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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
- No setup time required because anglers only need to cast this fish finder into the water
- This fish finder will make it easier to cover a larger area
- Catching fish becomes easy with the QuickDraw Contour mapping that makes it easy
Best Fish Finder With GPS Under $200
- The battery life is more than nine hours, enabling anglers to have more fun
- Easy to interpret 2-D sonar
- Ice fishing is possible with this fish finder
Best Fish Finder With GPS Under $1000
- Lightweight and easy to use interface
- Fish icons display help with identifying the species
- Better than handheld fish finder because you can see clearer on the smartphone screen
Table of Contents
- Top 6 GPS Fish Finders in 2023
- GPS Fish Finder Combo Buyer's Guide
- Best Fish Finder GPS Combo To Try
- Garmin Striker Cast Sonar GPS Combo
- Garmin Striker Vivid 4CV GPS Combo
- Garmin Striker Vivid 9SV GPS Combo
- Lowrance Hook Reveal 7 GPS Combo
- Garmin Striker Vivid 5CV GPS Combo
- Garmin Striker Vivid 7CV GPS Combo
- Frequently Asked Questions
- My Verdict
Top 6 GPS Fish Finders in 2023
- Garmin Striker Cast – Best Fish Finder GPS Combo Overall
- Garmin Striker Vivid 4CV – Best Fish Finder GPS Combo on a Budget
- Garmin Striker Vivid 9SV – High-End GPS Fish Finder
- Lowrance Hook Reveal 7 – Best Fish Finder GPS Combo from Lowrance
- Garmin Striker Vivid 5CV – GPS Fish Finder
- 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
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
- No setup time required because anglers only need to cast this fish finder into the water
- This fish finder will make it easier to cover a larger area
- Catching fish becomes easy with the QuickDraw Contour mapping that makes it easy
Cons
- Garmin Striker Cast 7 does not work efficiently in ice
- The Wi-Fi signals can drop when you cast this fish finder far from the boat
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.
#2
Budget GPS Fish Finder
Garmin Striker Vivid 4CV GPS Combo
- Waterproof: Yes
- GPS: Yes
- Displays Sonar: Yes
- Traditional Sonar: Yes
- Garmin ClearVu: Yes
Pros
- The adjustable depth line makes this fish finder GPS combo a good match for all kinds of water bodies.
- The compact device is good for various kinds of fishing
Cons
- Too many buttons for simple functions
- Many anglers do not understand how to use ClearVu feature
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.
#3
High-End GPS Fish Finder
Garmin Striker Vivid 9SV GPS Combo
- Built-in Receiver: Yes
- Traditional and Chirp sonar: Yes
- ClearVu: Yes
- SideVu: Yes
- GPS: Yes
Pros
- Big screen size is ideal for anglers who want to mount the device
- Efficient deep imaging and side imaging
- Wi-Fi helps connect to the Garmin app
Cons
- Too many buttons can be confusing for first-time users
- The manual is not helpful in many things
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.
#4
7-inch With Chirp Sonar
Lowrance Hook Reveal 7 GPS Combo
- SD Card Storage: Yes
- Sonar Compatibility: Yes
- Inland Maps: Yes
- Mountable: Yes
- Waypoints. Routes, Tracks: Yes
Pros
- The big screen gives a good display.
- The high-detail inland maps are a great feature for any fish finder
- Chirp sonar technology works well
Cons
- The mount does not work very well. Sometimes the device moves in place
- The GPS does not load many times
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.
#5
5-inch With Chirp Sonar
Garmin Striker Vivid 5CV GPS Combo
- Keyed Input: Yes
- GPS: Yes
- Traditional Sonar: Yes
- Mountable: Yes
- ClearVu: Yes
Pros
- Waypoint markings help find your way back from the fishing spots
- Vivid color options for clarity
- Good screen size for readable maps
Cons
- The screen loses brightness after some time
- The manual does not help with many functions and anglers have to figure them out
- Too many buttons to scroll and complete any function
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.
#6
Easiest To Install
Garmin Striker Vivid 7CV GPS Combo
- Color Options: Yes
- QuickDraw Contours: Yes
- ClearVu: Yes
- GPS: Yes
- Fish Symbol Id: Yes
- Traditional Sonar: No
Pros
- Excellent color options for clarity
- Good range for depth and side imaging
- Mountable for convenience and easy view
Cons
- The screen brightness will decrease in direct sunlight
- Garmin fish finders have additional features that do not add to the funtionality
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.
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.