Best Fish Finder GPS Combo To Try in 2023

Best fish finder GPS combo

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Ernest Grey

I love to test new fishing gadgets and share my opinion.

If you never used a fish finder GPS combo, you are missing out. Having a GPS with your fish finder allows you to chart maps, make custom waypoints, find fish-spanning places, and more. But not all Fish finders go well with every GPS. I have compiled the best fish finders you should consider.

Cheapest Fish Finder With GPS

Garmin striker cast
Garmin Striker Cast

Best Fish Finder With GPS Under $200

Garmin striker vivid 4cv
Garmin Striker Vivid 4CV

Best Fish Finder With GPS Under $1000​

Garmin Striker Vivid 9sv
Garmin Striker Vivid 9SV

Top 6 GPS Fish Finders in 2023

  1. Garmin Striker CastBest Fish Finder GPS Combo Overall
  2. Garmin Striker Vivid 4CVBest Fish Finder GPS Combo on a Budget
  3. Garmin Striker Vivid 9SVHigh-End GPS Fish Finder
  4. Lowrance Hook Reveal 7Best Fish Finder GPS Combo from Lowrance
  5. Garmin Striker Vivid 5CVGPS Fish Finder
  6. Garmin Striker Vivid 7CV GPS Fish Finder

GPS Fish Finder Combo Buyer's Guide

Frequency

The frequency of any fish finding device, including the chirp transducer, determines how deep or shallow water bodies can be scanned. Select a fishfinder GPS combo that has dual beam frequencies so that you can rely on the deep imaging and shallow imaging with the same equipment. A dual spectrum chirp sonar will also be an added advantage for you to be able to see the results of clear down and side imaging.

Display

The display will determine whether all other features are useful or not. If the display is not clear, the other tools do not matter. There are numerous fish finders that come with a big screen and vivid colors to make it easier for anglers to find the right spots for more catches.

Memory

Any GPS device with inland maps is a bonus. If there is a slot for memory card, this will be a bigger bonus. All of you who like to explore different lakes and seas, keep the memory card handy and use a device that allows you to access the maps in the memory.

Connectivity

When you are enjoying offshore fishing, a good connection is necessary to access maps, and even keep the castable fish finding device with GPS connected to the smartphone. If the connectivity is weak, the GPS will not work and you will not be able to find fish properly.

Waterproof Design

When trying to catch some fish, the waterproof designs work better because of the fierce fight that anglers have to put up. If you are bass fishing, there are bound to be some splashes on the boat. Select a waterproof design to get the most out of your device.

Power Output

The longer the fish finder works, the more fun you can have out there. If the power output is less, you will have to reduce the time of your sport, or there will be cables attached for you to recharge the fish finder.

Charts

The detailed maps are a big advantage and if the chartplotting tool is not on point, you can forget about getting multiple catches. The accurate charts help with underwater structures, fishing spots, and even the fish reveal feature works better with better charts on display.

GPS and Mapping

If you aim to catch more fish and navigate effectively, having reliable GPS and sonar mapping capabilities is essential. All the combos we discussed here feature high-sensitivity GPS and clear mapping, ensuring that you can accurately map waypoints every time.

Target Separation

The minimum distance between two objects is target separation. If you want to get a few big catches, be sure to find a device that has good target separation so that you can identify where to cast the bait so that you hook fish quickly.

Angle

The cone angle of the device will determine the area that can be mapped in a single scan. The wider angle fish finders on the list like Lowrance is going to be a good match for a wide angle. Moreover, the other tools of the device help map and find the target areas clearly.

Maximum Depth

As we discussed earlier, if you have a low frequency fish finder, the deeper areas in the water can be scanned. Maximum depth of most of the fishfinder GPS combos here is more than 200 feet, which is a good range for recreational anglers to catch various species.

Mounting 

Imagine that you get a great fish finder and GPS, but the mount keeps slipping or if the device cannot be mounted. You will have to hold it and that can keep you from focusing on the sport. Mountable fish finding devices give a better view of the maps.

Durability

If a fish finder is durable, and can withstand seasons and different styles of fishing-you will have a partner for years. Pick a sturdy and durable fish finding device so that you can adjust to it once and benefit from it for many seasons to come. If you have to keep changing the device, it is waste of money and time that you spend understanding its functions.

Best Fish Finder GPS Combo To Try

Performance, affordability, and functioning under extreme weather conditions, including the effectiveness of sonar technology, are the main criteria that were used when compiling this list. The reviews rely on my personal experience of the best fish finders with GPS and insights gathered from many years of fishing experience.

