20 Best Epirb For Offshore Fishing (2023 Updated)

This product (or similar model) is a Must Have item!!! I was onboard a boat that capsized a few months ago offshore in a storm. This product along with the Coast Guard and Sea Tow helped save our lives.

Long story short, we were dead in the water, batteries down, only enough power to run the radio, and radio communication was very poor. Waiting on Sea Tow (who responded as quickly as possible), a storm overtook us and capsized the boat.

It happened so fast that we were unable to get out a “Mayday” with coordinates, and I don’t believe this call was heard due to poor communications. The EPIRB was the only option left for letting anyone know of our distress and position in the water.

We were rescued by the Coast Guard and Sea Tow boat within 2 1/2 hours. If it were not for this EPIRB, our chances of being here today would be Very slim. If you don’t have one, you should get one! It’s a small price to pay for your life and others.

And how comforting it is in a situation like this to know that help is on the way!.

This EPRIP is an upgrade from the RLB-38 Cat 1 that we had. The feature we were most impressed with was the extended battery life. We went from 5 yr service costing $300+ to a 10 user replaceable battery We seen the savings as one of the positive reasoning’s for EPIRB replacement over servicing.

We ordered through Port Supply and it was delivered promptly by their delivery van in Jul 2017. Upon inspection we discovered that this EPIRB was manufactured in Sep of 2016 with a battery replace date of Sep 2026.

It’s more annoying then anything else that our 10 year battery life was received with only 9 yr 2 mos remaining.

I haven’t had to hit the red button yet, so I can’t comment on that part! It’s quite small and light (smaller than several competing PLBs), so it’s easy to carry – fits in a pocket on the shoulder strap part of my backpack.

I’m using it for hiking in remote areas on land, so that’s quite important. The belt or horizontal strap clip looks useful, but it turns out I didn’t need it. The display is a useful reassurance that the GPS section is working when you self-test it (and position acquisition was pretty fast, about 15 seconds) – since the “View” version of this PLB has the same functionality and costs only slightly more than the base version, I would recommend this over the base version.

Delivery from Force4 was rapid and simple – next day delivery without problems, at a good price.

Actually I hope never to use it, but if the need arose I suspect this unit would be helpful. This replaces a McMurdo Fast Find which I’ve had for 8 years and never used. The battery in the Fast Find still shows full charge after all these years, but I thought it best to replace and upgrade.

Both are fine units, I just appreciated the longer signal life on the ResQLink. The only downside is the belt clip is close to impossible (don’t give up) to attach to the unit and for all the trouble the closure on the belt clip is too wide and doesn’t stay on your belt or pack.

Also, the antenna can and does deploy when thrown in a bag or pack. Not a big deal, just an inconvenience.

I couldn’t give any stars for the battery life because I just got it , I assume it’s battery will last like it says. This was very easy to register online. The instructions were very simple on how to use it.

As far as I know it will work , i did run the test and it passed. Size wise it’s about like a small version of the old clunky cell phones and not super heavy but heavier than the average cell phone. I’d say worth the money for the peace of mind.

I think anyone that goes out on the water should have one of these. Things can go very wrong very quick.

Fortunately, we haven’t needed to use it, but it’s a solid build and works well. A little smaller than I expected. The flag also has tie straps.

Very innovative product works wet or dry ,no fire hazzard or threat of burn injury , most flares burn for 3/5 minutes this will operate for hrs and can be seen for 6 miles.

I recently got this when it finally went on sale, something I’ve been eyeing the last two years. I wanted peace of mind when hiking, backpacking or just driving in area where I don’t get cellphone reception.

On top of the $300 to $350 for the device, you have to activate a subscription plan via their Explore website. I chose the Safety Freedom plan, which means I’m using for personal use, only want to use it for 4-5 months out of the year, and primarily want to use it for emergencies.

There’s a $35 ANNUAL activation fee (!), and it’s costing ~$15 per month for use (~$125 per year). The safety plan means 10 maximum “Messages” per month. However, this isn’t just outgoing messages, it is also for INCOMING messages.

I tested the inReach mini out with my family members while I was hiking, and anytime they sent me a message (whether via text or their online message system), it’s deducted from the total message allowance.

This means you better tell anyone you’re messaging to limit/ be careful of how many messages they’re sending you back. Also note there are 160 character limits per message. My family agreed that given the cost, it’s an incredibly stingy message allowance for even a basic Safety plan.

In an emergency, you don’t want to worry about how many incoming and outgoing messages there are. As for using the “SOS” emergency button for much more extreme emergency situations, this is something you can’t really test out and pray it will work in a more extreme emergency situation (note it’s recommended you buy extra insurance via Garmin’s website in the event you need to be airlifted).

Given limited messaging and costs of the plan, I wouldn’t really recommend this for my friends for personal use unless they are quite wealthy and have money to burn. I do think the device generally works, and it works well with the Earthmate app on your mobile phone, etc.

It took a few minutes to send a message or receive a message even in an open area with no obstructions. It also syncs with my Garmin Solar Instinct watch, and potentially I could send preset messages or an SOS from my watch as well.

