Ever felt lost in the middle of a big lake? Imagine paddling for hours, the sun beating down, and not knowing how far you’ve gone or where you are. It’s a scary thought, right? Kayaking is fun, but it can also be a bit risky if you don’t have the right tools.
Choosing a GPS for your kayak can be tricky. There are so many different types! It can be hard to pick the best one for your needs. You might worry about battery life, screen visibility, or even getting it wet. This blog post is here to help! We’ll make it easy to find the perfect GPS so you can kayak safely and have more fun on the water.
By reading this guide, you’ll learn what to look for in a kayak GPS. We’ll talk about important features like waterproof ratings and easy-to-see screens. You’ll also get tips on how to compare different models and pick the one that fits your budget. Get ready to explore the world with confidence! Let’s dive into the best GPS options for your kayaking adventures.
Our Top 5 Gps For Kayak Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Gps For Kayak Detailed Reviews
1. Garmin 010-02256-00 eTrex 22x
Rating: 9.1/10
The Garmin eTrex 22x is a tough handheld GPS navigator. It helps you explore the outdoors. It has a 2.2-inch color screen. The screen is easy to read, even in the sun. The eTrex 22x comes with maps for hiking and biking. It uses both GPS and GLONASS satellites. This helps it track you in tough spots. You can store maps on the device. It also uses AA batteries that can last up to 25 hours.
What We Like:
- The screen is easy to see.
- It uses both GPS and GLONASS for better tracking.
- It has preloaded maps.
- It uses common AA batteries.
- It has plenty of storage.
What Could Be Improved:
- The screen size is small compared to some other GPS devices.
In general, the Garmin eTrex 22x is a good choice for outdoor adventures. It is a reliable and easy-to-use GPS navigator.
2. Garmin 010-01870-00 Striker Plus 4 with Dual-Beam transducer
Rating: 9.1/10
The Garmin 010-01870-00 Striker Plus 4 is a fishfinder. It helps you find fish! This device uses a dual-beam transducer with Garmin Chirp sonar. You get clear images and can see fish easily. It has a bright, easy-to-read 4.3” screen. The Striker Plus 4 also has built-in GPS and mapping software. This is a great tool for any angler.
What We Like:
- Crystal-clear images from the dual-beam transducer.
- Built-in Garmin Quickdraw Contours lets you make your own maps.
- The GPS lets you mark spots and see your boat’s speed.
- The display is easy to see in sunlight.
- It is built tough for all fishing trips.
What Could Be Improved:
- The screen size could be bigger for easier viewing.
- Bluetooth is a useful feature, but more connectivity options could be added.
The Garmin Striker Plus 4 is a solid fishfinder. It is a good choice for both new and experienced anglers. This product is simple to use and gives you great value.
3. Minn Kota Terrova Kayak Freshwater Bow-Mount Electric Trolling Motor with GPS and Safety Switch Kit
Rating: 9.1/10
The Minn Kota Terrova Kayak Freshwater Bow-Mount Electric Trolling Motor is here to make your kayak fishing trips easier. This motor has a GPS system and a safety switch kit. It helps you control your boat with ease. The motor has a 55 lb. thrust and a 36-inch shaft. It also comes with a wireless micro remote, so you can control it easily.
What We Like:
- Effortless Stow and Deploy: You can easily put the motor in the water and take it out.
- Advanced GPS: This system helps you stay in one spot. It lets you record paths and control your speed.
- Spot-Lock: This feature uses GPS to keep your boat in place.
- Digital Maximizer: This saves battery power and lets you fish longer.
- One-Boat Network: This connects with your Humminbird fish finder.
- Indestructible Shaft: The shaft is strong and guaranteed for life.
- Weedless Wedge 2 Prop: This prop helps you go through weeds.
What Could Be Improved:
- The price could be a factor for some buyers.
The Minn Kota Terrova is a great tool for kayak fishing. It is loaded with features to make your time on the water more enjoyable.
4. Garmin GPSMAP 79sc
Rating: 8.8/10
The Garmin GPSMAP 79sc is a tough handheld GPS for marine use. It is preloaded with BlueChart g3 coastal charts. This GPS is built to handle tough conditions. It is rugged, floats, and is water-resistant. It also has a high-resolution color display, so you can see everything clearly.
What We Like:
- The GPS floats! This is helpful if it falls in the water.
- It has preloaded BlueChart g3 coastal charts. You can use it right away.