#1

Best Fish Finder GPS Combo Overall

Garmin Striker Cast Sonar GPS Combo

Garmin striker cast

WHY WE LIKE IT: Garmin Striker Cast is one of the few castable fish finders that come with a GPS. This fish finder GPS combo has traditional sonar that will send out waves and map images as they are received. The in-built receiver means that you do not need a separate transducer. GPS fish finder with a sturdy body, and Garmin QuickDraw and other features, which make catching fish easier. Most fish finders from different manufacturers that come with GPS are not castable. This one is convenient for ice fishing, kayak fishing and many other styles.

  • QuickDraw Contours: Yes
  • Wi-Fi: Yes
  • GPS: Yes
  • Frequency: Wide Range from 260 Hz to 455 Hz
  • Traditional Sonar: Yes

Pros

Cons

MY ADVICE: We recommend the Garmin Striker Cast because it is easy to use and gives anglers the flexibility of using the phone screen display. Moreover, the imaging sonar works efficiently. This fish finder GPS combo is one of the most reliable marine electronics. Garmin has some of the best fish finders, and this one is among the top ones on the list.

FEATURES: GPS fish finder with a sturdy body, and Garmin QuickDraw and other features, which make catching fish easier. Most fish finders from different manufacturers that come with GPS are not castable. This one is convenient for ice fishing, kayak fishing and many other styles.

#2

Budget GPS Fish Finder

Garmin Striker Vivid 4CV GPS Combo

Garmin striker vivid 4cv
WHY WE LIKE IT: We like Garmin Striker Vivid 4CV because it is sturdy and you can use it in a kayak, or even when you plan ice fishing. The chirp sonar and the ClearVu feature make this fish finder GPS combo a good choice in various locations. Anglers can enjoy the features of Garmin such as customer support, and even split screen zoom. This feature allows anglers to see side ways, as well as deep into the water to get a wider view of all the fishing spots.
  • Waterproof: Yes
  • GPS: Yes
  • Displays Sonar: Yes
  • Traditional Sonar: Yes
  • Garmin ClearVu: Yes

Pros

Cons

MY ADVICE: Garmin Striker Vivid 4CV is a compact and easy-to-use fish finder GPS combo. You can rely on this device to give you accurate mapping of fish locations, and also fid the way back home. The GPS from Garmin is better than many other manufacturers, and you can use the waypoints, and locations as you desire.

FEATURES: The handheld device can also be mounted, and the ClearVu and QuickDraw work in coordination to give you clear maps. Most fish finder GPS combos can be technical to use, but Garmin has created an easy interface that makes senior anglers and non-technical fishermen rely on it without any challenges.

#3

High-End GPS Fish Finder

Garmin Striker Vivid 9SV GPS Combo

Garmin Striker Vivid 9sv
WHY WE LIKE IT: This GPS and fish finding device will work well for you as it has side imaging and deep imaging which will help find fish in all areas around and under the boat. The easy to use device comes with a high-sensitivity GPS so that you can have an adventure without worrying about finding your way back.
  • Built-in Receiver: Yes
  • Traditional and Chirp sonar: Yes
  • ClearVu: Yes
  • SideVu: Yes
  • GPS: Yes

Pros

Cons

MY ADVICE: We recommend this fish finding gadget because it comes with a complete view on a nine-inch display screen. The screen size is a big advantage as this mountable fish finder makes it easy for anglers to see through the contours, without having to hold the fish finder up close.

FEATURES: The Garmin features heighten with this model and that makes it a perfect fit for all anglers whether they go shore fishing, or ice fishing.

#4

7-inch With Chirp Sonar

Lowrance Hook Reveal 7 GPS Combo

Lowrance Hook Reveal 7
WHY WE LIKE IT: The Lowrance Hook Reveal 7 is an excellent GPS combo because it helps locate fish while giving you the ability to find your way back as well. You may say that this fish finder works as a two-in-one device and can ensure that your fishing adventure is complete on water, and on your way back as well.
  • SD Card Storage: Yes
  • Sonar Compatibility: Yes
  • Inland Maps: Yes
  • Mountable: Yes
  • Waypoints. Routes, Tracks: Yes

Pros

Cons

MY ADVICE: We recommend this fish finder GPS combo because it has an easy-to-use interface and anglers will not have to buy two gadgets separately. When you are looking for a chirp sonar technology expert, but also need to find your way back to the shore, or around the lake, this fish finder GPS combo is a good choice.

FEATURES: There are many fish finders that can connect with your phone and you get to see fishing spots clearly. Most of these types of fish finders are castable. The Lowrance Hook Reveal 7 is a mountable fish finder GPS combo, and has a big screen to help you see more clearly.