I’m on the fence of returning it and comparing with cheaper systems, but I suspect Garmin mostly has a monopoly on this. My verdict is that it’s overpriced for the average consumer for personal use given their costly subscription plans.

I have only had the device for a month and have only used it in the field once so this is early for a review. I still have lots to learn and discover about the device. The Garmin customer service is AMAZING! The set-up and activation was pretty much easy and straightforward after carefully reading and watching video tutorials.

I found that the two way messaging has worked as advertised. That’s the main reason that I bought the device. Navigating through all the options is a bit confusing at first, but with practice it get’s much easier.

This device is an independent functioning sattelite 2 way communicator, but to get the complete capability of it, you need to become proficient with the Bluetooth interfacing with the Earthmate app on your smartphone and also the syncing interface with your computer (not a tablet).

You can navigate with the device using the Earthmate app, but I have yet to master that function myself. One last important thing, if you have a computer with Windows 10 or 11 in “S mode”, you will have to disable/turnoff the S mode function on your computer to update and sync the Garmin InReach.

The software that the Garmin devices run off of are not compatible with Windows 10 and 11 in S mode. I learned this the hard way just after I bought a new laptop. Disabling the Windows 11 S mode feature on my laptop was easy and now all systems are operating as advertised.

From my limited use so far, this is a dependable rugged device that I’m sure will live up to it’s reputation. Garmin has lots options to choose from with their plans as well. Hope this helps.

I have owned my in reach mini for over 2 years. I chose the garmin unit for size, ease of use with phone earth mate app and lifetime cost savings (the ability to turn off monthly service fee during months we do not use meant equal cost at 18 months…lower cost every month after compared to competitor).

I use it primarily for backpacking but also for motorcycle riding. I bought it for the sos feature which thankfully I have never had to use. I have used it for tons of other reasons…checked weather on a thru hike (80% chance of rain at one lake, 20% on the other side of the mountain where we comfortably WATCHED the storm), checked fire report when we awoke to smoke so thick we couldn’t see the lake we were camped at (no fire nearby, just blowing in from CA and WA), alerted family to change in plans, used usgs map function to find a lake in fire damaged area where the trail was completely undetectable (in reach knows where I am, the 1970s usgs map knows where the trail USED to be), scouted route when we got off trail in an area that was more downed trees than actual trail, messaged food drop support to alert to arrival time, messaged dog sitter to get dog off the trail when he was struggling with the heat….

and lots more. It holds a charge for 5 days of hiking as I use it (ping every 10 mins, message home when arrive at camp, turn off until we hit trail next day). When I’ve been overdue or decided to ride straight thru without break … my family can pop onto tracking and see where I am.

I know 2 people who HAVE used the sos function ( mountaineering rescue and a motorcycle crash in remote Idaho)… both had great response time for aid. It’s been a game changer for my backpacking and I wouldn’t leave home without it.

This was the very first motor I have ever owned. It took me a while to get it installed but it worked pretty well. One day I was fishing about a mile away from the boat ramp and the remote control stopped working and the motor got the zoomies and started spinning me around in circles very fast, making me afraid it will capsize.

Luckily it didn’t. I pulled the plug on the motor to stop it and paddled back to the boat ramp. Later I contacted MotorGuide and they sent me to an authorized repair place. It was 2 hours away. I took it over to them and they called me a week later that it was ready.

The hand remote had failed. The motor was fine but couldn’t communicate with the handheld controller. It only cost me two long drives to the repair shop. I have been using it ever since with no issues.

Hopefully the handheld continues to work.

Out of the box it had a bad control board which motor guide took two months to send a new one. After that I’ve been through 3 remote’s in less than a year. One flat out wouldn’t work, one would only repeat the last command, now the third only half of the buttons work.

The screws on the remote constantly strip out from changing the batteries and the lanyard connection breaks very easily. Also, Motorguide customer is service is terrible. Every time I’ve dealt with them they are rude and offer zero assistance.

The service center nearby that is licensed to fix them is constantly telling customers to stay away from anything motorguide. I’ve had nothing but problems with this motor which has cost me to miss multiple tournaments and countless hours on the water.

Motorguide has taken kayak fishing to the next level with this pinpoint gps enabled trolling motor. Ready to go out of the box and when paired with the motorguide quick release bracket, removal of the motor is a 10 second breeze.

This motor makes fishing much easier and manageable thanks to the Bluetooth remote and spot lock. Speaking of spot lock, be prepared to be thrown overboard if standing up fishing with spot lock engaged.

It can and does often make aggressive turns in high speed from a dead stop. I give the Xi3 5 stars and BOE 5 stars for the sale and customer support. Over $100 cheaper than Bass Pro with free shipping in a couple of days.

The unit seems good, but it is hard to get working properly. The raymarine forum hasn’t been working since june 2020 so it is hard to get technical assistance. I have the element HV connected in a NMEA2k network to an emtrak B921 AIS.

The element is not displaying any AIS locations. The AIS appears to be transmitting on NMEA according to its diagnostics, by the element does not have any diagnostics like the MFD axiom to actually troubleshoot.

