Hummingbird helix 5 si reviews

[ridealong]

Does anyone have any pros or cons for this depth finder. I am wanting something with gps, charplotter, and si. And for 500 bucks this one seems to have it all. Anyone have any reviews. Thanks
Humminbird Helix 5 SI Fishfinder/Chartplotter | Bass Pro Shops

[Jigging15]

We sell them at the outdoor store I help run. One of my part time guys recently bought the Helix 5 SI/GPS. He has not had time to get out with it due to the ice on Truman to give me a report. As with all SI and Di units the bigger the screen the better the clarity. But with that said most anglers can not afford a $2400 1199 Humminbird. So these are a great way for guys to get the benefits of SI on a budget. It is capable of split screens. But while using SI I think you will want to only use that screen to give better details. Same for using the gps/map screen while running the lake on plane.

[G.Gordon]

At that price I can put one on the kayak.

[Jigging15]

They have several versions with different options like DI/Gps. Plain sonar. Sonar/gps. All that are available with GPS will accept micro sd mapping cards. So you can run the LakeMaster cards in them.

[Bugeater]

I've been using the 587ci HD di (GPS, Sonar, DI) unit for a couple years and overall I like it and would buy again. I'm not that confident with GPS when attempting to hold on waypoint as it seems to reset sometimes (it's bow mounted and i don't use while on plane). Prior to buying, many people suggested to buy the biggest screen you can afford and I would agree. Viewing split screen can be a little tiring, not a huge issue.

Found link online may allow you to buy a few more jigs???

Humminbird Helix 5 SI GPS Side Imaging Sonar GPS Combo - Humminbird 409640-1 - Humminbird Helix Series Fishfinders - Humminbird Fishfinders - Fishfinders - Boatersland Marine

[ridealong]

So my next question is. What is the difference in prices between this 500 dollar unit and more expensive units. Besides the larger screen for better clarity. Knock on wood I can't hear worth a darn. But I can see

[Jigging15]

The larger units have some "quick keys" that let you program screens you use most and quickly go back in forth between them with one button push. Not a huge advantage as the a Helix is pretty simple to navigate from screen to screen anyway. The big difference is the ability to "link" the units together to share waypoints. As far as screen size there is several places making mounts that are 12"-16" off the floor for the bow to get them up closer for better viewing. Same for console a ram style or Balzout mount can be used to get it closer and in a good viewing spot for you. Not sure how close you are to Truman but I would be glad to show you my 1199 and 1159 and even can show you the Hekix models at the store. They are not hooked up but can show you the size of the units.

[ridealong]

Not to close. I am right down the road from smithville dam. I really appreciate the gesture though. I may just have to run down to bass pro and look at them. Also do they come with mounting brackets or are they extra?

[RHB]

I am looking at one myself and wonder if there is enough room to use the side image on boat with the motor bolted to the transom? Or does one have to use a Jack Plate or some other spacer to get enough room to shot the signal between the back of the boat and motor?

RHB

[Jigging15]

They will come with a simple base to mount them up with.

RHB it will mount low enough on the transom that it will actually shoot under the motor/jack plate.