IceShanty.com's Ice Fishing Community
Ice Fishing Tips -Check your local regulations! => Equipment => Ice Fishing With Electronics => Topic started by: Mt.Bucket on Mar 05, 2013, 04:52 PM
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Going to be released July 10 and is going to be there version of a digital flasher. Supposedly not costing any more than the FL-22. I'm excited to say the least, and it's about time.
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Wow- about time! I can't wait to see it, might be just the excuse I needed to upgrade my wife's 20 year old FL-8.
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Very interesting...is there a press release out there yet?
Thanks,
Ice Beard
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The same date of the open to the public, new product showcase at ICAST, I'd like to see it happen.
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Be interesting to see if they put a butt load of features on it like marcum or just do a basic normal flasher/graph like humminbird and lowrance have been doing for years.
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Digital sounds pretty cool. Funny thing is I bought an FL-20 when it was new and loved it. Then found a FL-8 Genz 2 years ago for one of my boys. Poor kid hasn't used it yet. For me the simplicity of it keeps me taking it out instead of the 20.
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I've never felt a bit handicapped with the plain old FL-8.
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Just picked up an FL-12, having never used a flasher before. Within 5 minutes of turning it on I had a nice largemouth and northern! Very easy to use for a newbie. I can't imagine that the FL-28 would draw in more fish, but hey, I'm a newb. :tipup:
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Sonar doesn't "draw in" any fish. Just an FYI, augopher. ;D
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I'm hoping for a unit that will sound an alarm when a fish is in range. Makes it much easier to nap while fishing.. ;)2
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I'm hoping for a unit that will sound an alarm when a fish is in range. Makes it much easier to nap while fishing.. ;)2
My Lowrance LFP250 did that 35 years ago. My Lowrance X136 does it now.
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I'm hoping for a unit that will sound an alarm when a fish is in range. Makes it much easier to nap while fishing.. ;)2
amen
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I will be checking it out for sure..need to buy one for next season any way..wonder what that will cost me???
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Ya I have a thirty year old fl8 it has a fish alarm wish my fl 20 had one hoping they add that
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I'm hoping for a unit that will sound an alarm when a fish is in range. Makes it much easier to nap while fishing.. ;)2
My son's Micronar FL8 has that feature and it's probably about 30 years old. I think the first Vexilar FL8s had it also.
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My Fl8 don't have it on but that would be a nice feature to have.
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The only problem with a new model coming out is do you chance being one of the first ones to buy it before all the bugs are worked out. I have email Vexilar to see if they would give out any info on the unit and its been three days so I guess the answer is no. IMO they would have to really go along way to step up to where the LX 7 is. Me and a buddy were talking last night and he mentioned the GPS feature. If Vexilar had that feature I think there would be a lot of LX 7 guys consider it. I'm really surprised that Marcum has not offered that yet.
Matt
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I dont want a gps on my ice sonar, most of us already have some sort of gps for ice use anyway.... I use my HDS units off my boat, plus have a handheld and navionics on my phone....Battery drain would be an issue as GPS uses alot of power, still prefer my current set up as it allows me to mark spots in the boat late season to fish once it ices up, theres also times I need the gps and flasher in 2 different spots....
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I see what your saying but what about the guys that dont have a hand hled GPS or don't want to carry another device out on the ice. I would think it would be nice to have both in one unit. When I go Ice fishing on a lake I would then have all my spots marked on that GPS thats for ice fishing. Another plus would be as long as I have my flasher I have my GPS. As for battery drain your hand held runs on AA batteries for over 8 hrs right? Humminbird has the 385 unit and I have never seen anybody complaining about there battery life. They could also make it so you could have it on or off so that way you would not be using power to the GPS unless you needed it.
I dont want a gps on my ice sonar, most of us already have some sort of gps for ice use anyway.... I use my HDS units off my boat, plus have a handheld and navionics on my phone....Battery drain would be an issue as GPS uses alot of power, still prefer my current set up as it allows me to mark spots in the boat late season to fish once it ices up, theres also times I need the gps and flasher in 2 different spots....
