Garmin Fishfinders

[I_Just_Fish]

Does anybody use these? I have a Garmin Nuvi GPS, and it works pretty good. But I'm wondering about their fishfinders. How about some opinions, good and bad. Thanks

[Hot Runr Guy]

I've got a 3 yo Garmin 250C https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?cID=168&pID=243 and like you, decided to get it based on satisfaction with other Garmin products. It was the first color screen unit for me, I'm really happy overall with the unit. But, if I were to start looking at a more featured unit, like a combo sonar/GPS, I'd be looking at the new Hummingbird series, just due to the fast-remove base, so I could bring it in the cottage with me, rather than leaving it exposed.
HRG

[ZX2050]

I've had several over the years. The best thing I can say is that they are very reliable, never had one go bad and I can't say the same for some of the other big names, which I have had problems with. The pixel count on the Garmin screens is typically not as detailed as some of the other units, but they do just as good a job. Where they really exel is in the GPS/Chartplotter area. IMHO, the accuracy and speed of update on the Garmin chartplotter units is the best in the industry, unless you start looking at far more expensive (furuno/raymarine/etc) units and even then I think Garmin is right at the top. If you're looking for a combo unit (Sonar/GPS) I would go Garmin. Fishfinder only, I'd take a hard look at Furuno, they have some digital units that are lower priced and extremely reliable. Would also look at Raymarine. I've got a Garmin 2210C that I use just as a GPS/Chartplotter and a Furuno FCV-585 fishfinder. Couldn't be happier with this setup.

[sdslim]

You can take a Garmin to the bank. They are simple to use, no problems and extremely accurate. I had Lowrance on my old 2002 walleye rig, disappointed (problems) went to Garmin. Got my new rig last year with a Lowrance 522 I, dumped it, and quickly went back to a Garmin and also added another Garmin on the boat. Same story with my brother in law. He always used Lowrance, and now has gone over to Garmin and wouldn't go back on a bet (problems). Another thing about it is if you ever have a question or a concern, their help network is tops!

[Gill]

I bought the 250C when they first came out and that was 4 years ago. I am on my 3rd unit due to fogging of the screen. Must have had seal issues with this model. Service has always been good when sending anything back to them. Prompt turn around time. Also have there old 176C chartplotter and have had no issues with it. They are always available to discuss any upgrades or issues you may encounter. Every manufacturer has problems once in awhile.

Gill