I cannot see any settings to fix this. I have a navionics map sd card which I have selected as the map source. When I first used it, the proper level of detail displayed. Now it seems to have switched to extremely low resolution.

I can’t find any setting which fixes this. The GPS location is accurate and I am 99% sure the navionics card is not yet corrupted. The element should be able to obtain power from the NMEA2k network. However this doesn’t seem to work.

It will only power on if separate power cable that connects with the nmea2k cable into a single connector is connected to the battery. Lastly the unit should have shipped with a HV100 transducer but this was not present.

I have contacted support but this has not yet been resolved.

I would give the Element 7HV a 3. 5 rating so far – after about 1/2 a dozen uses so far. The unit’s speed and responsiveness when switching screens is excellent, as advertised. The function of the hypervision, sidevision, and downvision has been quite good.

However the standard CHIRP function has been quite sensitive to noise – I have had to frequently adjust the sensitivity and noise rejection settings to get a reasonable, usable display and I often lose the depth reading when the setup is not just right.

Also, I recall reading or watching a video somewhere that suggested that several desirable features may be added in the future with software updates – for example, perhaps the ability to use a remote display app like you have in the past with other products.

However, the website shows the most recent software update to be over a year old at this time. It would be nice for the user base to know what updates may be available in the hopefully very near future.

I bought this unit for my kayak and could not be any happier! I was moving up from another brand (Lowrance Hook 2 7) that did not last 2 years. Upon installing and using the Element 7, the first thing that was very clear is it is night and day different.

It should be since it is in a much higher price range. The images are crystal clear, the functionality is quite simple and user friendly. I still have a lot to learn with it but feel like I will be very happy for many years to come! To be fair, there is one negative that I have noticed.

When on a mapping screen, there is a lag between movement of my kayak and when it shows on the screen. I heard Gene Jensen mention the same thing so I know it isn’t just me. I wish it updated the on screen icon a little faster.

Aside from that I am very happy with my purchase. It feels like it is built very solidly, actually has some weight to it. I am very hopeful that it will last many years.

Bought the 24v 80lb 54″ 2 years ago and for the most part it has been great. The only problem I have had is the foot pedal. The heel down control does not work as good as toe down. I quickly figured out why, the different modes work by reed switches on circuit board inside pedal.

Magnets that are embedded in the plastic have to get close enough to trigger switch. The heel down magnet is the only one that is not inside where circuit board is mounted. I contacted motorguide about problem, said to take to repair center.

Would have been ok with me but wanted the complete unit brought in. Just send me new foot pedal in mail and I’ll send my old back. Another company I have product from for boat has it right. You have issue, call them, talk to someone that knows the product.

They then send you new part for you to install if you are willing to do it. If not then take it to repair center. Not sure why these other companies don’t follow this warranty repair because if you want happy customers that is the way to do it.

Most of us boat owners have the knowledge/skills to replace a part. That being said these new trolling motors with gps, transducers built in, etc have a lot technology in them. They are in the weather, get beat up in rough water, and are very sensitive to battery voltage concerns.

You have to have good batteries, connections, etc or you will have problems/glitches. I played around with different magnets on foot pedal until I found one that was just right. Now foot pedal works like it should.

The heel down magnet is just not strong enough to trigger switch until pedal is pushed all the way down. With new magnet it works like toe down just starting to move down and it sends signal. They may have new pedal design to fix this by now? I hope they do.

The good things, GPS, anchor lock, heading lock, all work like they should. I have a garmin hooked up using built in transducer and it has worked like a charm. If I were to buy new one today I would most likely spend a few more bucks and get the new tour pro.

I do prefer the regular mount style and more traditional cable steer feel but with new gps features. It was not on the market when I bought this one but overall I have been happy. Best trolling motor I have had and I’ve had a few.

My advice is to talk to people, read reviews, look at the different options.

Pros: -Spot lock: works great, that’s the extent of the pros. Cons: -Foot pedal: first pedal wouldn’t connect, Motorguide had to ship new after several calls and unsuccessful troubleshooting. 2nd pedal works but might as well not work it is unusable.

delayed, spins out of control, connectivity issues. I don’t even bother putting pedal in boat. -Handheld remote: doesn’t have a screen, no idea what speed setting you are on. -Heading lock: Garbage, literally steers me straight to shore.

Better off just pointing it in the direction you want and adjusting as you go. -GPS: spotty, takes a long time to connect, sometimes it just doesn’t want to. Have to unplug the batteries and boot tmotor back-up, kick it a few times and pray it connects again.

-Release pedal: have to push super hard and something is rubbing really hard when deploying. -Manufacturing updates – Motorguide make you go to the nearest dealer to get updates, super inconvenient, you pay the costs of travel up to 200 miles before they will ship dongle.

-Customer service: not the best experience(s) trying to trouble shoot updates and issues with tmotor. Literally had a Motorguide service technician tell me he hates the foot pedal too. Going to follow VanDam to Minn Kota.

