Best GPS for Winni...

[thinkxingu]

Originally Posted by YFM700

I've been a die-hard Garmin fan forever, HOWEVER... Starting in early 2015, they started blocking 3rd party maps on their devices.

This means Navionics or Bizer's maps will not work on current model GPS/Chartplotters (Like my 53dv). If you have an older model like the 50dv or 500 series, DO NOT update the software in your unit if you use non-Garmin charts! They will not work once you upgrade. I've been fighting with them about this since spring and they are standing firm on their decision.

I'd look at other brands like Lowrance or Raymarine. I really liked the Lowrance Elite5. It's similar to the 53DV and I only chose against it because I've always had Garmin equipment.

Didn't know this--thanks for the heads-up.

Sent from my XT1528 using Tapatalk

[MikeF-NH]

Anything that takes a navionics chip is a good choice. I bought the chip a few years back for my Lowrance....best $150 I ever spent. I've boated the lake for 10 years and feel pretty comfortable without looking at it but any time there is slight doubt, a brief look is all it takes to restore confidence. I think one of the toughest stretches to navigate on the lake is the run from Melvin Village up to Greens Basin. I've only done it 3-4 times and it still keeps me very much on my toes. Went in there last weekend at the chip allowed us warning on upcoming hazards and oversight to explorer cutbacks and bays in the area.

Despite that, I still keep a compass and Bizer map onboard at all times. Never rely on only electronics when navigating...you never know when a failure is coming.

[brk-lnt]

Years ago Garmin had a Winnipesaukee map for sale on their site. It was $1.99, I just checked but it's not on their website anymore.

I run an older Garmin GPS and that 2 dollar map. It has all the markers/flashers (Just as dots, not by color), and some routes. It's more than enough to get around the lake if you have a general idea of where you're trying to go. There's no waypoints, breadcrumb trails, etc., but I don't really need that stuff.

[DesertDweller]

I have the Garmin 53DV which is the newer version of the 50DV. Also have the LakeVu Ultra HD chip. Winnipesaukee is one of maximum definition lakes on the chip. Have only tinkered around with it a little but its looks pretty impressive. Have always founds Garmin's to be a lot more user friendly than RayMarine but maybe their newer stuff is better.

[upthesaukee]

Originally Posted by brk-lnt

Years ago Garmin had a Winnipesaukee map for sale on their site. It was $1.99, I just checked but it's not on their website anymore.

I run an older Garmin GPS and that 2 dollar map. It has all the markers/flashers (Just as dots, not by color), and some routes. It's more than enough to get around the lake if you have a general idea of where you're trying to go. There's no waypoints, breadcrumb trails, etc., but I don't really need that stuff.

They did away with that map (I thought it was $10) a few years ago. I thought there was a thread about it at the time. Too good too be that inexpensive, I guess.

I live here... I am always Upthesaukee.