BoatLanes Navigation System Review highlights software application that helps you navigate through Texas lakes in search for the best bass fishing locales. This system contains GPS compatible trails that can enable you to mark boat running lanes with utmost ease.
You have the added advantage of using BoatLanes Navigation System either as a Memory Card or in the form of an instant download option. In simpler words, you attach a BoatLanes memory card to your existing GPS unit.
It is important to make note of the fact that you cannot replace your existing map or charts with the BoatLanes memory card. The only advantage here is that the BoatLanes memory card would help you identify the best bass fishing lanes whereas a traditional chart/map would never have this information.
BoatLanes Navigation System Review
Name of the Product: Bass Fishing Connection
Type of Product: Digital
Nature of Usage: Helps You Fish in Lakes in USA
Unique Selling Point: Advanced Navigation System to Fish Bass
What do Users of this Product Like the Most? Ability to Navigate in 8 Lake Systems
Instant Download: Yes
Full Satisfaction Guarantee: Yes, for 60 Days
LeanAndFit Reviewer Feedback: Positive
The BoatLanes Navigation System can be used for 8 different lake systems. These navigation systems cover Lake Fork, Lake Sam Rayburn, the Toledo Bend Reservoir and the Lake of Pines. When you attach the BoatLanes navigation system with your existing GPS, you can easily reach your destination safely and quickly. You can even find fishes where they are least expected to be found.
Why Add BoatLanes Navigation System to Your Boat’s GPS?
While the traditional GPS system does help in helping you reach to your destination, it cannot save you from danger. It is quite possible that during the dead of the night or during dense fog, you can easily lose your way.
Besides getting lost at night, the lack of knowledge on rotten timber can damage your boat. Standing timber found in piers and lakes tend to decompose owing to high waves, age, wind and water. Decomposed timber falls into the lake and sits right below the water’s surface. Whenever a boat brushes past this timber, it can get damaged.
The Damages Caused by Decomposed Timber:
@ Boat’s props can get damaged when they strike against the logs in the water. If the props of your boat get damaged, it would take approximately $600 to repair this damage.
@ At times, the lower unit of your boat can suffer extensive damage when it strikes hidden wooden blocks. Repairing the lower unit of your boat can cost you approximately $4000 in damage.
@ Sometimes, the prop shafts get damaged when your boat is struck by logs. Repairing your pros can set you back by $1000.
@ If your boat’s hull gets damaged, you may need another thousand dollars to get your boat in place.
@ When hidden logs beneath the water’s surface strike your boat, repairing it becomes imperative. Besides the cost incurred, your boat would also be kept out of the water for many days.
@ In the event of an extensive boat damage owing to hidden timber, your bass boat may require complete replacement. This would cost you a whopping $35,000.
Mapping Cards Vs BoatLanes Navigation – Which is Better?
When you begin to make use of mapping cards, you have instant access to boat lanes. Nonetheless, the accuracy level of mapping cards is a few hundred yards short of accuracy level. This in turn implies that you may be currently sailing under rotten logs.
The damage that your boat undergoes in such a period can be catastrophic in nature. I have discussed the repair related costs in the above paragraph in detail. More than just wrecking your boat, unreal data obtained from mapping cards can render your boat useless and non-water worthy for several days.
Boatlanes navigation on the other hand provides accuracy pertaining to boat lanes. When you affix BoatLanes Navigation with your boat’s GPS unit, you would know exactly where the logs are and how to avoid them.
Advantages of using BoatLanes Navigation System:
The Boatlanes navigation system should ideally be equipped with your boat’s GPS unit. Here is how, you can benefit with this combination:
>>> Your boat can remain free from expensive damage. By knowing where the danger lies, you can steer your boat away and keep it from getting damaged.
>>> Real time boat lanes are present in BoatLanes. This in turn allows you to pinpoint where to find the maximum number of fish.
>>> When you know where the fish lies, how to avoid hidden logs and that your boat is completely safe, your stress level is dramatically reduced.
>>> If you rely only on your GPS unit, you would often guess your next move. This is especially true when there is dense fog or during pitch dark. This guess work is completely removed when you attach BoatLane Navigation unit with your boat GPS.
