Garmin Echomap 73sv Marine GPS Review – Worth The Price?

If you’re an experienced angler, then you are probably aware of different kinds of fish finders out on the market. These handy devices make sure that you don’t waste your time on the water searching for something that may or may not exist.

Although there is a lot of competition with fish finders, we believe that the Echomap 73sv from Garmin is one of the best options. It comes with a slew of high-quality features, and it provides enough customization and performance to work for almost any kind of fisherman. Whether you’re an old pro or your career is just getting started, you can make the Echomap 73sv work for you.

On this Garmin Eechomap 73sv review, let’s see how it can enhance your fishing experience.

Multiple Screen Sizes Available

One of the reasons that we like the 73sv model is that you get to pick your size. Most other finders only have one option available, which can be challenging depending on your needs. In this case, you can choose from four, five, seven, or nine inches for the screen. If you can’t see very well, we highly recommend that you go with either of the larger models.

The great thing about these screens (all of them) is that they provide high-definition imaging and a full-color display. Also, they are backlit, so whether the sun is shining directly on it or you’re fishing at night, you can see everything clearly.

With the larger sizes, you can split the screen so that you can monitor your position on the GPS (we’ll get into that in a second) as well as see what’s happening below the surface. Overall, the only thing missing is a touchscreen capability, but you won’t miss it.

CHIRP Sonar

Another excellent reason to invest in the Echomap 73sv is that it uses CHIRP Sonar. Compared to other fish-finding techniques, CHIRP is much better because of the way it operates. Standard sonar only uses one signal frequency to map everything. However, this model sends out multiple sound waves so that you can get more precise imaging. It also provides sharper and clearer arches for the fish.

The other great thing about the 73sv, in particular, is that it comes with both sides and down view imaging. Most fish finders can only see what’s happening directly beneath the transducer. However, if you want to look at what’s going on around your boat as well, you can activate the side view screen and get a better look.

This option provides you with a more comprehensive image of the water so that you can determine the best course of action.

Also Read: Best Fish Finders Under $500 – Unbiased Reviews & Buying Guide

Built-In GPS w/ Maps

Since this fish finder is produced by Garmin, you can expect it to have a high-quality GPS system. However, the 73sv also comes with a few extras that make it better than the competition.

• First, it has chart plotting and waypoints. This enables you to map your progress and mark areas with the most fish. Thus, next time you head out you don’t have to spend as much time searching for the perfect spot.
• Second, it comes with thousands of preloaded maps. They are limited to all of North America (so no international fishing), but that should be more than enough for you.
• Finally, the GPS allows for Quick Draw Contouring. This feature maps the bottom of uncharted waters so that you can get a better sense of what’s going on beneath the surface. The contoured image will also be saved for next time.

Pros

• Durable construction
• High-definition full-color display
• Maps preloaded for all of North America
• Quickdraw Contouring draws maps from scratch
• Measures boat speed and water temp
• Easy to use controls and navigation
• Side and downvu imaging
• CHIRP Sonar included
• High-sensitivity GPS built-in
• Wayfinding and chart plotting
• Saves maps for later use
• Transducer provided

Cons

• In some cases, the preloaded maps may be limited
• Smaller sizes can be harder to read for some users

FAQs

• Can I share data on different Echomap models?
• Yes, but you have to buy an ethernet cable to connect them.
• How shallow does the contouring go?
• It will map out the bottom in one-foot increments, so shallow and deep water are perfectly fine.
• Does this unit come with a transducer?
• Yes, there is one included. You can install the device and go fishing immediately afterward.

Final Verdict

When compared to other fish finders, we love everything that the Echomap 73sv has to offer. It uses a better sonar system, a better GPS system, and it can come with one of the best screens out there. Overall, you will be impressed with what you can do with this machine.

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