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I'm sure many would like it, I'm just not one of them, plus I have 2 HDS units sitting around in the winter so utilize them, the thing would be what would it add to the cost of the flasher to add GPS??? Guessing another 300-400? I guess to me adding a 5th GPS dont make sence lol
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Yeah if you already have one you don't really need another. I don't think it would add $300-400 to the price. The price difference between the Humminbird 345 to the 385 isnt that much. Oh well it prob isn't going to happen any way. I guess it would just be a nice option for me any way ;D
I'm sure many would like it, I'm just not one of them, plus I have 2 HDS units sitting around in the winter so utilize them, the thing would be what would it add to the cost of the flasher to add GPS??? Guessing another 300-400? I guess to me adding a 5th GPS dont make sence lol
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Another good question is would a GPS on a dedicated ice unit be feasable/profitable? Most the units that currently offer both are more geared to open water with the abitity to convert to ice mode...I use my electronics differently from ice to open water so hard for me to find a 1 unit fits all.... I demand a better unit on the boat than what the smaller open water/ ice units offer unless I convert my HDS again but just to much to adjust for me and about impossible for the wife to figure out so we use the digital ice units in the winter and run high end units on the boat....Alot boils down to how you fish and what you want out of your units, personaly I spend 130-140 days a year on water or ice so I can justify having the units I do, a guy who goes 20 times a year will find he dont need the same.... But I am one who belives buy the best once and not what gets me by 2 or 3 times...
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I agree. I buy the best that I can afford. I run a Hummingbird 998c on my boat and am planning on either a lx7 or maybe flx28? Ether way I try to have the best units for each type of fishing I do.
Matt
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I can say after 2 seasons on the LX-7 it is an amazing unit, not a fan of HB due to 2 bad experiences in the past so pretty much stick to Lowrance on the boat, they have never had an issue so no reason to switch and since we run HB on another boat I don't think switching would be an upgrade...
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Not sure about the GPS in an ice unit, it wouldn't suit my style of fishing. For an open water unit, though, a GPS is critical. I've owned a handheld GPS for many years, I bought it for use on flyouts (day trips to small lakes, smaller boats than the main lake, no built in electronics). For the most part, it stayed in my pack. When I upgraded to an Lowrance portable LMS unit, I found that I used the GPS all of the time. For me, the main difference is this: In the summer, I fish while I move, and my electronics are on all of the time both fishing and running. In the winter, I have to pack everything up to move, so my finder/flasher is not where I can see it while I am moving. My handheld GPS is mounted on my sled, it gets more use there than it ever did in the boat. Having a built in GPS in my flasher would be useless for me, it only gets turned on after the hole is drilled.
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Does any one have a website that show or tells anything about this new flasher
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All rumor so far....
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I don't understand why you would want a gps on a flasher for ice fishing. I use a hand held for locating my past spots so if it was on my flasher I would be hauling around a anchor trying to find my spot. Only thing I could see better with a flasher with gps would be using a larger battery for the gps to last longer but that would be it.
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The features found in the FLX-28 read like the wish list of avid Ice Anglers starting with digital depth, Auto Range, Two zoom zones, FIVE color palettes to select from for maximum visibility, five foot depth range adjustments starting at 10 feet, Maximum range of 300, Day and Night display brightness settings, Low power options for fishing in super shallow water, a unique Weed Mode for better performance while fishing in weeds. And to top it all off, the unit even has its own Demo mode so you can show non-Vexilar fans how the system works with a lifelike fish catching simulation to watch.
“What most people will not see with the FLX-28 is the advanced technology that has gone into the making of this system,” stated Corey Studer, Vexilar Pro Staff Manager. “Vexilar has been working for years to perfect a brushless data transfer system which is the heart of what customers will be seeing in many future Vexilar sonar systems in the years to come. The new data transfer system opens flasher technology to do so much more than just show depth. For sure this will continue Vexilar’s dominance as the world’s first and best ice fishing sonar systems.
