Best Fish Finder Under $500 Must Have Side Imaging, Gps, Chrp

[Ersteman]

Could you guys please recommend the best Fish Finder under $500.

I'm looking for best (in order) functionality, features, best chrp technology, side imaging, gps, ease of use and ease of installation.

I've never bought one before.

I need a fish finder to use recreationally where I won't have to get another one for 5-7 years.

I'll be doing the installation myself, so it has to be so the common man can do it and not some engineer.  ; )

 

I also like to take advantage of sales, so if there's a few that fit the bill, please list multiple and I'll look for the deals.

 

I have an iphone 6c so if it's iphone compatible, thats cool too.

 

Thanks in advance!

[B-Dozer]

When you find one with all those features, under $500, let me know

[Ersteman]

lol.  ok.  Can you find one that has most of those features under $500?

 

Or at least recommend one that works well under $500.

Just want to get quality that lasts for under $500. That's the main goal.

[slonezp]

Used

[Scott F]

The Humminbird 398ci SI can be had for less than $500. It's got side/down imaging and GPS. It doesn't look like it has 2D sonar and the screen is 3.5 inches. I have no idea how long it's going to last. There are almost no currently sold units that have been out more than a year so who can tell how long it will work.

[Wayne P.]

The new Humminbird Helix 5 with Side Imaging will have a MSRP of $499.99.

 

It will be a better choice than the 398ci SI since it will have a wide screen.

 

All Side Imaging units have 2D sonar.

 

 

[B-Dozer]

Nice! ^

[Wayne P.]

More info about the Helix 5.

 

At least one marine electronics dealer has them for pre-order for $40 less than MSRP for the SI version.

 

Available in December.