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Lake Erie Charter Captain Dave Adams of D & D Charters answers questions and provides tips and insights into fishing the region.
If you would like to Ask the Captain a question, please click HERE.
November 4, 2002
Wally Asks:
Dave -
I am looking for some information on a GPS Systems. What kind of system do you prefer? Where can I purchase one, and how much does one cost?
Also can you give me a briefing on how one works.
Thanks Dave, I will be waiting for your reply.
Wally
Captain Dave's Response:
Hello Wally,
GPS systems are surprisingly easy to operate and affordable. The minimum you should get is a 12 channel fixed mount. Avoid a portable because you will be disappointed in the battery life as well as the picture. Lowrance, Furuno, and Garmin all offer good units. Also, don't buy one with a map feature. The map feature will probably never be used and it adds an unnecessary expense.
Operation is by button and menu feature. They all offer what is called a plotter screen. Most of the time you will use the plotter screen, which allows you to see the actual path you boat has taken. If you find a school of fish, you push the save button and the unit saves this "waypoint". When you get out of the fish, just push the "go-to" button and the GPS will tell you which way to go to reach that waypoint. When done fishing, push the "home" waypoint and follow the course. Through all this, the plotter screen shows your entire path for the day.
Expect to spend $279 to $400 for a unit with all the above mentioned features. Also, all the major catalogs (Bass Pro, Cabellas, West Marine, and Boater`s World) seem to have the best prices.
Previously, Frank Meslo asked about classes and navigating with GPS units. A follow-up on GPS accuracy, available books for navigation, and the time I got "turned around" can be found at:
Ask the Captain Archive
Good Fishing,
Capt. Dave Adams
Dave Adams is an author and professional charter captain who operates D & D Charters on the Pennsylvania waters of Lake Erie.
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