Kayak fishfinder

[grich]

Hi all. I am looking to get a fishfinder for my kayak. I want to go off shore up to about 3km out. My budget is probably under about $700. I was wondering what you all thought was the best type/model/place to get it.
My next question is regarding accessible reefs for a kayak. Where/what time? Would love to catch some pelagics. thanks in advance.
G.

[GBC]

I've run the cheapest ($170.00?) waterproof navman in my canoe for a few years without a hitch.
Dunno about you, but I'd be filthy watching a $700.00 sounder get dunked.
Furuno do a good b&w for under $500. - you'd be surprised how good the cheaper sounders run at paddling speeds.

C.J.

[aaron_gilmour]

I had a matrix 20 sounder with gps on my yak. Worked great and able to fish reefs no worries with the gps . I didnt launch beachs much but when i did the swell was safe so no worries about dunking.


Look around for a cheap 2nd hand or go on ebay and save a few pennies.

Cheers
Aaron

[cdenyer]

I have a humminbird matrix 17 on my Hobie Sports, and it is terrific. Got it for about $310 on ebay brand new.

The pic below shows the Ram mount which is mounted on the port side. An easy unscrew to take it off the yak when I want to put yak on car.

Chris

[joey_1987]

Garmin make some portable sounders with their own battery packs. Or alternatively you can get a cheap sounder and make your own battery pack (8 1.5v batteries will do it) or use a small 12v SLA (can get a 7ah one for $20 and they're very small and compact) Cheers.

[grich]

Thanks for the advice guys. for those of you who got them from ebay is there any warranty? is the price much better? Cheers. G.