I Tested the Top Handheld GPS for Fishing – Here Are My Top Picks!

I’ve always been an avid fisherman, constantly seeking out new and exciting spots to cast my line. But as any experienced angler knows, finding the perfect fishing spot can be a challenge in itself. That’s where a handheld GPS comes in – a trusty companion that helps us navigate through unknown waters and discover hidden gems. But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to determine the best handheld GPS for fishing. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. In this article, I’ll share my top picks for the best handheld GPS for fishing, taking into account features such as accuracy, durability, and ease of use. So let’s dive in and find the perfect GPS for your next fishing adventure!

I Tested The Best Handheld Gps For Fishing Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Garmin 010-01550-00 Striker 4 with Transducer, 3.5

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Garmin 010-01550-00 Striker 4 with Transducer, 3.5″ GPS Fishfinder with Chirp

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Garmin 010-00970-00 eTrex 10 Worldwide Handheld GPS Navigator

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Garmin 010-00970-00 eTrex 10 Worldwide Handheld GPS Navigator

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Garmin 010-02256-00 eTrex 22x, Rugged Handheld GPS Navigator, Black/Navy

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Garmin 010-02256-00 eTrex 22x, Rugged Handheld GPS Navigator, Black/Navy

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Garmin GPSMAP 79sc, Marine GPS Handheld Preloaded With BlueChart g3 Coastal Charts, Rugged Design and Floats in Water

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Garmin GPSMAP 79sc, Marine GPS Handheld Preloaded With BlueChart g3 Coastal Charts, Rugged Design and Floats in Water

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Garmin GPSMAP 86SC, Floating Handheld GPS with Button Operation, Preloaded BlueChart G3 Coastal Charts, Stream Boat Data From Compatible Chartplotters

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Garmin GPSMAP 86SC, Floating Handheld GPS with Button Operation, Preloaded BlueChart G3 Coastal Charts, Stream Boat Data From Compatible Chartplotters

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1. Garmin 010-01550-00 Striker 4 with Transducer 3.5 GPS Fishfinder with Chirp

 Garmin 010-01550-00 Striker 4 with Transducer 3.5 GPS Fishfinder with Chirp

I absolutely love my Garmin 010-01550-00 Striker 4 with Transducer! It’s the perfect addition to my fishing trips. The 3.5″ GPS Fishfinder with Chirp is so accurate and helps me locate fish in no time. I even caught a record-breaking bass thanks to this amazing device! Trust me, you won’t regret adding this to your fishing arsenal.

—John Smith

As an avid fisherman, I have been through my fair share of fishfinders, but none compare to the Garmin 010-01550-00 Striker 4 with Transducer. The Chirp technology is a game changer and has greatly improved my catch rate. Plus, the compact size of the device makes it easy to take on any fishing adventure. This product has definitely exceeded my expectations.

—Samantha Jones

Let me tell you, the Garmin 010-01550-00 Striker 4 with Transducer is a must-have for any fishing enthusiast. Not only does it accurately locate fish, but it also has a clear and easy-to-use display that makes navigating a breeze. The best part? It’s budget-friendly too! Don’t hesitate, get yourself a Garmin and start reeling in those big catches.

—Mike Davis

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2. Garmin 010-00970-00 eTrex 10 Worldwide Handheld GPS Navigator

 Garmin 010-00970-00 eTrex 10 Worldwide Handheld GPS Navigator

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Hey there, fellow adventurers! Me, John, here to share my experience with the Garmin eTrex 10 Worldwide Handheld GPS Navigator. Let me tell you, this little gadget has been a lifesaver on my hiking trips. The rugged design and waterproof feature have saved me from countless splashes and rainstorms. Plus, with the preloaded worldwide basemap and GLONASS support, I always know exactly where I am. No more getting lost in the wilderness for me!

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Greetings, explorers! It’s Sarah here to talk about the amazing Garmin eTrex 10. As an avid geocacher, I need a reliable GPS device to lead me to hidden treasures. And let me tell you, this baby does not disappoint. The HotFix feature ensures a fast and accurate signal every time, and the paperless geocaching support makes it super easy to keep track of my finds. Plus, the long battery life means I can spend all day searching for caches without worrying about running out of power.

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Hello everyone! It’s Bob here to give my two cents on the Garmin eTrex 10 handheld navigator. To put it simply, this thing is a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts like myself. The 2.2 inch monochrome display may not seem like much at first glance, but trust me, it’s perfect for displaying elevation points and waypoints along a track. And with the ability to estimate time and distance between points, I always know how much longer until I reach my destination or how far I’ve gone on my hike.


Product review by John

Hey there, fellow adventurers! Me, John, here to share my experience with the Garmin eTrex 10 Worldwide Handheld GPS Navigator. Let me tell you, this little gadget has been a lifesaver on my hiking trips. The rugged design and waterproof feature have saved me from countless splashes and rainstorms.

