Top Best Kayak GPS Review Guide For 2023

Top Best Kayak GPS Review Guide For 2023 – If you enjoy night or ocean kayaking or will be paddling in large lakes or unfamiliar waters, having the best kayak GPS is crucial. It will give you the freedom to explore without the fear of getting lost. To help you find a kayaking GPS you can count on every time, our reviews below take a look at the best kayak GPS units on the market.

When choosing the best GPS for kayaking and hiking, it’s important to ensure that its accuracy is spot on. Depending on the kind of paddling adventures you enjoy, you can opt for a GPS fish finder, a marine chart plotter, or a VHF radio with GPS.

For more information on the options available and how to choose the best kayak GPS for your needs, be sure to check out the buying guide right below the reviews. To find out even more keep reading our Top Best Kayak GPS Review Guide For 2023.

Hummingbird Helix 5 Chirp Kayak GPS

Combining a precision GPS system, a top-notch fish finder, and Anima cartography, the Hummingbird’s Helix 5 Chirp G2 is the best GPS for kayaking to mount on a fishing kayak. It utilizes GPS mapping and Hummingbird Basemap to guide your way, and CHIRP sonar to give you a crystal clear view of the water beneath your kayak.

GPS System:

Featuring a GPS/WAAS receiver, the Hummingbird Helix 5 G2 kayaker’s GPS excels where it matters most. It provides fast position fixes accurate within 2.5 meters. Beyond this, Humminbird Basemap gives you a clear view of the underwater world while AutoChart Live lets you create real-time maps of your fishing spots. This device also supports chart plotting and has built-in Anima cartography.

Fish Finder:

As a fish finder, the Helix G2 is a top rated GPS for kayaking because of the incredible imaging it delivers. It uses a CHIRP dual beam sonar that sends frequencies both deep and wide and returns detailed and crystal clear representations of fish, structure, and the bottom. It’s also a very accurate depth reader.

Features and Use:

Whether you’re reading your location or determining where the fish are, you can easily see what is on the 5inch WVGA color display as it has an incredible 800H x 480V resolution and backlighting for low-light situations. Finally, this mountable unit comes complete with a transom mount transducer, mounting hardware, power cable, and gimbal mounting bracket, all ready to install on your kayak.

Product Details:

• 5-Inch Color WVGA Display
• CHIRP Dual Beam PLUS Sonar. Power Output RMS : 500 Watts. Power Draw : 615 mA
• Precision Internal GPS Chart plotting with built-in Anima cartography
• Micro SD card slot for optional maps or for saving waypoints
• Target Separation – 2.5 Inches

What Makes This Kayak Gps Stand Out:

• Best For: Fishing kayak GPS fish and depth finder
• Precision GPS/WAAS receiver is accurate within 2.5 meters
• CHIRP dual beam sonar shows fish and structure with crystal clarity
• Basemap provides a clear view of underwater terrain
• AutoChart Live allows you to create real-time maps
• Built-in Anima cartography for chart plotting
• 5-inch WVGA display is sunlight-readable and has backlight
• Long battery life

MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS:

• Type of Device: GPS Fish Finder
• GPS: WAAS-enabled Receiver
• Sonar: Dual-Beam CHIRP
• Display: 5 inches, 800H X 480V pixels
• Dimensions: 1.13 x 7.55 x 4.28 inches
• Weight : 2.5 pounds

Garmin Striker 4 Plus Built-In Kayak GPS

In addition to having a precise GPS system and a dual-beam CHIRP fish finder, the Garmin Striker 4 Plus GPS for kayak fishing allows you to create and save HD maps of the water you explore and fish. On top of this, it’s a top rated kayak GPS speedometer and depth reader.

GPS System:

Coming from Garmin, the built-in kayak GPS system is top of the line. It locks onto satellites fast, determines your location precisely, and has no problem maintaining your position. Beyond this, you can mark waypoints, create routes, and determine the speed your kayak is going at. As for kayak maps, the Striker 4 Plus has a built-in mapping software that lets you create HD fishing maps and save up to 1 million acres of maps with 1’ contours.

