You can find more information on our web, so please take a look.
See more, navigate better and fish smarter this year with newer, high-tech electronics.
With technology in a constant state of change, there&#;s probably no other category of fishing related product line that advances as often and as dramatically as the marine electronic category. Through advancements in sonar imaging, boat fishermen today have the opportunity to see in real-time what&#;s beneath their boat in the greatest detail ever. And with more compact yet powerful radar technology even owners of smaller boats can see objects above the water&#;s surface from further away.
And as you&#;ll read in this year&#;s annual guide to electronics from The Fisherman, even in total darkness, digital color night vision technology has become more readily available to the private angler! So wherever we go, and almost whenever, we navigate with confidence and can see the contours of the marine bottom using the most detailed charts and chartplotters that were once exclusive to 100-ton masters license holders running the largest vessels out there.
So in , we&#;ll likely see a new buzzword introduced into marine electronics jargon, &#;system integration.&#; With some of the larger players like Brunswick, Yamaha and others vertically integrating more diverse types of marine electronics into their corporate infrastructure, the big boys want to be more in charge of their own destiny. That being said, let&#;s get right into what&#;s new in the world of marine electronics for all of us in the general fishing/boating public.
Brunswick&#;s Navico Group, one of the world&#;s leading suppliers of integrated systems and products, recently announced the launch of the new Fathom e-Power System, an integrated lithium-ion auxiliary power management system that delivers reliable power and unparalleled performance for the marine and RV sectors. The Fathom system offers advanced digital controls and monitoring of power consumption, delivering information on demand and providing complete control for the user.
The Fathom e-Power system features a combination of powerful components from industry-leading Navico Group brands including Mastervolt, BEP, CZone, Ancor and Blue Sea Systems. All of these are combined to create a fully vertically integrated solution compromised of energy storage, power conversion and digital monitoring and control. The system allows users to extend time away from the charge source by providing more battery capacity and efficiently managing the electrical system, while also eliminating the cost, maintenance, noise, vibration and fumes associated with traditional generators. Additionally, an intuitive user interface allows end users to easily monitor and control their power on and off the vessel via multifunction displays or smart mobile devices.
Available in 12V, 24V and 48V customizable kits, Fathom is designed to seamlessly integrate into a wide range of boats, providing a simple experience for both manufacturers and customers alike. The hardware and software elements are tested and validated to ensure compatibility with the Fathom e-Power system as well as third party hardware. &#;Lithium batteries for marine applications have gained substantial traction in the last decade,&#; said Eric Lindquist, VP and General Manager, Power Systems at Navico Group. &#;They last longer, charge faster, reduce weight and maximize space, as well as saving time and money in the long run, all while minimizing negative impacts on the environment. With a variety of benefits, it is no surprise that consumers are selecting lithium batteries more frequently, and we are proud to be at the forefront of this shift and provide the most advanced power management system.&#;
Key features of the Fathom e-Power System include enhanced information accessibility such as monitoring of power consumption from onboard appliances, allowing users to enable smarter power management to conserve energy. The intuitive interface provides an easy-to-understand battery status and includes a practical &#;time to empty&#; indicator. Users can enable alerts and guides for optimal recharging with custom preferences.
www.navico.com/fathom
Although Furuno will introduce some top secret marine electronics at the Miami Boat Show, there are a few new noteworthy items worth mentioning. Boaters with NavNet TZtouch, TZtouch2, or TZtouch3 systems and limited space for a Radar antenna will be excited to learn about a new option from Furuno that encompasses all of the Solid-State Doppler features that make their NXT Radars a must-have. Furuno&#;s new DRS2DNXT delivers all the features of the larger NXT Radars in a compact 19-inch Radome. The DRS2DNXT is the perfect solution for smaller vessels or those who desire a compact backup Radar with the same features and modes their larger Radar provides.
The DRS2DNXT utilizes the same, proven transceiver as the 24-inch DRS4DNXT, delivering powerful Solid-State Doppler Radar performance and a 48 nautical mile range. All of the same modes and features that are the hallmarks of the NXT series will be available, including Target Analyzer, RezBoost beam sharpening, FTT (Fast Target Tracking), Bird Mode, Rain Mode and dual-range capability. With Target Analyzer, target colors change in real time, allowing you to spot potentially hazardous situations at a glance. Green echoes are stationary targets, landmasses, or targets approaching your vessel at a velocity of fewer than 3 knots. Radar echoes dynamically shift to red when an object approaches your vessel at a speed of 3 knots or faster, independently of your own ship&#;s speed.
While a smaller antenna creates a wider beamwidth, Furuno&#;s RezBoost beam sharpening processes the returned targets to achieve equivalent resolutions of larger antenna arrays. RezBoost processing also enhances Furuno&#;s Bird Mode, a feature that automatically adjusts the Radar&#;s gain and clutter to detect flocks or even individual birds as they&#;re feeding on baitfish. Knowing where the birds gather is just one tool that fishermen use to get on the fish, and NXT series Radars automatically make those adjustments for you. With the Auto Acquire feature, targets in a 3-nautical mile range are instantly acquired and tracked automatically. The DRS2DNXT can track up to 100 ARPA targets simultaneously: 40 auto-acquired targets, 30 manually acquired targets and up to 30 targets within an operator-created guard zone.
