Fish Finder recommendations

Yeah but I already have a GPS on a RAM mount, so I really don't see it necessary to get a combo unit. 

On the salt, redundancy is always a good thing Lee. I have my handheld GPS and one on my VHF. Fog sucks, batteries die, etc. etc.


But I couldn't tell you my a-hole from a hole in the ground about FF units. I don't have one now, I don't want one really, but I'm paying attention to this thread because I'll get bored this winter and need some c&d action. Can anyone really go all winter without one good whiff of marine goop?

I picked up a 345c.  Color, dual beam, 2400/300 watts.  The difference from this model and the 500 series is 1 inch smaller screen and about $100.  Also, to put power draw into perspective, the 581i (black and white with GPS) draws 400 mA and the 345c pulls 380 mA.  I appreciate everyone's input, you guys get me asking questions and thinking about things I otherwise would not have. 

I'm also thinking about going with the goop method instead of the puck method.  I'm sure it's been discussed before, but to you guys who have actually tried BOTH methods, which gave better readings?

(oh and Ling Banger, I have two handheld GPS and don't go into the open ocean alone, ever)

Hrm, humminbird recommends using epoxy for a thru-hull in their pamphlet.  That probably only considers fiberglas hulls though.

Hrm, humminbird recommends using epoxy for a thru-hull in their pamphlet.  That probably only considers fiberglas hulls though.

I've used a puck with water and grease, but not Goop.

I would NEVER use expoxy - it is permanent.  Goop gives a chance of removal.  Beware bubbles.  Get the center of the puck in contact with the hull.  Support the puck while the Goop dries.

Going to do an epoxy install tomorrow with the kids.  They love 'projects'.  Rav used epoxy with both of his kayaks with great results.  I got a 24 hour cure epoxy that sets in 20 minutes and is specifically for plastic.

Going to do an epoxy install tomorrow with the kids.  They love 'projects'.  Rav used epoxy with both of his kayaks with great results.  I got a 24 hour cure epoxy that sets in 20 minutes and is specifically for plastic.

Lee, I recently tried the G/flex epoxy for plastics from West Marine and have mixed reviews. I liked that it sets up in 20 minutes, but couldn't get it to hold for longer then a week in my yak. I used a pretty substantial amount too. I think one the reasons may have been the way I was slidding my yak into the back of my truck. As I would lift my yak onto my tailgate and then push it forward, I think the pressure from my tailgate was pushing to hard on the hull and popping it off. Eitherway, I eventually stole a chunk of single cell foam from Spot and haven't had any issues since. Maybe you'll have better luck with your roof racks. Cheers!

Did you use sand paper on the bonding area?

Looks like I screwed up an earlier post.

Demonick:  Scoring can help the bond stay, but according to the manufacturer (wilderness systems) no epoxy is a permanent bond to polyethylene.