#5

5-inch With Chirp Sonar

Garmin Striker Vivid 5CV GPS Combo

Garmin Striker Vivid 5cv
WHY WE LIKE IT: There are numerous reasons why Garmin Striker Vivid 5CV is a good selection. Firstly, it will be a sturdy device and will work efficiently for a long time. You will not have to invest in two devices, as this one gives you a good view of the fishing spots, and even has down imagine to map depths of the water. The screen size is decent and you will not have to stare at the display for a long time.
  • Keyed Input: Yes
  • GPS: Yes
  • Traditional Sonar: Yes
  • Mountable: Yes
  • ClearVu: Yes

Pros

Cons

MY ADVICE: We recommend this fish finder for all the reasons above. It is easy to use, and has traditional sonar and chirp sonar technology to map all the fishing locations near you. A great fish finder coupled with a clear and accurate GPS is the best combo for all. You can rely on the protective cover that comes with this device to keep it new, and functional for years.

FEATURES: One of the best fish finder GPS combo, the Garmin Striker Vivid 5CV is an excellent form of two-in-one device for anglers. Garmin features like ClearVu and high-sensitive GPS add value, although some anglers consider the GPS as the only considerable tool. However, since the fish identification, and mapping works efficiently, this fish finder is among our list of best fish finder GPS combos.

#6

Easiest To Install

Garmin Striker Vivid 7CV GPS Combo

Garmin striker vivid 7cv
WHY WE LIKE IT: Garming Striker 7CV is a bigger version of the sturdy and complete fish finder from Garmin. This device has all the Garmin features that enable anglers to see clear and vivid images on the seven-inch screen.
  • Color Options: Yes
  • QuickDraw Contours: Yes
  • ClearVu: Yes
  • GPS: Yes
  • Fish Symbol Id: Yes
  • Traditional Sonar: No

Pros

Cons

MY ADVICE: This mountable device can be installed next to the trolling motor and you will be able to find fish easily. We recommend this combo because of the easy interface. Moreover, the imaging is clear enough for novice anglers to read easily.

FEATURES: The traditional sonar and chirp sonar work well to map all fishing location near and under your boat. ClearVu is an exclusive Garmin tool that maps the locations clearly and provides color options so that anglers can tell the difference between various depths, locations and then prepare to cast the bait.

Frequently Asked Questions

#1 What is a fish finder with GPS, and how does it work?

A fish finder with GPS is a device that combines traditional fish-finding sonar technology with Global Positioning System (GPS) capabilities. It works by sending out sonar signals into the water to detect underwater objects, including fish, and it uses GPS to determine your precise location on the water.

#2 What are the advantages of having GPS functionality in a fish finder?

GPS functionality in a fish finder allows you to mark waypoints, track your fishing path, and navigate on the water. It helps you return to productive fishing spots, avoid hazards, and plan your fishing trips effectively.

#3 Can I use a fish finder’s GPS for navigation on the water?

Yes, many fish finders with GPS include chartplotting capabilities, enabling you to navigate on the water by displaying maps and showing your position in real-time.

#4 Do all fish finders with GPS come with preloaded maps, or do I need to purchase them separately?

Some fish finders come with preloaded maps, while others may require you to purchase compatible maps separately. It depends on the specific model and manufacturer.

#5 How accurate is the GPS in fish finders for marking waypoints and tracking my location?

GPS in fish finders is generally quite accurate, often with accuracy down to a few meters or even less, depending on the quality of the GPS receiver and the satellite signal reception.

#6 an I use a fish finder’s GPS to save the coordinates of my favorite fishing spots?

Yes, you can save waypoints using the GPS function on your fish finder, allowing you to revisit productive fishing locations.
#7 Are fish finders with GPS suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing?

Yes, many fish finders with GPS are suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. However, it’s essential to choose a model that is specifically designed for your intended environment.

#8 What is the difference between GPS and chartplotter features in fish finders?

GPS provides your location data, while a chartplotter uses this data to display maps, helping you navigate and plan routes on the water.

#9 Can I upload custom maps or charts to a GPS-enabled fish finder?

Some fish finders allow you to upload custom maps or charts, but this feature may not be available on all models. Check the manufacturer’s specifications for compatibility.

These answers should provide a solid understanding of fish finders with GPS functionality and how they can enhance your fishing experience.

My Verdict

When selecting a GPS-capable fish finder, you should consider the frequency, display, memory card slots and connectivity.

The maximum depth capability should exceed 200 feet for versatile angling. Lastly, a secure and dependable mounting system ensures ease of use and longevity, making a durable fish finder a valuable companion for seasons to come.