Garmin GPS

[Northland Sportsman]

I just picked up a garmin GPS and am looking for lake maps to put in it. Does anyone have experience with the garmin inland lakes software? How does it compare to lakemaster? I can't decide which to go with. Inland lakes has a ton more lakes included in the surrounding states and all, but I am not sure how the depth contours and accuracy compares. Any thoughts, experiences, etc. much appreciated.

[BobT]

Not familiar with the Inland Lakes package but I do use the MNLakemaster and I really like it. Unfortunately they don't offer free upgrades and my version isn't as complete as the latest version.

Bob

[Northland Sportsman]

Thanks Bob, anyone else have anything to add?

[Ray Esboldt]

Funny that this was posted, because I just got off the phone with Garmin support. First, in a world of poor customer support, every time I have called Garmin with a question I have received quick and accurate answers. There is something to be said for that.

I have the Lakemaster/Garmin Mapsource product that I use in conjunction with my handheld (eTrex Legend). It works very well, but I actually like the software provided more than I like the unit itself. It's installable software with a complete mapping program providing Lakemater's mapping detail and some POI data. That makes for a handy reference tool when you're not on the water.

[icehead]

I was hoping to see more responces on this also! I got a Garmin Nuvee 750 for christmas and was wondering about the maps.Any on try the 750 with maps.

[Hard617]

I also just ordered a colorado 400t and am looking for maps. From what I have seen, lakemaster and the garmin ones seem identical for lake coverage for my area, plus surrounding states like navionics. I was thinking garmin gets their package from lakemaster? it almost looks to be that way from their HSOforum. hope somone has some experience with this, or at least talked to a store clerk to shed some light on the subject.

[BobT]

I do believe that Lakemaster is the manufacturer.

Bob

[moccasinboy]

Hi, guys.

Garmin does license LakeMaster data and produce micro and data cards as well as a MapSource CD for LakeMaster's various regions. They were revised 4/08 and so are very current. I believe Garmin upgrades their digital map cards and CD's for a fee. They currently produce: Minnesota, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Woods/Rainy. They are available at many retailers as well as from LakeMaster directly.

[caseymcq]

Did you get one of the Garmin models with an "x" in the model name? If that is the case LakeMaster has a microSD chip available that would be a good addition. It is the same mapping that is available for Lowrance units that accept SD cards. The lake mapping and additional mapping like roads and trails make the GPS more useful, IMO.

[Northland Sportsman]

thanks for the replys. I ordered the garmin inland lakes north chip. It includes a ton of lakes and surrounding states. I got a good deal on it from an online auction so will see what it is when I get it. I figures I would give it a try since it is hard to get any real life comparison info from anybody with experience on the two chips (inland lakes vs lakemaster). I will try to post how I like it once it comes in. i can't wait to get some lake details in this unit!

[Northland Sportsman]

OK I got the chip last night - Garmin Inland Lakes North Central 2006 version. It provides a lot more detail then the stock base map included with the unit. The chip has a lot of the lakes with depth contours, but the definition is not there. It appears that they are the 3-5 ft contours. This was a bit of a disappointment but I was not surprised. I still like the chip for the price. It was a good investment as it covers a wide area from the E edge of Monatana-Indiana & MN-Arkansas. It also updates the road map with county & township roads in areas I have checked so far also boat ramps and misc points of interest. I don't think I would ever use it outside of this wide area. I will still plan to get the lakemaster chip at some point. I really like the definition of the 1ft contours, as I am sure everybody else does as well. It is another tool that is fun to play with and help get you on the spot. Thats my $ .02