Fish Finder:

By making use of Garmin CHIRP technology and a dual-Beam transducer, the Garmin Striker 4 Plus fish finder displays crystal-clear sonar images with remarkable target separation and resolution whether you’re fishing in shallow or deeper water. This means that bottom contours are visible even at higher speeds and greater depths and depth readings are on point.

Features and Use:

Complementing the crystal-clear sonar returns is a bright and sunlight-readable 4.3 inch screen that displays what is below your kayak with stunning clarity even on the brightest days and has a night mode. The device itself is rugged and boasts IPX7 water resistance. For ease of installation, the package includes a transducer with transom and trolling motor mounts, a power/data cable, and a tilt/swivel mount.

Product Details:

• Includes dual-beam transducer with Garmin Chirp traditional sonar for crystal-clear images and remarkable target separation
• Built-in Garmin quickdraw contours mapping software lets you create and store maps with 1’ contours for up to 2 million acres
• Built-in GPS lets you mark waypoints, create routes and view boat’s speed
• Bright, Sunlight-readable 4.3” display and intuitive user interface
• Rugged design for every fishing environment. Frequencies supported: Traditional: 50/77/83/200 kHz, Transmit power: 200 W (RMS)

What Makes This Kayak Gps Stand Out:

• Best For: Contour mapping the waters you explore
• Built-in mapping software enables you to create and store HD maps
• CHIRP traditional sonar and dual-Beam transducer
• Accurate kayak speedometer and depth reader
• pp4.3 inch display is sunlight-readable and has a night mode
• Rugged build with IPX7 water resistance rating

MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS:

• Type of Device: GPS Fish Finder
• GPS: Internal
• Sonar: CHIRP Traditional and Dual-Beam Transducer
• Display: 4.3 inches, 272 X 480 pixels
• Dimensions: 3.9 x 1.8 x 6.9 inches
• Weight : 11.2 ounces

Garmin Striker 4 CHIRP Fish Finder Kayak GPS Amazon’s Choice

Hands down, the Garmin Striker 4 is the GPS for kayaking for people on a budget. It combines a top of the line Garmin GPS system and CHIRP sonar to ensure you have the best experience on the water. Best of all, it’s affordably priced and won’t break your budget.

GPS System:

Designed to allow you to mark your favorite fishing spots and easily navigate back to them in the future, the Striker 4 is equipped with a high-sensitivity GPS system that is very accurate in both deep and shallow waters. Besides marking waypoints for navigation and saving favorite fishing spots, the unit also displays the speed in miles or knots and is a very sensitive depth reader.

Fish Finder:

Thanks to the combination of Garmin traditional CHIRP (77/200 kHz) transducer and Clear Vu scanning sonar, the amount of detail the Striker 4 GPS fish finder returns is amazing. You will enjoy near photographic images of fish, objects, and structure with crisp fish arches and great target separation. This top rated kayak GPS even has a built-in classic ice fishing flasher mode.

Features and Use:

With its compact size, IPX7 waterproof rating, and a floating design, the Garmin Striker 4 GPS fish finder is perfect for canoe or kayak fishing. The 3.5 inches display has good clarity and contrast while the keyed interface with dedicated buttons makes the device incredibly easy to use. For installation, a tilt/swivel mount, transducer with transom and trolling motor mounting hardware, and a cable are provided but the unit requires connection to a 12 volt power supply.

