need different things.
Kayak and Small Boat Anglers
These users need smaller, power-efficient units. Portability is key. Battery life is a major concern, so look for lower power consumption or units that easily connect to portable battery packs.
Bass and Freshwater Fishermen
These anglers focus on structure, submerged timber, and shallow-to-mid-depth fish. High-frequency CHIRP and excellent down imaging are very useful here.
Offshore and Deep-Sea Fishermen
You need powerful sonar capable of reaching hundreds of feet deep. Detailed mapping for navigating long distances and strong GPS reception are non-negotiable.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Fish Finder and GPS Combos
Q: Do I need a separate GPS unit if I buy a fish finder combo?
A: No. The combo unit has the GPS receiver built right in. This saves space and simplifies wiring on your boat.
Q: What is CHIRP sonar, and why is it better?
A: CHIRP sends many sound frequencies at once. This sends back much clearer images of fish arches and bottom structure than old single-frequency sonar.
Q: Can I use this unit in saltwater and freshwater?
A: Yes, most modern units work fine in both. However, saltwater can sometimes require a transducer specifically designed for deep, dense water.
Q: How important is the screen resolution?
A: High resolution is very important. It makes the difference between seeing a vague blob and clearly identifying a fish near a log.
Q: What does “transducer cable length” mean?
A: This is the wire connecting the screen unit to the sensor in the water. Make sure the cable is long enough to reach from your console to the transom (back) of your boat.
Q: Will this unit work if my boat is moving fast?
A: Good units maintain clear readings even at speed, but you might need to adjust the “ping rate” settings to keep the sonar accurate.
Q: How do I mark a fishing spot on the GPS?
A: You simply press a button on the unit when you are over the spot. The GPS saves the coordinates so you can navigate back to it later.
Q: Do these combos need an internet connection to work?
A: No. The GPS function uses satellites, not Wi-Fi or cell service. However, you might need internet to download map updates.
Q: Are the units hard to install?
A: For most people, installation involves mounting the screen and attaching the transducer to the hull. Detailed instructions are usually included.
Q: What is the typical battery life?
A: It varies greatly. Smaller units might last 8 to 10 hours. Larger, brighter screens use more power and might only last 5 to 7 hours, so plan for an external battery.