GPS recommendation

[bluedevil]

I currently have a Lowrance lms 240 that still works great but since going with a color fishfinder I want to upgrade my GPS to color. I have done some searching but just cant seem to find what I am looking for. Everything I have found is a combo unit and I already have a good color fish finder I just want a color GPS map. Any suggestions??

[mattmishler]

Garmin 440 i love this gps i dont have anything bad to say about. We talked to alot of people about just the gps and they said hands now garmin makes the best gps.

[Paulywood]

Matt,

Garmin does make the best GPS/Plotter units. The biggest problem is that with all brands the plotters are significantly more expensive than a sonar unit. I had a few links to companies in response to a thread by gspsteel below. I also found a company out of Okemos called J and H that sells marine electronics. There are plenty of units available, just depends on the budget. BTW, I have a Garmin GPSMap 292 and love it.

[bluedevil]

Thanks guys.

Did some more searching with your recommendations and I think I found what I am looking for. A Garmin GPSMAP 430 for $399.

Matt, does your 440 come preloaded with depth contours and marine nav aids for the great lakes or do you have to buy the bluechart chip?

[Paulywood]

Matt, might want to check this out:

http://www.hodgesmarine.com/

They have a rebate for $200 from Garmin if you buy a plotter and map chip. They have the 421 plotter listed for $400. If the card is $100 then it would only cost you $300 out the door.

[bluedevil]

Thanks Nick.

I was looking a GPS CITY and they had the same rebate deal. Kinda waiting to hear back from Matt cause if I read the specs right, the 430 comes with alot of preloaded info. If it does'nt I think I will go that route with the 421 and rebate.

[Paulywood]

You can try contacting Garmin or GPS City, they might be able to tell you what comes preloaded. I'm waiting to hear back from Hodges on an autopilot.

[Paulywood]

Matt, if you get a Garmin and need a chip for Lake Michigan I have an extra one. I got a new chip with inland lakes and Saginaw Bay on it. Let me know.

[bluedevil]

Thanks Nick

I will most likely be getting one soon so I really appreciate it..

I have a Lakemaster Chip but I think it will only work in a Lowrance though.

[bluedevil]

Well I ordered my new GPS today.

Went with a Garmin GPSMAP 535. Found a really good deal on it on ebay. Retails for $899 I got it for $450. There are still some left for that price if anyone is looking.