10 Best Handheld Fishing Gps 2025 in the United States

The Humminbird XPLORE 9 GPS Fish Finder is a robust option for anglers needing advanced technology on their fishing trips. One of its standout features is the 9-inch full HD touchscreen display with a resolution of 1280 x 720, ensuring clear and detailed visuals. Its mapping and charting capabilities are exceptional, featuring AutoChart Live for real-time mapping and preloaded maps covering over 10,000 lakes across the US and Canada. The included LakeMaster and CoastMaster VX map cards, along with compatibility with Navionics charts, offer extensive mapping options.

The built-in GPS is highly capable, aiding in precise navigation and waypoint management. Durability seems solid with a plastic build, and the unit weighs 9 pounds, which is relatively heavy for a handheld device but manageable given its features. With both touchscreen and keypad controls, the user interface is versatile and user-friendly.

Connectivity is another strong point, featuring high-speed Ethernet and Bluetooth, and compatibility with NMEA 2000 networks, enhancing its integration capabilities. The device appears to be a significant investment for serious anglers, thanks to its comprehensive features.

The Garmin Montana 700 is a rugged handheld GPS designed for various outdoor activities, including fishing. It features a large, 5-inch glove-friendly touchscreen with a resolution of 480 x 800 pixels, making it easy to view maps and data even in challenging conditions. The device is built to military standards (MIL-STD 810) for thermal, shock, water, and vibration resistance, ensuring durability and robustness in the field. With an IPX7 waterproof rating, it can withstand immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, which is ideal for fishing scenarios.

The Montana 700 supports multiple GNSS systems (GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo) and comes preloaded with TopoActive maps, which are useful for navigation on both roads and trails. Additionally, it includes outdoor navigation sensors like a 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter, enhancing its mapping and charting capabilities. Users will appreciate the device's connectivity options, which include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and ANT+ technology, allowing for direct access to BirdsEye Satellite Imagery downloads and location sharing.

The Garmin Explore app and website integration aids in managing waypoints, routes, and activities effectively. However, the unit's weight (14.6 ounces) might feel a bit heavy during long fishing trips, and the price point could be higher compared to other handheld GPS models. Nonetheless, its robust build and comprehensive features make it a solid choice for serious anglers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The Garmin GPSMAP 65 is a robust handheld GPS ideal for fishing and outdoor activities, offering a 2.6” sunlight-readable color display. This size is practical for a handheld device, though the 160x240 resolution may be considered low by some users, potentially impacting the clarity of detailed maps. Its expanded GNSS and multi-band technology provide accurate location tracking even in challenging environments such as dense forests or steep terrain, which is a significant advantage for fishing in remote areas.

The device includes routable TopoActive mapping and U.S. public land boundaries, making it a comprehensive tool for navigation and planning fishing trips. However, it is U.S.-specific, which may limit its usefulness for international users. Durability is another strength, with a sturdy build that can handle outdoor conditions. Battery life is powered by two AA batteries, offering flexibility but potentially less convenient compared to rechargeable options.

The Garmin Explore app compatibility enhances waypoint and route management, allowing users to review and organize their trips efficiently. The button-operated interface may be preferred by users seeking reliability over touchscreens, especially in rugged outdoor conditions. The Garmin GPSMAP 65 excels in accuracy and mapping capabilities, but users should consider the display resolution based on their specific needs.