Is mapping feature desired in a fish finder

[Coldbay]

I was about to buy the Lowrance Hook2 7x tripleshot GPS ($299) but then found out the X models do not have mapping. Is mapping important?

 

Should I step up to the Lowrance Hook2 9 US Inland Maps for another $200? 

 

Thanks for any advice!

[MN Fisher]

I'm looking at upgrading my sonar next year - but passing on the maps. I have an 8" Android tablet that I run the I-Boating app on. 1' contours, GPS tracking, waypoints...has it all. Have it in a clamp mount just above my Hook 2-4 so I have the full screen for the sonar.

[Coldbay]

Nice. So is mapping desired or just a luxury?

 

[12poundbass]

If you want to fish structure I’d say it’s a necessity, if you’re fishing the banks I’d say you don’t need. 

[MN Fisher]

I would say almost a necessity. Lets you find structure, which is where the bass like to hang out - drop-offs, points, humps - those are prime territory.

[Coldbay]

Thanks guys. Maps plus a bigger screen helps make my choice.

[Coldbay]

Oh jeez, now I am thinking moving up to the Elite for 600. Is there a big difference between the Elite and Hook2?  Sorry to drag this out. ?

[Sam]

Mapping is always helpful on new or large bodies of water.

 

When we blast off we usually never turn around to see what the shore line or marina looks like. Sometimes the marinas and ramps are not easily visible. We can go right by them if we are not careful. So mapping allows you to get back to the ramp!

 

Funny? Yes. But if you were like my son who got lost on the Historic James River mapping is a feature you really need. Just ask my wife.

 

In addition you can follow your map's line back to other places you had fished that day or previously.

[Michigander]

At this point, knowing what I would be missing, I won't buy another trolling motor without a GPS anchor and I won't buy a sonar unit that can't draw its own maps.

[Choporoz]

Great for finding and marking structure.   But biggest benefit for me is marking offshore brush piles.   Some of the best brush or trees can be only a couple square yards and even when I thought I had good landmarks,  I could spend over a half hour trying to find spots I'd fished many times before. 

[Scott F]

On 5/2/2020 at 11:14 AM, Coldbay said:

I was about to buy the Lowrance Hook2 7x tripleshot GPS ($299) but then found out the X models do not have mapping. Is mapping important?

 

Should I step up to the Lowrance Hook2 9 US Inland Maps for another $200? 

 

Thanks for any advice!

A big part of the decision depends on what waters are you going to fish. Most of the larger lakes are mapped and contained in a map chip. Smaller lakes and ponds will not be on the chip. If your unit has the software to make your own maps, it would be valuable for those smaller lakes.

[slonezp]

When you can't see 1ft in front of the bow because of the fog