Great trolling motor. Easy to install and easy setup. Made of all quality rust proof materials. Motor Guides higher end products such as this one easily compete with any top brand. She’s powerful, quiet, easy GPS connectivity and has a sleek look.

Also, shipping was sooner than expected. Thanks. IRIE Adventures.

I have bought this product prior to taking part in the 2023 ARC. The device appears to be well made and was easy to program and fit to the lifejacket – provided you ignore the user manual provided with the device.

I used a Youtube tutorial by “Captain Chris” and this was much more useful. Obviously, I won’t know how well the device works until it’s used in anger – which I hope never happens!.

Good price and easy installation

Installation of It is complicated and it will not fit in every life jacket,

I purchased this unit for its large screen as my eyesight has been declining. I really like that part. I also knew from the start that the units auto-plot capabilities would require purchasing the upgraded maps.

This is an important feature in my opinion. Some things about this unit are very disappointing. Garmin brags about the ‘free’ ActiveCaptain app that they provide with this, however I found that it has very poor map and charting capability by itself.

I had wanted to use the app for pre-planning my outing, but it was of no real use for that. Garmin points to the extra cost Navionics app for better capability. I tried Navionics free trial and found that I could create a route there, then transfer to ActiveCaptain, and then finally transfer to the Chartplotter.

Very klunky way to get the job done. And, after paying significant money for the Chartplotter, I really don’t like the idea of paying an additional subscription for Navionics. This really hurts my satisfaction with the whole package.

Another failure is that while the chartplotter has wifi capability, it insists on being the hub, so you cannot connect to your home wifi and upload routes from your living room (again, I like to preplan my outings and I really didn’t want to sit in the boat to accomplish this).

My desire is that once I get on the water, I am just following the routes I had planned for the day, overriding only if scomething else grabs my attention. Finally, Navionics would be great if I could run it on my laptop and then upload remotely to the chartplotter.

But, there is no laptop version. Remember, I’m somewhat eyesight challenged so large screens are important. Pls make the chartplotter internet-connected rather than just wifi-connected, so I can work on my routes or updating software from anywhere.

My thermostat can do it, so my expensive chartplotter needs to catch up on that level of technology. It is behind the times in this respect.

I looked at several fish finder / chart plotter combos. This had the most features I was looking for. I like Garmin anyway. It was pretty easy to install and set up. There were only a couple of issues.

First, there are numerous expandable features, but it was difficult to determine what features are installed on this specific unit. Associated with that was the manual. It mentions all the features, but adds (if equipped).

This made things complicated, especially for someone new to fish finders / chart plotters. Lastly, was the Clear Vu screen is not as clear as the sample shows. I’ve tried adjusting contrast and brightness, but it is still too dark.

I compared the fish finding feature with an older fish finder and was amazed at the extreme close comparison. So far, I have enjoyed the Garmin, but it will take time to learn how to use it effectively.

My wife and I agree it is a learning curve and this gives us both something to grow into. I would recommend this product, but caution you to examine all the features and what comes with the specific unit.

The transducer will make the difference. Take time to see which transducer fits what you want and buy the full unit accordingly.

TraduireAfficher dans la langue originaleI was wondering if this would be good for scuba diving, since I live in Louisiana and many people dive off the oil rigs 20+ miles from shore. There are several instances I can think of where people have been swept off the rig legs and into open ocean.

so I looked up the specs (they aren’t in the description). Unfortunately, the GlobalFix V4 is “Waterproof 33 ft (10 m) for 5 min. ” according to the mfg website. Part Number 2830 (Category I); 2831 (Category II) Model Number RLB-41 Size (no antenna) 8.

13 (H) X 4. 28” (W) (20. 7 X 10. 9 cm) Weight (with bracket) Category I – 66. 10 oz (1874 g) / Category II – 34. 92 oz (990 g) Weight (beacon only) 27 oz (764 g) GPS Internal GPS (66 Channel) Battery Class 2 (non-hazmat) lithium battery (user replaceable) – LiMnO2 (P/N 1104) Battery Replacement 10 year user replaceable battery (replace 10 years after date of manufacture or after activation) Material High impact UV resistant polymer Strobe 4 LED Array Strobe Light Deployment Category I – Hydrostatic release (auto) or Manual, Category II – Manual release Activation Out of bracket and wet, or manually in or out of bracket Waterproof 33 ft (10 m) for 5 min.

Output Power 5 W +/- 2dB (406. 037 MHz); 50 mW +/-3dB (121. 5 MHz) Operational Life 48 hours minimum @ -4°F (-20°C) Typical Performance +48 hrs. @ -4°F (-20°C); Longer in higher ambient temperature Operating Temp.

-4°F to +131°F (-20°C to +55°C ) (Class 2) Storage Temp. -22°F to + 158°F (-30°C to +70°C) Accessories SeaShelter™4 (P/N 2832), QuickDraw™ V4 (P/N 2833), Cat I HydroFix™ HRU (P/N 9490. 1) Approvals Cospas-Sarsat, FCC, MED (Pending), IC Acceptances: USCG Meets: GMDSS, RTCM, IEC, and IMO standards 406Link.

com 120 satellite detectable basic self tests (available only in the Americas).