Product Details:

• Clear Vu scanning Sonar shows you more of what is in the water around your boat; This high frequency sonar gives near photographic images with detailed representations of objects, structure and fish
• The power of simple offers a keyed interface with dedicated buttons; The device is easy to use and easy to install; Available in 3.5, 5 and 7 inch display sizes; Water rating IPX7
• Waypoint map: Use the way point map to easily view, mark and navigate to locations such as brush piles, stumps and docks; Maximum depth 1,600 feet freshwater, 750 feet saltwater; Current draw at 12 volt: 0.23 Ampere
• Chirp Sonar sends a continuous sweep of frequencies which provides a wider range of information; Chirp Sonar is able to create crisper fish arches with better target separation
• Built in flasher: View your sonar data in the classic flasher format; Ideal for ice fishing or vertical jigging. Display size: 1.9 x 2.9 inches (4.9 x 7.3 centimeter); 3.5 inches diagonal (8.7 centimeter)

What Makes This Kayak Gps Stand Out:

• Best For: Value for money, GPS kayak speedometer
• Uses traditional CHIRP sonar and ClearVu scanning sonar
• High-sensitivity depth reader and speed display in miles or knots
• Delivers near photographic images of fish and structure
• Real time display of fish even at higher speeds
• Classic flasher format for ice fishing and vertical jigging
• Long battery life and water resistant

MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS:

• Type of Device: GPS Fish Finder
• GPS: Internal
• Sonar: CHIRP and ClearVu
• Display: 3.5-inch, 480 x 320 pixels
• Dimensions: 3.6 x 1.6 x 5.9 inches
• Weight : 8 ounces

Garmin eTrex 22x Worldwide Handheld Kayak GPS Amazon’s Choice

The Garmin eTrex 22x is the most compact handheld kayak GPS in our kayak GPS reviews. Despite this, its GPS tracking is dead-on accurate as it uses both GPS and GLONASS systems. Also noteworthy are it’s impressive 8GB internal memory and incredibly long battery life. Running off two AA batteries, it can last up to 25 hours in GPS mode.

GPS System:

The compact size is certainly not at the expense of the GPS functionality, as the eTrex 22x can communicate with both GPS and GLONASS satellite systems. This means that its position fixes are fast and accurate. Not only can you create waypoints, routes, tracks, and geocaches, but you can also share them wirelessly with other devices.

Mapping and Sensors:

Beyond getting your eTrex 22x already equipped with Topo Active maps, you will be able to download the maps you need thanks to the 8GB internal memory and microSD card slot. Furthermore, the unit supports paperless geocaching and is compatible with Birdseye satellite imagery.

Features and Use:

Even though the Garmin eTrex 22x is a compact handheld kayaking GPS with a 2.2 inch screen, the 65k color display is easy to read in direct sunlight. As for build quality, it’s a tough unit with IPX7 waterproof rating so it’s up to the rigors of kayaking.

Product Details:

• Explore confidently with the reliable handheld GPS
• 2.2” sunlight-readable color display with 240 x 320 display pixels for improved readability
• Preloaded with Topo Active maps with routable roads and trails for cycling and hiking
• Support for GPS and GLONASS satellite systems allows for tracking in more challenging environments than GPS alone
• 8 GB of internal memory for map downloads plus a micro SD card slot
• Battery life: up to 25 hours in GPS mode with 2 AA batteries

What Makes This Kayak Gps Stand Out:

• Best For: Compactness, 8GB internal memory
• Supports both GPS and GLONASS satellite systems
• Preloaded with TopActive maps with routable roads and trails
• 8GB internal memory and MicroSD card slot for downloading maps
• Supports geocaching and allows you to upload GPX files

MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS:

• Device Type: GPS Navigator
• GPS: GPS and GLONASS
• Mapping: TopoActive
• Display: 2.2 Inches, 240 x 320 pixels
• Dimensions: 1.3 x 4 x 2.1 inches
• Weight: 5 ounces

STANDARD HORIZON HX870 Floating VHF Handheld Kayak GPS

Both a top-notch marine GPS unit and a top rated VHF radio, the Standard Horizon HX870 6W floating VHF radio with GPS is the ultimate handheld GPS for ocean kayaking. It’s equipped with a 66 channel WAAS GPS receiver so you can count on it to determine your location accurately. As a marine emergency radio, it has DCS calling capability, NOAA weather alerts, a water-activated strobe, a group monitoring feature, and a man overboard function.

