Gear: Humminbird CoastMaster charts

The new software includes a number of new saltwater-specific functions, including the ability for charts to show land areas that will emerge during low tide, giving its users vital clues as to how fish will move as the tide runs out – minimising the chance of the boat sitting on top of unproductive water.

Humminbird said its CoastMaster mapping system was compatible with Humminbird Helix G3/G3N and all SOLIX units.

“With easy-to-read contours and chart customisation, you’ll have the tools you need to identify the spots you know will hold fish and navigate there safely,” Humminbird said. 

“Building on the latest data available, CoastMaster delivers unrivalled nearshore and offshore fishing performance throughout Australia.”

Humminbird said the CoastMaster mapping system included “never before seen detail of the Australian coastline”. 

“Always know where you are and what’s ahead with full chart detail of the entire Australian coastline as well as over numerous lakes throughout the country,” it said.

Key to one of the developments is Humminbird’s VX technology that provides users with the choice of five different customisable colour palettes that load, pan and zoom faster than before, three chart presets optimised for fishing, navigation or specific user needs, and predictive tide and currents.

The CoastMaster charts also are compatible with Minn Kota’s i-Pilot electric trolling motor system so the electric motor can be controlled from the Humminbird unit, and can even follow a contour on the chart.

Users can even subscribe to a premium service that includes 2D shading that helps with more easily identifying depth contours, high-detail maps, more contours in shallow areas, and bottom “hardness” – a good indicator of bottom composition and where fish may be hiding.

The charts go on sale in March priced from $289.90 for the standard charts and $459 for the premium service that is divided between Australia’s east and west coasts.