TraduireAfficher dans la langue originaleIt really works folks. I removed mine from its cradle today while i was cleaning the boat and painting the center console and somehow it got wet from hose overspray and activated.

I didnt realize it (middle of the day so I didnt see the Lights and the beep isnt very audible) until I went to check my phone and saw the coast guard, my mom, my oldest son all calling me multiple times.

Oops. Anyway great to know that if you follow directions your life will be saved.

TraduireAfficher dans la langue originaleI “inherited” a used EPIRB when purchasing our current “new to us” used boat, but the battery was 10 years out of date. As it turned out I could purchase this new EPIRB for only slightly more than the cost of replacing the old EPIRB’s battery! Plus the new EPIRBS have longer battery life than the older units, and when the battery does need to be replaced it can be replaced by the customer without sending the product in.

As a result, purchase of the new unit was a no-brainer. My only issues were that West Marine’s “Product Review” comments were wrong. For example, for this unit the comments say you need to buy the mounting bracket separately, which I did, only to find that a bracket was included with the unit.

I reported that issue to West who had me take the extra bracket to my local West store for a refund, but upon a week later I see that erroneous comment is still posted.

I tested the Garmin inReach Mini 2 on a six-day backpack through Dark Canyon in southeastern UT. New to satellite communication devices, I spent a week testing and learning the unit’s features back at home, alternating between using the device as a stand-alone and paired with my phone and the Garmin Explore app.

As I will detail below, due to a combination of user error and some irritating design features of the Explore app, on the actual trip I was unable to use the device with my phone. Although that initial experience was very frustrating it revealed that, for such a small unit with a tiny monochromatic screen and clunky set of buttons as the interface, the programmers for the device itself did a really nice job of laying out the menus and features in a reasonably logical fashion.

After two days and with the help of a cheat sheet I brought along, I got pretty good at accessing the features quickly. But typing out waypoint names and sending txt messages without the benefit of one’s phone is tedious – I suppose a necessary trade-off for a unit that is barely the size of a credit card.

To preserve phone battery life I don’t leave apps turned on that I don’t use frequently, especially those that require the phone’s GPS location feature to be turned on. So I didn’t try to access the Explore app on my phone and pair with the Mini 2 until we were near the trailhead.

Big mistake, for one needs an internet connection to sign into the app. That, clearly, was user error. But once home I went back and re-read the instruction manual and re-watched the instructional video with Garmin rep, Chip Noble.

Both were silent on this seemingly important first step. Yes, in this day and age it should be obvious one needs an internet connection to log in. But this device has a lot of features, it’s complicated with a learning curve, requires one to establish an account on-line and specify numerous preferences and then download the app on the phone, figure out how to pair, etc.

There is a lot going on and during all my testing I was focused on how to preserve battery life for the Mini 2 and my phone since I was going to be out for six days. With this focus I neglected to keep this obvious step in mind.

Frantically walking around Elk Ridge trying to get a signal so I could sign in, at one point I managed to get one bar of 4G service, but I kept getting hung up on a user verification page that requires one to verify they have read the user agreement and that they are older than 13! Really, Garmin? After having to set up an account with home address, credit card info, emergency contacts, etc, I need to specify that I am older than 13 and read the user agreement each time I log into the app? The product designers need to have a sit-down with the legal department and re-think the login procedure.

After re-testing back at home I did discover that when you sign out of the app Garmin does provide a warning that you need an internet connection to sign back in. But given the device is intended to be used where there is no Internet connection in the first place, and under circumstances where preservation of phone battery life can be critical, it would at least be helpful to design the app such that login is feasible when you only have one bar of 4G service.

Because of the mishap with the Explore app I primarily used the unit for saving waypoints, sending txt messages, using the compass and obtaining a weather report. Not using the tracking features I didn’t really test the battery duration.

In the upper parts of Dark Canyon where the canyon is wide, txt messages were sent successfully within a minute or two, even under a canopy of ponderosa pine trees. Lower down where the canyon deepens and narrows considerably, it took up to 15 minutes for a txt message to go through.

The compass was surprisingly sensitive, even lower down in the narrowest parts of the canyon, a pleasant surprise because without the aid of detailed maps and track points on the Explore app, I relied on the compass and paper maps to determine our location in the narrow goosenecks typical of the lower canyon.

The basic weather reporting is, well, pretty basic. High and low temp, chance of precip, presumably, but not specified, for the next 24 hours. Clouds were building the first time I checked the forecast, which gave a 1% chance of rain.

30 minutes later it started raining! Back at home sleuthing around the web I tried to determine the source of the forecast – NOAA, Weather Underground, proprietary – and how large a region it is pulling the forecast from? But found no info.

I wish I had been able to test the Explore app in Dark Canyon and provide a more complete review. In general, the unit is well designed, it’s super compact and lightweight. It’s pricey and although there are two different subscription plans with several tiers within each plan, if you end up using the device most of the year and want to benefit from the device’s features you will end up spending at least $400 in monthly subscription fees and an annual service charge.