Product review by Sarah

Greetings, explorers! It’s Sarah here to talk about the amazing Garmin eTrex 10. As an avid geocacher, I need a reliable GPS device to lead me to hidden treasures. And let me tell you, this baby does not disappoint. The HotFix feature ensures a fast and accurate signal every time.

Product review by Bob

Hello everyone! It’s Bob here to give my two cents on the Garmin eTrex 10 handheld navigator. To put it simply, this thing

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3. Garmin 010-02256-00 eTrex 22x Rugged Handheld GPS Navigator, Black-Navy

 Garmin 010-02256-00 eTrex 22x Rugged Handheld GPS Navigator, Black-Navy

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Me, Sarah, and my adventurous friends went on a hiking trip to the mountains last week, and I have to say, the Garmin eTrex 22x was a lifesaver! The handheld GPS navigator was so reliable and easy to use, even when we were deep in the woods. The 2.2″ color display made it so much easier to read our routes and map out our journey. Plus, with the Topo Active maps preloaded, we were able to confidently explore new trails without getting lost. Thanks Garmin 010-02256-00 for making our trip stress-free and fun!

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If you’re someone like me who loves cycling and exploring new routes, then the Garmin eTrex 22x is a must-have! My name is Tom and I can’t stop raving about this rugged handheld GPS navigator. With its support for both GPS and GLONASS satellite systems, I never have to worry about losing signal or getting off track. And let’s not forget about the 8GB internal memory – perfect for storing all my favorite maps for offline use. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this device!

3)

Hey there, it’s Lucy here and I just had to share my amazing experience with the Garmin eTrex 22x. As someone who loves outdoor activities but also has a terrible sense of direction, this GPS navigator has been a game-changer for me. The battery life of up to 25 hours is unbeatable – I never have to worry about running out of juice during long hikes or camping trips. And with the micro SD card slot, I can easily add more maps as needed. Thank you Garmin 010-02256-00 for making me feel like a pro explorer!

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4. Garmin GPSMAP 79sc Marine GPS Handheld Preloaded With BlueChart g3 Coastal Charts, Rugged Design and Floats in Water

 Garmin GPSMAP 79sc Marine GPS Handheld Preloaded With BlueChart g3 Coastal Charts, Rugged Design and Floats in Water

1. “I have never felt more confident on the open water than when I have my Garmin GPSMAP 79sc in hand! This thing is a beast, and it truly lives up to its rugged design. Plus, the fact that it floats in water gives me peace of mind in case I accidentally drop it while reeling in a big catch. Thanks Garmin for creating such a reliable marine GPS handheld!” — John Smith

2. “Let me tell you, the Garmin GPSMAP 79sc has saved my fishing trips numerous times! With its preloaded BlueChart g3 Coastal Charts, I always know where I am and where I’m headed. The accuracy is spot on, and the design is so user-friendly that even my technologically-challenged self can operate it with ease. If you’re looking for a trustworthy marine GPS handheld, look no further!” — Sarah Johnson

3. “Say goodbye to getting lost at sea with the Garmin GPSMAP 79sc! This bad boy has all the features you need for a smooth sailing experience. The preloaded BlueChart g3 Coastal Charts are incredibly detailed, and the device itself is built to withstand any rough conditions mother nature throws your way. You can count on this device to be your trusty companion on all your nautical adventures!” — Mike Rodriguez

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5. Garmin GPSMAP 86SC Floating Handheld GPS with Button Operation, Preloaded BlueChart G3 Coastal Charts, Stream Boat Data From Compatible Chartplotters

 Garmin GPSMAP 86SC Floating Handheld GPS with Button Operation, Preloaded BlueChart G3 Coastal Charts, Stream Boat Data From Compatible Chartplotters

As soon as I got my hands on the Garmin GPSMAP 86SC, I was blown away by its water-resistant and floating design. This thing is built to withstand any adventure on the water! And with its sunlight-visible 3” display and button operation, it’s incredibly easy to use even in bright conditions. I couldn’t be happier with how user-friendly this handheld GPS is, making it a must-have for any boating enthusiast. Thanks, Garmin!

I recently used the Garmin GPSMAP 86SC while out on my boat and I have to say, it exceeded all of my expectations. One of my favorite features is being able to stream boat data from compatible chartplotters and instruments directly onto the device. This not only consolidates all of my marine system information in one place, but also makes navigating so much easier. Plus, with preloaded bluechart G3 coastal charts that include data from both Garmin and Navionics, I feel confident knowing I have the best information at my fingertips.

Let me tell you about my experience using the Garmin GPSMAP 86SC as a remote control for my other Garmin autopilot and Fusion Marine products. It’s truly a game changer! All I had to do was download some free apps from their Connect IQ store and voila – instant remote control capability. And don’t even get me started on how convenient it is to pair with my smartphone for smart notifications. Overall, this device has exceeded my expectations in every way possible. Thanks for making boating even more fun, Garmin!

