I know nothing about these units but I want to learn.  Without purchasing something way too advanced, I'd like to first get a unit that's not complicated so I can start to understand the screens(because the screens I see on ads look like an alien world to me).  Once I get more experience and I feel more comfortable with them I would then look into something more advanced.  I just don't want to start with what is new technology to me and get frustrated and never use it.  When is it really valuable?  I can go along the shore forever and probably catch some fish.  Where does this equipment get me to catch more fish with other strategies?

What are you going to put it on?

And what features are you looking for?

Mapping

Side Imaging

Cost

 

I can tell you that better units give better displays so are easier to learn.  They may have more setting options but many will work quite well out of the box. 

Youtube is your friend

^^^this^^^
 

The more you educate yourself the better you’ll be. Anyone can explain it to you on here, but the best thing you can do is educate yourself by watching videos, reading a ton, and playing with display models. 
 

Fish the moment is a YouTube channel that explains things very well. 
 

Lance Valentine (walleye 101) is another that explains things well, more in-depth but well. I’d start with Fish the moment. 

What are you going to put it on is a key question.   Mounted up front on the trolling motor or on the console?  Shooting through the hull or mounting outside the hull.   Fiberglass or aluminum?   This is on e of those things where you got to do your own homework and decide what works best for you.

12 hours ago, txchaser said:

What are you going to put it on?

I'm looking on putting it on a 14 ft aluminum modified V.

6 hours ago, Dens228 said:

And what features are you looking for?

Mapping

Side Imaging

Cost

 

I can tell you that better units give better displays so are easier to learn.  They may have more setting options but many will work quite well out of the box. 

your questions are just what I'm up against.  I don't really know what your questions refer to?

4 hours ago, 12poundbass said:

^^^this^^^
 

The more you educate yourself the better you’ll be. Anyone can explain it to you on here, but the best thing you can do is educate yourself by watching videos, reading a ton, and playing with display models. 
 

Fish the moment is a YouTube channel that explains things very well. 
 

Lance Valentine (walleye 101) is another that explains things well, more in-depth but well. I’d start with Fish the moment. 

hey 12pb,  thanks for the info, I will check out youtube vids!

Do you want to be able to map lakes with your unit?

Do you want to have lake/depth maps on your unit already?

 

They all have down imaging, side imaging is an option.  The best way to see what each is would be Youtube.