Witch FF for a new kayak?

[CON KSO]

Originally Posted by goldenglory18

I just hooked up my Raymarine Dragonfly 7 pro and LOVE it...

I'm interested - what specifically do you like about that unit?

I'm kind of planning for not if but when this Hook5 replacement dies and I'd like to know what would be a more robust replacement. Currently I'm keeping it covered with a plastic bag when I'm in conditions that send up lots of splashes onto it - it works but it reminds me of my friend's Chinese grandma who covered all of her furniture with plastic - it works but it's not ideal.

Lowrance did send a replacement unit for the brand new Hook5 I had that died. They never told me why it died. Is the Raymarine Dragonfly known to be a more water resistent/proof unit? Is the user interface more intuitive?

Would be interested in more details about what you like about it.

[fourtogo]

Garmin Striker 7SV

[filippo]

HDS 7 Gen 3. Absolutely love it!

[goldenglory18]

Originally Posted by CON KSO

I'm interested - what specifically do you like about that unit?

Would be interested in more details about what you like about it.

Very user friendly interface. The settings were easy to dial in to be able to see details via sonar and DSI. Split screen function is solid, and using the two in combo (sonar and DSI) you can get some really great readings. I could see baitfish details in 15' of water.

The transducer is huge, but with a little creativity you can make it work. Boats that are designed with built-in options or are designed with large ducers in mind are going to be a lot easier to install. Mine isn't, so I went with a DIY over-the-gunwale install with PVC and RAM accessories. IT was a PITA but I made it work.

Raymarine makes a cover for the unit that actually covers the rear of the unit. I'll be picking up one of those for beach launches and landings. It wont be 100% water tight but it should help the splash factor.

The chart/GPS seems to be the only soft spot. Although I say that after one time out on the water so after I get a bit more used to it, I think it will be fine.

I really, REALLY like the Navionics software, but that can be had with other units so I'm not tying that directly to my review of the Raymarine hardware.

[CON KSO]

Originally Posted by goldenglory18

Very user friendly interface. The settings were easy to dial in to be able to see details via sonar and DSI. Split screen function is solid, and using the two in combo (sonar and DSI) you can get some really great readings. I could see baitfish details in 15' of water.

The transducer is huge, but with a little creativity you can make it work. Boats that are designed with built-in options or are designed with large ducers in mind are going to be a lot easier to install. Mine isn't, so I went with a DIY over-the-gunwale install with PVC and RAM accessories. IT was a PITA but I made it work.

Raymarine makes a cover for the unit that actually covers the rear of the unit. I'll be picking up one of those for beach launches and landings. It wont be 100% water tight but it should help the splash factor.

The chart/GPS seems to be the only soft spot. Although I say that after one time out on the water so after I get a bit more used to it, I think it will be fine.

I really, REALLY like the Navionics software, but that can be had with other units so I'm not tying that directly to my review of the Raymarine hardware.

Good stuff - thanks for the info.

Since my Hook5 died an early death the first time around, I've very wary of this replacement. I like the info that it provides for me but the whole "splashing it will kill it thing" is worrisome. It sounds as if all brands need to have some care taken with splashing/hosing down/submersing.

I don't find the Lowrance interface to be that user-friendly, good to hear there may be a better option out there.

I'm hoping that mine won't die soon but am definitely gathering up as much info on other brands as I can. Thanks again.

[alanw]

Originally Posted by CON KSO

Is the Raymarine Dragonfly known to be a more water resistent/proof unit? Is the user interface more intuitive?

There's been many reports of Lowrance units dying from water intrusion here, and quite a few guys bag their displays to protect them. It seems like more guys use them so that probably is why we hear about their problems more often. That said, in addition to the splashing it takes I've been hosing down my DF 6 for about 3 years now without any problems. The UI is easy to work with, and really there is not much need to mess with it. Just turn it on and it works. The biggest con has always been the size of the transducer, but I've found good solutions for all of my kayaks so for me it has never been a problem. If it dies someday, I will definitely get the new DF 7 or 9.

[TJones]

have you tried to remove your sd card? I had a dragon fly and sold it. unit was working as intended when I sold it. the buyer also got a fish and chip card with unit. I was not able to remove it prior to sale. I did not want to force it. most of these units have issues with water intrusion, especially at the card port. I would definitely not recommend hosing down any electronic unit with pressurized water. similar to reel care, take a damp towel and pat the unit to clean and remove salt deposits. I also currently have a helix 5 and did what most people do and hose the unit down. the next trip out, I would notice misting on screen from the inside. remarkably the unit has had no issues. again, this technique is not recommended. helix 5 is an extraordinary unit for the 500$ range. the dragon fly because of its simplicity is attractive, but if you are not adjusting or learn how to adjust you fish finder according to conditions, then you will be missing out on things taking place. its like anything, more time and experience has huge dividends. both of these units are great, and obviously hummingbird has some great products to compete with lowrance. I also know people who are having problems with the mid price units of lowrance and for that reason hummingbird might be a better choice. if you can find a hds gen 2, than I would grab it. I traded mine in for gen 3. they are similar units and you will not be disappointed with performance . needless to say, it will not be cheap, out of warranty, and some risk involved as when buying any used electronic item. hope this feedback helps.

[Raskal311]

The hook is a dumb down elite chirp that has freezing issues. Save some cash and get the elite of you are considering a hook.

[TJones]

bad reviews going around