Depth Finders for Dummies

[FlatTopPete]

Alright guys, I sold my boat. So I am in the market for a new boat and therefore some new technology in the boat I will be purchasing.

In my old boat, I had a Lowrance HDS gen 2. Would like any and all input as to what a guy wants in a boat. Is side imaging a must? Why?

Please give me some elementary education on these things plz!

 

[Achucker]

Watch some of tom boley's videos on you tube. Side image is a must

 

[Davey Crockett]

How much do you want to spend ? I think that's the starting point and then try to get the biggest bang for your buck.

 

[zoops]

Your description is a little too vague to give great advice - some things that would be helpful to consider:
-Where (and how) do you fish mostly?
-Budget
-Are you more comfortable with Lowrance/HB/Garmin?-they're all pretty similar in capability
-Do you want just 1 graph or are you considering linking 2+ together (or wanting to link it to your trolling motor)?

If you fish lakes that are mapped, I would prioritize the ability to have a good map chip. Side imaging would be #2. I wouldn't recommend a unit that has DI but no SI although some may disagree with that, again depends on how you fish.

Helix 7 is around $800: https://www.scheels.com/p/humminbird-helix-7-mega-si-g3n/08232405340.html
Helix 9 is around $1500: https://www.scheels.com/p/humminbird-helix-9-megasi+-g3n/08232405293.html
Decent deal on a H10 (2000 new): https://www.bismanonline.com/bismarck_nd/humminbird_helix_10_gn3_mega_side_meda_di_chirp
H12 is around $2500: https://www.scheels.com/p/humminbir.../08232405299.html#q=helix&lang=en_US&start=10

Tons of good info out there on youtube, etc. Tom Boley as was mentioned and Doug Vahrenburg have a lot of good HB videos. That's where I've spent most of my time, sorry don't have much info on other brands. Study up on whatever you buy and it will be good to you.