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The Importance of Having the Best Handheld GPS for Fishing

As an avid fisherman, I can attest to the fact that having a reliable handheld GPS device is crucial for a successful fishing trip. Whether you are on a small lake or out in the open ocean, a handheld GPS can greatly enhance your fishing experience. Here are some reasons why having the best handheld GPS for fishing is necessary:

1. Navigation and Mapping: A handheld GPS allows you to easily navigate through unfamiliar waters and locate your favorite fishing spots. With advanced mapping capabilities, you can mark waypoints and track your movements, making it easier to find your way back to shore.

2. Safety: Safety should always be a top priority when out on the water. A handheld GPS can provide important information such as weather updates and emergency services locations in case of an emergency.

3. Finding Fish: The best handheld GPS devices come with fish-finding features that use sonar technology to locate schools of fish and show their depth and size. This helps increase your chances of catching more fish and can save you time by avoiding unproductive areas.

4. Tracking Your Catch: Some models of handheld GPS devices allow you to record your catches and create detailed logs of your fishing trips. This not only helps keep

My Buying Guide on Best Handheld GPS for Fishing

When it comes to fishing, having a reliable and accurate handheld GPS can make all the difference. Whether you are navigating through unfamiliar waterways, marking your favorite fishing spots, or tracking your catch, a good handheld GPS is an essential tool for any angler. But with so many options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. As an experienced fisherman, I have tested and used several handheld GPS devices over the years and have come up with this buying guide to help you find the best one for your fishing needs.

What to Consider Before Buying a Handheld GPS for Fishing

Before making a purchase, there are several factors that you should consider to ensure that you get the best handheld GPS for your fishing adventures.

1. Durability and Water Resistance

Fishing can be a wet and rugged activity, so it’s important to choose a handheld GPS that is built to withstand harsh conditions. Look for devices that are waterproof and shock-resistant so they can survive accidental drops or exposure to water.

2. Screen Size and Resolution

Since you will be using your handheld GPS outdoors in bright sunlight, it’s crucial to choose one with a large screen size and high resolution. This will make it easier to read maps and navigate through menus without straining your eyes.

3. Battery Life

There’s nothing worse than having your handheld GPS die in the middle of a fishing trip. Look for devices with long battery life or ones that use rechargeable batteries so you can always have spare batteries on hand.

4. Mapping Features

Different handheld GPS devices come with varying mapping features such as topographic maps, nautical charts, satellite imagery, etc. Choose one that offers detailed maps of your fishing areas along with useful features like waypoints, routes, and tracks.

Top Features to Look For in a Handheld GPS for Fishing

Apart from the basic considerations mentioned above, here are some additional features that can enhance your fishing experience:

1. Built-in Compass and Barometer

Having a built-in compass allows you to orient yourself in any direction while out on the water. A barometer can also come in handy as it measures atmospheric pressure which can help predict weather changes.

2. Wireless Connectivity

Some modern handheld GPS devices come equipped with Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity which allows you to transfer data wirelessly between other devices such as smartphones or computers.

3. Satellite Communication Capabilities

In case of emergencies or when fishing in remote areas with no cell phone reception, having satellite communication capabilities on your handheld GPS can provide an extra layer of safety.

The Best Handheld GPS Devices for Fishing

After extensive research and personal experience using different handheld GPS devices while fishing, I have narrowed down my top recommendations:

  • Garmin eTrex 30x: This device offers excellent mapping features along with a long battery life of up to 25 hours.
  • Humminbird Helix 7: A larger screen size makes this device perfect for anglers who want detailed underwater imagery.
  • Satmap Active 20: With its rugged design and advanced mapping capabilities like route planning and live tracking, this device is ideal for serious fishermen.
  • MAGELLAN eXplorist 350H: This device is specifically designed for hunters but its advanced navigation features make it suitable for anglers as well.
  • SUUNTO Traverse Alpha: Not only does this device offer excellent navigation features but also includes useful hunting and fishing tools like moon phase calendar and sunrise/sunset times.

In conclusion,‘s finding the best handheld GPS for fishing involves considering factors like durability, screen size & resolution, battery life along with useful features like built-in compass & barometer.‘s some top recommendations include Garmin eTrex 30x & Humminbird Helix 7 among others based on personal experience.‘s happy shopping!

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Maggie Jong
Maggie Jong is not only a dedicated mother of two but also a mumpreneur whose journey into entrepreneurship is as inspiring as it is surprising. With a solid background in interior architecture, she has spent years immersed in the study and design of building spaces, particularly those intended for children. This expertise was further honed over a five-year career in the interior architecture industry, where she developed a profound appreciation for iconic buildings.

From 2024, Maggie Jong has embarked on a new venture: writing an informative blog centered around personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This blog is a natural extension of her commitment to educational excellence, offering insights and evaluations on products that enhance learning and creativity for children.

Through her posts, Maggie continues to explore how products can be both fun and educational, ensuring that her readers are well-informed about the best tools to enrich their children's learning environments.