i know what they are, and i know what they do... but what are some better *affordable* models, and when/where are the best times/places to use/ look in more depth at them? ;D

I have been looking at the Lowrance Elite-5 DSI.  This unit features down imaging and will be available for a lower price.  Should be available soon.

To learn about what, how, and why, visit the web sites that are dedicated to that technology. Every question that you may have probably has been discussed since that technology has been in use more than 5 years.

Check out both the Humminbird and Lowrance sites and pick your poison. I've used Lowrance products for years and recently bought the H-bird 898 for use at the console and I'm not sorry I did. The least expensive models will have smaller screens. I suggest that you save your scheckels and get a larger screen version if possible. Let your fingers do the walking on the internet to get the best price. I saved almost $300 over catalog prices including free shipping and no sales tax by doing that. If you want to know where, drop me a PM. I'm still learning with mine and I love it. 

I recently bought a HUmmingbird 798SI for under $700 but that deal sold out in about 2 days from the Bargain Cave. I really wanted a bigger screen but at half the price of the 898 it was a good buy for me at this time. It will also fit into my console. I will get a bigger one later when Im working again.

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Check out both the Humminbird and Lowrance sites and pick your poison. I've used Lowrance products for years and recently bought the H-bird 898 for use at the console and I'm not sorry I did. The least expensive models will have smaller screens. I suggest that you save your scheckels and get a larger screen version if possible. Let your fingers do the walking on the internet to get the best price. I saved almost $300 over catalog prices including free shipping and no sales tax by doing that. If you want to know where, drop me a PM. I'm still learning with mine and I love it.

I'm reading your post and Curly's voice is going in my head like he's reading it to me.  How can I take you seriously? NYUK, NYUK, NYUK   ;D