Lowrance HDS Gen2 Touch Software question

[TheRoBoat]

We purchased this Lowarance unit and are having it installed over the winter. It shipped directly to the marina, so I have not had the unit in hand.

I have a question for those that have a similar unit. It appears that the unit comes with pre-loaded chats, and I also have the option to purchase a chip, such as Navionics. Am I reading the this information correctly?

If so - what is the better option? Are the installed charts sufficient for Winni, or am I better served getting a Navionics (or another vendor)?

[kawishiwi]

Hey RoBoat,
I have different models (2 hds gen2 non-touch, 1 for sonar/fish finder, 1 dedicated to maps).
I purchased the Navionics map for Winni. mostly for fishing but the Navionics map is much more detailed than the included "base map" that comes on the unit. I've found, so far, the Navionics map has complete and accurate buoy locations and helpful "dotted lines" that show the correct path past most buoys.
As for depth details the map is, um, not the best for fishing. I prefer Lakemaster maps on Humminbird for depth contours but I trust the navionics map for navigation...at night too.

[TheRoBoat]

thanks for the reply - now for my next bit of confusion - which Navionics card/service to buy.

The website offers multiple different options. Or - am I supposed t get a blank card and use the "download and launch chart installer" option.

It's a little unclear with the new unit information available

[dt5150]

navionics platinum east is what you want. it's miles beyond the lake insight maps that come loaded on the hds units. aj's in meredith usually has some in stock.

[kawishiwi]

thanks for the reply - now for my next bit of confusion - which Navionics card/service to buy.

The website offers multiple different options. Or - am I supposed t get a blank card and use the "download and launch chart installer" option.

It's a little unclear with the new unit information available

If you will stay on Winnipesaukee freshwater you probably only need the "East" HotMap.
I have/had Navionics+ service that allowed me to download specific areas in New England and Minnesota.

Both appear to cost the same so the diffrence is greater effort but more flexibility with Navionics+ and plug and play "East" Hot map for only the eastern US.

See http://webapp.navionics.com/ to preview the Navionic map style and you can look at the Winni area too. Some folks download the mobile app and see these same maps on a phone or tablet while on the water for almost free!

If you are not fishing you might be better off waiting to see if the included maps meet your needs.

[TheRoBoat]

Thanks for the information

It's mainly navigation, with a few weeks of very heavy fishing. The boat lives and stays at the lake.

Sounds like a good option for us may be the East Hotmap, weighing all the ease of use and information factors.