Just remember to login to the Explore app before you leave home!.

My 1 star is based on the battery life in tracking mode. Don’t believe the battery estimates provided by Garmin. They are ridiculously high. I purchased this for use this during a 2 week long bikepacking race.

Across the board everyone I talked to saw horrible battery life. In a number of instances, battery lasted less than a day. The issue seems to be that when the InReach can’t find a satellite, it repeatedly looks for the satellite and that drains the your battery.

Most participants were using rentals which were locked in at 10min tracking, but since I had my own, I was able to set at 1hr tracking. Battery life for me was a few days, nothing like the estimates provided by Garmin.

As far as open sky goes, conditions were definitely ideal. I was in open land, with a constant view of the sky, few trees etc. Yet still the battery life fell way short of what Garmin predicts. I would not be surprised if the estimates are simply calculations and were never tested.

Besides that, the device seems to work fine. Setup was simple, messaging works etc. I think this is a good device to have if you simply want SOS functionality and messaging. For tracking, you will need to bring a big power bank to keep it running for any reasonable amount of time.

If there was a way to swap out batteries easily or use a standard battery (SPOT uses AAAs) that would be a better design. If you want the InReach for only the SOS function and messaging, the device will work.

If you need to track your position, you are better off with a less power hungry device like a SPOT tracker.

I bought this earlier this year before a winter backpacking trip, thinking it was a good idea, but would probably be a waste of $400. I have never been more wrong about something in my life. In July, I was doing the Wonderland Trail around Mount Rainier during some exceptionally (but unfortunately more and more frequent) hot weather.

My backpacking partner was having a tough time in the heat, eventually developing heat exhaustion, then full blown heatstroke. We were sitting in the shade, I left for about 10 minutes to go look at crossing the Mowich River, and when I came back he was having a seizure.

I started dumping water on him and hit the SOS on my Garmin. Garmin responded quickly, getting in touch with the NPS emergency response, and within 2 hours, a helicopter landed. Backpacking partner was conscious by this point, but 100% out of it, not knowing who he was, where he was, his wife’s name, etc.

, let alone being able to walk 4+ miles to the nearest road. He got airlifted out, spent 2. 5 days in the hospital, and was eventually fine. I have wilderness first aid training, but even knowing what to do in this situation, I would’ve been screwed without the Garmin.

No cell service, not able to leave and go get help, as if I left him stumbling around, he would’ve either gotten lost or fell in the river and drowned. Other than the emergency crew that showed up, I didn’t see another person in 6+ hours throughout the whole ordeal.

He was in good shape otherwise, this was totally unexpected. Things happen, and the first responders all said that most likely he would’ve died had he not gotten out of there. Buy it. Having some sort of option and knowing that help is on the way is absolutely priceless.

Purchased and took it on a trip out west, in case. Was lost on the descent of Slesse Mountain after repelling through steep waterfalls and forested areas. Took the wrong descent path going down the opposite side of the mountain.

Activated the PLB and within 2 hours an RCMP helicopter located us. As it was past sunset they communicated to us via a loud speaker while we responded with blinking head lamps to verify that we were able to bivy another night and wait for a rescue in the morning.

We were rescued via helicopter roughly 12 hours later by the Chilliwack Search and Rescue Team. My Ocean Signal Rescume PLB-1 Personal Locator Beacon was on for 15+ hours at that point. This thing works! Got the battery replaced at Fogh Boat Supplies for $135 and is good to go for another 8 years.

I had to send in my PLB for an antenna replacement. It was a very expensive ordeal, particularly for anyone based in the US, as you must send it to the UK for repairs. It almost cost me as much as buying a new unit once shipping, fees, etc are taken into account.

Very disappointing all things considered. I’d buy a Garmin product next time, despite the subscription costs, because if anything happens to the unit that needs to be fixed, you’d almost be better off just buying a new one.

So all in all, disappointing customer service from Ocean Signal. As far as the unit itself, it’s small and compact which is nice. Easy enough to use. Not much else to say unless you actually need to use it.

This small EPIRB device will fit in your pocket and can be used if your are placed in a dangerous situation … wether you are at sea on a fishing trip and things go wrong with your circumstances!! Or if you are touring around in your recreational vehicle and things go seriously wrong and you need aid.

A handy little safety device that can make Search and Rescue aware there is a situation at your specific location. The device sends out a distress signal via satellite making Search and Rescue aware of your exact location.

Pocket size and handy smaller than a packet of cigarettes (they will kill you) this will save your life!! Hope I don’t need it!!!.

I had written a much more detailed review of this trolling motor but had to disconnect the add blocker on my phone and lost it so I’m gonna keep it simple this time. Do not buy this trolling motor unless you like getting angry and having time on the water ruined.

All the features are great when it’s working and repairs are expensive. I had the original one replaced by MinnKota and the updated model has given me less trouble but I’ve already spent over $1000. 00 on two repairs on this one and just know that’s only the beginning.

