Garmin’s Apollo RA 770 is one of the world’s first touchscreen marine stereos with the Airplay 2 software feature and built-in connectivity. This marine stereo redefines audio excellence with revolutionary technology and an innovative design.
The Apollo RA 770 allows you to create custom audio profiles for each zone on your boat to deliver superior quality audio. It also allows audio streaming with Wi-Fi technology to provide high-quality audio with a faster data transfer rate. You’ll experience seamless audio streaming from your music app via the AirPlay 2 feature from Apple, and you’ll be able to enjoy the freedom of musical choice with the PartyBus Network technology. You can also control your music from a compatible multi-function display, smart device or Garmin watch. The Apollo RA 770 is the perfect upgrade for a pontooner who’s looking to step up their music game on the lake.
MSRP: $699.99
(www.garmin.com)
The Axiom-series are networkable, meaning they can integrate with lots of other devices. Axiom+ can also connect with and remote control popular marine stereo systems from Fusion, JL Audio and Rockford Fosgate. Axiom+ models even have Wi-Fi connectivity. Simply link them to a smartphone or mobile hotspot and you can access Netflix and Spotify right on the screen and feed the audio through the boat’s stereo.
Axiom+ works with lots of other cool accessories such as SiriusXM weather, radar, autopilots, and much more. Some of today’s pontoons are really, really tricked out with accessories and Axiom has the expandability to keep up. The Axiom+ 7 RV with maps and transducer is priced at $1,399.99. Raymarine also offers Axiom+ models with 9- and 12-inch screens for anyone wanting something even larger.
MSRP: $1,399.99
(www.raymarine.com)
Control X uses the latest smart MOSFET switching technology, providing improved reliability and silent operation. Features such as multiple RGB lighting control zones for setting and light dimming for mood lighting allow you to set the perfect atmosphere on your pontoon. It also has reversing motor H-bridge outputs, and the wiper motor synchronization eliminates the need for third party controllers, giving installers complete flexibility to configure the modules to specific requirements. If you’re looking to upgrade the electronics on your pontoon, this would be an awesome choice.
MSRP: $2,369
(www.czone.net)
For crystal-clear imaging of fish and structure, the new ECHOMAP UHD2 chartplotters are available bundled with an Ultra High-Definition GT54UHD or GT56UHD transducer that provides brilliant ClearVü and SideVü scanning sonar images and amazingly clear CHIRP traditional sonar. The UHD2 also supports Garmin’s award-winning LiveScope live-scanning sonar.
With this technology, you can easily pinpoint the perfect honey hole or navigate to the next destination with enhanced situational awareness thanks to the built-in Garmin Navionics+ U.S. inland mapping or coastal charts. This all-in-one cartography solution features vibrant colors and a streamlined interface. Whether fishing with a friend or wanting the flexibility to add another chartplotter on board, built-in Wi-Fi enables seamless sharing of sonar and user data between two ECHOMAP UHD2 units.
MSRP: $799.99 to $1,299.99
(www.garmin.com)
For those just out cruising and exploring, the Element-S models have a nice depth-finding sonar built in as well. They also have the Element-HV models for anglers that include multi-channel fish-finding sonars built in.
Raymarine’s Element systems are available with their LightHouse Charts North America mapping which covers the entire coastal USA and Canada, plus US lakes, rivers and ponds. Budget-conscious boaters can get into an Element-S 7-inch screen with transducer and maps for about $625.99. Then the 7-inch Element HV for fishing with transducer and maps goes for $749.99.
MSRP: Starting around $625.99
(www.raymarine.com)
Watch high-resolution images of fish movements, tracking them as they swim in and around cover with ActiveTarget Live Sonar. This innovative solution allows boaters to see how fish are positioned in structure and how they respond to a lure presentation. With this view, anglers know if the current technique is working, or if it’s time to make an adjustment.
MSRP: Starting at $899
(www.lowrance.com)
This level of technology used to be unobtainable for most boaters, but the size and cost have come down significantly. Now you can party all night long safely and at an affordable price. M232 is priced at $3,495. It’s a pan, tilt and zoom camera that you’re able to control through Axiom’s touchscreen. You can swivel the camera 360 degrees and see objects anywhere around the boat even in complete darkness. Why let the fun end when the sun sets? Go ahead and keep the party going with this night vision camera.
MSRP: $3,495
(www.raymarine.com)
This fish finder features MEGA Side Imaging, MEGA Down IMAGING, Dual Spectrum CHIRP Sonar and AutoChart Live. The fish won’t stand a chance against the likes of you. You also won’t have to worry about getting lost since this snazzy fish finder also boasts an Internal GPS and Humminbird Basemap built-in.
An upgraded high-definition 7-inch display will give you the best view of the many pre-loaded split screen view options so that you’ll never miss a fish and stay on course.
MSRP: $749.99
(www.humminbird.com)
Now with VX Technology, LakeMaster maps are packed with more information than ever before, including five new customizable color palettes, exceptional map performance and a powerful combination of features.
The new LakeMaster lineup maintains the same regions as the current lineup, but with two options per region: LakeMaster and LakeMaster Premium. Both products now include SmartStrike technology as a feature, allowing anglers to enter search parameters like season, time of day, temperature and targeted fish species to create a custom chart that highlights areas of the map where fish are most likely to be biting. The fish won’t stand a chance.
MSRP: $149.99 to $199.99
(www.humminbird.com)
The NSX features an innovative and modern interface with a new, intuitive touchscreen that gives you a crystal-clear view. Charts include the powerful C-MAP navigation capabilities and compatibility with sonar, radar and autopilot systems. It’s also a cinch to set up thanks to the Simple Setup Wizards that guide you through each step during the device setup. Plus, the Simrad app integration makes connectivity from your smartphone easier than ever. It’s packed with the full suite of Simrad technology at your fingertips. The NSX is designed to deliver a wide eco-system, giving you the ability to expand the MFD with additional functionality and easier integrations while supporting a wide range of third-party applications.
MSRP: $1,299.99
(www.simrad-yachting.com)