Best Fish Finder GPS Combo in 2023: Buyer’s Guide

Looking for the best fish finder GPS combo to take your fishing game to the next level? Look no further! We’ve done the research and put together a list of the top 11 reliable devices to help you make an informed decision.

These top fish finders are equipped with advanced sonar technology and GPS navigation systems that will help you locate fish and navigate your way through the water with ease. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, these fish finder GPS combos will take your fishing experience to new heights. So, let’s dive in.

Top Picks for the Best Fish Finder GPS Combo

1. Humminbird Helix 12 Chirp GPS G4N
2. Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 106sv
3. Lowrance Elite FS 9
4. Lowrance Elite FS 7
5. Raymarine Axiom 7
6. Lowrance Hook Reveal HDI 7
7. Humminbird HELIX 7 CHIRP MDI GPS G3
8. Humminbird Helix 7 Chirp MSI GPS G4
9. Garmin ECHOMAP UHD 74Cv
10. Garmin Striker 7SV
11. Lowrance Hook Reveal 7

To know more: Top Rated Fish Finders

Benefits of a Fish Finder GPS Combo

Time-saving and convenience

Having a fish finder and GPS in one device means you can avoid carrying multiple gadgets on your fishing trips. This saves time and ensures that you have all the essential information at your fingertips.

Improved accuracy

With a fish finder, you get the best of both worlds. The fish finder helps you locate and track fish, while the GPS allows you to mark fishing spots and navigate the waters with ease. This combination leads to a more accurate and efficient fishing experience.

Versatility

A fish finder is a versatile tool suitable for various fishing environments, from freshwater to saltwater, and everything in between. It’s also suitable for different fishing styles, such as casting, trolling, or jigging.

What to Look for in a Fish Finder GPS Combo

Before diving into our fishfinder GPS combo, it’s essential to understand the fish finder features that set these devices apart.

Screen Size and Resolution

The display screen is your window to the underwater world, so it’s crucial to have a fish finder GPS combo with a clear display. Larger screens with higher resolutions make it easier to see the details, especially when you’re trying to differentiate between fish and other underwater structures. A screen with a resolution of at least 800 x 480 pixels is recommended for the best viewing experience.

Frequency and Power

The fish finder’s frequency and power will determine how well it can penetrate the water and provide accurate information about fish and underwater structures. Higher frequencies, such as 200 kHz or more, are better for shallow waters, while lower frequencies, like 50 kHz, are better for deep water fishing. The power of the fish finder, measured in watts, also affects its performance. Higher wattage allows for better depth penetration and a clearer image.

Transducer Type and Mounting Options

The transducer is the heart of a fish finder, sending out and receiving signals that help locate fish. Choose a device with a high-quality transducer and consider the mounting options, such as transom, trolling, or thru-hull mounts, depending on your boat and fishing style.

The transducer is responsible for sending and receiving the sonar signals that help you locate fish. There are different types of transducers, including down and side imaging, and CHIRP (Compressed High-Intensity Radiated Pulse) technology. CHIRP is the most advanced, providing better image clarity and target separation.

Connectivity Options

Connectivity options like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NMEA 2000 support can enhance the functionality of your fish finder GPS combo. These options allow you to connect your device to other electronics, such as a trolling motor or VHF radio, and even share data with compatible devices.

Sonar Technology

When choosing the perfect fish finder GPS combo for your needs, one of the most critical aspects to consider is the type of sonar technology it uses. The system plays a significant role in providing accurate and detailed information about the underwater environment, helping you locate fish and identify structures. Here are the main types of technology and their benefits:

Traditional Single-frequency and Dual-frequency Sonar

Traditional single-frequency sonar is ideal for specific water depths, while dual-frequency sonar offers versatility for various depths. Both provide essential underwater information for anglers.

CHIRP (Compressed High-Intensity Radiated Pulse) Sonar

CHIRP sonar uses a range of frequencies in a single pulse, resulting in better target separation, higher resolution images, and maximum depth penetration. It’s great for locating individual fish and identifying bottom structures.

Side-Scan and Down-Scan Imaging

Side-scan and down-scan imaging offer high-resolution images of the underwater environment to the sides and below your boat. These systems help you easily locate prime fishing spots by providing clear views of structures, vegetation, and fish.