Fast Target Tracking means that acquiring and tracking targets is instantaneous. These unique features can be used together, providing the ultimate utility, safety, and situational awareness. For example, enabling Rain Mode paints areas of precipitation in blue. With Target Analyzer enabled, targets masked within the rain that are approaching your vessel at speeds greater than 3-knots are displayed in red. This combination of features allows you to pick out hazardous targets within the squall easily and automatically. The DRS2DNXT works with NavNet TZtouch, TZtouch2, and TZtouch3.
Also new for are the Furuno FR10 and FR12 standalone Radar Displays. With most of the industry&#;s attention focused on multi-function displays (MFDs), standalone electronics often take a back seat on a boater&#;s wish list. However, Furuno knows that standalone radars still have their place and with that in mind, Furuno has unveiled a new series of standalone Radar Displays with options tailored to meet the needs of nearly any vessel. The 10.4-inch FR10 and 12.1-inch FR12 Radars are designed for use with Furuno&#;s award-winning DRS antenna series, including the Solid-State Doppler (NXT) or traditional X-Band Magnetron (X-Class) antennas.
www.furunousa.com
Garmin recently announced their new ECHOMAP UHD2 series of chartplotters that offer anglers premium features like Ultra High-Definition sonar, preloaded Garmin Navionics+ mapping, wireless networking for data sharing and support for Garmin&#;s award-winning LiveScope live-scanning sonar. Available with 6-inch, 7-inch or 9-inch bright, sunlight-readable touchscreen displays with keyed assist, anglers can easily control and operate the functions they depend on for a successful day on the water, including zooming in or out on the map or quickly toggling between different sonar views.
For crystal-clear imaging of fish and structure, the new ECHOMAP UHD2 chartplotters are available bundled with either an Ultra High-Definition GT54UHD or GT56UHD transducer that provides brilliant ClearVü and SideVü scanning sonar images and amazingly clear CHIRP traditional sonar. These new ECHOMAP UHD2 displays offer the choice of 16 vivid color palette options, so it&#;s easier to distinguish fish and structure based on the user&#;s preferences and fishing conditions. They are also compatible with Garmin LiveScope, so anglers can see real-time sonar imagery of fish and structure below and around their boat up to 200 feet down. Anglers can pinpoint the perfect honey hole or navigate to the next destination with enhanced situational awareness thanks to the built-in Garmin Navionics+ U.S. inland mapping or coastal charts. This all-in-one cartography solution features vibrant colors and a streamlined interface, plus a one-year subscription to daily map updates to deliver superior inland or coastal coverage.
Garmin Navionics+ mapping also features color-shaded target depth ranges, up to 1-foot depth contours, shallow water shading and access to ActiveCaptain community content for valuable insight on points of interest, along with recommendations and advice from fellow boaters. ECHOMAP UHD2 users can also use the ActiveCaptain app to download Auto Guidance+ technology2 on their smart device for faster route calculations and improved routing detail. After selecting departure and arrival points, Auto Guidance+ considers a variety of factors like overhead clearance, chart data, popular routes and desired depth and then creates a suggested route for mariners to follow to their destination.
Whether fishing with a friend or wanting the flexibility to add another chartplotter on board, built-in Wi-Fi connectivity allows anglers to wirelessly stream sonar and share user data, such as waypoints and routes, between two ECHOMAP UHD2 units. Customers who already have an ECHOMAP UHD or an ECHOMAP Ultra chartplotter on board, can add a new ECHOMAP UHD2 and take advantage of the wireless networking capabilities across the full system. With an attractive hardware redesign to serve the needs of the modern angler while maintaining a clean and classic touchscreen with keyed assist interface, the ECHOMAP UHD2 also features Garmin&#;s latest user interface and graphics that provide a more modernized look with intuitive handling and control. For added convenience, the newly redesigned quick release brackets make it simple to remove the unit from the boat at the end of the day. The new 9-inch ECHOMAP UHD2 also adds a high-resolution display with improved detail, clarity and viewing angle compared to previous models.
www.garmin.com
It&#;s no secret that Humminbird MEGA Live Imaging has given anglers an unprecedented real-time view under the water and a better understanding of how to trigger more bites. Additionally, anglers everywhere have experienced how Minn Kota&#;s Spot-Lock has brought boat control up a step up the evolutionary ladder, giving them the ability to hold on a spot and catch more fish with less effort.
