1st fish finder purchase help

[slimbo85]

hey guys looking to grab a fish finder, ive been researching the helix 7 and looks like the best bang for my buck?

thoughts?

anything i should be looking for in a fish finder? mostly gonna be fishing for pike and bass, gonna troll a bit

thanks guys

[Wayne P.]

Any of the 14 versions of the Helix 7 would be a good choice.

6 discontinued models and 8 current ones.

 

Just choose the sonar technology/s you want with or without GPS/Mapping.

[LoweStinger]

With so many options out there you will start in one place and end up in another.. Ask me how I know...

 

I would study and understand all features available in todays sonar technology world and see what you need / don't need.. Then move on to Price VS features of different brands.. Like Wayne said.. What Helix 7 ? There are so many different versions available. Just take your time and arm yourself with knowledge before you buy.

[Scott F]

If the depth finder you are looking for will include mapping, make sure you consider the extra cost of map chips that you may have to purchase in addition to the unit itself. Some units come with high definition maps pre-installed and some do not. Things change quickly so you have to do some research to be sure what models have maps built in and which don't.

[RoLo]

We really need a price range.

Sonar units run the gamut from $300 to $3000

 

Roger

[slimbo85]

Ended up grabbing the helix 7x si gps

 

looks like i got my work cut out for me with the learning curve on it

 

after watching a few youtube videos on side imaging it looks like its a game changer for sure

[Wayne P.]

5 minutes ago, slimbo85 said:

Ended up grabbing the helix 7x si gps

 

looks like i got my work cut out for me with the learning curve on it

 

after watching a few youtube videos on side imaging it looks like its a game changer for sure

Since there is no such model as a 7x SI GPS, which one of the SI versions did you get?

 

Helix 7 SI GPS

Helix 7 CHIRP SI GPS G2

Helix 7 CHIRP SI GPS G2N

[Tim Kelly]

I think the 7x is the European version, presumably with metric depths and a few language options.

[slimbo85]

50 minutes ago, Wayne P. said:

Since there is no such model as a 7x SI GPS, which one of the SI versions did you get?

 

Helix 7 SI GPS

Helix 7 CHIRP SI GPS G2

Helix 7 CHIRP SI GPS G2N

 

its the 7 si gps

 

grabbed it for $540 from the boat show here this past weekend

[Robeng]

I have down imaging from a Lowrance Elite 5 HDI with sonar and image overlay.  However, now almost 4 years later, I like the option of down imaging with sonar AND side imaging.  I like the new MEGA-hertz Hummngbirds and the Ray Marine units.  At least a bigger unit for me than 5 inches I have now.  Though, it is always a money factor too.  See them in person.  Go to the marina and ask a fellow boater if you can take a look at his and what he likes and doesn't like.  Better yet if you can check it in usage on the water.  In the stores it is just a static or demo display.  Read reviews.  Good luck.

[Wayne P.]

1 hour ago, slimbo85 said:

 

its the 7 si gps

 

grabbed it for $540 from the boat show here this past weekend

 

That is the discontinued first generation of Helix models. The new ones have way more processing horsepower and features.

 

If you want sharper images, you can use the XHS 9 HDSI 180 T transducer.

If you have not opened the transducer mount package or used the included Compact SI transducer, you can exchange that transducer for the HDSI for about $85 including shipping. That is done through Humminbird Customer Service.

[Wayne P.]

6 hours ago, Tim Kelly said:

I think the 7x is the European version, presumably with metric depths and a few language options.

 

 

I think you are correct. Don't see those models listed with most US dealers.