10 Best Fishfinder Gps Combos 2025 in the United States

The Lowrance Elite FS 9 is a robust fish finder and GPS combo that stands out for its impressive Active Imaging 3-in-1 sonar capabilities, including CHIRP, SideScan, and DownScan with FishReveal. This feature allows users to see detailed structures and fish activity, which is crucial for successful fishing trips. The display is a generous 9 inches, providing clear visuals, and its multi-touch functionality enhances user interaction, making navigation through menus and settings straightforward even for beginners.

In terms of GPS functionality, the preloaded C-MAP Contour+ charts offer high-resolution mapping with 1-foot contours for thousands of lakes across the U.S., allowing for precise navigation to fishing hotspots. The Elite FS 9 also supports ActiveTarget Live Sonar, giving real-time visuals of fish behavior, which can significantly enhance the fishing experience.

On the connectivity front, this device is fully equipped with wireless, NMEA 2000, and Ethernet options, enabling users to build a comprehensive fishing system by connecting with additional devices like radar and autopilots. This flexibility is beneficial for serious anglers looking to customize their setups. The complexity of some functions might be overwhelming for casual users who may prefer a more straightforward device. Additionally, installation could be a challenge for those who are not comfortable with technical setups. The warranty is standard at one year, which is common in this category but may leave some users wishing for more coverage.

The Humminbird XPLORE 9 GPS Fish Finder is a robust choice for anglers looking to enhance their fishing experience with advanced technology. Its 9-inch full HD touchscreen display offers clear visuals with a resolution of 1280 x 720, making it easy to read underwater structures and fish locations. This model incorporates MEGA Side Imaging+ and MEGA Down Imaging+ sonar technology, providing extensive coverage of 200-foot ranges both to the sides and below the boat, which is beneficial for detecting fish in different environments. Additionally, the Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar offers wide and narrow modes, allowing for detailed fish detection, which is ideal for serious anglers.

The built-in GPS with Humminbird Basemap covers over 10,000 lakes and includes comprehensive mapping options with LakeMaster and CoastMaster VX map cards for the U.S. and Canada, enhancing navigation and planning. Its AutoChart Live feature allows for real-time mapping, tracking depth contours, and underwater vegetation, which is especially useful for creating personalized maps of your favorite fishing spots.

Connectivity is a strong suit; the XPLORE 9 is equipped with Ethernet and Bluetooth capabilities, supporting integration with NMEA 2000 networks and compatibility with Minn Kota and Cannon products. This feature-rich networking makes it suitable for anglers looking to build a comprehensive fishing system with multiple devices. While the device is packed with high-end features, it might be a bit overwhelming for beginners due to its extensive functionalities and advanced setup requirements. However, the combination of touch and keypad controls can ease the usability for more tech-savvy users. At 9 pounds and with a sizeable form factor, it might require a stable mounting spot on your boat.

In conclusion, the Humminbird XPLORE 9 is best suited for dedicated anglers who are familiar with using advanced fish-finding and GPS technology and are looking for an integrated system that provides detailed sonar imaging and powerful navigation capabilities.

The Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv is a user-friendly fishfinder with a 7-inch color display, making it easier to spot fish and underwater structures with its vivid scanning sonar color palettes. The included GT20 transducer supports Garmin CHIRP traditional sonar and CHIRP ClearVü scanning sonar, enhancing the device’s ability to provide clear and detailed images.

Its high-sensitivity GPS allows for precise waypoint marking, route creation, and speed tracking, adding substantial navigational functionality. Additionally, the built-in Quickdraw Contours mapping helps users create personalized fishing maps. The Wi-Fi connectivity is a significant advantage, enabling connection to the ActiveCaptain app for waypoint transfer, smart notifications, and access to the Garmin Quickdraw Community.

However, the device primarily uses buttons for input, which may not be as intuitive as a touchscreen for some users. The unit is relatively lightweight at 4.4 pounds, and its tilt/swivel mount allows for flexible installation. On the downside, the unit is battery-powered, so users will need to manage power sources during longer trips. The Garmin Striker Vivid 7cv stands out for its display quality, sonar technology, and GPS capabilities, making it a solid choice for recreational anglers looking for a comprehensive and easy-to-use fishfinder-GPS combo.