eTrex accuracy

[thornapple]

I have an older model eTrex (the basic yellow unit) and would like to use it for marking isolated weedbeds for icefishing. The only problem is when I mark a waypoint and return to it later I am 40-65 feet off from where i entered the waypoint to begin with. I really like how the unit is easy to use and its small size but the accuracy just isnt going to cut it. I was looking at upgrading to the eTrex H but I need to know how close this unit will get me back to where I marked the waypoint. Any info is appreciated.

[pkuptruck007]

Mine is pretty old as well, and is yellow.

Check your "version dates".

You may need to upload newer firmware. I did. It is on Garmins
site, but you will need the USB cable with funky garmin end on it.

Mine is usually within 5-15 feet. depending on trees, house, basement...:lol:

[thornapple]

thanks pk.

[ENCORE]

If the unit doesn't operate with WASS, you probably won't get much closer than that. Even with upgraded software and that's if its available.
Now...... there's a way to save your waypoint and get back to it with a little more accuracy if your unit isn't WASS capable. Instead of stopping right over the place you want to mark, keep your boat moving and when you get over that weedbed, save your waypoint while in motion.
Saving waypoints in this manner will get you back closer to the actual spot that you saved. This is the process that was recommended for GPS when we all switched from Loran.
As I understand it, while you're in motion your position is tracked much closer and accuracy is very close. Back in the day, guys would go out of a pier and at the end, stop and save a waypoint. Coming back, especially after dark, they'd almost hit the ends of the piers or miss them all together. Saving them while in motion helped to solve accuracy problems.
Good luck.

[chutta]

So trying to match depth findings with sonar and visuals to your GPS, typically creeping up at 3-4 mph my H20c can be off by 30-50' or more(WASS off). I'm talking the trail line, not waypoint accuracy

[ENCORE]

So trying to match depth findings with sonar and visuals to your GPS, typically creeping up at 3-4 mph my H20c can be off by 30-50' or more(WASS off). I'm talking the trail line, not waypoint accuracy

First, if you have WASS, which the H20c does, you should turn it on. The H20c is a much newer model and will lock on to just about as many sats as it can locate, which will give you better accuracy.
If you were moving and creating a trail, and you are moving and following that trail, you should be very close. Especially if WASS is enabled.
I have the same unit (H20c) and it will put me right over a crib that I had previously marked here at the lake, running the previous trail. It will also put me exactly, to the holes that I drill through the ice.
Good grief, what did we ever do without them.....:lol: