Sonar becomes anchor!

[chris63]

Very frustrating to get out on the water and have sonar problems.Could I get some suggestions on a new unit.All that I need is speed and manual (fish arcs)mode and that is it.Don't need GPS/mapping all that color jazz either.Was looking to spend 3 bills or less.Any advise would be welcomed!I have an original fl-8 I use for ice fishing.I was wondering if I can still buy a high speed transducer for the boat for it?c63

[mattpaumen]

Nothing worse than having sonar issues. Been there, done that, and hopefully I have that issue resolved. Last year I bought a Vexilar Edge 3 and my issues were resolved. The issue I had with my previous unit was the inconsistency. It worked well on a hard, clean bottom, but if I got into weeds of any amount, it wouldn't track bottom. I did everything the manufacturer recommended with the settings, replaced transducers, sent the unit in, and yet still had issues. VERY frustrating! The Edge 3 has solved all my issues. If color isn't important, look at the Edge 2. You should be able to find one if you do a little searching and I believe Vexilar sells refurbished units for a little over what you are wanting to spend. IMO, you get what you pay for and you would be happy with either of the Edge units.

[Surface Tension]

Humminbird Fishfinder 570 $200 640x320 pixels.

Humminbird Fishfinder 570 DI can be had for $300 and you get the DI (Down Imaging).

[grizrunner]

Chris I PM'd you.

[goose89]

For "simple" depthfinder, my favorite was a Garmin (320 I believe- disco'd)

I see a 300 and 400 model now that have similar features. I've done Lowrance for many years, and currently am running Humminbirds. With all "fancy" units, I've had an issue here and there, but I never had a single problem with my old Garmin. "Simple" 'birds might do you well too. Bit cheaper, but if I were going simple, I'd go with a Garmin product.

[Jarrod32]

You should be able to find a Vexilar high speed transducer. Do an internet search for just that. For years, that is what I used on my boat. It won't tell you your speed, but a basic hand held gps will do that more accurately than a non-gps depth finder.

A basic hand held GPS and a high-speed transducer for your Vex can be had well within your budget...