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650$
I can't imagine anyone wanting GPS on a flasher.... Must have better hunches and finding techniques than me...I like to drill a lot and move a lot. GPS is for the fishing vehicle, the flasher/finder is for the down and dirty honing in.
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Here is a LINK (http://vexilar.com/products/index.php?prodNum=PP28PV) with some more information about the FLX-28. Pretty sweet looking flasher!
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Doesn't look like much to me.
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Ok...
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I'm not bashing, but unless that weed mode is ground breaking, there's nothing new here and for the price, the competition offers many more features.
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I'm not bashing, but unless that weed mode is ground breaking, there's nothing new here and for the price, the competition offers many more features.
That depends on what unit u r using. The 28 offers 5' depth adjust digital depth readout brushless weed mode and 2adjustable zoom settings. So if you were looking at buying a FL 22 and the 28 is just a few bucks more it is something to consider. By the way it sounds like u r a Marcum guy I'm not bashing ;D
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I will have to see some more info on it and some first hand experience to see how it works first. I bought an Fl22HD head unit the other year but kept my Fl-18 in case I want to fish deep water. Looks like the FLX-28 is replacing the Fl-22HD. Since the FLX-28 has a 300' range I may consider selling off the Fl-18 for a 28 IF they offer the head unit only for sale. I am interested if the clarity and crispness of the screen is any different on the 28. Seems like they took features from the Fl-18 (bottom lock), Fl-20 and FL-22HD along with a couple of new things and came up with the 28. I do like the mini shroud on it.
Here is a link to the brochure pdf. http://vexilar.com/site/pdf/vexilar_brochure.pdf
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"CS" is color setting mode. It lets you toggle between the five different palettes.
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MarCum is still #1 with their LCD screen technology. :thumbsup: Vexilar will someday get there... maybe :unsure:
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"CS" is color setting mode. It lets you toggle between the five different palettes.
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I could find what angle of cone transducer 12 degree or 19 degree and 22 degree ?
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Well this thread devolved pretty quickly after the start of ICAST. Suppose I should crack a brewski to go with the popcorn, as it looks like this thread has some potential. ;D
(http://i795.photobucket.com/albums/yy238/upjigstick/PopcornHugeBags.jpg) (http://s795.photobucket.com/user/upjigstick/media/PopcornHugeBags.jpg.html)
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I could find what angle of cone transducer 12 degree or 19 degree and 22 degree ?
It will use Vexilars current ice ducers, puck ducer and high speed ducers. So for ice you have the Tri Beam or 9 degree or 12 degree or 19 degree.
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It comes with the Proview transducer (modified 9).
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Ya preview transducer
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http://vexilar.com/products/index.php?prodNum=UP28PV
From what I can see I'm not realy that impressed. The "digital" display looks just like the old Vexilars minus the wording.
I was hoping for something that was as all digital as the Marcum VX6-7s.
Hopefully when I see it in person I will change my mind.
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That depends on what unit u r using. The 28 offers 5' depth adjust digital depth readout brushless weed mode and 2adjustable zoom settings. So if you were looking at buying a FL 22 and the 28 is just a few bucks more it is something to consider. By the way it sounds like u r a Marcum guy I'm not bashing ;D
I'm a what ever suites me best guy. Brand loyalty is pathetic. I fished Vexilar 13 years before finally finding something that suited me better and switching brands.
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The electronics look underwhelming for the new "digital" title but I think Vex is still hesitant to jump off and make a vertical or graphing display. The bag looks nice enough and I wonder how the clear front in will work on the ice and hold up over time.
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The preview ice ducer is adjustable with the gain button same as always
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I am not impressed by the pics. I would still go with a marcum if I were to switch to digital but for now I will stick with my H-bird.
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Does anyone nNo how much and where to buy one ?.? I m ready to up grade ;D ;D
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Where can I see one and get a price ?..? ;D I called Polk city bait but the older guy wasn't there so no answer on price yet . Vexilar has it on web now it looks like a good upgrade ;) :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: ;D
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$599 for the Pro Pack and $649 for the Ultra Pack; both include a soft carrying case.
