It is a pretty busy week for Garmin. First, they announced a smartwatch for pilots, and now we have two other major announcements: the new Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 2 series chartplotters and the GSD 28 high-powered sonar module. These cutting-edge offerings cater to the needs of anglers and sportfishing enthusiasts, providing them with powerful tools to enhance their on-the-water experiences.
ECHOMAP Ultra 2 Series: Advanced Features for Anglers
First up, let’s talk about the new Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 2 series chartplotters. These nautical devices, available with either 10-inch or 12-inch sunlight-readable touchscreens, come packed with an array of cutting-edge features designed to cater to the unique needs of anglers.
Enhanced Connectivity with Wireless Networking
One of the standout features of the ECHOMAP Ultra 2 series is its wireless networking capability. Anglers can seamlessly share sonar data, waypoints, and routes with other ECHOMAP Ultra 2 or ECHOMAP UHD2 chartplotters on board. This not only streamlines data sharing but also eliminates the need for extra cables, ensuring a clutter-free deck space.
Precise Position Accuracy
Garmin has equipped these chartplotters with multi-band GPS technology, delivering swift 10Hz updates. This feature significantly enhances position accuracy, particularly in challenging settings such as under bridges, along bluffs, or in coves with thick tree cover.
Screen Recording with ActiveCaptain
Anglers can capture on-screen action, including exciting moments captured on LiveScope sonar (if installed), through the ActiveCaptain app. This makes it effortless to share their fishing adventures or noteworthy catches with fellow enthusiasts on social media.
User-Friendly Interface
The ECHOMAP Ultra 2 series boasts a contemporary operating system with updated graphics, menus, and a redesigned homepage, making navigation more intuitive than ever before.
High-Definition Sonar Imaging
The Ultra 2 chartplotters are available bundled with the GT56UHD all-in-one transducer, offering Garmin CHIRP traditional sonar, Ultra High-Definition ClearVü, and SideVü scanning. These chartplotters also support Garmin’s award-winning LiveScope live-scanning sonar, providing anglers with detailed fish and structure images.
Extensive Mapping and Navigation Features
Garmin has integrated these chartplotters with Garmin Navionics+ mapping, providing comprehensive mapping coverage for both coastal and inland waters. The inclusion of Quickdraw Contours mapping software allows users to generate personalized fishing maps featuring 1-foot contours.
Seamless Garmin Force Trolling Motor Integration
When wirelessly connected to a Garmin Force trolling motor, anglers can effortlessly create routes, patterns, and tracks for the trolling motor to follow, providing an entirely new level of control and convenience.
The New Garmin GSD 28 High-Powered Sonar Module for Sportfishing
Serious sportfishing enthusiasts have a reason to celebrate with Garmin’s latest release, the GSD 28 high-powered sonar module. Engineered for sportfishing, this module is powered by RapidReturn sonar technology and incorporates next-gen xCHIRP technology to provide unmatched sonar imaging.
RapidReturn Sonar for Exceptional Clarity
Garmin’s RapidReturn sonar technology sends multiple sonar signals into the water simultaneously, resulting in a wealth of data displayed quickly on the multi-function screen. This approach allows anglers to view fresh and highly relevant sonar returns, offering a detailed look at what lies beneath the boat.
xCHIRP Sonar Technology for Superior Imaging
The GSD 28’s xCHIRP sonar technology ensures remarkable image clarity with enhanced target separation. This technology allows anglers to distinguish bottom features from bait or sport fish with impressive precision.
Built for Harsh Marine Conditions
Designed for sportfishing in challenging marine environments, the GSD 28 is robust and can withstand harsh conditions, including high winds, rain, and intense sunlight. It holds an IPX7 water-resistant rating, ensuring reliability even in adverse weather. When the waters get rough, the optional MSC 10 external satellite compass can be paired with the RapidReturn sonar to maintain accurate sonar readings despite wave and swell conditions.
Versatile and Compatible
The GSD 28 is compatible with a wide range of Garmin and AIRMAR transducers, allowing manual or automatic configuration and providing flexibility when configuring the sonar screen. This module is compatible with various Garmin chartplotters, including the GPSMAP 9000 series and GPSMAP 8600/8600xsv series, expanding its versatility.
Pricing and Availability
If we talk about the availability of the new Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 2 chartplotters, they will be hitting the markets starting next month at a price of USD 1899.99 to 3099.99. On the other hand, the new Garmin GSD 28 is now available at a suggested retail price of USD 2,999.99.