>>> When you are sure of your navigation, you make more money during a fishing tournament. This in turn helps you secure a regular income.
>>> This small navigation unit can give you immense peace of mind.
What do you Get when you Place an Order?
In case you opt for the Boatlanes Navigation Unit, you get a few things as standard. Here is a brief on what you can expect:
@ First and foremost, you get your hands onto Boatlanes navigation cards. These are fortified with SD compatibility.
@ These memory cards have detailed facts on boat lanes and trails that is in sync with your requirement.
@ You have ample support from the customer support staff. Phone numbers as well as email address of the BoatLanes customer support is provided here.
@ The package also provides detailed instructions on how to install this memory card along with your GPS unit.
@ If you wish to go deeper then, information on disclaimers as well as applicable warning labels too are provided here.
The Flaws with Boatlanes Memory Card:
>>> This memory card may not work wonders when utilized alone. You would be required to affix it along with your GPS unit already installed in your boat.
>>> It can only be used with boat navigation purposes.
>>> Apart from lakes located in Texas, the Boatlanes memory card is not useful in lakes located in other states.
What are the Different Types of GPS Available for Boats?
The satellites under the jurisdiction of the United States of America are linked with your GPS unit and send signals based on your location search. You have the distinct advantage of locating the altitude, assessing the longitude and the latitude.
At present, there are over thirty two satellites orbiting the earth in the medium sector (approximately 12.5k miles above the sea level). They are linked with your GPS device and they allow you to accurately select your location on land with an accuracy level of up to 6 meters.
As far as the height goes, these devises are accurate up to plus/minus 10 meters from your chosen altitude. Marine GPS devises can be had in three different forms – the Handheld Devises, the Fixed Devises and the MultiFunctional Devises.
Let us take a closer look at each of these:
Handheld GPS Device:
In case you have a John Boat, a dingy boat that uses paddles or a kayak, you might want to make use of a GPS that offers portability.
In such a scenario, a handheld GPS would be ideal for your sailing vessel.These devices are usually battery operated and do not require to derive their power from the boat. Their antenna is internally located and the overall size of the display screen is relatively small.
In case you want an advanced portable GPS unit with touchscreen facility, you can opt for these as well. Simply mount the handheld GPS device onto your boat’s dashboard and head into the waters with a safe grip over your movement.
GPS Fixed to the Boat:
when you are driving your own boat and are regular in the waterways, it is best to install a waterproof GPS navigation unit within your boat.
Such GPS units derive their power from the electronic system located within the boat and offer a wide display unit featuring several unique parameters. The cartographic display is an ideal way to explore unknown waters without getting worried in the act.
Boat GPS with Multiple Display Unit:
In the Multiple Display boat GPS you have the added advantage of enjoying several features that are amiss in a normal GPS unit.
Inputs pertaining to the ocean’s current depth as well as the present weather conditions and future predictions are delivered here via video graphic representation.
Such displays also have radar options available and such displays often helps in keeping your boat’s space as less cluttered as possible.
Top Tips to Choose the Best GPS for Your Boat?
Regardless of whether you are a new boat owner or a tenured one, the need for a global positioning unit is of vital importance. When you link your boat GPS unit with the satellite, you can take complete control of your boat’s navigation system.
When your boat has a GPS unit, you have the distinct advantage of taking your boat into unknown destination, locating fish in the water, docking it properly; locate the depth of the water etc.
So, when you have a GPS unit on your boat, you have the distinct advantage of letting go of the traditional guiding equipment such as maps and even the trademark compass.
While GPS for boats is vital as they vastly improve navigation ahead and under the boat, choosing an ideal GPS for your vessel can be a rather daunting task. This is owing to the wide variety of options available.
Well, here is how you can zero down on your choice:
@ The Portability Factor:
First and foremost you need to choose the GPS that is ideally suited for your vessel. You may opt for handheld devises as they occupy less space and are compact. Nonetheless they have a smaller display and do not have varied navigation options.
