GPS

[larryrr]

Im thinking of getting a GARMIN eTrex Legend and was wondering if any of you guys have ever used it ... and what do you think of it. I know it's not the best ..but I think it will do the job of a basic unit..( and thats about all I can  swing as far as buck..LOL) :-/

[jb_from_texas]

what are you looking for it to do?

I have owned two Garmins.  A Vista and I now have a GPSMap60cs.

I'll be happy to give you some info but i really need to know the purpose your unit will serve.

[larryrr]

thanks for your reply..I looking for a GPS to mark good location an a lake ..guide me to it ..via a map on the screen...get me back and will save the recorded location ....just the base gps I want to load a map source later....you fish so if you needed a good gps for your basic need to find and record locations on lakes to come back to...would you think this will fill the bill? I have never owned a gps .and cant swing 5-$600.00 to  to get started just need the basic  untill i learnwhat i should have.I see you are a Long Horn im in houston area but was a oky (as in past)  in my youth ...could not wait to get out ..LOL

[jb_from_texas]

The Legend would work.  However, if you can swing it i would suggest stepping up to the Vista for several reasons:

1. more internal memory for map data downloads

2. has an electronic compass.  this is important because when you slow down to a certain point or are standing still the only way to get a direction heading is with the compass.  The Legend relies on the sats picking you up in order to dispaly an accurate heading.  If you are at a stand still or going really slow it cant provide this info.  So, when you are approaching a marked waypoint real slowly (like slow trolling) or stopped the Legend will not be able to tell you a direction.  Sounds trivial but it does make a difference.

3. Vista has a barametric altimeter.  Not that fishing requires you to know at what level above sea you are but it is nice for you to know the bar pressure.  you can set the unit up to display elevation or pressure.  pressure effects fishing.

The Venture, which you didnt mention is one i would NOT rec.  It lacks these and other features you would miss.

The sensitivity on both the legend and vista are identical and they should get you accurancy in the 3-6 meter range with a clear sky.  However, these units do not preform well in tree coverage. So if you plan on using it off the water this could be a factor.

The Vista is roughly $80 more but i think worth it.

The legend has a better battery life though.

A quick search for the vista netted a price of $180 at www.gpsonsale.com

But look at several google search results.  it might be found cheaper or with rebates.

good luck

P.S.  from Texas, living in Florida

[Gatorbassman]

I have a legend C with the external chip. It is great. I have the Fishing HotSpots Map on it and it is also very detailed and easy to use. I would recomend it. Check E-bay I got mine on a Buy It Now for 100bucks less than retail.