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Where did u find pricing? R they available yet?
Thanks
Matt
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I see vexilar makes a digital depth/battery indicator as an add on to existing units called the DD 100 . I couldn,t find any outlet to purchase or locate a price and not available on their website as of yet.
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Where did u find pricing? R they available yet?
Thanks
Matt
Prices are on the vex website. You just can't order one direct from Vexilar yet.
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Has anyone seen on yet I'm trying to order one they sound neet any info would be great Thanks
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Is the new Vex. FLX28 replacing the FL-22HD?
I don't see Vexilar sells/advertises the fl-22HD
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Is the new Vex. FLX28 replacing the FL-22HD?
I don't see Vexilar sells/advertises the fl-22HD
I looks like it is. From what I see the only thing the FLX-28 does not have that the FL-22HD does have is the manual 60' depth setting. It is "auto" on the 28.
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The 28 won't be available till later this fall; no one has them in stock at this time.
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I got one coming its going to be here next week and it has 5 ft dept settings only manual
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looks a lot like a Marcum.
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My FLX 28 is going to be here sept. 1st . Some guys at vexilar used the 28 late ice this year
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I was watching the marketing video for it because I was so pumped about the new unit and as I was watching it I realized that I already had most of the same things on my ICE55 Humminbird. So I was a little sad because I wanted a reason to get a new unit :(
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I was watching the marketing video for it because I was so pumped about the new unit and as I was watching it I realized that I already had most of the same things on my ICE55 Humminbird. So I was a little sad because I wanted a reason to get a new unit :(
I wasn't very impressed either. I thought there was going to be something revolutionary. Aside from the auto depth button, I really didn't see any difference then my Fl 22 hd
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I have a fl20that I got 2 years ago and got a traduced last year I'm not impressed with the flx28 unless the weed mode works awesome I will have to see one in action before I pull the trigger on one
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It's funny but I use the fl8 and gave my kids the fl18
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The new product out from vex seems to have the same platform as the others before it. They added some nice features this time though 5 color option is nice for detail.
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I see Scheels in Wisconsin has a few on the shelves already. They almost have a "cheap" look to them in person. We will have to see how he unit performs.
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NO THANKS....I'll stick with my Marcum
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A friend of mine got his today ! I can't wait to get mine!!!!!
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Well as Jumbo said it is here! I have had alot of different flashers from Humminbird to Marcum and a couple different models from Vex. So far I like this model the best out of everything I have had. The screen is pretty awesome and has alot of features for the $$. Mine is a pro pack 2 which came with the soft case for $599. The unit is not as loud as the others I have had from Vex. Ever mode you change to it tells you on the screen plus the depth you are at. I'm not sure yet on the pro veiw ducer yet. I have had the tri beam and a dual beam so we'll see how it goes. The stores are not getting many of these this year so if you see one you had better grab it because I'm sure they will go fast.
Matt
A friend of mine got his today ! I can't wait to get mine!!!!!
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Looks like the Humminbird Ice-55........... ;D
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Ya it's a great upgrade very much better than the LX 7 because this unit has target ID
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Ya I got my FL28 so far I think it's the best . Thank god I finally got my Lx7 sold before this unit came out
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i guess i dont understand the hype the unit gets.... humminbird 55 has most of the features and is been out for years... seems like vexilar is behind somewhat.
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i guess i dont understand the hype the unit gets.... humminbird 55 has most of the features and is been out for years... seems like vexilar is behind somewhat.
not behind on durability and reliability.
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I like Humminbird and run to of there units on my boat. I have had a Humminbird ice 55 and its a nice unit but IMO Vexilar is by far a better unit. I own a flx28 and if you put them side by side you would agree. The target seperation alone is a big difference.
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I like Humminbird and run to of there units on my boat. I have had a Humminbird ice 55 and its a nice unit but IMO Vexilar is by far a better unit. I own a flx28 and if you put them side by side you would agree. The target seperation alone is a big difference.
Huh? Are you just going by the stats or have you actually had it out fishing?
