What’s the difference between a chartplotter and a fishfinder?

A chartplotter shows your GPS position on electronic charts for navigation. A fishfinder uses sonar to show what’s below the boat — depth, bottom structure, and fish. Many modern units combine both, and networked systems can share data across displays.

Do I really need a VHF radio?

For safety, yes. A VHF radio is the primary way to reach other vessels and the Coast Guard, and a DSC-equipped VHF connected to GPS can transmit your position in an emergency. It’s more reliable than a cell phone offshore and is the recognized standard for marine distress calls.

What is NMEA 2000 and do I need it?

NMEA 2000 is a standard network that lets marine electronics — chartplotter, sonar, autopilot, sensors, engine data — share information over a single backbone. It’s not required for a simple setup, but it makes multi-device systems far easier to expand and integrate.

Click to enlarge

Garmin

Garmin GPSMAP® 8616xsv Combo GPS/Fishfinder GN+

Manufacturer: GarminPart #: 010-02093-51SKU: 97069

260 kHz

$6299.99● In stock

Item #: 97069

Category: GPS - Fishfinder Combos

● In stock — ships fast from US warehouses

Ships from US warehouses
Free shipping on orders over $99
Secure checkout — your info is protected
Genuine marine-brand parts, not knockoffs
30-day returns
Marine parts support — we know boats

Description

GPSMAP® 8616xsv Combo GPS/Fishfinder GN+ SERIOUS ANGLERS, CRUISERS, SAILORS AND SAIL RACERS DEMAND SERIOUS EQUIPMENT The easy-to-use, easy-to-install chartplotter/sonar combo delivers MFD performance in a combo-size package. Get wider viewing angles and superior clarity on the touchscreen with a full HD in-plane switching (IPS) display.

Navigate confidently with built-in Garmin Navionics+™ inland and coastal mapping 1 . Easily build your marine system using the best of network connectivity.

See below and around your boat with built-in sonar capabilities (transducers sold separately). From ANT® technology to Wi-Fi® networking, there are countless ways to connect to your system.

With SmartMode™ station controls, everything is designed to give you quick, one-touch access to the information you need. HD IPS Touchscreen This display offers wider viewing angles, superior clarity and sunlight readability, even with polarized sunglasses.

Simple, Attractive Mounting Options You can install multiple displays, either flat mounted edge-to-edge for a sleek glass helm look or mounted flush — creating a stunning helm. GRID™ 20 Remote Control The optional, easy-to-use GRID 20 remote input device provides intuitive remote access and control of your entire Garmin marine system.

Traditional and Scanning Sonar Support Get built-in support for 1-kW Dual-Channel CHIRP traditional sonar for superior target separation and ClearVü and SideVü scanning sonars to see up to 1,000’ below and around your boat at 260 kHz (requires transducer, sold separately). Live Sonar Support Pair your chartplotter with Garmin live sonar options (transducer sold separately) to see all around your boat in real time.

Garmin Sailassist™ Sailing Features View laylines, race start line guidance, enhanced wind rose, heading and course-over-ground lines, true wind data fields and tide/current/time slider, wind angle, set and drift, wind speed, polars and more. Preloaded Mapping Experience unparalleled coverage and det

Specifications

Brand	Garmin
Part Number	010-02093-51
EverTide SKU	97069
UPC	753759285449
Frequency	260 kHz

Specifications are provided by the manufacturer. Confirm fitment for your application before ordering, or contact us and we'll help.

Compare similar products

	Garmin GPSMAP® 8616xsv Combo GPS/Fishfinder GN+$6299.99You're viewing	Garmin ECHOMAP™ Ultra 2 10" LiveScope™ Plus Bundle$2999.99	Garmin GPSMAP® 8610xsv Combo GPS/Fishfinder GN+$2999.99	Furuno NavNet TZtouch3 16" MFD w/1kW Dual Channel CHIRP™ Sounder & Internal GPS$4348.69
Power	—	—	—	100 W
Frequency	260 kHz	—	—	—

Complete your setup

Garmin

Garmin ECHOMAP™ UHD2 93SV LiveScope™ Plus Ice Fishing Bundle LI w/ECHOMAP™ UHD2 93sv, LiveScope Plus System & Lithium-ion Battery

$3299.99

Returns & warranty

Returns are accepted within 30 dayson items that are unused and in their original packaging. Some items may be subject to a manufacturer restocking fee. Special-order items may not be eligible — if you're unsure, ask us before ordering.

Garmin productscarry the manufacturer's standard warranty. For a warranty claim or a return authorization, see our full returns policy or contact us.

Marine Navigation & Instruments — frequently asked

What’s the difference between a chartplotter and a fishfinder?: A chartplotter shows your GPS position on electronic charts for navigation. A fishfinder uses sonar to show what’s below the boat — depth, bottom structure, and fish. Many modern units combine both, and networked systems can share data across displays.
Do I really need a VHF radio?: For safety, yes. A VHF radio is the primary way to reach other vessels and the Coast Guard, and a DSC-equipped VHF connected to GPS can transmit your position in an emergency. It’s more reliable than a cell phone offshore and is the recognized standard for marine distress calls.
What is NMEA 2000 and do I need it?: NMEA 2000 is a standard network that lets marine electronics — chartplotter, sonar, autopilot, sensors, engine data — share information over a single backbone. It’s not required for a simple setup, but it makes multi-device systems far easier to expand and integrate.

Customer reviews

No reviews yet — this product.

Fast shipping

Ships from US warehouses — free over $99

The right part

Marine-grade parts matched to your boat

Real support

Questions? We know boats — call or email