Quote Originally Posted by cevans View Post
Your g2n models are 3-4-5 yrs old, your mega G2N’s were discontinued early early last year. Your latest model is the g3n’s. Some day at some point, Humminbird will discontinue adding something and updating the older models. If your ever considering adding a Mega 360 I has to be plugged into a DI + or SI+ Mega g3n model. The newer models also have the newer transducers and chirp. Some of the older models have a less better transducer. More power also in the newer models and some also have more pixels per sq. Inch for better pic. G3N transducers get out farther and deeper also. Just a FYI.

Only some of this is true, and even then, only partially. The screen resolution depends upon what model you are talking about. The flagships of the Helix line, the 10s & 12s, have no display improvement.

The G2 models support the use of the HW transducers via software updates that were released last summer.



The Scheels 12 HW SI G2N deal mentioned previously is sold out now.


As for the differences between a G2 and a G3, largely this will depend on where you fish. For me, the vast majority of lakes I fish in are not large enough or deep enough for the added distance offered by the MEGA+ to be of any benefit. The MEGA of the G2 reaches everything I need to see, and the addition of the HW 2D transducer has really made improvement over the standard transducer that the unit originally shipped with. The only other thing that would push me to recommend a G3 unit is as noted by another poster, that the new MEGA 360 requires a G3 unit since it is a transducer connection, not an ethernet connection as previous models were.


As for trolling motor, I chose an Ulterra over a Terrova. For the relatively small price difference (at the time), the benefit of an automated stow & deploy was huge. I will not ever own another boat without it. The motorized trim is also quite nice. When fishing deep water, drop it down into the lake so it's out of my way, and when shallow, just a push of the button and it comes up. No fighting with a collar while hanging half over the bow - especially in chop.


I do strongly recommend a link model. There are many benefits to link that simply are not available in non-link models, not the least of which are follow the contour, circle, GoTo, backtrack, and the increased number of iTracks available.


For the record, my setup is an Ulterra, a 12 G2 DI at the bow, and a 10SI G2 & 10 CHIRP GPS at the console. I like the two graphs at the console since I can display the left side image on one and the right side image on the other. This provides a LOT more screen real estate for viewing the imaging, making it much easier to find fish.


As for buying new vs used - I would have no problem with used graphs (though I did purchase all mine new), but for the TM, I would at least look for a factory reconditioned model if not buying new. If you choose to go that route, call your local authorized repair center and tell them what you're looking for. They do pop up from time to time, and you'll save several hundred dollars, as well as get a warranty.

Tight lines!