I have the xi5 (80) also. Running Lowrance....the trolling motor really stays on point and eventually I would like to get the software that allows you to run it of my Lowrance (Gateway). Recently purchased a carbon 9 for $1400 over at BBC. Lowrance lists them for around $2000 (BBG Marine), not for sure what th brick and motor shops have them priced at. The guy was sponsered by Lowrance and wanted the money instead of the machine. He also has a 12 carbon that he uses...sure wish I knew how to get locked up with those sponsors. His full time job is guiding down in Kentucky. There is a new gen carbon 9 for sale over right now. Have both a Gen 3 9 in and the 9 inch carbon.
Brand new and I registered it. MY Gen 3 doesn't have the screen the carbon does and I run out of warranty middle of summer, unless I pay for 3 mor years. Biggest difference so far that I see is just the screen....only had it out once and that wasn't for very long. My gen 3 9" is a good machine, little bit slower loading but about $500 cheaper. Here is the one for sale....decent price...9 hds carbon Bet he would go 1400 or close....some good prices on gen 3 too. Would just look to see how much warranty is on the head. Paid $900 for my gen3 and it has warranty till summer. That software that works with the xi5 works great...if you stay with it I sure would look at Lowrance. If you go with Hummingbird minnkota would be the way to go.
One thing I am looking at is the ability of either machine using chirp AND a good chirp transducer.....airmar 175....really think if I work at it I will be able to put a dent in the channel cats this summer along the river beds.
Lots of good deals out there if your patient and know what your looking for....
Good luck in whatever you do!!
Last edited by drifter106; 01-30-2018 at 12:01 AM.
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