3D Sonar

3D sonar generates realistic, immersive three-dimensional images of the underwater environment. This advanced technology allows you to better understand the spatial relationships between fish, structures, and the bottom, enhancing your fishing decisions.

GPS Capabilities

As a GPS feature, a good GPS system is essential for navigation and marking fishing spots. Look for a fish finder with a high-sensitivity GPS receiver, GPS plotting, GPS mapping, internal GPS antenna, preloaded maps, and the ability to add custom waypoints. When evaluating the GPS capabilities of a fish finder, consider the following features:

High-sensitivity GPS receiver

A high-sensitivity GPS receiver ensures that your device can quickly and accurately lock onto satellite signals, even in challenging conditions such as dense foliage, deep canyons, or when surrounded by tall buildings. This allows you to maintain a reliable connection and receive accurate location information during your fishing trips.

Preloaded maps and chartplotter

Most fish finders, also most castable fish finders come with preloaded maps that cover a wide range of coastal and inland waters. These maps provide essential information such as water depths, navigational markers, and the locations of various structures like marinas, docks, and boat ramps. A quality chartplotter allows you to easily view and navigate these maps, making it simpler to find your way around the waters.

Custom waypoints and routes

The ability to add custom waypoints and routes is a valuable feature that helps you mark your favorite fishing spots, plan your trips, and easily return to productive locations in the future. Some devices also offer the option to share your waypoints and routes with other anglers, making it a collaborative experience.

Mapping software compatibility

Some fish finder GPS combos are compatible with third-party mapping software, such as Navionics, C-MAP, or LakeMaster. This compatibility allows you to access additional maps and chart data, providing a more comprehensive view of the waters you’re fishing. These maps can be loaded onto your device via SD card or downloaded directly from the manufacturer’s website.

Real-time weather and tide information

Certain fish finder offer real-time weather and tide information through their GPS system. This feature can be incredibly useful for anglers, as it helps you plan your fishing trips around optimal weather and tidal conditions, increasing your chances of success.

Wireless connectivity

Wireless connectivity allows your fish finder to connect to your smartphone or tablet, enabling you to access additional features and real-time data. For example, you can receive weather updates, software updates, and even share your fishing experiences with friends and fellow anglers through social media or fishing apps.

The 11 Best Fish Finder GPS Combos

Based on the above criteria, we’ve selected the top 11 fish finder GPS combos available on the market today.

Looking for a high-quality fish finder GPS combo? The HELIX 12 CHIRP GPS G4N is definitely worth considering. With a massive 12.1″ display, Dual Spectrum CHIRP Sonar, and internal GPS with Humminbird Basemap, as a first fish finder, this is one of the best budget fish finder GPS combo that has great GPS features.

The keypad control makes it easy to master HELIX at the touch of a button. With preloaded views from the user-friendly menu system, you can reliably operate your fish finder in any conditions. The Dual Spectrum CHIRP sonar offers highly-detailed fish arches and a clear view of fish-holding structure and the bottom, making it easier to know what’s down there before casting.

Premium Chart Compatible, the HELIX 12 CHIRP GPS G4N provides anglers with a complete view of the world below with optional charts from Humminbird’s LakeMaster and CoastMaster products, as well as compatible Navionics charts. Bluetooth connectivity allows for wireless control of compatible Talon and Raptor shallow water anchors, as well as Cannon Optimum downriggers. Plus, wireless software updates from the Humminbird FishSmart App and display of smart phone notifications on your Humminbird.

With NMEA 2000 networking built-in, you can connect an accessory NMEA 2000 network to your control head for even more information. From boat performance to weather and water conditions, make sense of it all with NMEA 2000 networking.

While the HELIX 12 CHIRP GPS G4N is the best fish finder GPS combo with numerous features, it does come with a high price tag. If you’re looking for budget-friendly or affordable options, this may not be the best choice for you.

This is one of the best Garmin fish finder GPS combo that delivers exceptional performance. Introducing the ECHOMAP Ultra 106sv, a versatile device designed to make your fishing adventures more productive and enjoyable.

If you’re looking for a fish finder that offers advanced technology and user-friendly features, the ECHOMAP Ultra 106sv is an excellent choice. This combo features a 10″ keyed-assist IPS touchscreen display and comes packed with numerous built-in tools that cater to your fishing needs.

Do you need a transducer with superior sonar capabilities? The included GT56 transducer provides Garmin CHIRP traditional sonar and Ultra High-Definition ClearVü and SideVü scanning sonars, boasting a 20% greater range than its competitors. These vivid scanning sonar color palettes make it easy to distinguish targets and underwater structures.

Are you interested in expanding your sonar options? The ECHOMAP Ultra 106sv supports the entire Panoptix all-seeing sonar line, including the internal GPS antenna, Panoptix LiveScope LVS12 and LiveScope system (transducers sold separately).

Have you ever wanted to share valuable data with fellow anglers? This combo allows you to share sonar, mark waypoints, and routes with other ECHOMAP Ultra 10″ and 12″ units, as well as ECHOMAP Plus and UHD 7″ and 9″ units.

If you’re looking for a fish finder GPS combo with comprehensive mapping capabilities, the ECHOMAP Ultra 106sv has you covered. Preloaded with BlueChart g3 coastal charts and LakeVü g3 inland maps, this device offers integrated Navionics data and Auto Guidance technology for planning purposes. The built-in Quickdraw Contours GPS mapping software creates personalized fishing maps on-screen with 1’ depth contours as you fish.

Are you looking for the best fish finder GPS combo under $1000, that elevate your angling experience? If you’re looking for a budget-friendly and feature-packed option, the Lowrance Elite FS9 might just be what you need.

Looking for a high-quality fish finder GPS combo that offers unparalleled sonar imaging capabilities? The included Active Imaging 3-in-1 sonar with CHIRP, SideScan, and DownScan offers refined detail, allowing you to see structure and cover like never before. If you’re looking for a device that is ActiveTarget Live Sonar-ready, the Elite FS has got you covered. Witness high-resolution images of fish swimming around structure and responding to your lure in real-time.

Do you need seamless networking for a more efficient fishing experience? The Elite FS boasts full networking capabilities, including integrated wireless, NMEA 2000, and Ethernet connectivity. You can easily add Halo Dome Radar, Outboard Pilot, or share sonar, charting, waypoints, and other user data between displays.

Have you been searching for an intuitive, best fish finder GPS combo? The 9-inch multi-touch screen with a flat glass display and anti-reflective coating ensures great visibility in all light conditions. A single user-programmable key allows quick access to your most-used interactions.

If you’re looking for a device that comes preloaded with detailed maps, the Elite FS includes C-MAP Contour+ with high-resolution 1-foot contours on 8,900 U.S. lakes. This feature aids in finding key fishing areas such as ledges, drop-offs, and ditches, helping you navigate with precision to fish-holding areas.

If you’re an avid fisherman who wants to spend more time catching fish and looking for the best fish finders for saltwater fishing, the Lowrance Elite FS7 Fish Finder GPS Combo is the perfect tool for you. With high-resolution detail and C-MAP Contour+ inland and coastal charts, this device will make fishing a breeze.

One of the most exciting features of the Elite FS is the ActiveTarget Live Sonar, which lets you watch high-resolution images of fish movements as they swim in and around cover. You can track fish near structures and observe how they respond to your lure, giving you valuable information that is hard to get from traditional sonar or structure imaging.

The Active Imaging 3-in-1 feature includes CHIRP, SideScan, and DownScan with FishReveal, letting you see structure and cover with a new level of refined detail. With full networking, you can build the complete Elite Fishing System with integrated wireless, NMEA 2000, and Ethernet connectivity. You can even add a Halo Dome Radar, Outboard Pilot or share sonar, charting, waypoints, and other user data between displays.

The 7-inch multi-touch screen is easy to use and install, giving you full touchscreen control of Power-Pole anchors and Ghost Trolling Motor. You can also enjoy the benefits of C-MAP Easy Routing and Navionics Autorouting capability, as well as C-MAP Genesis Live on-screen mapping.

The preloaded C-MAP Contour+ has 1-foot contours on 15,000+ U.S. lakes and 9,400+ lakes in Canada, letting you find key fishing areas like ledges, drop-offs, and ditches with precision.