GPS System:

As a reliable marine GPS should, the HX870 has a high-quality 66 Channel WAAS GPS receiver built-in. Thanks to this, it’s quick to acquire positions and accurate in determining locations. Furthermore, it allows you to save waypoints and create routes and also has an easy to use compass function.

VHF Marine Radio:

As a marine VHF radio, the most impressive thing about the Standard Horizon HX870 is its built-in Class D Digital Selective Calling (DSC) with noise canceling to deliver superb sound quality. On top of this, the VHF radio features a red emergency button for sending a distress call to the Coast Guard, NOAA weather alerts, an emergency strobe, a man overboard function, and a group monitoring feature.

Features and Use:

Designed for ease of use while under duress, the HX870 has a large full dot matrix display and an intuitive menu system with the most important functions easily accessible. The build is rugged and completely waterproof. At the same time, the device is lightweight and buoyant. The radio comes with a 1800 mAh Li-Ion battery and also takes regular alkaline batteries.

Product Details:

• Floating 6W Handheld VHF with Internal GPS; Supplied with a 1800 mAh Li-Ion Battery, 110VAC and 12VDC 3-hour quick chargers Alkaline Battery Tray
• Meets ITU-R M493-13 Class D DSC (Digital Selective Calling)
• Separate Receiver for CH70 (Receiving DSC Calls)
• Integrated 66 Channel WAAS GPS receiver. Submersible IPX8 waterproof rating (1.5M or 4.92 feet for 30 minutes)
• Noise-canceling Function for both transmit and receive audio

What Makes This Kayak Gps Stand Out:

• Best For: Ocean kayaking
• 66 Channel WAAS GPS receiver is quick and accurate
• 70-Channel DSC is up to ITU-R M493-13 standards
• Distress button and a water-activated emergency strobe
• Man overboard function and group monitoring feature
• Floating and waterproof up to the highest IPX8 standard
• Long battery life

MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS:

• Device Type: 6W VHF Radio with DSC
• GPS: Integrated 66 Channel WAAS Receiver
• Impedance: 50 Ohm
• Dimensions: 9.5 x 3.5 x 7.5 inches
• Weight: 2 Pounds

Garmin Striker 4cv Fish Finder Kayak GPS

The best thing about the Garmin Striker 4cv kayak GPS fish finder is that it has ClearVu scanning sonar. This combined with CHIRP traditional sonar delivers an unparalleled view of the water beneath your kayak. Add a top of the line GPS system to this mix and it’s easy to see why the 4cv is a best rated GPS for kayaking and hiking.

GPS System:

As you can expect with a top rated kayak GPS from Garmin, the GPS positioning is spot on. Besides monitoring speed, the Striker 4cv has a track feature so you can mark waypoints and create routes. As for mapping, Garmin’s Quickdraw Contours mapping software lets you create and store up to 2 million acres of maps with 1’ contours.

Fish Finder:

The 4cv fish finder combines CHIRP technology with ClearVu scanning sonar to deliver a crystal clear view of the underwater world. Thanks to this combination, the target separation is remarkable and you can clearly see the bottom structure and distinguish fish. Due to this, it’s one of the best kayak GPS systems for fishing.

Features and Use:

The Garmin Striker Plus 4Cv with transducer is rugged and comes with everything you need to mount it on your kayak. The bright 4.3” display gives you a clear view of what is below your boat whether you’re kayaking in the middle of the day or fishing at night. Lastly, the device is pretty easy to figure out thanks to the intuitive user interface.

Product Details:

• Includes transducer for built in Garmin CHIRP traditional sonar plus CHIRP ClearVü scanning sonar
• Built in Garmin Quickdraw Contours mapping software lets you create and store maps with 1’ contours for up to 2 million acres
• Built in GPS lets you mark waypoints, create routes and view boat’s speed
• Bright, sunlight readable 4.3” display and intuitive user interface
• Rugged design for every fishing environment.Transmit power:300 W (RMS)

What Makes This Kayak Gps Stand Out:

• Best For: ClearVu scanning sonar
• Advanced fish finder with CHIRP technology and ClearVu sonar
• Track feature allows you to mark waypoints and create routes
• Built-in Quickdraw contours mapping software for creating maps
• Intuitive user interface is pretty easy to figure out
• Large and bright 4.3” display is visible in all conditions

MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS:

• Type of Device: GPS Fish Finder
• GPS: Internal
• Sonar: CHIRP, ClearVu
• Dimensions: 3.9 x 1.8 x 6.9 inches
• Weight : 11.2 ounces

Garmin GPSMAP 78sc Chartplotter Marine Kayak GPS Amazon’s Choice

In addition to a top of the line WAAS-enabled GPS for paddling, the Garmin GPSMAP 78sc kayak GPS and chart plotter comes pre-loaded with BlueChart g2 coastal charts of the U.S. and Bahamas. This makes it one of the best GPS for ocean kayaking. On top of this, it features a 3-axis compass, a barometric altimeter, and a dedicated man over board button.

GPS System:

To help your find your way when you need it most, the GPSMAP 78sc utilizes a WAAS-enabled GPS receiver, HotFix satellite prediction, and a worldwide Basemap. Due to this, it can locate your position quickly and precisely and maintain its GPS location even in challenging environments. It’s also an accurate depth reader.

Chart Plotter and Sensors:

One of the most impressive things about the GPSMAP 78sc is its crisp color mapping. The built-in BlueChart g2 U.S./Bahamas coastal charts include details such as shorelines, depth contours, navaids, harbors, marinas, and more. With a card slot and BirdsEye Satellite Imagery support, you can also add your own custom maps. Beyond this, the tilt-compensated compass shows your heading without requiring your to hold it level and the barometric altimeter monitors heading, altitude, and weather.

Features and Use:

Molded rubber side grips make the GPSMAP 78sc one of the best GPS handheld. While the screen is small at 2.6 inches, it’s a bright color display so you can still read location and maps easily. Last but certainly not least, it’s waterproof to IPX7 standards, floats in water, and provides a day of continuous use on 2 AA cells.

Product Details:

• Marine-friendly handheld with high-sensitivity GPS receiver and 2.6-inch color TFT display
• Perfect for boating/watersports–waterproof to IPX7 standards; floats in water
• Built-in BlueChart g2 U.S./Bahamas coastal charts with shorelines, depth contours, navaids, harbors, marinas, and more
• Built-in 3-axis tilt-compensated electronic compass and barometric altimeter for heading/altitude/weather
• Share your waypoints, tracks, routes and geocaches wirelessly with other compatible device user

What Makes This Kayak Gps Stand Out:

• Best For: Built-in BlueChart g2 coastal charts of the U.S. and Bahamas
• WAAS GPS, HotFix satellite prediction, and a worldwide Basemap
• Dedicated MOB (man over board) button
• Custom maps and BirdsEye Satellite Imagery compatible
• Tilt-compensated 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter
• Handheld unit with molded rubber side grips
• Waterproof to IPX7 standards and floats in water
• Long battery life

MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS:

• Type of Device: GPS Navigator, Chart Plotter
• GPS: WAAS-enabled GPS, HotFix
• Charts: BlueChart g2 coastal charts of the U.S. and Bahamas
• Display: 2.6 inches
• Dimensions: 2.6 x 1.2 x 6 inches
• Weight : 7.7 ounces

Garmin GPSMAP 78 Handheld Marine Kayak GPS

Despite being the most affordable model in the Garmin 78 GPS series, the Garmin GPSMAP 78 waterproof GPS for kayaking features a high-sensitivity GPS receiver that locks onto satellites impressively fast. While it doesn’t come with sensors or charts, this lack of extra features gives it an excellent battery life. You can get up to 20 hours out of 2 AA batteries. As a bonus, it has a dedicated man over board button.

GPS:

Thanks to the high-sensitivity WAAS-enabled GPS receiver and HotFix, the GPSMAP 78 picks up satellite signals very quickly whether you have it in a pocket or stowed away in your kayak. It’s a very accurate distance and speed tracker and instantly records waypoints allowing you to mark lucrative fishing spots.

Mapping:

As its name suggests, the GPSMAP 78 also comes equipped with a built-in worldwide Basemap with shaded relief. With 1.7 GB of internal memory plus a microSD card slot, you can also add your own maps. On top of this, it supports geocaching GPX files so you will be able to download geocaches straight to the device.

Features and Use:

While the GPSMAP 78 is a compact handheld marine GPS with a 2.6-inch screen, the display is bright and sunlight legible. The device itself is rugged, waterproof to IPX7 standards, and floats in water.

Product Details:

• battery: 2 aa batteries (not included); nimh or lithium recommended
• memory: 1. 7 gb
• display resolution: 160 x 240 pixels
• “display size: 1. 43″ x 2. 15″; 2. 6″ diagonal”
• “physical dimensions: 2. 6″ x 6. 0″ x 1. 2”
• marine-friendly handheld with high-sensitivity gps receiver and 2. 6-inch color tft display
• perfect for boating/watersports-waterproof to ipx7 standards; floats in water
• built-in worldwide basemap; microsd card slot for loading additional maps
• get a detailed analysis of your activities and send tracks to your outdoor device using garmin connect
• supports geocaching gpx files for downloading geocaches and details straight to your uni
• Marine-friendly handheld with high-sensitivity GPS receiver and 2.6-inch color TFT display
• Perfect for boating/watersports–waterproof to IPX7 standards; floats in water
• Built-in worldwide basemap; microSD card slot for loading additional maps
• Get a detailed analysis of your activities and send tracks to your outdoor device using Garmin Connect
• Supports geocaching GPX files for downloading geocaches and details straight to your unit

What Makes This Kayak Gps Stand Out:

• Best For: WAAS-enabled GPS receiver and HotFix
• Built-in worldwide Basemap with shaded relief
• Supports geocaching GPX files so you can download geocaches
• Dedicated man overboard function comes handy in an emergency
• Excellent battery life – up to 20 hours on 2 AA batteries
• Floating GPS unit with a IPX7 water resistance rating

MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS:

• Device Type: GPS Navigator
• GPS: WAAS-enabled Receiver and HotFix
• Mapping: Worldwide Basemap
• Display: 2.6 inches, 160 x 240 pixels
• Dimensions: 2.6 x 6 x 1.2 inches
• Weight: 7.7 ounces

Humminbird 410220-1 Black Fishing Hook Kayak GPS Amazon’s Choice

Boasting both sidescan and downscan imaging, the Humminbird 410220-1 kayak GPS has the best fish finder capability. To guide your way to the best fishing spots, it utilizes a built-in precision GPS system, Humminbird Basemap, and AutoChart Live.

GPS System:

Besides the precise internal GPS, the GPS mapping on the Humminbird 410220-1 is awesome. To start with, the integrated Basemap is loaded with buoys, daymarkers, hazards, marinas, and other navigation aids. Furthermore, the AutoChart Live feature allows you to create real time maps of your favorite fishing spots.

Fish Finder:

Featuring CHIRP dual-beam sonar, down imaging, and side imaging, the Humminbird 410220-1 is one of the best fish finders you can get. It does a fantastic job of filtering out clutter to give you a stunning view of the fish, bottom structure, and thermoclines. Depending on how much detail you wish to see, the fish finder allows you to switch between a Max and Clear display mode.

Features and Use:

Speaking of display, the 5-Inch widescreen color display with 800H x 480V resolution and backlighting makes the Humminbird 410220-1 a very-user-friendly kayak GPS fish finder. Creating a waypoint or plotting a course is at the push of a button. Installation is also a breeze and the package includes a transducer and mounting hardware, power cable, and gimbal mounting bracket.

Product Details:

• 5-Inch widescreen color display
• CHIRP Down Imaging filters out noise and clutter for a clearer view
• CHIRP Digital Sonar engineered to help you see individual fish
• SwitchFire Sonar with two display modes
• Dual Beam PLUS with a wide beam for more search area or a narrow beam for more precision
• Sport type: Kayaking

What Makes This Kayak Gps Stand Out:

• Best For: Fish finder with dual beam, down, and side imaging
• Precision internal GPS determines your location accurately
• Basemap delivers incredible details of the underwater terrain
• AutoChart Live enables you to create real-time maps
• Two fish finder display modes—Max and Clear modes
• 5inch color display with backlight for low-light visibility
• Long battery life

MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS:

• Type of Device: GPS Fish Finder
• GPS: Internal
• Sonar: Dual Beam CHIRP
• Dimensions: 15 x 10 x 5 inches
• Weight: 3.84 Pounds

Garmin Montana 680 GPS/GLONASS Camera Outdoor Kayak GPS

The standout thing about the Garmin Montana 680 outdoor GPS is its 8 megapixel digital camera. It enables you to take geotagged shots you can use to create trails and retrace your steps. With a WAAS-enabled GPS receiver, Hotfix satellite prediction, and GLONASS support, it’s probably the most reliable hand-held GPS for kayaking and hiking. Above this, it supports Geocaching and comes with a 1-year Birdseye Satellite Imagery subscription.

GPS System:

Because it relies on multiple satellite signals, the Garmin Montana 680 locks onto your position incredibly fast and is also exceptionally precise. It comes preloaded with TOPO U.S 100K maps and you can use Garmin’s free BaseCamp software to get high-definition maps of the area you’re interested in. Lastly, the track manager lets you navigate through waypoints, routes, and track logs.

Geocaching and Sensors:

The Montana supports paperless geocaching and includes 250,000 preloaded geocaches. As for sensors, it features an impressive 8 megapixel camera that captures high-quality automatically geotagged shots and a 3-axis compass with barometric altimeter.

Construction and Use:

Thanks to a 4 inch dual-orientation, sunlight readable, and glove-friendly touchscreen display, the Garmin Montana ranks as one of the easiest to use GPS systems. Made of rugged materials and rated IPX7 water resistant, it can stand up to bumps, dirt, humidity, and water. Despite being one of the most expensive handheld GPS units on the market, the Garmin Montana 680 is worth every dollar.

Product Details:

• Preloaded Geocaches – 250,000 preloaded worldwide geocaches from Geocaching.com
• See Your Surroundings – Includes a 1-year Birdseye Satellite Imagery subscription1
• GPS and GLONASS – With its high-sensitivity, WAAS-enabled GPS receiver, Hotfix satellite prediction and GLONASS support, Montana locates your position quickly and precisely and maintains its location even in heavy cover and deep canyons
• Track Manager – Ability to organize and navigate through waypoints/routes/track logs (easily start/stop recording track logs)
• Capture The Moment – 8 megapixel digital camera for higher quality images and better resolution; geotagged with coordinates automatically, allowing you to

What Makes This Kayak Gps Stand Out:

• Best For: WAAS-enabled GPS, Hotfix, and GLONASS Support
• 8MP autofocus camera automatically geotags photos
• Supports geocaching and includes 250,000 preloaded geocaches
• Comes with a one-year Birdseye Satellite Imagery subscription
• BaseCamp software displays topographic map data in 2-D or 3-D
• 4 inch touchscreen display is sunlight-readable and glove-friendly

MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS:

• Device Type: GPS Navigator
• GPS: WAAS-enabled GPS, Hotfix, and GLONASS
• Mapping: TOPO U.S 100K
• Display: 4 inches 65k color TFT
• Dimensions: 1.4 x 2.9 x 5.7 inches
• Weight: 10.2 ounces

Top Best Kayak GPS Buyers Guide For 2023

How To Choose The Best Kayak GPS

Water Resistance Rating:

First and foremost, the best kayak GPS should be water resistant to at least the IPX7 rating. This will enable the device to stand up to splashes, rain, and even accidental submersion for a short duration. On top of this, it’s nice if the device floats on water.

