lake maps

[dairyman]

this is just a general question---are the Mn lake maps the same maps that are found on the lakemaster chips. I've noticed that a lot of the Dnr lake maps have been charted some time ago. If thats the case why not just print a copy of the dnr maps off the computer

[hydro]

The chips have both high resolution maps (1' or 3' contours and very accurate) and low resolution maps that appear to be much the same as the DNR maps. From my experience with Lakemaster, their hiRez maps are great and well worth the expense.

[Maverick]

Even if they are the same as the DNR map, the use of a gps will allow you to mark spots on the map.

[dairyman]

thanks

[JWB475]

The high resolution maps from Lakemaster and Navionics with 1 foot or 3 foot contours are made with GPS technology.

The DNR maps are made from depth measurements, aerial photo's etc. They will have most of the structure in a lake identified, but it will just be a 'blob' with no real detail.

Look at the high resolution GPS map of a lake (if one is available), and compare that to the DNR map of the same lake and you will be amazed at the difference. The GPS maps essentially look as if you drained all the water out of the lake to create the map - no more secret spots...

With the lakemaster 3' contour map for a lake I fish frequently by Longville (Woman Lake), there are literally hundreds of spots that I never would have known about if I were using the DNR map.

[eurolarva]

I bought a Lake of the Woods chip for my GPS. I could find breaks and depth changes while looking at the GPS. Looking at a paper map I would not have a clue where I was on the map being 8 miles out from shore. I have the navonics chip as well and when I hit bigger lakes like Clearwater or Mille Lacs it is nice knowing what is under you without having to drill hundreds of holes

[mr_jman]

I would still print off a lake map and use it along with the GPS card. Its nice to have a full picture of the lake along with the small screen of the GPS. Having a large map may help point you in a direction or general area to go and the GPS map will help you find those key spots exactly!