If you’re looking for the best fish finder GPS combo, the Raymarine Axiom 7 DV is a powerful and reliable option. With a 7-inch rugged all-glass touchscreen display and powered by Raymarine’s powerful new LightHouse 3 operating system and a supercharged quad-core processor, this multifunction navigation system is sure to impress.

One of the standout features of the Axiom 7 DV is its built-in dual channel imaging sonar, which allows for imaging of bottom structure and fish. This makes it easy to identify potential fishing spots and track fish movements. Additionally, the Axiom 7 DV is expandable, meaning its capabilities can grow as needed, and it supports a full range of Raymarine accessories, including Quantum radar, CHIRP Sonar, FLIR thermal cameras, audio integration, instruments, cameras, and Evolution autopilot.

The Axiom 7 DV is ideal for kayak and canoe anglers, that includes standard Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, which allows for connection to the latest Raymarine apps for tablets and smartphones. The Navionics+ Charts for North America included with the device provide full coastal coverage for the USA and Canada, as well as coverage for over 20,000 inland ponds, inland lakes, and rivers. The Navionics+ charts are also compatible with advanced features like SonarChart Live and Dock-to-dock Autorouting, which makes route building safe and easy.

One of the best best fish finder for kayak fishing and offshore fishing, that has powerful quad-core processor, which delivers blazing fast performance without any slowdowns. The multi-touch interface and powerful Lighthouse 3 operating system allow for a smarter, more intuitive boating experience, and the built-in Wi-Fi paired with free Raymarine apps allow you to view or control your unit from your iOS or Android device.

If you’re an angler looking to take your fishing game to the next level, the Lowrance HOOK Reveal 7 Fish Finders is definitely worth considering. This innovative device boasts a range of features designed to help you find and identify fish with ease, saving you time and effort on the water.

One of the standout features of this fish finder is FishReveal, which combines Lowrance CHIRP sonar with DownScan Imaging to provide both target separation and high-resolution images of structures. This allows you to easily locate and identify fish, making your fishing trips more successful.

In addition, the C-MAP Contour plus US/CAN inland and coastal charts offer high-resolution 1-foot contours on 8,900 U.S. lakes, making it easier for you to find the perfect spot to cast your line. The 50/200 HDI transducer provides improved sonar performance in deep water, ensuring that even the most elusive fish have nowhere to hide.

One of the best fish finder GPS combo, that automatically adjusts settings as fishing conditions change, meaning you can spend more time fishing and less time reworking your sonar settings.

The 7-inch SolarMAX display is also impressive, with excellent clarity and daylight visibility. This ensures that you can easily view your display no matter the conditions, including direct sunlight.

If you’re an angler who wants to take their fishing game to the next level, then you should definitely check out the HELIX 7 CHIRP GPS G3 fish finder. This device offers a wide range of features that will make your fishing experience more productive and enjoyable.

One of the best fish finder GPS combo, that is its Dual Spectrum CHIRP Sonar, which allows you to search in both wide and narrow modes for maximum coverage and detail. This technology produces well-defined fish arches and a clear view of fish-holding structures and the bottom, so you can easily identify the fish you want to catch.

This is one of the best fish finders, that comes with AutoChart Live, GPS, and Humminbird Basemap built-in. The 7-inch ultra-wide display provides ample room to view the many pre-loaded split screen view options, giving you a complete view of the underwater terrain and surrounding points of interest. This device includes charts of over 10,000 lakes, plus coastal coverage for the U.S.

Another impressive feature of this fish finder is its MEGA Down Imaging, which offers unprecedented underwater clarity with coverage down to 125 feet below your boat. With two display modes, you can add or remove detail, account for water depth, temperature, and turbulence, and even watch lure presentations.

This Down Imaging fish finder is simple to use, thanks to its keypad control and user-friendly menu system. It includes a transducer and mounting hardware, power cable, and gimbal mounting bracket. With 500 watts RMS, this Down Imaging fish finder delivers powerful performance that you can rely on.

If you’re an avid angler looking for the best fish finder GPS combo, the HELIX 7 CHIRP MEGA SI GPS G4 by Humminbird is a must-have tool. This device offers the latest in fish-finding technology and features an impressive 7″ ultra-wide display that gives you ample room to view the many pre-loaded split screen view options.

One of the most impressive features of this fish finder is its MEGA Side Imaging, which allows you to see the world below like never before with crystal-clear viewing out to 125 feet on either side of your boat. You’ll unlock new details with up to 3X more output than standard Side Imaging sonar. Additionally, the MEGA Down Imaging provides unprecedented underwater clarity with coverage down to 125 feet below your boat. You’ll unlock new details with up to 3X more output than standard Down Imaging sonar.

Moreover, the HELIX 7 CHIRP MEGA SI GPS G4 fish finder also includes Dual Spectrum CHIRP Sonar, Ethernet networking capability, Bluetooth, AutoChart Live, GPS, and Humminbird Basemap built-in. High-speed Ethernet allows you to build a powerful, professional-grade fishing system. Easily connect multiple fish finders or upgrade to add-on technologies like Minn Kota i-Pilot Link, 360 Imaging, and CHIRP Radar.

As well as one of the best marine electronics, this fish finder GPS combo is that it’s user-friendly and easy to use. The interface is intuitive and straightforward, allowing you to quickly and easily access all of the features and settings.

However, the HELIX 7 CHIRP MEGA SI GPS G4 fish finder may not be affordable for all anglers. It is a high-end fish finder with advanced features, which may not be necessary for all fishing needs.

If you’re an avid fisherman, then you know how important it is to have a reliable fish finder GPS combo. The ECHOMAP™ UHD 74cv is one of the best fish finder GPS combo that provides clear, detailed images of what’s below your boat.

This combo features a bright, sunlight-readable 7” touchscreen with keyed assist, making it easy to navigate even in bright sunlight. The GT24 transducer provides Ultra High-Definition Clearly scanning sonar, which delivers a crystal-clear image of what’s below your boat. Additionally, Garmin high wide CHIRP traditional sonar provides remarkable target separation.

One of the standout features of the Garmin ECHOMAP UHD 74cv is its preloaded BlueChart® G3 coastal charts, which include the best of Garmin and Navionics data. This allows you to navigate coastal waters with ease and accuracy.

The Garmin ECHOMAP UHD 74cv also comes with a quick-release bail mount, which makes it easy to remove and take with you. NMEA 2000 and NMEA 0183 network support provides you with engine data, sensor connection, autopilot integration, and more.

In addition, the ECHOMAP™ UHD 74cv is even compatible with the force™ trolling motor mount for full control of the motor from the screen, plus the ability to route to waypoints, follow tracks, and more. This chartplotter supports a variety of Garmin transducers (sold separately), including the Panoptix LiveScope scanning sonar system, which lets you see all around your boat in real time, can mark fish and caught fish easily.

If you’re an avid angler looking for the best fish finder GPS combo under $500, then the Striker Plus 7sv is the perfect tool for you. This fish finder GPS combo comes with a bright 7” display and built-in GPS features that make it easy to navigate the waters and locate fish with ease. With its Garmin Quickdraw contours map drawing software, you can store up to 2 million acres of content with 1’ contours. This allows you to have a comprehensive view of the waterbed and make better-informed decisions about where to fish.

One of the standout features of the Striker Plus 7sv is its CHIRP traditional sonar technology. This provides crystal-clear images with remarkable target separation, making it easier to distinguish fish from other objects in the water. The CHIRP Clearly and CHIRP SideVü scanning sonars also enable you to get nearly photographic images of what passes below and beside your boat, giving you a comprehensive view of the underwater environment.

The Striker Plus 7sv also comes with built-in Wi-Fi, which allows you to pair it with the ActiveCaptain app. This app provides smart notifications, access to Quickdraw Contours community data, that is ideal for bass fishing. Additionally, the built-in Quickdraw Contours mapping software lets you create and store maps with 1’ contours for up to 2 million acres. The device’s resolution of 800 x 480 ensures that the display is bright and sunlight-readable, and the intuitive user interface makes it easy to use.

If you’re an avid angler looking for the best fish finder GPS combo for saltwater, the Lowrance Hook Reveal 7 is definitely worth checking out. This powerful fish finder is packed with features to make your fishing trips more successful and enjoyable.

