Humminbird 383c Feedback Sought...

Hey Gang,

Now that I have my OK Trident 15, I'm looking for a FF/GPS combo to fit under the "Sonar Shield". Something keeps bringing me back to the Humminbird 383c Fish Finder and GPS Chartplotter.

Any feedback on this product or recommendations on another alternative?

Only requirements I have are:

1) fits under "sonar shield"
2) is a FF/GPS combo unit
3) is in the < $400 range

Thanks all!

Jeff (a.k.a. Steelerhead)

If you want to go Color FF/GPS combo then I say this is a best choice for the price.  Looking at their 09 catalog Specs all of the 500 series don't carry things like Temperature Alarm, TrueArch Technology, and Instant Image Update which is incorporated into the 383c.  Seems like if you want better then the 700 series will take you to a whole new level.

383c still On Sale (Till Tomorrow July 31) $326.69 http://www.boatersland.com/hum383c.html     
and if you want the Thru Hull Transducer (HUMXTH-9-20P) $78.99




   

you might be able to get the thru hull transducer for free through humminbird's exchange program.  i got mine just for the cost of shipping it to humminbird - but you have to wait about a week and a half.

383c is probably a good fit if you want the color one.  just make sure your battery has the juice for it.

yester & bassmanben - thx for the pointer and feedback!

From the Humminbird website (http://www.humminbird.com/support/FAQ.aspx?faqid=66) I found the following about the transducer exchange program. Sounds like it doesn't specifically apply to the 300 series nor to the thru-hull transducers but I'd call customer service to give it a try.

Guess I need to decide if I'm going to mount thru the Trident transducer-designated scupper hole or use the pool noodle mounting option that many others on the forum have used... Also - What's the diff / benefit of a thru-hull plastic vs. bronze transducer?

Jeff (a.k.a. Steelerhead)

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What should I do if I need a transducer other than the transom mount included in the box?

All transducer-equipped Humminbird products come standard with a transom-mounted transducer. However, we also offer these optional models:

* Puck (Shoot thru single layer fiberglass hull)
* Angled Puck (Shoot thru single layer fiberglass hull)
* Trolling Motor
* Portable
* Thru-Hull (plastic or bronze)

If you'd prefer one of the above, you're welcome to exchange your transducer, through our factory, for no charge unless you require a bronze or plastic thru-hull transducer. Call our Customer Resource Center at 1-800-633-1468 for pricing.

We can only exchange transducers which have not been previously installed or assembled.  We can only offer you credit on your transom transducer if the alternate transducer was purchased directly from the factory at our toll free number listed above.  We cannot offer credit on transducers ordered through our website as most orders do not ship from our facility.

Some retailers also choose to carry models without transducers and stock a variety of the above mentioned transducers. This option is available only on select 700 and 900 Series products. Check with your local retailer to see if they are participating in this program.

If you are exchanging transducers, please check your Operations Manual to make sure the transducer you choose is compatible with your fishfinder. In addition, make sure you return all of the necessary mounting accessories.   The transom-mounted transducer you are returning must be new and unassembled, and the mounting hardware must accompany it. Occassionally the power cable is bundled with the transducer cable, please make sure the power cable is removed before shipping the transducer to us.

You must include payment, as well as your shipping address and phone number. Please allow 10-14 working days to process transducer exchanges.

If your not in love with color the 580c is excellent.

Guess I need to decide if I'm going to mount thru the Trident transducer-designated scupper hole or use the pool noodle mounting option that many others on the forum have used... Also - What's the diff / benefit of a thru-hull plastic vs. bronze transducer?

Jeff (a.k.a. Steelerhead)

One, I'd say get booth kinds.  Keep the one that comes with the Fishfinder and also get the Tru-Hull Transducer for IF you may choose to buy another kayak down the road which doesn’t have the Transducer compatible scupper.  Two, I don’t know much about the diff between the plastic vs. bronze thru-hull transducer, but I’d bet it’s the design.  The plastic is the correct fit pefectly, making it flush against the bottom of the Prowler Trident yaks.  

If your not in love with color the 580c is excellent.

I second that.  

Jeff,

I went with the 383c on my boats and they have worked beautifully for two years now.
I don't believe you can get a better unit for the money.
The price Yester posted from Boaterslsnd is a great deal if still avail.
Fisherman's Warehouse sells this Unit for $399.99 and if you don't need the GPS look at the 343c which sells for $279.99 or better yet get the Portable 343c for $319.99 which includes Batt. and Charger

Eric

+1 I've had the 383c for two years now and it has worked great for both a T15 and T13.Love seeing those big bands of red 5-10ft from the bottom.

One cautionary note is that with the thru-hull transducer in the molded scupper well, the Trident series drains painfully slowly.You might not notice this until you have waves breaking over your bow and your boat becomes heavy and sluggish.With a deck and foot wells full of slow draining water, water may seep in around the rod pod if the seal isn't super tight.

Best yak fishing forum - EVER! Thanks for all of the contributions everyone...

Sean: I'm looking at the 580c now as well - Like the larger screen 
Eric: I think I initially started looking at the 383c based on your earlier recommendation  Thanks too for sending the Salt Stik to the San Jose FW for me. It's now mated up with my Abu 5500
Aaron: Good to know about your experience w/ the 383c and the note about the slow drain... Here's your smiley 

Hope folks have a nice weekend of fishing!

Jeff (a.k.a. Steelerhead)

Mine has worked flawlessly for two years as well.  (Heavy use)

Allen

Has anyone used the portable 343c? My OK P15 came with the 343c installed.  I recently ordered the kit to make it portable.  Just wondering if the install is easy, if it stays attached on a boat that is moving, and what other issues/things I need to consider when setting it up.  I plan to use it in the skiffs that they rent out of Capitola/Santa Cruz....

Kim