Now, with the introduction of the all-new MEGA Live Imaging TargetLock, these two groundbreaking technologies can be fully utilized together. Anglers will no longer need to choose between two of fishing&#;s most powerful technologies, Spot-Lock and MEGA Live, making it easier to stay on and catch more fish. With the push of a button, the TargetLock feature locks the MEGA Live onto structure and keeps it in clear view by automatically adjusting the MEGA Live transducer as the boat moves position and changes direction. Whether the boat is moving, drifting, or Spot-Lock is engaged, TargetLock does all the work to stay focused on structure and fish.
As part of Humminbird&#;s One-Boat Network, MEGA Live TargetLock can also be mounted on Ultrex motors alongside Humminbird&#;s MEGA 360 Imaging transducer by utilizing an optional dual mount bracket. With MEGA 360 Imaging at the bow, anglers can quickly locate fish-holding structure around their boat and begin catching fish with MEGA Live TargetLock. When you see fish-holding structure on MEGA 360, simply move the cursor over that area on the display and activate TargetLock. The MEGA Live transducer will automatically steer itself in that direction and will lock onto the structure, leaving the angler ready to make their cast without any adjustment to the MEGA Live transducer.
TargetLock will maintain the live sonar view in its current direction, adjusting for changes in boat position and will work at the same time and independently of Minn Kota Ultrex&#;s operation, including Spot-Lock. MEGA Live TargetLock is independently mounted of the trolling motor shaft, providing full and simultaneous use of MEGA Live Imaging and all Ultrex features. Anglers can control MEGA Live from the included wireless foot pedal, Humminbird fish finder or optional hand remote. TargetLock can be used while sitting still, while using a Minn Kota Ultrex to move around the structure, or while holding in place using Spot-Lock. Users can set TargetLock in the current direction of MEGA Live with the touch of a button. Then move the cursor over an object or position on a sonar or chart view and engage TargetLock at the cursor. MEGA Live will automatically adjust to focus on the selected target.
www.humminbird.com
Historically, the ability to keep your boat over productive fish-catching locations (without anchoring) was limited to sticking your bow into the wind/seas and running the boat at idle speed&#;stemming the tide. But if the wind or current is running off your quarter or beam, you&#;ll drift off sideways away from your target. Most of the major outboard manufacturers offer a proprietary joystick piloting feature that will keep you in place, once you save a GPS position and instruct it to hold that spot. The electronic joystick controller works with your onboard GPS to operate the engines independently, shifting gears, adding throttle and steering them in different directions to get this done, but this is a very expensive item.
If you can&#;t afford a 30-something foot twin, triple or quad outboard rig with a fuel sucking joystick controller, Minn Kota&#;s Riptide Terrova electric trolling motor with Spot Lock might be an excellent alternative for controlling your craft. The Terrova is a real force-multiplier in the wreck fishing game. The term &#;trolling motor&#; is a bit of a misnomer. You can use it in the classic sense as a straight-up electric trolling motor, but this special tool does considerably more. When drifting near a wreck in moving water, the Terrova can help slow things down by providing just the right amount of reverse thrust to achieve and maintain that &#;perfect&#; drift speed to get consistent bites. If groundfish or tuna are holding around a specific piece of bottom, you can &#;Spot Lock&#; your boat at the touch of a button to employ the invisible anchor feature and keep it right where you want it. Should the fish move around during different stages of the day, the Jog feature with enable you to slide your vessel in five-foot increments north, south, east or west. When you are drift fishing for sharks or tuna and the wind drops out, drafting the Terrova into service can extend your chum slick for miles and make your dead baits come to life with the touch of a button. Compared to the aforementioned multi-outboard joystick systems, the Minn Kota Riptide Terrova is a much more affordable option that&#;s a fraction of the cost. Plus it&#;s really the only viable option for micro-control of single engine vessels. At the core of the Minn Kota trolling motor is an indestructible composite shaft that&#;s guaranteed for life. For more information on the Minn Kota Riptide Terrova,
www.minnkotamotors.com
The ICOM M510 is a Class-D DSC VHF marine transceiver with wireless capabilities and is a powerhouse that&#;s tough enough for the commercial market yet also refined for the recreational boater. The M510 is nearly half the depth of the M506, allowing installation in more confined spaces. The large color display has a simple user interface offering casual and serious boaters alike plenty of options to communicate. Additionally, command and control using iOS and Android smart devices with class leading features such as wireless calling. With the ability to receive AIS signals (optional AIS version only), users can see surrounding vessel traffic in real-time and directly make individual DSC calls to selected targets. The large 3.5-inch color TFT LCD provides a wide viewing angle with high-resolution characters and icons for consistent readability, even in low light with night mode. Front and back connection ports allow an additional wired station using a COMMANDMIC.