One of the standout features of the Hook Reveal 7 is FishReveal. This combines the target separation of Lowrance CHIRP sonar and the high-resolution images of structure from DownScan Imaging, making it easier to find and identify fish. You’ll love how fish light up on your display, giving you a clear view of what’s happening beneath the water’s surface.

The Hook Reveal 7 also comes with high-detail inland maps of almost 4,000 US lakes. Plus, you can create custom maps with even greater detail over any map or GPS plotter with Genesis Live. This feature allows you to get onto the fish faster and more accurately.

One of the best features of the Hook Reveal 7 is its autotuning sonar. This feature automatically adjusts settings as fishing conditions change, ensuring you get the best sonar image every time. Spend more time fishing and less time reworking your sonar settings.

With a 7-inch display, the Hook Reveal 7 offers crisp and clear views of your display no matter the conditions. Even in direct sunlight, you’ll enjoy excellent clarity and daylight visibility of HOOK Reveal’s SolarMAX display.

The Hook Reveal 7 also includes a preloaded, high-resolution US inland map, including 1-foot contours on 4,000 lakes. While the Hook 7x is a non-mapping GPS plotter that allows you to save/navigate to waypoints, routes, and trails, it has no mapping, only a white background.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does mean fish finder GPS combo?

A fish finder GPS combo is a device that combines sonar technology to locate fish and GPS functionality for navigation, making it easier for anglers to find fish and navigate in unfamiliar waters.

Are fish finder GPS combos difficult to install?

Most fish finder GPS combos are relatively easy to install, especially if you’re familiar with basic electronics and mounting procedures. However, if you’re not comfortable with the installation process, consider consulting a professional or asking a knowledgeable friend for assistance.

Can I use my fish finder GPS combo for ice fishing?

Some fish finder GPS combos are suitable for ice fishing, but you’ll need to ensure that the device is compatible with ice fishing transducers and can withstand freezing temperatures. It’s best to check the device’s specifications and consult the manufacturer’s guidelines for ice fishing usage.

How accurate are the GPS systems in fish finder GPS combos?

The accuracy of the GPS system in a fish finder GPS combo depends on the device’s GPS receiver sensitivity and the quality of the preloaded maps. Most modern fish finder GPS combos offer high-sensitivity GPS receivers and accurate maps, providing reliable navigation and waypoint marking.

Who makes the best GPS fish finder?

There is no definitive answer to which brand makes the best GPS fish finder, as it depends on individual preferences and requirements. However, some top brands known for producing high-quality GPS fish finders include Garmin, Lowrance, Humminbird, and Raymarine. Each of these brands offers a range of models with various features and price points, so it’s essential to research and compare them to find the one that best suits your needs.

What is the easiest fishfinder GPS to use?

The Garmin Striker series is often considered one of the easiest fishfinder GPS units to use, particularly the Garmin Striker 4. It is designed with simplicity and user-friendliness in mind, featuring a bright, easy-to-read display, intuitive controls, and straightforward menus. The Garmin Striker 4 offers essential fish finding and GPS navigation features without overwhelming users with unnecessary complexity.

Which fish finder has the best maps?

The fish finder with the best maps largely depends on your specific needs and location. However, many anglers consider Lowrance and Humminbird models, such as the Lowrance HDS Live and Humminbird HELIX series, to have some of the best maps. Both brands offer advanced mapping features, including detailed contour lines, updated charts, and compatibility with popular map databases like Navionics, C-MAP, and LakeMaster.

Final thoughts for fishing enthusiast

In conclusion, our comprehensive guide to the 11 best fish finder GPS combo units is the ultimate resource for anglers seeking to enhance their fishing experience. These top-notch devices combine cutting-edge technology, user-friendly interfaces, and precise data to help you locate fish with ease and navigate your way through any body of water. By choosing the right fish finder GPS combo, you’ll be well on your way to more successful fishing trips and unforgettable memories.

So, whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, investing in one of these top-rated fish finder GPS combos is a smart decision. Not only will you be able to track and find fish more effectively, but you’ll also gain valuable insights into the underwater environment, making your time on the water even more enjoyable. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to level up your angling game – give one of these exceptional devices a try and experience the difference for yourself. Happy fishing!