What are some of your thoughts on the merits of these tools for walleye fishing? How do you work them into your plan for a particular lake or while fishing? Have you tried more than one model and what were your impressions?

I've had an Aqua View for about five years or more now. It's great to have when in doubt as to what fish are,that are on the graph screen, that WON'T bite. I quit trying to catch a school of suckers because of the camera! And of course...looking at "real" bottem make-up is great to have handy.
Just remember....they are only as good as the water clarity allows.
It is strickly a looking/learning tool. It isn't something you'd use at the same time you are fishing in open water. Ice fishing is great though, while you fish.
Although my experience is limited with other brands ( I have used them without being impressed too much), I surely would go with the best...Aqua View! Their history in the industry is proven..in many aspects of fishing tools.

Anything about the particular model or lighting set up on the Aqua Vu you find helpful or not helpful? I've seen different and not necessarily consistent opinions on the relative merits of the lights, etc. and am interested in actual experiences with these. It's probably inevitable I'll invest in one, just can't stand not to know what the bottom/structure actually looks like.

In all the applications I have used the Aqua View, I have seen no need for any of the light systems. Might be just me or the conditions/time of day I use the Aqua View. I have heard others rave about the option of having the lights...The basic unit is all I've needed. Gotta have it!! I wouldn't gamble...I'd use Aqua View. (and I DO NOT receive payment for saying that from Nature Vision, the maker of the Aqua View...lol wish I did though!)

Good luck!!

I agree with Mr. Fellegy.

Thanks for the input. Greatly appreciated. GLO