When I bought mine they were a little over $1400. 00 so I’ll tell you now that if you pay what they are going for now you are going to feel as though you got robbed, not worth the money. Just get the standard Ipiolot with manual assist and trim it up and down manually and save yourself the aggravation.

I bought the Ulterra 112T/60’/36vdc for my heavy Cabo 216 back in March 2020. The spot lock function is a game changer for my deepwater (600′) rockcod fishing as well as shallow water fishing in the kelp off San Diego for lingcod.

I catch limits almost every time out. However, 3 times I hand-carried the TM to the dealer 110 miles away. due to the TM malfunctioning in different ways. (1) my fault cuz I did not read the pairing correctly once it got unpaired, (2) would not completely home to base.

Again probably my fault. (3) motor went crazy and I ran into a moored boat breaking the indestructable shaft. This also could be my fault cuz motor was on 8 when I turned it off last. (4) went crazy again while being retrieved shattering the gears.

All the malfunctions happened in San Diego Bay around the Navy’s war ship fleet with all kinds of electronic noise. MK fixed the motor each time at no cost to me. From this adventure here’s what I have learned (1) know how to pair and retrieve TM and keep info on boat (2) When entering a function on ipilot wait a second or two to let the bluetooth function to start before entering another command.

Its not instantaneous. (3) use silicon spray on shaft and deploy mechanism after 2-3 trips (4) cover with a TM cover (Popp Tops) While being discouraged by these malfunctions, most being my fault (I think), MK made me whole each time.

I have being using the Ulterra for 6 months now with no problems.

This is a mixed review. a love and hate relationship. the trolling motor came with a new Robalo cayman 226. I LOVE the usability of the motor. The spot lock I use every time I am on the water. I never imagined how useful this would be.

If this wasn’t broken all of the time I would take my anchor out of my boat. its a feature I didn’t realize I couldn’t live without. until it started failing and I had to live without it. BUT the motor is totally a pile of junk.

I use it in a 50/50 mix of salt and fresh water, always rinse with salt away and wash boat. boat is garaged 400 miles from salt air. So really not a salt water boat. Barely over 1 year remote failed.

I wrongly assumed it was a 1 year warranty and purchased another. my fault and i am sure Minnkota would have taken care of me. But second one is dead now just over a year. No biggie, I downloaded the app and it works great on phone.

unit the steer motor went out, 2 years 3 months since purchasing. 380$ repair. took it back out on the water. blue tooth wont stay paired with phone. back at shop. if they give me a $300 quote on this I’m ditching Minnkota and getting a Rhodan.

I cant help but believe now they aren’t built well enough for the environment a boat encounters. this is my 3rd minnkota power drive, one I had less than a year and sold the boat. it was fine. second one was freshwater unit worked great until I fished a brackish river and it ruined it.

I chalked that up to my own stupidity and vowed never to use a freshwater motor in salt.

I CAUGHT 40 WALLEYES IN 2020 FROM MY BOAT. INSTALLED MY HELIX THIS SPRING AND BOATED OVER 180 WALLEYES THIS YEAR. THE SIDE IMAGING HAS BEEN GREAT FOR FINDING WEED EDGES, FISH CRIBS, ROCKS, ETC. THE CLARITY OF THE DOWN IMAGING AND 2D SONAR HAS BEEN INCREDIBLE FOR IDENTIFYING FISH.

THE NEW LAKEMASTER MAPS YOU CAN RUN ON THIS UNIT PROVIDE GREAT DETAIL. I LOVE THE 3 BUTTONS THAT CAN BE USED TO PRESET VIEWS. I HAVE ONE ON MY LAKE MAP SHOWING MY WAYPOINTS AND DETAILED CONTOUR LINES, THE SECOND IS MY SIDE IMAGING AND THE THIRD IS A SPLIT SCREEN BETWEEN DOWN IMAGING AND 2D SONAR.

I BOUNCE BACK AND FORTH CONSTANTLY BETWEEN THESE VIEWS. I HAVE AN ICE CONVERSION KIT ON ORDER SO I CAN USE MY UNIT FOR ICE FISHING. I ALSO HAVE A 360 UNIVERAL MOUNT ON ORDER THAT I HOPE TO HAVE MOUNTED ON MY BOAT FOR THE 2022 WALLEYE OPENER.

I’VE SPENT HOURS RIDING AROUND WITHOUT WETTING A LINE JUST PLAYING WITH MY ELECTRONICS AND LEARNING THE WATER. ALSO CATCHING A LOT OF CRAPPIES JUST BECAUSE I SEE THESE BIG SCHOOLS MOVING UNDER MY BOAT THROUGHOUT THE WATER COLUMN.

I’M STILL LEARNING THE CAPABILITIES OF MY UNIT WHILE BOATING A GOOD NUMBER OF FISH. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS PRODUCT.

My first fishfinder was a simple Humminbird Piranha. Did the job, but I wanted more. Got a great deal on a different maker’s 7 inch top of the line. Big mistake. Never worked properly. Terrible, incomprehensible manual.