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Vexilar flx28 - 1/4" Humminbird ice 55- 2 1/2". I got both # off mfg websites. IMO spend the $50 and get a unit from a company that has been building units for ice for years again just my opinion.
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Vexilar flx28 - 1/4" Humminbird ice 55- 2 1/2". I got both # off mfg websites. IMO spend the $50 and get a unit from a company that has been building units for ice for years again just my opinion.
dont let the vexilar haters make you think any different.vexilar makes rock solid units and im sure it will last many problem free years.
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Vexilar flx28 - 1/4" Humminbird ice 55- 2 1/2". I got both # off mfg websites. IMO spend the $50 and get a unit from a company that has been building units for ice for years again just my opinion.
And they claim 1/2" on the 20, yet weeds and trees blob up when turning the gain up for small jigs and bottom huggers often go unnoticed.
Vexilars are rock solid and great units, I haven't seen a 28, but my opinion is just about every flasher manufacturer out there does target ID better than vexilar.
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Check out WEED MODE ;D
And they claim 1/2" on the 20, yet weeds and trees blob up when turning the gain up for small jigs and bottom huggers often go unnoticed.
Vexilars are rock solid and great units, I haven't seen a 28, but my opinion is just about every flasher manufacturer out there does target ID better than vexilar.
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Well you have to take into account that with Ice sonar we are looking down wit the ducer. You could end up with a stick with a fish slightly under it, near another stick, with a weed hanging off it and who knows what else. It can be hard to show something like that on a circular dial with out some larger blobs even with smaller gain. In some instances we should be looking at the fish/structure from the side really, but that is not an option.
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I can't wait to do the target ID test again against all the other units I have done it in the past with my fl20 . We took a ice 55 a LX6 all you have to do it take 3 split shots put them 2" apart drop them down 40' and that proves who has the best target definition . This was the results and the only one that you could see 3 lines on the screen was my old FL20 and I can't wait to try this experiment with the better definition of the FLX 28 . Try this test then you will understand the importance of target separation and how it works.
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Thats awesome! To bad none of the guys i fish with have a Marcum. I would love to test it out. Thanks for input Jumbo ;)
Matt
I can't wait to do the target ID test again against all the other units I have done it in the past with my fl20 . We took a ice 55 a LX6 all you have to do it take 3 split shots put them 2" apart drop them down 40' and that proves who has the best target definition . This was the results and the only one that you could see 3 lines on the screen was my old FL20 and I can't wait to try this experiment with the better definition of the FLX 28 . Try this test then you will understand the importance of target separation and how it works.
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Hilarious. I'd live to see that.
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I have seen it. He makes no joke. I watched a guy get so torqued that his new lx-9 wouldnt read those three separate split shot he tried to exchange the unit because he thought it was broken.
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Wonder why there are no posts back from the Marcum or Humminbird guys ;D
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I run a bird and love it. For the money the 35 is hard to beat. My biggest complaint with the bird is its not quite as crisp as some of the others but for 299 you get dual beam, full adjustable zoom, and the digital battery readout. Plus a large flat screen, at the price i dont think you can beat it.
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I run marcum and I'll run beside any of you and still prefer my units. I've ran them all besides the 28. Vexilar has a target issue problem as far as I'm concerned. It's not terrible but it lacks and others do it better, IMO. I could care less about split shots or any other tests, I prefer my own experience. I'm not brand loyal to anything, in fact, I think it's pathetic.
Really though, if you can't tune into 3 splits, you're an idiot and can't run your unit, the test is moronic and proves little in real world scenarios.
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LOL, it has started.
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First off the test is not moronic well maybe to a guy using a Marcum lol! They are all good units and will all show fish and the bottom. Some brands just do it a little better. IMO there is nothing wrong with having a favorite brand. On my boat i prefer Humminbird and its the only unit I'll use. Relax were all on here to have fun and maybe help each other out. We have to give each other a hard time were guys that's what we do!
