Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder Review - The Ultimate Marine Electronics Solution
Introduction
In today's digital age, having advanced navigation and fish-finding capabilities on your boat is essential for an enjoyable and successful fishing experience. That's where the Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder comes in. This multifunction display offers a range of features, including GPS navigation, sonar support, radar capability, and much more. With its 9-inch screen size and cellular connectivity, the GO9 is perfect for sportboats, center-consoles, and smaller cruisers. In this comprehensive review, we will delve into the details of this impressive device and explore why it's a must-have for any avid angler.
Product Description
The Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder is a versatile and powerful marine electronics device that combines GPS navigation, sonar support, radar capability, and more. Designed for sportboats, center-consoles, and smaller cruisers, the GO9 offers a wide range of features to enhance your boating experience.
One of the standout features of the GO9 is the preloaded C-MAP Discover chart card. This card provides you with full-featured Vector Charts, Custom Depth Shading, Tides & Currents information, C-MAP high-resolution Bathymetric contours, and ultra-wide coverage in the US and Canada. With this level of detail and accuracy, you can confidently navigate even the most challenging waterways.
The Active Imaging 3-in-1 transducer is another notable feature of the GO9. It combines CHIRP, SideScan, and DownScan imaging technologies, allowing you to see structure and cover with exceptional clarity and detail. The FishReveal feature further enhances the sonar imaging, making it easier to locate and target fish.
The GO9 is also radar-ready, meaning you can connect it to Simrad radar solutions for safer cruising and more productive fishing. With plug-and-play connectivity, you can easily integrate radar capabilities into your navigation system.
Built-in connectivity is another advantage of the GO9. You can mirror the display to a smartphone or tablet, giving you access to charts, radar, and other functionality from anywhere on board. Additionally, the NMEA 2000 connectivity option offers even more integration possibilities.
With a 9-inch screen size, the GO9 provides ample display space for easy viewing and operation. The cellular connectivity technology ensures a reliable and fast connection, allowing you to access online services and updates seamlessly.
Overall, the Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder is a feature-packed device that brings advanced navigation, sonar, and radar capabilities to your boat. Whether you're a recreational boater or a serious angler, the GO9 is a reliable and versatile tool that will enhance your boating experience.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Versatile Functionality: The Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder is a versatile tool that offers both mapping and fishing capabilities. With its preloaded C-MAP Discover Chart Card, you can easily navigate your way through various water bodies and explore new fishing spots with confidence.
Easy Installation: Customers have praised the kit for its easy installation process. It comes with everything you need to set it up quickly and hassle-free. Whether you're a seasoned boater or a beginner, you'll appreciate the simplicity of the installation process.
Reliable Backup and Main Plotter: This chartplotter and fish finder combo is highly recommended as a backup and main plotter. It provides peace of mind for those embarking on long journeys or challenging trips, such as the Great Loop. With its reliability and value for money, it serves as a reliable backup to your primary navigation system.
Cons:
Learning Curve: Some users have found the Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder to have a bit of a learning curve. While the device offers advanced features and capabilities, it may take some time for users to fully understand and utilize them. However, with patience and practice, you can master its functions.
Price Point: The price of this chartplotter and fish finder combo may be a deterrent for some buyers. At $761.00, it is not the most affordable option on the market. However, considering its features, durability, and brand reputation, it offers decent value for money.
Mixed Performance: While the majority of customers have praised the performance of this product, there have been a couple of negative reviews regarding its functionality. Some users experienced issues with the device after installation, which raises concerns about its overall reliability. However, these instances seem
Customer Reviews
The Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder has received an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 81 customer ratings on Amazon. Let's take a closer look at what customers have to say about this product.
5.0 out of 5 stars - "I bought this unit to use a mapping chip in and what an awesome tool for fishing and navigation" - A satisfied customer praises the Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder for its excellent performance in both fishing and navigation tasks.