You may also opt for multi display units that provide detailed navigation facilities. There is also an option to install fixed mounts that can be fitted onto the boat boasting of a large display screen and varied navigation based facilities.
@ The Number of Satellites:
A good boat GPS should ideally be capable of using a few satellites that orbit the earth’s middle surface. As less as eleven and as many as twenty four satellites can be used in GPS units meant for boats. Pick the one as per your requirements.
@ The Connectivity Factor:
Another big factor is the ability to connect your GPS unit to your laptop. While the GPS unit does have the ability to store data needed for navigational purposes, you can transfer extra data from your GPS to your computer and vice versa.
So, seek a GPS devise that caters to your additional data specific requirements. Do remember that not all boat GPS units offer connectivity with your computer.
@ Size of the Display Unit:
In case you want a bigger display and want that to view maps and underground conditions, opt for a bigger screen and vice versa.
In case you wish to know whether there are stones underneath your boat or gauge the shallowness of the sea bed, a large screen offers a better view.
@ The Mapping Type:
Your GPS unit may or may not contain mapping systems. In case you are in a small lake, you do not need a mapping unit. Larger lakes would need a base mapping mechanism to be installed in your GPS. If you do not have maps, getting lost is relatively easy.
@ Precision Mapping System:
In case you are seeking precise location facility then, you need to have an external antenna attachment that can be affixed to your chosen boat’s GPS devise. Check whether your chosen GPS offers this facility or not.
@ Damage Owing to Water:
You need to be very careful with regards to selecting a GPS unit with special regards to it getting damaged owing to water intake. While most boat GPS units are water proof, not all of them are completely water proof. Check with the manufacturer before buying one for your boat.
@ Danger Recognition Facility:
GPS units that have the ability to tell you whether the weather is going to get worse in the near future or that rocks are right beneath the surface of the boat. This feature helps you get control of the vessel better.
Depending on your security based requirements, the chosen GPS unit needs to be in sync with your needs. So, always check with the manufacturer and list out your requirements before finalizing your purchase.
@ The Smart GPS System:
When you have a lot of work to do and are unable to stay close to the GPS unit, you might want to keep giving directions to your boat GPS without reaching for it.
This can be done via commanding the unit via your voice. Make sure that your GPS unit is equipped to handle this facility. If yes then, you are in luck and have less work to do.
At the same time, if you have a small sized boat that does not require loads of work then, opt for a boat GPS that is simple and does not require voice based directions.
@ Fun Based GPS Units:
In case you would like to watch a movie, listen to music, receive and make phone calls via your GPS unit then, you need to pick one that is in sync with your requirements.
Opt out of the basic GPS units and opt for more advanced GPS variants that are equipped with entertainment system. Nonetheless, you might have to shell out more money in the act and vice versa.
Does Your Boat Really Need to Have Radar?
While your boat’s navigation and Chart Plotters seem to provide the much needed help for navigation, they are not enough to keep you out of danger’s way. This statement is especially true when it comes to avoiding collision in poor weather conditions.
Here is why your boats needs a radar:
1) Boat Radar Avoids Collision:
When the need of the hour is to avoid collision with another vessel, rocks, huge waves and other objects, nothing beats a radar detection system.
While AIS, GPS and Chart Plotters seem like a great help in navigation, they are utterly useless against unchartered vessels. Radar does not need any satellite assistance to identify a target or receive GPS signals from other vessels, to identify their location.
The obstruction should be present and your radar shall ask you to check your speed and offer advice on altering your current course. These variations shall be in sync with the speed and course adopted by your obstruction at sea.
2) More Detection is Possible:
Radar is planted above the human height on a boat and it has a significant advantage with regards to horizon gauging (almost 16% more than a human eye). Hence, the radar can view miles ahead of what your eyeballs can see.
For example, in a foggy weather a speedboat is rushing towards you. While your eyes may not be able to pick this obstruction till just a few hundred yards (or less) separate the danger from the boat, your radar shall be able to detect the speedboat when it is still 5 to 7 miles away.
3) The Overlay and Chart Creation:
Radar is fitted with a special header that enables it to track a target that has been identified, rather quickly. In case you wish to create a chart or a plotter, this facility can speed up the overall process. Headers are also helpful when you have placed your boat in the autopilot mode.
