I need to get new Side Imaging/ Structure Scan graphs.  What do you guys like and why?

Doesn't matter what we like, it matters what you like. I bought HB units because I thought they were more user friendly. If you've got a big box store near you, go in and play around with both units and see which you like better.

Slonezp is correct. It's a matter of what fits for you. I hav a Lowrance HDS Gen 2 touch 12 inch on my console and a Gen 2 10 " on my bow. The reason I thought Lwrance fit better for me was the size configuration and what I felt was better definition with the side maying.

I'm happy with the units, but I'm sure that if I had to use Hummingbird I'd get along just fine.

This could get heated...

That's why I asked what each person likes, not which is better, LOL.

Seems like I can get Birds cheaper, I have used Lowrance before and thought the birds may be a good change. So in other words I have no idea what I want.

The HB's are on sale now because they have new unknown units coming out next year. They are trying to unload inventory.

Take slonezp's advice and check out both systems.

Choose the one that suits you and one that you will take the time to learn how to completely operate.

 

I chose Humminbird Side Imaging for its fishability primarly as well as for a search tool. I use them at the console and bow.

Take slonezp's advice and check out both systems.

Choose the one that suits you and one that you will take the time to learn how to completely operate.

 

I chose Humminbird Side Imaging for its fishability primarly as well as for a search tool. I use them at the console and bow.

When you say fishability what do you mean?

When you say fishability what do you mean?

 Extensive message sent.

Personally I use the lowrance HDS series electronics. Up here in MN they seem to be much more popular than HB's but when I was down south most people I saw were using the HB's. for me the ease of use is better on the lowrance, but the HB's 360 imaging does seem like a very interesting upgrade, especially for offshore structure fishing. either will work great if you take the time to learn the unit properly. 

 

Mitch

I just decided ordered a HB 898 yesterday. I chose HB after playing around with both of them at academy - the HB felt more "organic" in it's operation. Lowrance was a lot of button clicking. Plus the Lowrance required me to buy various separate parts for the structure scan.

 

The only significant difference I've noticed after shopping around the last 2 months:

- The Lowrance SI and DI is WAAAAAYYYYY crisper than the HB.

 

You're going to find a good mix of opinions here man. I just wanted something that was "plug and play" essentially.

I personally like the Lowrance HDS. I have had lot of time to master my units, and i love them.

I went with all Lowrance electronics on my boat.  The console is Elite 5 DSI and the Elite 4X on the bow.  I'll be upgrading again next year to some HDS 10.  The reason I went with Lowrance is that I liked the layout of the screens compared to Humming Bird.  With only a 5" screen I don't feel that it's as cluttered as what I saw on the Humming Bird. 

I have HB because I have the Ipilot-link.  I have always used HB.  I've looked at Lowrance, just prefer HB.

Think I am going HB. I can get a 998c SI HD and 898c SI HD for $2410. Then this winter may get bow mount 360.

I have both, much prefer the bird. Also, Lowrance is (mostly) made in China, Humminbird is (mostly) made in the US.

I have both, much prefer the bird. Also, Lowrance is (mostly) made in China, Humminbird is (mostly) made in the US.

 

Lowrance in made in Mexico, not China.

Think I am going HB. I can get a 998c SI HD and 898c SI HD for $2410. Then this winter may get bow mount 360.

You will like the 360. Real time sonar all around you.

I had both and the Lowrance imaging is superior.

 

Not impressed with the 360.

 

....Bill