Humminbird Xplore / MEGA Live 2

December 9th finally came and the big OFFICIAL product drop from Humminbird happened. I think everyone knew that MEGA Live 2 was inevitable but the new XPLORE units were a surprise. One thing that’s for sure is that I am very excited about both of them. Before I get into any of the details I’ll get off a couple of thoughts about the launch in general.

One thing I find comical about the fishing industry is just how desperate people were to get the “leaked” details before the launch. I’m not talking about actual consumers because who wouldn’t want to find out the info on big time new products. But instead the people doing the “leaking”, the “podcasters”, and whoever else thought they could make some “major gains” with some content about it. I used to really listen to a lot of podcasts and fishing industry information while I’m counting plankton at work. But it has really been losing my interest lately with all the “stuff” going on.

The second thing is that I understand there are going to be people that are upset that they have discontinued Helix (they are still producing the 5 and 7) and Solix units. Helix especially had a pretty good run and with so many crazy changes in sonar advancements in the last decade that run was eventually going to end. Just like everything else electronic and while it is awesome that units are always supported with new software updates. Eventually the hardware inside just isn’t going to be able to keep up with new advancements and demands. That brings us to the new XPLORE with quad core processors. In the end you are getting a tricked out touch screen unit at Helix prices.

There are a ton of press releases, YouTube videos, and fact sheets out there. But here are the things that really stuck out to me. Touch screen is obviously a big one especially if you are coming from Helix. The ease of navigation on my current Solix units vs the buttons on a Helix unit isn’t even comparable. Everything is also capable of being operated by buttons and I found that a hybrid system worked best for me.

Waypoint management, in my opinion this is one of the areas that Humminbird had the biggest potential for growth. Things look really improved, especially with the ability to share waypoints with the one boat network app on your phone. This is going to allow you to study maps anywhere and easily import those target areas into your graph, organize your waypoints, or share them if you are into that sort of thing. I am really looking forward to utilizing that system!

There is a Lakemaster Chart included with the unit. The entire Lakemaster VX Library! However if you want the premium maps that overlay with satellite imagery you will want a chip. But no more searing for a chip that you are just going to use for a week on an out of state lake. It all comes with it now.

One boat network compatible of course. So connectivity with Minn Kota Trolling motors, Raptors, Talons and MEGA Live 1 or 2, MEGA 360. I’ve really been liking the connectivity to my Minn Kota Quest and the controls/battery monitoring that provides.

I’ve seen some first hand videos from MEGA Live 2 and so far what I’ve seen is impressive. It looks like a lot of the things that needed improvement were addressed. Bait tracking, distance, increased stability at high speeds, and functionality of landscape mode were all addressed. It also is a direct ethernet connection (no black box) and will get continued updates and improvements. It also appears to be incredibly easy to change settings with the new Xplore units.

I’m still learning more about these advancements myself but I’ll be looking forward to answering questions and showing off the units at the Grand Rapids Ultimate Sports Show and the D&R Sports show this spring. We’ll be there with all the new stuff at both of them, see you there!