ICOM&#;s RS-M500 app allows users to connect three iOS or Android smart devices to function as a wireless command speaker/microphone. Use the push-to-talk features, scroll/scan channels, as well as use the M510&#;s intercom function from the comfort of the captain&#;s seat. Additionally, one COMMANDMIC can connect while three other smart devices are linked. Users can connect to a NMEA network with the optional CT-M500 wireless interface box. If the NMEA connection is on a different part of the boat, the CT-M500 can wirelessly connect with the M510, providing flexibility on placement. Additionally, with the optional SP-37 horn speaker, the CT-M500 can access the two-way hailer/PA functions. Other features of the ICOM M510 include a MMSI reset dongle; hand microphone with AquaQuake; optional voice scrambler; external speaker connection; four-digit channels support; plus an option to connect to an external GPS.
www.icomamerica.com
Lowrance recently unveiled the next generation of the Ultimate Fishing System with New HDS PRO, ActiveTarget 2 and Active Imaging HD. The new HDS PRO chartplotter/fishfinder highest resolution ActiveTarget 2 Live Sonar and ultra-high-definition Active Imaging HD provide anglers with the complete package of the latest fishfinding technology.
HDS PRO forms the heart of the Ultimate Fishing System, offering full networking and bow-to-stern boat control spanning trolling motors, autopilots, engines, radar, communications, and connectivity and control of PowerPole shallow water anchors. The new HDS PRO introduces two new chart overlays for ActiveTarget Scout mode and Ghost 360. HDS PRO offers a SolarMAX HD touchscreen, which provides stunning sonar images of fish and structure from the Active Imaging HD and ActiveTarget 2 Live Sonar technologies, along with incredible detailed chart information that is easy to see from any angle, in direct sunlight and through polarized lenses. The HDS PRO fishfinder is available in 9-inch, all new 10-inch, 12-inch and 16-inch display sizes.
ActiveTarget 2 is the newest update to the award-winning ActiveTarget live sonar that was unveiled in and quickly became a mainstay for the world&#;s best anglers and professionals of Major League Fishing. Active Target 2 provides higher-resolution views of fish movement and structure and enables anglers to quickly recognize if lures and techniques are working in real-time allowing them to make adjustments to get fish to strike. It delivers a smoother and more consistent image across the entire range, with full live-action picture in Forward, Down and Scout views. Additionally, HDS PRO allows for the use of two systems at the same time giving even more views simultaneously with 180 View, Scout Wide View and Forward and Scout split screen view.
Active Imaging HD rounds out the suite of products with the clearest images of fish and structure from Lowrance CHIRP sonar, SideScan and DownScan Imaging. Additionally, a new FishReveal SideScan view is now available with a recently introduced S Sonar Module, in addition to the already popular DownScan Fish reveal view, helping anglers easily identify fish targets to the sides and beneath the boat.
Pre-loaded C-MAP charts on the HDS PRO include full-featured vector charts, custom depth shading, high-resolution coastal coverage and 1-foot contours on more than 27,000 lakes across the U.S. and Canada along with the new chart overlay option, allowing you to view ActiveTarget Scout Mode or Ghost 360 trolling motor mode directly on the chart screen. For anglers that want to select their own chart, HDS PRO supports a wide range of third-party chart options, including C-MAP REVEAL, Navionics, Florida Marine Tracks and more.
www.lowrance.com
Raymarine recently introduced the next generation of their LightHouse Operating System for all boaters. New LightHouse 4.1 delivers even easier operation, exciting personalization options, and several new features. As with all Raymarine software upgrades, LightHouse 4.1 is available to all Axiom, Axiom+, Axiom Pro, and Axiom XL owners completely free as a downloadable update. Revised menu structures enable easier use of the depth of Axiom features, with personalized images now an option for all boaters to make their boat even more their own.
Feature improvements include deeper integration with Mercury Engines, Sirius XM Fish Mapping and Navionics charts to heighten a captain&#;s awareness at the helm. New dynamic tiles on the home screen allow the presentation of navigation, NMEA or SeaTalking data immediately available on start up. Whether cruising, fishing, or sailing, the powerful combination of Raymarine Axiom chartplotter displays and the LightHouse operating system affords captains an enhanced level of situational awareness.
The new LightHouse 4.1 OS provides a refined visual experience. Simplified menus make tapping into the power of Axiom faster and easier than ever. Longer pull-up menus are now nested and more intuitive to read and operate. LightHouse Apps that integrate control or provide information from marine integration partners like Seakeeper, Victron, Lumishore, and a host of others are now launchable directly from the LightHouse Home Screen, and key LightHouse Apps are now viewable in split-screen configurations. Additionally, the critical MOB touch key has been relocated to share prominent space on the Home Screen. LightHouse 4.1 offers more options than ever to personalize how Axiom looks and functions. Captains can now add a favorite photo to the Home Screen background or create dynamic dashboard tiles to keep them informed of real-time instrument and navigation data right from the home screen display.
