lake maps? Software?

[fishboy1]

Im totally new to this and figured I would ask some of the experts on here.

What is the scoop on lake maps mapping software ?
I have an older lms 160 map sonar with GPS.

Specifically wondering about Cordell Hull, Center Hill, Old Hickory Lake.

1. General info on the maps, are they good? Worth the money? What features are the most helpful?

2. do you have to buy each lake separately? Or can you buy card/chip/download of multiple TN lakes?

3. Can you save spots/waypoints on the maps? Do you need to save/upload your spots to a computer or card to keep them from being erased when you unplug the unit?

I was thinking it might help me learn the lakes I hope to start fishing and find & save bottom structure.

Thanks!

 

[fishboy1]

Would it be worth the extra $$ to upgrade to a lake map style fish finder? I want to get a second sonar unit for the front/trolling motor.

 

[chunkandwind]

Yes, well worth the extra money. For the money the Lowrance Elite 7 is hard to beat.

 

[fishboy1]

WOW! that is a nice unit. Anybody have the Elite 5 ?

Money is tight ! Like constipated frog fart tight!!

 

[Mudbone]

WOW! that is a nice unit. Anybody have the Elite 5 ?

Money is tight ! Like constipated frog fart tight!!

i have the elite 5 and love it! Plenty good enough for me and it has a great picture.

 

[paincave_2000]

I got the Elite 5 Gold, just don't have the boat yet.The guy I'm getting the boat from works at the tackle shop in Panama City Beach and that's the one he suggested to put on it, plus they had it on sale for $399, I'm guessing it was a discontinued model considering it's regular price was $619.He said it's a really good unit.Hopefully he'll find him a new boat soon so I will have one to put it on.

 

[infoman jr.]

WOW! that is a nice unit. Anybody have the Elite 5 ?

Money is tight ! Like constipated frog fart tight!!

I have the Elite 5 DSI. Down scan is awesome. I wish the screen was bigger. I think the Elite 7 HDI would be my ideal graph in that price range, but it wasn't out when I got mine.

I'd REALLY like to have an HDS touch!

 

[rsimms]

There can be a large learning curve to figuring out EVERYTHING you ask about lake mapping... and I'm still at the bottom of the learning curve.

That said, my new Humminbird electronics combined with Lakemaster Maps have produced a LOT of crappie for me this year, and they have provided some great new catfishing spots I never knew existed. I still have a lot to learn, but there is no question that good electronics and mapping can make you a better fisherman. But you still need to be prepared to "do the work" to get the most out of whatever system you buy.

 

[Unicam]

Running the Lowrance HDS5 up front and the HDS7 in the back with sidescan. I spent a great deal of time learning the side scan and down scan and can honestly say I am no better a fisherman but with the electronics and the maps I catch more fish. Just brought home a mess of big blue cats last Friday thanks to that equipment!

 

[Winchester]

I run a pair Of HDS 7's one up front and one in console, with Structurescan as well. I also have the Platinum map card in each of them and love it. Like Unicam said, once you learn to use all the features of these units it will definitely help you!