12-11-2006, 05:36 PM
I've never owned a LCD... been around a few, but not a quality one, I own a Vex SL8. For ice fishing, I prefer the flasher. For a boat, the flasher will work, but I think the LCD will give you more of what you want. Since I only ice fish anymore, the vex was the choice for me. I've had my vex for 4 years now and have not had any maintenance problems. Always works... just charge up the battery after each use and go. I see no advantage in going to the Vex 12 or 20 over the 8. So what if you can get a magnification. You don't need it. I think mine is a 9 degree angle on the transducer. Never been outfished with someone who doesn't have one (fish finder) and I usually more than double their catch. If you are one who likes to set the pole down when fishing, then perhaps a LCD is the way to go so you can see the history. I keep the pole in hand and the eyes on the flasher. When a fish comes in and just lurks around, that is when the fun begins, trying to entise it to bite. The difference between the Markum and Vexilar is something I can't comment on as I have never used or been around a Markum. Vexilar has been around a lot longer and has a proven track record. My vex will pickup anything 1/2 inch or larger. At least, that is what the specs said when I got the unit. I've dropped pieces of worm into the water and tracked them to the bottom (30 feet). That is pretty accurate! Now Kent has dropped his hook remover to the bottom (60 feet) and been able to hook it and bring to back to the surface 30 minutes later. Wish I could say the Vex made that possible, but I think it was just Kents expertise (and a whole lot of luck).
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