LightHouse 4.1 takes integration with Mercury Marine Vessel View to the next level, offering Active Exhaust Volume control, a new and refined Engine Data Summary page, and more. Anglers in North America will also appreciate the industry-best integration with SiriusXM Fish Mapping, which offers regularly updated science-based fishing-data chart overlays. SiriusXM Fish Mapping helps anglers quickly visualize and navigate to the most productive offshore fishing grounds. The LightHouse 4.1 update allows SiriusXM Fish Mapping data to be directly overlaid and viewed on premium fishing charts like Raymarine LightHouse Charts, Navionics, C-MAP, CMOR, and Strikelines in North American coastal regions.
HUAZHONG are exported all over the world and different industries with quality first. Our belief is to provide our customers with more and better high value-added products. Let's create a better future together.
LightHouse 4.1 delivers a host of additional key upgrades, including active route line visual enhancements, new levels of audio control, and more. Of particular interest to Navionics chart users, LightHouse 4.1 supports the display of high-resolution bathymetric data and satellite imagery that comes bundled with new Navionics Platinum+TM charts.
www.raymarine.com
At the Miami Boat Show Simrad Yachting unveiled their newest NSX series multi-function displays (MFDs). The Simrad NSX is available in 7-inch, 9-inch and 12-inch display sizes and is based on a new Operating System built from the ground up to redefine your boating and fishing experiences. I had a chance to test all three of the new NSX screen sizes and operating software and they are the real deal. NSX features an innovative and modern interface with a new, intuitive touch screen with crystal clear views. Charts include powerful C-MAP navigation capabilities and compatibility with other Simrad sonar, radar and autopilot systems. The Simple Setup Wizards guide users through each step during the initial NSX device setup and Simrad app integration makes connectivity from your smartphone easier than ever.
With the full suite of Simrad technology at your fingertips, NSX is designed to allow users to expand the MFD with additional functionality, easier integrations and support for a wide range of third-party applications. Boaters who love fishing can utilize NSX to view high-resolution images below and to the sides with Active Imaging and CHIRP sonar, SideScan/DownScan Imaging and FishReveal, or search even greater depths with a wide range of compatible transducers. Users can integrate easily with their radar and get the most out of their AutoPilot systems by connecting to Autorouting.
Simple to set up and easy to manage with a Setup Wizard that walks users through the process to make it easier and faster including engine and tank setup, AutoPilot optimization, radar dockside and on the water calibration and much more. NSX offers a new, intuitive touchscreen experience with various display sizes and multiple screen configurations to suit every user&#;s needs. There&#;s a full suite of Simrad technology at the touch of a finger with networking and connectivity solutions including modem plug-in for additional connectivity to devices and an ethernet port for full networking capabilities in the future.
The screen is fully customizable with smart drag-and-drop capabilities via the handy instruments bar that allows easy edits on command. High resolution bathymetry shows accurate contour lines down to a 1-foot level of detail with compatible charts. Enhanced day and night modes allow each operator to be ready to go in all weather and lighting conditions. Simrad&#;s fastest-ever Autorouting feature offers improved planning and route plotting and the Simrad App allows hassle-free software updates and data transfer.
www.simrad-yachting.com
Sionyx, a leader in digital color night vision technology, recently introduced its Nightwave marine camera system. Built around the brand&#;s proprietary Black Silicon BSI CMOS sensor, Nightwave allows mariners to navigate safely by easily spotting hazards and debris in moonless starlight without additional illumination, maximizing time on the water. The new ultra-low-light marine digital camera system guides boaters of all skill levels safely through low-light situations, dramatically enhancing night travel.
Built to operate in the toughest marine environments, the night vision camera is IP67 waterproof and shock rated. Nightwave seamlessly integrates to any vessel&#;s electronics by connecting to most major brand multi-function displays (MFDs) via the analog video output. With flexible mounting and setup, Nightwave can also connect to a mobile device via Wi-Fi for an enhanced user experience. At an MSRP of $1,595.00, Nightwave sets a new standard of affordability for night vision, making it accessible to boaters of all levels.
&#;Developing solutions to increase safety on the water and navigate with confidence is part of our mission,&#; said Gio Lepore, Global Product Manager at Sionyx. &#;Nightwave&#;s digital color night vision allows anglers and boaters to be active on the water as early or as late at night as they&#;d like,&#; Lepore noted, while adding &#;This technology provides clear color images in near-total darkness and is simple to install and operate. It should be a standard piece of equipment on every vessel to ensure a safe trip at any time.&#;
Notable features of the Sionyx Nightwave camera include <1mlx moonless starlight sensitivity, which allows mariners to see well beyond human eyesight and detect a man-sized object at 150 meters; the system&#;s high resolution detector provides upgraded quality imaging capability in near total darkness; Wide 44-degree field of view increases situational awareness to spot unexpected obstacles, debris, markers, vessels, and more; convenient installation flexibility that includes permanent mounting hardware, as well as a standard 1/4- by 20-inch mount interface.