- It is tough. It can handle bumps and splashes.
- It has a built-in compass. You can see your heading even when still.
- It tracks very accurately. It uses many satellite systems.
- It has a long battery life. You can use it for up to 20 hours.
- It can save a lot of waypoints, routes, and activities.
What Could Be Improved:
- The screen size is not specified. It might be too small for some users.
The Garmin GPSMAP 79sc is a good choice for boaters. It is a reliable and durable GPS with many useful features.
5. Garmin eTrex® SE GPS Handheld Navigator
Rating: 9.2/10
The Garmin eTrex® SE is a tough GPS handheld navigator. It helps you find your way on hikes and outdoor adventures. This device has a bright screen that you can see even in the sun. It also connects to your phone. The eTrex® SE is built to last and help you explore.
What We Like:
- The screen is easy to read, even when the sun is bright.
- The battery lasts a very long time. It can last for days!
- You can connect the device to your phone. This is helpful for updates and planning.
- It finds your location using different satellite systems.
- You can see which way to go with the digital compass.
- The device is water-resistant, so rain won’t hurt it.
What Could Be Improved:
- It is still a relatively small screen.
- Some users might prefer a touchscreen.
The Garmin eTrex® SE is a great GPS for outdoor adventures. It’s reliable and easy to use. You can trust it to guide you on your next hike or camping trip.
GPS for Kayak: Your Guide to Navigating the Water
Kayaking is fun! But it can be easy to get lost. A GPS for your kayak can help. This guide will help you choose the right one.
Q: What are the main Key Features?
A: You need to look for these things:
- Waterproof: Your GPS must be waterproof. Water and electronics don’t mix! Look for a high IPX rating. This tells you how well it handles water.
- Screen Size and Readability: A bigger screen is better. Make sure you can see the screen in bright sunlight.
- Battery Life: How long will the battery last? Choose a GPS with a long battery life. This is important for long trips.
- Ease of Use: Is the GPS easy to use? Can you easily understand the maps and controls?
- Mounting Options: How will you attach the GPS to your kayak? Make sure it has a good mount.
- Accuracy: The GPS should be accurate. It should show your location correctly.
Q: What Important Materials Should I Consider?
A: The materials used matter. Here’s what to think about:
- Case Material: The case should be strong and waterproof. Look for materials like tough plastic. This protects the inside parts.
- Screen Material: The screen should be durable. It needs to resist scratches.
- Mounting Hardware: The mount should be made of strong, rust-resistant materials. Stainless steel is a good choice.
Q: What factors improve or reduce quality?
A: Some things make a GPS better, and some make it worse. Let’s explore:
- Brand Reputation: Buy from a trusted brand. They usually make better products.
- Price: A higher price often means better quality. However, you can find good GPS units at different price points.
- Reviews: Read reviews from other kayakers. This helps you understand how the GPS works in real life.
- Durability: A good GPS should be able to handle bumps and drops.
- Software Updates: Does the company provide software updates? These updates can fix problems and add new features.
Q: How does User experience and use cases work?
A: Here’s how you can use your GPS:
- Navigation: The main use is navigation. It shows your location and helps you follow a route.
- Tracking: Track your trips. See how far you went and how fast you paddled.
- Finding Your Way Back: Easily find your way back to your starting point.
- Safety: Some GPS units have emergency features. They can help you call for help.
- Fishing: Fishermen can use a GPS to mark fishing spots.
Q: What is an IPX rating?
A: An IPX rating tells you how waterproof a device is. The higher the number, the more waterproof it is. Look for a high IPX rating when you buy a kayak GPS.
Q: What’s the difference between a handheld GPS and a chartplotter?
A: A handheld GPS is small and easy to carry. A chartplotter is larger and designed for boats. It usually has a bigger screen and more features.
Q: How do I mount a GPS on my kayak?
A: Most GPS units come with a mount. You can attach the mount to your kayak’s deck. Follow the instructions that come with your GPS.
Q: How do I save waypoints?
A: Waypoints mark important locations. You usually press a button on your GPS to save a waypoint.
Q: What is a good battery life for a kayak GPS?
A: Aim for at least 10 hours of battery life. This is enough for most kayaking trips.
Q: Can I use a GPS in saltwater?
A: Yes, but make sure the GPS is designed for saltwater use. Rinse it with fresh water after each use to prevent corrosion.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.