Any thoughts on the Lowrance Elite 5 Gold HDI Fish Finder

LOWRANCE Elite-5 Gold HDI Chartplotter / Fishfinder Combo without Transducer

I am considering purchasing this for my a kayak to fish in fresh water and the ocean.

It would be my first fish finder.

Thanks in advance for any input.

If you buy without the transducer, just be sure to buy the correct one to go with it!

   Feel free to drop me a line if you have any questions pertaining to the operation, features, etc. of the Lowrance lineup of products. 

   I'll let others chime in regarding their feelings of the brand, support, etc. so that I don't sound biased 

If you buy without the transducer, just be sure to buy the correct one to go with it!

Thanks for that advice.   I discovered that I would need to get the correct transducer, while doing a a little internet research.  I figured I would cross that bridge after buying a fish finder.   I will hit you up for information when the time comes.

Thanks again

Though the unit IS capable of displaying both Broadband and DSI (making it a HDI unit), you can run the "basic" broadband transducer if you have no interest in the DSI imaging on the display.  Then there is the new CHIRP unit just to keep you thinking .... hhmmm....

Though the unit IS capable of displaying both Broadband and DSI (making it a HDI unit), you can run the "basic" broadband transducer if you have no interest in the DSI imaging on the display.  Then there is the new CHIRP unit just to keep you thinking .... hhmmm....

This is all pretty much new for me.  I was just hoping to buy something that would last me a while and I wouldn't have regrets of having to upgrade quickly because I made the wrong choice.

Without breaking the bank, the Elite 5 will give you all the options you need w/o the need to upgrade.  You can also choose to get it w/o the Gold card to save a few $ & add the card later. 

Without breaking the bank, the Elite 5 will give you all the options you need w/o the need to upgrade.  You can also choose to get it w/o the Gold card to save a few $ & add the card later.

That is pretty much the type of answer I was looking for.   West Marine has it on their website , I think I am going to put my order in. 

Thanks , that is really helpful.

But keep in mind that the card will cost you a little more in the long run, but you can choose a little better card too so I think it is worth it.

Bill

One last note ....  You are located right between the San Carlos & the South San Francisco West Marine stores.  I know both stores well since they are in my area to "service" for training, help, special events, etc...  I can tell you who to see at either store if you want to go get one that way. 

Your right,  I am right in the middle. 
Let me know.

Thanks again, I really appreciate it.

Lauren or Jim  @ San Carlos
Ed @ So. San Francisco

   You can let them know that you talked with Bill @ Lowrance Pro-Staff  I'll be up there to see them in the next few weeks.

   If you want a really cool treat, go check out the new Sausalito West Marine Store.  Larger selection of electronics (though, most of them aren't of interest to a kayak'r).

Fisherman's Warehouse in San Jose has a big selection of Lowrance units you can try out.  You might end up with a 7 inch model. 

I like my 7" & love my 9"

I like mine.
I got it for$299 with a TD.

The HDS 5 is on sale for $399 at West Marine till the 21st I heard. Haven't verified myself yet.