FredNerd

Hi All As this is my first post, I would have liked it to start with a great catch story or just a great day on the water, but instead I would like to tap into some invaluable knowledge from the raider fraternity. Over the past couple of months I have been reading your many posts, both successful and unsuccessful (not to many of those), helpful hints and just great deed on the water (humorous and serious). I have made a conscious decision to get the boat up to scratch and join fellow raiders on the water and try to get a handle on salt water fishing. It is time to retire the old fish finder (hummingbird SX100, with less than 40 hours of work on the clock), upgrading to a combination sounder/GPS. The banker (wife) has put a limit of $1500.00 but with a pinch I could streatch to $2,000.00. Bearing in mind, I would like to add a down rigger and if I possible, fit out the existing live bait well (never used) or upgrade to something bigger. After many hours scouring the net and visiting dealers, I am just as confused as when I started. I have come to the conclusion that everyone makes the best combo on the market. No one runs second. This is where I need some input by tapping into your knowledge. In the $1,200.00 to $1,500.00 price range (including specials) I have narrowed the field to:- Lowrance LMS 527DF iGPS Eagle 642c IGPS Hummingbird 787c² Navman 6507 Garmin 3005c (although this is a bit more expensive) Looking at all specifications and they are all much of much ness. The main caritas I have set myself is the largest and highest resolution screen possible, dual frequency sounder while suitable for inside and outside use. If any one has one or knows anyone with one of the above models I would like to hear from you. If I am not on the right track, any recommendations, comments or suggestions appreciated. Well I am off to Rosehill this week end to see if I can add to the confused state I am already in. Kind Regards FredNerd PS. I hope this post is not too long winded and I forgot to mention, any amount I spend on the boat I have to spend on the wife (banker). This is an unwritten rule in this household hence the budget.