GPS/ Sounder with real-time weather?

[jonas grumby]

I currently have a Lowrance 68C sounder/ GPS on my 1801 and it provides fit, form and function in which I am well pleased. I fish the lower Chesapeake and its tributaries and as you may well know, storms usually show themselves unexpectedly there. I am looking to install a GPS/ sounder with real-time weather. I am aware of a Garmin with these features but do not know of anyone that has one. Any suggestions are appreciated.

 

[Megabyte]

Other manufacturers may have similar systems, but I have used the Garmin (on a 5212) and it was awesome when using the XM Weather option.

 

[ppem45]

I have a Garmin 4208 and it is a great machine and does have the real time weather. I hardly ever use it unless I plan on going out over a long distance. You can get the weather before you leave the dock and plan acordingly. If you do a lot of all day 40 or 50 mile trips off shore then it is what you want. I like the Garmin because I find it to be user friendly. I hope this helps you. Peter

 

[BradV]

My buddy has the Raymarine with satellite and it only refreshes every 15 minutes. Which doesnt sound like that long but by that time down here in florida the storm formed itself and passed over you by then. He doesnt really like it but spent the money on the components which arent cheap so hes keeping it. Agreed that unless you are really going far away from where you launch probably not necessary.

 

[Bryan 2530]

A cheaper option is getting the weather on your cell phone, depending on cell coverage. Won't work far offshore but my guess is the bay would be covered.

 

[B-Faithful]

since you are a near shore/big bay fisherman get it on your cell phone for a lot cheaper. I access weather underground mobile for free on my blackberry. (and I run all garmin electronics)

Raymarine offers Sirius Weather as I believe furuno does too

 

[jeffnick]

My portable Garmin 478 has WX capability. The 478 comes with all the roads and all the NOAA charts and sounder capabilities.

https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=402

 

[jonas grumby]

Thanks for the input. I'm thinking the phone/ blackberry option, that way I can use it on my friend's boats as well. So far as planning accordingly, the weather in Tidewater is always the same in the summer... hazy, hot & humid w/ a chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms... you'd never go out if you went by the forecast! It isn't unusual for me to run 20 miles out from the dock while remaining in the lower bay. I have had to take shelter in marinas while waiting out a storm or two. Not too bad if they have good food & beer :wink: