Fishfinders & Chartplotters
Spend less time searching with a reliable fish finder built for Kiwi conditions. Fishing offshore, exploring harbour channels, or chasing trout in the lake? Browse fishfinders and chartplotters to suit every boat and budget. Our GPS fish finder combo units help you locate fish, navigate confidently, and get more from every trip.
Find More Fish on Every Trip
Modern fish finders use sonar to show what is happening below the surface. A quality unit helps you:
- Locate schools of fish
- Read water depth accurately
- Identify bottom structure like reefs, drop-offs and weed beds
- Distinguish hard and soft seabeds
- Mark productive spots as waypoints for future trips
Many units are available as a fish finder with GPS, combining sonar with chartplotter functionality so you can:
- Track your route
- Navigate safely using marine charts
- Mark and return to fishing hotspots
- Monitor speed and distance
Whether you are drifting a reef or trolling offshore, a fishfinder combo adds confidence and precision to your day on the water.
Popular Fish Finder and Combo Units
Shop trusted Garmin and Lowrance units from our combo units range:
- Garmin Striker 4 Plus GPS: compact entry combo for smaller boats and kayaks
- Garmin EchoMAP 55cv UHD2 combo (GT20)
- Garmin EchoMAP UHD2 Touch 7" 75sv (GT54 transducer)
- Garmin EchoMAP UHD2 95sv with GT56 transducer
- Lowrance Elite FS-7 with Active Imaging 3-in-1 and Elite FS-9
- Lowrance HDS Pro 10 with Active Imaging HD transducer
Need sonar only? See the Lowrance Eagle 4x fishfinder in our fishfinders category.
Choosing the Right Fish Finder for Your Setup
Match screen size, sonar and GPS to your boat and fishing style:
Screen size
Smaller screens (5 to 7 inch) suit kayaks, dinghies and compact helm stations. Larger displays (9 inch and up) give clearer split-screen views for offshore boats and serious anglers.
Sonar type
- CHIRP sonar: clearer target separation and improved depth performance
- DownScan imaging: detailed structure directly beneath your boat
- SideScan imaging: scans to either side to locate structure faster
GPS capability
A standalone sonar unit may suit basic setups. A GPS fish finder combo is ideal if you want integrated navigation and waypoint marking.
Transducer compatibility
Different transom, through-hull and in-hull transducers offer varying depth capability. Match the transducer to your hull and typical fishing depth.
Entry-level vs advanced units
Entry-level GPS fish finders suit weekend anglers and smaller boats. Professional-grade units add advanced mapping, networking and premium sonar for offshore and game fishing.
Essential Fish Finder Accessories for Your Boat
Get the most from your electronics with fishfinder and chartplotter accessories.
Transducers
The heart of your sonar system. Browse transom-mount, through-hull and transducer accessories, including:
- Lowrance/Simrad 1kW transom transducer TM260
- Lowrance 1kW mid CHIRP transom TM185
- Lowrance 9-pin through-hull P319 (50/200kHz)
- Lowrance S3100 sonar module and Garmin GSD 25 premium sonar module
Mounting options
Secure mounting keeps your display stable and easy to read. The Railblaza electronics mount (R-Lock rectangle) is a popular choice for kayaks and smaller boats.
Networking and connectivity
On larger boats, NMEA 2000 networking connects multiple displays and onboard systems. Starter kits include:
- Garmin NMEA 2000 starter pack
- Lowrance NMEA 2000 starter kit
- Lowrance HDS/Elite/TI external GPS antenna
Fish Finders for Every Kiwi Fishing Style
New Zealand offers diverse fishing conditions, and we have units to match.
Kayak and dinghy fishing
Compact combos such as the Garmin Striker 4 Plus or Lowrance Eagle 4x suit lightweight setups with simple 12V power.
Trailer boats and estuary fishing
Mid-sized combos like the Garmin EchoMAP 55cv UHD2 or Lowrance Elite FS-7 deliver detailed sonar and navigation for harbour channels, sandbanks and reef edges.
Lake and freshwater fishing
CHIRP sonar helps distinguish structure and bait schools in lakes and rivers. Portable and compact units are popular for small craft and seasonal use.
Offshore and game fishing
Larger combos with advanced imaging and networking suit deep-water fishing. Consider the Garmin EchoMAP UHD2 95sv or Lowrance HDS Pro 10 with premium transducers and sonar modules.
Explore Boating and Fishing Gear at Burnsco
Burnsco stocks fish finders, combo units, transducers and accessories for every type of angler. Shop fishfinders and chartplotters online or visit your nearest Burnsco store.
Call 0800 10 20 41 or contact us for help choosing the right fish finder, transducer or mounting kit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best fish finder for a beginner?
For beginners, a 5 to 7 inch GPS fish finder combo with CHIRP sonar is a solid starting point. The Garmin Striker 4 Plus GPS is a popular entry option with straightforward setup.
How do I install a fish finder on my boat?
Installation involves mounting the display at the helm, fitting the transducer (usually transom, through-hull or in-hull), and connecting 12V power.
Follow our how to install a chartplotter or fishfinder guide. A Railblaza mount makes setup easier on kayaks and smaller boats.
Can I use a fish finder for both freshwater lakes and saltwater fishing?
Yes. Most modern fishfinders suit freshwater and saltwater use. Match the unit and transducer to your typical depth. Rinse components with fresh water after saltwater use.
What depth can a fish finder read accurately?
Depth capability depends on power output and transducer type. Entry-level models read well in shallower water; premium 1kW transducers and sonar modules such as the Garmin GSD 25 extend range offshore. Water clarity, bottom type and sea state also affect performance.