5.0 out of 5 stars - "Kit cam with everything needed for a easy install" - Another reviewer is impressed with the comprehensive kit that comes with the product, making installation quick and hassle-free.
5.0 out of 5 stars - "We are doing the Great Loop and use Navionics on an iPad as main navigation and bought this for backup and main plotter on our boat. A good value and..." - A customer who is using the Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder as a backup and primary plotter on their boat highly recommends it for its value and reliability.
1.0 out of 5 stars - "I purchased the bundle at the end of April. It was installed and worked after installation. It wasn’t put to the test until a month later. After being..." - Unfortunately, one customer had a negative experience with the product, as it stopped working after a month of use. However, the specific issue is not mentioned.
3.0 out of 5 stars - "Too much money to spend for a learning headache" - Another reviewer expresses frustration with the learning curve associated with the Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder, considering it to be expensive for the challenges it presents.
5.0 out of 5 stars - "The C-MAP card is a micro SD that comes in a standard SD adapter so it can fit it different chartplotters. On the side opposite the side you would ins..." - A satisfied customer highlights the convenience of the included C-MAP card, which can be easily used with various chartplotters.
1.0
Conclusion
The Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder is a top-notch marine electronics device that offers a wide range of features to enhance your boating experience. With its multifunction display and GPS navigation capabilities, it is perfect for sportboats, center-consoles, and smaller cruisers. The included C-MAP DISCOVER card provides full-featured vector charts, custom depth shading, tides and currents data, and high-resolution bathymetric contours, ensuring you have all the information you need for safe and efficient navigation.
One of the standout features of the GO9 is its Active Imaging 3-in-1 transducer. This advanced sonar technology allows you to see structure and cover with exceptional detail, thanks to CHIRP, SideScan, and DownScan imaging. The FishReveal feature further enhances the clarity, making it easier to locate and target fish.
Another notable feature is the radar compatibility, which allows you to connect the GO9 to Simrad radar solutions. This provides added safety and productivity during your fishing trips. Additionally, the built-in connectivity allows you to mirror the display to your smartphone or tablet, giving you access to charts, radar, and other functionality from anywhere on board.
While the Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from buyers, it is important to note that it comes at a higher price point compared to some other options on the market. However, considering its comprehensive features and exceptional performance, it is well worth the investment for serious boaters and anglers.
In conclusion, the Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder is a reliable and feature-packed marine electronics device that delivers on its promises. With its advanced sonar capabilities, radar compatibility, and extensive connectivity options, it is a valuable tool for navigation and fishing. If you are looking for a high-quality chartplotter and fish
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder:
1. Is the Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder easy to install?
Yes, according to several buyers, the kit comes with everything needed for an easy installation. Customers have praised the product for its user-friendly setup process, making it hassle-free to get started.
2. Can the Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder be used as a backup navigation tool?
Absolutely! One customer mentioned that they purchased this unit as a backup and main plotter on their boat while doing the Great Loop. It offers great value and reliability, making it a suitable backup navigation device.
3. Does the Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder come with a mapping chip?
No, the unit does not come with a mapping chip. However, it is compatible with the C-MAP Discover Chart Card, which is preloaded in the device. The C-MAP card is a micro SD that comes in a standard SD adapter, making it easy to fit in different chartplotters.
4. Can the Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder handle rough conditions?
While there have been a few negative reviews regarding the durability of the product, it is important to note that the majority of customers have not encountered any issues. Like any electronic device, it is recommended to handle it with care and avoid subjecting it to extreme conditions.
5. Does the Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder offer good value for the price?
Yes, many customers have praised the Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder for its value. It provides a comprehensive set of features, including radar options, and has received positive feedback for its performance in both fishing and navigation.
6. Can the Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder be connected to other devices?
Yes, the Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder features cellular connectivity technology, allowing you to connect it to other devices. This can be useful for accessing additional features or sharing data.
Please note that while we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, it is always recommended to refer to the manufacturer's website or contact customer support for specific product inquiries and compatibility.