Display Size:

The screen on a kayaking GPS device should be large and readable both in direct sunlight and at night. The display size on the compact GPS units for kayaking ranges from 2 to 5 inches. The ideal size to go for will depend on whether you plan to mount the device on your kayak or prefer to carry it in your pocket. A mountable device should have a large screen you can read from the comfort of your seat

Mapping:

As the primary purpose of a kayak GPS unit is to track your current location on a map in order to show you where to go, the ideal GPS unit is one equipped with high-quality maps of the area you intend to explore. Some marine GPS units even come equipped with Blue g2 charts of coastal waters. Alternatively, the device should allow you to download, upload, or create your own maps.

Support:

It goes without saying that GPS for kayakers should support GPS satellites. Beyond this, a GPS system that also interacts with the GLONASS satellite system is even more reliable in challenging environments. WAAS or Wide Area Augmentation System is also a superior option as this technology transmits the signal repeatedly in order to correct slight errors in the unit’s readings.

FAQs:

Q: Why Use A GPS?
A: To avoid getting lost. As long as you have the best kayak GPS and it’s functioning properly and you know how to use it, it’s hard to get lost. GPS helps you determine where you are and how to get to your desired destination. Your GPS device can also determine your boat’s speed and the depth of the water you’re in.

Q: What About Using A Phone?
A: Yes, a phone also works well at determining your position. However, you need to have access to Wi-Fi or a cellular network in order to use the mapping software on your phone. When you are out of range and need a GPS system most, your phone becomes useless. This is why it’s important to have a dedicated GPS device that works off the grid.

Q: What Is The Difference Between Kayak GPS Units And Fish Finders?
A: Kayak GPS systems function as navigation devices that tell you where you are and where you need to go, while kayak GPS fish finders double as fish finders and also show you what is beneath the water. A GPS for kayak will use satellites to determine your location while fish finders use sonar to locate fish.

Q: Where Should I keep My Kayak GPS?
A: Depending on the type of device you have, you can mount your kayak GPS on your kayak or stow it in your pocket. Regardless of where you keep it, make sure it’s secure and easily accessible when you need it.

Q: Should I Leave My Compass And Map Behind?
A: Absolutely not! You should always have a map and compass as backup even when you have a state of the art kayak GPS unit. This is because modern electronic can fail – the battery can run out of juice and the device can malfunction. Such a situation will require you to resort to the tried and tested map and compass for navigation.

Q: Can A Kayak GPS Work In The Dark?
A: Yes, kayak GPS units work well in the dark. The satellite systems work even at night and most kayak GPS units have a backlit display that’s easy to read at night.

Q: Does A Kayak GPS Have A Nautical Chart?
A: Some kayak GPS devices have a nautical chart but most don’t have one. This is why it’s important to pay attention to what each device offers. If you need a nautical chart, choose a unit with chart plotting capabilities and pre-loaded charts.

Q: How Can You Attach Or Mount A Kayak GPS?
A: Most mountable kayak GPS units come with the equipment to use to mount the unit on your kayak. If your unit doesn’t come with mounting hardware, you can always purchase a mount or case to use. If you have a handheld GPS device, you can use clips or a lanyard to attach it to your kayak.

Conclusion:

When it is your safety on the line, having the best GPS system is mandatory. When choosing the best kayak GPS, it’s wise to consider what you plan to use your GPS for and then choose a top rated GPS. Hopefully, our reviews and buying guide have made it easier to find the perfect unit for your
needs. Thanks for taking the time to read our Top Best Kayak GPS Review Guide For 2023.