BigBendFishing.Net

Hey all, I'm planning on getting a new sonar/gps unit and was hoping to get some input on brand pros/cons and experience. I'm very limited on space and funds, so i've been looking at some of the compact models. In consideration are the Lowrance M68c, Humminbird 383c and thinking about the Eagle 502c. I know Eagle is made by Lowrance but I know nothing about their quality. On the Eagles plus side, its a larger screen and will accept a memory card for not much more money but again how's the quality of the unit itself? I liked the features of the Humminbird but really dont know much about their quality either. Also tossing around the idea of just getting a handheld GPS for the time being so I can use it on the boat or kayak. The Lowrance ifinder H2O is on that short list along with a garmin.

I'm hoping your collective likes, dislikes and experience will help me narrow the search further and finally make a purchase. Any 2 cents helps, thanks.

My Dad has had an Eagle 502 on his boat for 3 years and I had one on mine for about 2 years until I upgraded to the Lowrance 28C-HD. I wanted the built in charts and and a larger screen so the 28C has suited me great since April. As far as the Eagles go, they were/are good units for the money.
Let us know what you get.

If you decide to go with a handheld, get the Garmin. Bought the iFinder for my dad and it left a lot to be desired.

I had an Eagle 240 combo unit for a couple years...in fact, still got it..It did a commendable job.
I changed it to a Garmin 250 FF and 172 gps because to the enhanced features...PLus I use both units trolling and like to keep a constant look at the bottom as well as position. It was just too much trouble switching back and forth.Plus the gps has the charts..

I have a garmin 178 c gps/sonar that sometimes you can find on closeout and a 276csx handheld (garmin). Love both. Be warned. Sometimes the added maps etc. can cost more than the unit. If I had it to do again, I would look into the Garmin 478c that comes with bluechart installed. I know one thing. Load it on your computer and you can have a ball finding places to fish. You can also save waypoints on your computer, tracks etc.