Newbie Electronics Help!!

[striper sniper]

I already have a post for gps/fishfinder info, but as a new boat owner I want to make sure our first trip is a successful one.

In addition to a ship to shore radio, do I need any other electronics for safety/fishing success? 

Again, I haven't boated for 15 years and am not up on boating technology-so any help is greatly appreciated!!

Thanks,

D.

[IrishAyes]

If fishing inshore, that would cover your needs. It wouldn't be a bad idea to have a hand held radio and a hand held GPS for back ups, but that is not a big necessity for close to shore boating.

A radar unit would be of extreme help, and in my opinion - a must, if you were out in the fog or for night time boating/fishing.

[Hotrod]

Hi D. If you don't mind me asking. Have you taken your boaters safely coarse yet?

I would also get a good set of charts. Not sure where you are running but if your not familiar with the area.. you can lose a marker buoy just like that and find yourself aground.  I would treed lightly my first time out running that channels and such.  Make sure you know your tides and are setting tracks on your GPS so you can follow them back knowing you have descent water.

[striper sniper]

Appreciate the info-

I did not get out to take the course yet-definitely have it on the list to do.

I plan on fishing jersey shore from Sandy Hook to LBI.  Any suggestions on where to get charts at a good price?

Thanks again,

D.

[CapBob]

Striper Sniper,

West Marine sells a book of charts (that are laminated) and cover from Long Island down to Cape May......Radar is always a great thing to have should the budget allow.

Saw your post on the GPS/FF combo unit. While the units they make are great i am not a big fan of combo units (unless run as a second unit) for if the unit goes out use loose both instead of just one.......you can still manage a good trip with the other if one goes out and you know your water.....being as you will be close to shore a cell hone with the USCG, Sea Tow/Boat US Numbers etc. are always good to have.

Remember breaking down/getting in trouble on the water is a whole differant thing than on land

[striper sniper]

Bob-

Thanks for the tips-

Budget is a concern for now, so I am looking to go the combo route.  From what I have read and gathered, it seems the Garmin is recommended pretty well.

I am looking at the Garmin 545s -any feedback on this unit would be great!  Again, I'm going to be doing inshore fishing only for a while.

Thanks to all who are friendly and helpful!

Dave

[CapBob]

Dave

i have a Garmin combo for a back up for my regular units (178C) never had a problem with it. I am always to careful.

Good Luck

[PHIL]

Never say never but, combo units are great. especially with not much console room. I have never ever heard of a problem with combos. I have a garmin 545 and it is amazing. good luck bro.