Best sonar under $150 ?

[Polar Bear]

Need a new, inexpensive sonar for the small boat. Looking at the new Humminbird 525 for around $129. Any input is appreciated.

[CatManLee]

I have the 565 and I love it. It has a good number of pixels, and has lots of options to play with such as whiteline, etc. I don't think you can beat the Humminbird 565 Model for the display and price. This unit will run you about $200.00. I know it's a bit more expensive than you were looking at, but it's definately worth the extra $70.00 in my opinion.

Eagle also makes a good one for around $200. I think it's the 465 or something? Not sure.

If you can scrounge up the money, you should really try to hit the $200 mark, and I'm sure you'll be very happy. I do know how hard it is sometimes to come up with that little bit of extra money, but if you don't, chances are you'll regret it down the road, because you won't be happy with the pixels or display size.

Just my 2 cents. Good luck on your new purchase.

[CatManLee]

Sorry, I didn't notice you just wanted something for a small back-lake boat. If it's a secondary unit, the 525 would probably work fine if you're not to concerned about pixel or screen size.

[gunflint]

I think I would go used in that price range. You should be able to get something with at least a 320 pixel count that way.

[iowaboy]

Reeds has some great sales right now! A buddy of mine bought a Bottomline 480 from them for 139.00 thats pretty cheap.

[92python]

I really think you should consider spending $170 for a 320 x 320 pixel Eagle. I can't tell much of a difference from my Eagle 480 which can be purchased for $190.

Regardless of brand, I wouldn't buy anything under 320 by 320 pixels now.

5 years ago you would be paying top dollar what you can get for $170 these days.

[bigtimber]

Cabelas has the Eagle Fisheasy 2 in their on-line bargains for $99.99. A year or so ago this unit was near $150. 240 pixels, temp., high speed scanner. I think an excellent buy.