A lemon. Dumped it for a Helix 7 MSI G4. WOW! What a difference. Way better than the other fishfinder. Incredible sonar. The Summary Guide got me started quickly, and the simulations are terrific. Easy to set up and easy to use.

Wish I had stuck with Humminbird all along.

Just finished a trial run with the Helix 7 on my 17 ‘ Cape Horn in Mobile Bay. My first impression with this unit is less than impressive particularly the GPS feature. Accuracy doesn’t seem to be a problem but the details of features like channel markers, fishing reefs, etc are so small, it’s hard to read them while driving the boat.

The SI is disappointing because you can’t read the left side due to interference from the outboard. Of all the many reviews I read prior to purchasing this unit, no one mentioned this potential problem and certainly not the store salesman.

Would I buy this unit knowing what I know now? No.

I am retired USCG, Aviation, been on many searches for overdues. Here is a hint, the ones with an EPIRB ALWAYS came home to live another day. 90% of our searches we came back empty handed after 3 days of searches.

BTW all you get is 3 days. I we could not find you in that time you are fishfood. What’s your life and your family’s lives worth?.

I have purchased multiple ACR EPIRBS in the past and fortunately have never had to activate one! Because of the five year battery life on the ACR battery, I need to either replace the battery or replace the unit.

Because they charge so much for the battery, I find the best return on investment is to purchase a newer, more modern unit. This time I am changing from ACR to Ocean Signal. The three factors I used for my decision was price (roughly $40 less), 12 watts of transmit power (ACR is about half the watts), and Ocean Signal’s 10 year battery life (ACR batteries are replaced every five years).

This seems like a no brainer to me.

Epirb- Ocean RescueMe small and compact. easy to install with good bracket system. 10 year life on the battery. reasonable market price. good instructions on how to use.

They don’t tell you that you have to purchase a new auto release every 2 years. No operating manual included in the purchase had to go online. No instructions on how to replace battery, where to replace battery and what battery to buy.

West Marine did not advise that this unit must be completely clear of all obstacles above it. No good if boat flips over.

Appears to be a great EPIRB and have just completed the registration process with NOAA and have not installed back on Sailboat. The only downside in purchasing a used EPIRB is that the expiration date on the battery is often getting near.

New batteries for this unit are around $265, however I feel this was a good purchase for the money even when considering the cost in 2019 for a new battery.

Too many stories of people disappearing in the Gulf of Mexico. Maybe you have a float plan, a VHF, a bunch of flares, and a cell phone, and all of those life vests stored in your boat, that’s great, but WHAT IF: you are separated from your boat because of a mishap, sudden storm waves, flipped boat, etc.

and you are unable to stay with the boat and all of that equipment? IF you simply wear this beacon (as light as a cell phone) you can activate the distress beacon and the PLB transmits a beacon to the satellite rescue network, with your exact GPS position, that you need help NOW.

It won’t activate automatically, you have to deploy the antenna and push a button on the PLB, takes maybe 10 seconds, but then you just relax in your life vest and wait for rescue, wait, you do wear a life vest don’t you? Well, if you don’t, then maybe you can tread water long enough for a rescue? Light weight with simple instructions.

Permanent non-chargeable battery. Registration with NOAA, simple, takes 5 minutes to list emergency contacts. Very satisfied, and hoping I never need to use it.

It is difficult to review something that would only be used in an emergency. I have not had an emergency, and hope to not do so, however, if one did take place, I would want this to work as advertised.

What I can say now is that it appears to be well made and solid. It is small and light weight and would be very ease to put into action should the need arise. The circuit test function works correctly and gives a positive indication that all is correct and that the device would work when needed.

If you purchase this item, make sure that you also complete the registration process with the NOAA. Only then will it provide the support in an emergency that you would want and need. I can not properly rate the items performance as it has not been activated.

Also it is difficult to assign a star rating (that is why only a three star) when I really do not know that it will work until I push the red button in a real emergency. I purchased this PLB based on faith and the high quality advertising and information about PLBs and how they are supposed to actually work.

Regardless of the unknowns mentioned above, I highly recommend the purchase of this PLB.

This is not an internet toy, like a SPOT. This is a serious piece of emergency rescue equipment. meant for use in life threatening emergencies, it transmits directly to US Government owned and operated military grade NOAA satellites.

Your GPS coordinates are encoded in the transmission. You do need to have a line of sight with the sky, the more sky you can see the better, as the satellites may be on the horizon. The more satellites the device can lock onto, the more precise location can be relayed to authorities.

Additionally, a radio frequency is transmitted that allows emergency responders to triangulate on your position if GPS signals are weak or blocked (such as in a canyon or in heavy trees). Unlike some orange toys on the market, this is military grade, and it floats (the ACR-2880 is the same but it does not float).

No annual subscription is required, but the batteries do need to be replaced by the factory every 5 years (about $140). Still cheaper than a $150-250 annual SPOT subscription! I have not had to use it yet and hope that I never do.

But if I do, ACR offers a free replacement unit, it your unit is used to save someone. Just send yours in with details of the event and they will send you a BRAND NEW current model unit.