Nightwave can be oriented ball-up or ball-down, to meet any challenging mounting requirements; plus it&#;s lightweight and portable at less than 31 ounces. Users can stay up-to-date with the latest firmware and software releases, which are available through the SIONYX mobile app. The Nightwave mobile app features include the ability to connect to Nightwave for additional features and capabilities like using WiFi to set the camera orientation and position for optimal viewing experiences, an IR cut filter control, over-the-air updates and more. The initial release will be android compatible, with iOS releasing shortly after. Future releases will include additional features such as wireless video streaming. Built rugged, connected and capable, Nightwave is an impressive and affordable addition to any vessel large or small.
www.sionyx.com
Sirius and Raymarine recently announced that the SiriusXM Fish Mapping service, which is designed to help saltwater anglers locate fish faster and save fuel, is now available on Raymarine&#;s Axiom line of chart plotter displays. SiriusXM Fish Mapping provides regularly updated, science-based fishing data directly to compatible Axiom displays using the SR200 SiriusXM Satellite Weather receiver and running Raymarine&#;s new version of the LightHouse 4.1 operating system.
The SiriusXM Fish Mapping service is also available on select products from all major marine electronics manufacturers. Fish Mapping provides eight distinct features to identify the most promising areas to fish in North American waters. Fishing Recommendations identify the areas that oceanographers recommend for zeroing in on six distinct target species. Plankton Fronts show locations of greatest plankton concentration next to relatively little plankton, particularly beneficial info when they occur near temperature fronts. Plankton Concentration contour lines show areas with dense plankton concentrations; baitfish feed on plankton which attracts gamefish. Sea Surface Temperature Fronts reveal significant temperature changes that create distinct boundaries between bodies of water, concentrating nutrients which attract bait fish. Strong and very strong fronts are good places to find game fish. Sea Surface Temperature Contour lines are simplified graphic representations of sea surface temperatures to help target areas where specific fish species can be found. Weed Lines show the most recent sightings of weed lines, which provide habitat for bait and gamefish.
Sea Surface Height Anomalies represent areas of upwellings, eddies and convergence zones where nutrient-rich water is favorable for finding fish. Sub-Surface Water Temperatures provide water temperatures up to 30 meters beneath the surface, to help identify where targeted game fish tend to hunt within their preferred temperature range. Anglers who already have SiriusXM Weather and a SR200 can easily upgrade to the SiriusXM Fish Mapping service.
The SR200 is easy to install and use, and its reliable antenna provides the best possible reception, even on the fringes of SiriusXM&#;s extensive coverage area (up to 150 nautical miles offshore). Consumers who do not yet have a SR200 receiver will need to purchase that and also sign up for subscription; the Fish Mapping service is $99.99 a month and includes all of SiriusXM Marine&#;s Weather information. The service can be suspended at no charge for up to 6 months each year. The SR200 also supports SiriusXM&#;s audio entertainment service which features a wide variety of channels that offer ad-free music, plus news, sports, comedy and more. Access to SiriusXM&#;s audio channels can be added to a Fish Mapping subscription.
www.siriusxm.com
The Si-Tex management team shared that they are currently working on a new series of GPS/echo sounder units that will be released sometime in the calendar year, with no specifics available as of yet. In the interim, there is now a new source of transducers for the marine electronics industry, offering American design, Italian manufacturing and compatibility with all major sounder and multi-function display brands.
Si-Tex has partnered with Italian manufacturer Echonautics to help alleviate the current supply chain issues for transducers for many electronics manufacturers, regardless of brand. The Echonautics line-up includes the BT87H1kW, a 1kw High Frequency CHIRP bronze flush-mount thru-hull that minimizes drag and provides superior high-speed performance. Its powerful output, 130 kHz to 210 kHz frequency range and narrow 8- to 13-degree beamwidth make this transducer excellent for pinpointing fish holding tight to reefs, wrecks and other structure. This model is available in 0-degree, 12-degree, and 18-degree tilted element versions to accommodate different mounting locations and hull styles.
The Echonautics product line includes a full range of high-performance transducer options including bronze and stainless steel thru-hulls, NMEA Digital Sensors, dual-frequency transom mounts and more. Echonautics will be available to boat builders, marine electronics dealers and consumers across North America exclusively through AvMap Satellite Navigation Inc.
www.avmap.us
Standard Horizon will be launching the new HX320 handheld VHF in mid-February, hopefully in time for the Miami Boat Show. The Standard Horizon HX320 is a compact floating 6-watt handheld VHF that is value-packed with many great features. Users can easily navigate all functions of the radio using the latest Easy to Operate (E2O) software viewed on the large high resolution backlit dot matrix display. The HX320 provides a full 6-watts of transmit power, which is also selectable to 2.5-watt or 1-watt settings to assist in obtaining maximum battery life. The HX320 is designed to be heard, even in noisy environments, with 700mW of audio power supplied to the internal speaker.
