Who's upgrading to the Vexilar FL-18?

[James Morris]

Just wondering what everyone thinks of the unit. I think it would be awesome to have one, but the college student effect (no cash) says I'm going to have to find someone who is upgrading and buy their used FL-8 SLT. (either that or buy a warranted rebuild from the factory).

Let's hear what you think-

James Morris

[eyewinder]

I'll have to see one (FL-18) operate before making the investment. Some may sell their FL-8s, others (like me) may hang on to the FL-8 to keep their Vex-less buddies happy.

I've had my FL-8 for about five years, using it summer and winter, so it sure doesn't owe me anything.

[bregall]

I sold my FL8-SLT two weeks ago and up-graded to the FL-18 last week.
Because of the lack of ice in southern Wisconsin, I have not been able to try it on the lake yet. The new features look promising for the type of fishing I do and it should work great mounted on the trolling motor on the bow of my boat next spring.

[Brian_MN]

My old FL-8 is on Ebay right now, the money will go towards an FL-18. I'm a sucker for anything new. I had to get a bigger ice fishing tackle box for all the Salmo Chubby Darters. Oh well....

[James Morris]

If yours is the one I found, you're getting a good return on that investment ($255 is the current price).

Where are you finding the chubby darters? I can't find them in stores here in IL.

Thanks,

James

[Brian_MN]

That was a different one, but mine still went for almost $220. Not bad deal for me, and also a good deal for the buyer. I'm getting the Chubby's at a small local bait shop here in MN. He's gouging me $6.99 each for them, but he gives me free minnows, so I can't complain.

[rngrfshm]

I upgraded to the FL18 and it is a real nice unit. Very easy to identify the bottom with the split screen. I noticed it is easier to pickup the fish that are closer to the bottom as well because of this. The screen does appear to be brighter in daylight than my old FL8SLT was. So far a very good unit. I like the 12degree transducer as well. Seems to be better seperation than before.

Hope this helps. The unit is also compatible with the older model transducers as well from the FL8 series. I tried it on my boat in the river and works just as well there to.

[eyewinder]

Thanks for the field report. I can't imagine there would be any negatives to the new units, but it's good to hear from those who have tried them.