This small unit fits the weekend angler's budget and yet is as accurate as the big ones.
Make a price comparison
Pros
Comparatively inexpensive
12 satellite uplink for accuracy
500 waypoint memory
Cons
Weak plastic console mount
Battery every day life is only enough for just one fishing trip
Waypoint input is cumbersome
Description
A small, light weight, hand held GPS unit
Uses up to 12 satellites for accurate readings
Provides either compass heading or runway path
Guide Review - These guys 12
Finding Your Way
Garmin has put a lot of product in a small package. The GPS 12 could well be the most popular hand held GPS unit. It comes with a nice array of add-on options, including a small plastic console mount along with a cigarette lighter power cord to save you on batteries.
I favor the roadway guidance towards the compass heading mode, however it has both if you prefer one within the other. With 500 waypoints in its memory, you can store a lot of fishing spots.
The waypoint input is much like all of the handhelds - more than cumbersome. But that may be overlooked if you study the owner's manual and practice.
Battery life is advertised as 12 hours. I'm able to get 12 hours, but only with the most expensive batteries - the unit takes four AA batteries. I end up buying four new ones every trip simply to make sure I can get home. The cigarette lighter cord option fixes the battery problem, but in rough water, I've found the plastic console mount isn't strong enough to hold the system. So, I end up using it as a true handheld, and therefore need the batteries.
I've found this GPS to become an excellent value along with a very accurate unit. I have never seen it be off by a lot more than about ten feet, and often puts me exactly on the spot.
Garmin GPS 12