Engineered to be rugged and reliable, the HX320 is designed to float and constructed to survive submersion with the IPX7 water resistant rating that requires it to endure 3.3 feet (1 meter) of water for 30 minutes with its rubber caps installed. When the HX320 comes in contact with water, the water-activated strobe light will turn on &#;white&#; to assist in finding the radio in low light conditions. This feature operates whether the radio is ON or OFF. The built-in mAh high capacity Lithium polymer battery provides approximately 17-hours of operation. It&#;s equipped with a USB type-C jack for recharging and the HX320 enables wireless operation using the optional Bluetooth headset SSM-BT10.
Visibility is enhanced with an ample LCD display incorporating large and bold channel information flags that are easy to identify. Emergency channel 16 can be immediately accessed by pressing the [16/S] key. Other channel functions include a Preset key used to recall up to 10 favorite channels; Programmable Scan, Priority Scan, Dual Watch and Triple Watch; an integrated FM broadcast receiver; plus NOAA Weather Channels with Weather Alert (only available in NOAA weather service areas).
The HX320 comes equipped with a VHF Marine Antenna, charger cradle, USB AC Adapter, USB cable, USB type-A to USB type-C charging cable, belt clip and a hand strap. The robust design of this radio is backed by an industry leading 3-year waterproof warranty.
www.standardhorizon.com
Whether you&#;re starting with a blank dash or upgrading an existing suite of electronics, our buyer&#;s guide has options for your boat and your style of fishing.
Fish-finding and GPS charting technology continues to evolve at a blistering pace. At the high end, integrated multifunction displays provide clearer, more detailed sonar images, lightning-fast processors, and responsive touchscreens. At the entry-level, technology continues to trickle down and value-minded anglers can access high-tech features that were out of reach just a few years ago.
Of the major marine electronics manufacturers, each offers a suite of products to meet the needs of boaters with different budgets and available dash space. Among them, you&#;ll find slight differences in user interface, available features, and options for growth. Whether you&#;re starting with a blank dash or upgrading an existing suite of electronics, review our buyer&#;s guide to compare options and then visit a local retailer to demo them in person.
Simrad offers customizable modular technology that lets you create the perfect sportfishing system with advanced charting, sonar and radio technology, HALO Radar, and fully integrated autopilot. Simrad&#;s premium NSOevo3S glass bridge systems are suited to larger sportfishing vessels, while the NSS Evo3S multifunction displays are designed for 20- to 40-foot center consoles. The GO series of multi-touch chartplotters are suited for smaller center consoles and bay boats, while the Simrad Cruise is an intuitive,easy-to-use chartplotter.
Starting at $449 &#; Visit Simrad-Yachting.com
Simrad GO series displays are designed for dayboats and center consoles. Behind the sunlight-viewable touchscreen lies a built-in GPS receiver, echosounder, and wireless connectivity. Navigate, connect with mobile devices, control your on-board sound system, and choose from an array of built-in sonar features. Radar capability is available on the GO7 and above. Available in 5-, 7-, 9-, and 12-inch sizes.
Starting at $2,599 &#; Visit Simrad-Yachting.com
The SIMRAD NSSevo3S improves on the previous model with better processing power and a better user experience. That means faster switching between split screens, smoother panning and zooming, and faster viewing of high-resolution graphics. The NSSevo3S system includes a built-in GPS receiver and high-performance echo sounder, support for HALO dome and open array radars, and Simrad autopilot integration. Available in 9-, 12-, and 16-inch models.
Starting at $479 &#; Visit Simrad-Yachting.com
Simrad describes the Simrad Cruise as the most intuitive chartplotter available. Everything you need for simple and straightforward GPS navigation is inside the box, including a sunlight-viewable display, mounting bracket, and sonar transducer. Rotary dial and keypad controls make navigating through menus, creating routes, and accessing temperature, speed, and depth readings effortless. Available in 5-, 7-, and 9-inch models.
Lowrance offers innovative solutions targeted toward inland and coastal fishermen. Their flagship HDS LIVE series offers premium performance for serious freshwater and saltwater anglers and supports revolutionary ActiveTarget Live Sonar. The new Elite FS (Fishing System) series of mid-range, easy-to-use products are perfect for both inland and coastal fishing enthusiasts. The Hook Reveal series is focused on providing easy-to-use fishfinders at great prices.
Starting at $699 &#; Visit Lowrance.com
Powerful yet affordable, the new Elite FS gives anglers access to the full lineup of Lowrance fish-finding tools &#; including ActiveTarget Live Sonar, Active Imaging, Fish Reveal, and preloaded C-MAP Contour+ charts&#;in an affordable display that&#;s easy to use and install. Wireless networking delivers full connectivity without cable installation. Available in 7- and 9-inch display sizes.
Starting at $1,199 &#; Visit Lowrance.com
Lowrance&#;s high-performance line of fishfinders/chartplotters brings a sleek design, fast processor, suite of HDS navigation tools, and support for a wide array of new fish-finding technology. It includes built-in Lowrance CHIRP sonar, along with support for Active Imaging and ActiveTarget Live Sonar. Lowrance HDS LIVE is available in 7-, 9-, 12- and 16-inch display sizes.