4) Radar Ensures Clarity in Bad Weather:
When the weather is bad or it is pitch dark, it is impossible to rely on your normal safety devises. Even GPS and Chart Plotters are not effective enough to save you from disaster.
Unchartered objects such as a floating piece of log can sink your boat. Nonetheless, a radar can help you detect objects that your normal GPS shall miss out and enable you to sail past them safely.
5) GPS Coordinates for Locating Best Fishing Grounds:
When you come across a place wherein you find fishes being reeled in large numbers, you can use your radar to measure the exact coordinates and save it for future fishing.
This way you get to locate your secret fishing hole and use it for all your future fishing practices. You can also locate the wreck of a boat and dive deep for any treasures that the boat holds simply using your boat’s sonar devise.
6) Radar Keeps You Alert:
Regardless of whether the weather is bright, sunny and the water is calm, sometimes a fast moving vessel can crash onto your smaller vessel without you knowing about it.
This is when a boat’s radar system saves you from such mishaps by alerting you of the danger well in advance.
7) Locating a Waypoint:
The boat radar contains the electronic bearing line as well as the variable range marker. Using these two techniques, you can locate a waypoint in a jiffy.
8) Bad Weather Alerts:
Using your boat radar, you can detect a sudden change in weather and determine whether it shall affect your boat or not. Likewise, you can take preventive action and prepare your boat to tackle the heavy rain that might unsettle your boat and be hazardous to your crew.
Lesser Known Facts on GPS:
>>> The original name of GPS was Navstar and it was develop in the year 1973 by the United States Government for surveillance purposes on the Soviet Union.
>>> Global Positioning System was manufactured by three individuals – Ivan, Bradford and Roger. Navstar was meant for the army but in the 1980’s it was introduced to the general American public.
>>> Interestingly, high level GPS signals could only be used by the army. Nonetheless, in the year 2006, the first car was launched that was fitted with a GPS unit.
>>> Nowadays, all sorts of vehicles that ply on land, sea and air make use of GPS technology. Even criminals and patients are tracked via GPS signals.
How Does GPS Unit Benefit Boat Owners?
Installing a GPS unit onto your boat is of vital importance as this can save you from numerous disasters. Well, here are some of the vital benefits of using a GPS on your floating vessel:
>>> You get exact location facility that allows you to pinpoint your destination anywhere in the world with utmost ease.
>>> Advanced GPS units installed in your boat have the capability to tell you when your boat needs to be taken for its next service.
>>> You have the advantage of keeping track of your boat regardless of whether you are behind the wheel or on the land.
>>> In case you plan to travel and are unaware of the weather conditions that lie ahead, a GPS unit shall minimize your issues and dispatch detailed weather conditions to your screen.
>>> If your boat is relocated without your permission, its current location shall be dispatched to your mobile phone that is attached to your GPS unit (on the boat). So, no need to worry about your boat being whacked.
>>> There is a security mechanism wherein any non-permissible intrusion to your boat shall be detected and revealed on your Smartphone.
>>> Boat GPS units have a special tracking service using which you can keep track of real time location of the boat and can restrict its movement to a certain area. This inhibits any misuse of your boat.
>>> This is a weatherproof devise that can be used in all kinds of adverse weather conditions without being damaged in the act.
Takeaway
BoatLanes Memory Card is a very useful tool when the discussion revolves around keeping your boat safe from decayed logs floating around under the water’s surface. Moreover, you get the exact boat line locations. In fact, this navigation device showcases where to find the maximum amount of fish.
Nonetheless, this navigation device is useful for fishermen based in Texas lakes only. If you wish to navigate other lakes located in states other than Texas, BoatLanes would not come in handy. Apart from this, everything else about this product is worth appreciating.
Navigating through treacherous waters can be a dangerous task. If you are not serious about the waters your boat is traversing through, your boat can meet with an accident. This needs to be avoided at all costs. This is why you need a navigation system that helps your boat steer clear of trouble that lurks under the murky depths.