Starting at $329 &#; Visit Lowrance.com
The HOOK Reveal makes fishing easier, delivering powerful performance with proven fish-finding tools including FishReveal, which makes fish easier to see by combining the benefits of Lowrance CHIRP sonar and DownScan Imaging on one screen. Whether you&#;re fishing a local spot or unfamiliar water, find the best fishing areas with preloaded mapping or map uncharted water in real time with Genesis Live. Available in 5-, 7-, and 9-inch displays.
With a history of over 40 years of innovation, Humminbird brings fishfinders, GPS systems, radar, and autopilot to anglers. They offer solutions for all types of freshwater and saltwater anglers with the powerful, top-of-the-line APEX Series, the SOLIX series of 15.4-, 12.1-, and 10.1-inch displays, and the HELIX series of 5- to 15.4-inch chartplotters. Link your Humminbird electronics with a Minn Kota trolling motor to create a &#;One-Boat Network&#; with seamless integration and communication.
Starting at $2,199 &#; Visit Humminbird.com
The third generation of the SOLIX series provides an expanded range of MEGA Imaging+, which now reaches up to 250 feet deep with MEGA Down Imaging+ and up to 250 feet to each side with MEGA Side Imaging+. Humminbird&#;s Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar is built into every model, and for deep-water performance, SOLIX G3 models are compatible with optional Airmar CHIRP transducers. A dual-core processor allows you to execute any command with lightning speed. Available in 10.1-, 12.1- and 15.4-inch Cross Touch displays.
Starting at $299 &#; Visit Humminbird.com
The Humminbird HELIX series delivers innovative technologies that make finding and catching fish easy. Whether you&#;re looking for standard features like Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar and built-in GPS, or premium technologies and features like MEGA and Ethernet networking, HELIX delivers. Available in a wide range of models from the HELIX 5 to the HELIX 15.
Starting at $3,699 &#; Visit Humminbird.com
The new Humminbird APEX series takes fish finding to the next level with standard MEGA Imaging and Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar and a dedicated sonar channel for accessory transducers up to 2kW. See it all clearly with a full-HD touchscreen and add the power of the One-Boat Network for unrivaled control of your vessel. A powerful dual-core processor provides lightning-fast intuitive control as well as customization of features. The APEX series is offered in 13-, 16-, and 19-inch models.
Known for creating user-friendly, intuitive devices, Garmin&#;s marine offerings include sophisticated chartplotters and touchscreen multifunction displays, sonar technology, high-definition radar, autopilots, high-resolution mapping, and instrumentation. The flagship GPSMAP series includes 7- to 24-inch multifunction displays, while the EchoMap Plus series offers 4- to 9-inch easy-to-use,easy-to-set-up chartplotter/sonar combos.
Starting at $179 &#; Visit Garmin.com
The Garmin STRIKER Vivid series brings an enhanced sonar experience to Garmin&#;s STRIKER fishfinder series, now offering Garmin&#;s most vibrant underwater imagery to date. The Vivid series comes with a built-in high-sensitivity GPS receiver and two transducer options, with and without SideVü, and is available with a 4-, 5-, 7- or 9-inch color display.
Starting at $ (w/sonar) &#; Visit Garmin.com
Building on the GPSMAP series, the Garmin GPSMAP x3 series of mid-sized chartplotters and combination units has a sleek and streamlined design, improved display optics, and a robust feature set that seamlessly integrates into a Garmin marine system, making it easy to build a customized electronics suite, including sonar, radar, autopilots, instruments, cameras, and more. Along with higher-res displays and strikingly increased resolution, the new 7-, 9- and 12-inch GPSMAP x3 series offers almost twice the processing power of previous generation&#;s devices.
With a legacy of marine navigation technology spanning over 80 years, Raymarine products are renowned today for their ease of use, rugged design, and reliability. Their comprehensive range includes the powerful Axiom family of multifunction navigation systems and the Element HV series sonar/GPS units along with a wide range of marine radar systems.
Starting at $599 &#; Visit Raymarine.com
Building on the success of their Axiom displays, Raymarine&#;s Element HV introduces new patent-pending HyperVision 1.2-megahertz sonar technology, featuring ultra-high CHIRP sonar frequencies and enhancing the DownVision, SideVision, and RealVision 3D sonar, allowing anglers to see structure, vegetation, and fish with lifelike detail. The series consists of 7-, 9-, and 12-inch display models.
Starting at $549 &#; Visit Raymarine.com
The Raymarine Axiom family of multifunction displays is expandable, so its capabilities can grow as needed. It supports the full range of Raymarine accessories, including Quantum radar, CHIRP Sonar, FLIR thermal cameras, audio integration, instruments, cameras, and Evolution autopilot. Standard Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity allow connection to the latest Raymarine apps for tablets and smartphones. Available in a range of 7- to 24-inch display models.
If you want to learn more, please visit our website marine navigational aids manufacturer.