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Your right for the price ya can't beat a bird and they don't interfere with the other untis I have fished beside a bird before and they get along with other units without problems of interference because they aren't trying to push a million watts threw the transducer that is made to run with 800watts max and causing so much distortion
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Correct me if I'm wrong. I believe target I.D and target separation are two different things. I would rather have a unit that has greater target separation than vexilars 1/4 target I.D.
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its about the same it just shows how accurate the unit is it might not help to catch fish in clear water but It will help you in heavy weeds and cover that all I now from my studies on the subject
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I guess the only way I can describe target id is how accurate the unit is . the reason the lx 7 and 9 doesn't work around other units well is like this . if you have a stereo speaker that is built for 100 watts and you try to push 300 watts threw it you get distortion and speaker flutter because all transducer are manufactured to only handle 800 watts max that is. the problem with accuratcy. Sorry that the best way I could explain
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forgot to say that your gain knob on all units are like a volume control knob on your stereo at home and the more you turn it up the more distortion you get
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I can watch 4 lines at once on my LX-7, we cant do that on a FL-20....As far as in the weeds I'll take my 7 over a FL anyday and twice on sunday....Just my on the ice real world observations having personaly owned both.... Plus my LX's will pick up bottom huggers FL's miss....
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I guess the only way I can describe target id is how accurate the unit is . the reason the lx 7 and 9 doesn't work around other units well is like this . if you have a stereo speaker that is built for 100 watts and you try to push 300 watts threw it you get distortion and speaker flutter because all transducer are manufactured to only handle 800 watts max that is. the problem with accuratcy. Sorry that the best way I could explain
This claim of transducer only handling 800 Watts makes little sense. Most open water units are pumping way more Watts then that and no one has an issue but we talk about the Watts of a Marcum or bird.vs a vex and people think it is impossible to run higher Watts.
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I'm just saying that's why the don't work close to other units well
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I'm just saying that's why the don't work close to other units well
Other than the FL-12's we have no problems fishing any other units next to the LX series....3 LX-7s a FL-8 and a FL-20 in close proximity in 45 FOW no issues, although the 20 had the most issue rejecting the others but we finaly got it to dial in....
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When i had my lx7 it dis not like my buddies fl18. I tried adjusting the lx7 but could never get it to clear up.
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That's the same results I have seen and you have owned them also
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Yeah my lx7 had issuea and a buddy of mine was having a issue with his lx6 to. I think there good units but like everything else you can get bad ones. One really bad thing about a lx is if you drop it its done. I think i could throw my vex across the lake and it would still work. Lol
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Ya it's kinda like the Chevy guys don't like ford or dodge even though one is truly tougher LOL maybe we can stir something else up
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I find it funny they had to add a giant X to their model this year... ::) They should make a commercial that says this year start seeing red. Sound a little familiar? They are a good enough company ,shouldn't have to copy...
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I find it funny they had to add a giant X to their model this year... ::) They should make a commercial that says this year start seeing red. Sound a little familiar? They are a good enough company ,shouldn't have to copy...
If we use that logic, then Marcum copied Vexilar's LCD sonar idea on their 6, 7 and 9. But then again the LCD tech point is not conjecture. I don't know why exactly they decided to add an X. Just calling it an Fl-28 would have made a lot more sense to me. Vexilar does have an "X" in name and is called a "Vex" for short. Maybe that is what they were going for. Either way if someone chooses a sonar because of a letter in the name, well that is dumb.
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I just found it funny how these companies play games with each other. Anyway what a nice fall so far eh? ;D
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Kinda like the car companies doge trucks getting 20 mpg and 400hp so ford makes a1/2 ton v6 truck that gets 22 mpg but has 300 hp company s all copy one another to get the sale
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I think Vex added the X because they could. ;)2
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I find it funny they had to add a giant X to their model this year... ::) They should make a commercial that says this year start seeing red. Sound a little familiar? They are a good enough company ,shouldn't have to copy...
Learned long ago in sales that "X" is used as a marketing tool; known to give sales a boost....XLT, XR7, AMX, XRT, etc. That's my opinion... ;)
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Learned long ago in sales that "X" is used as a marketing tool; known to give sales a boost....XLT, XR7, AMX, XRT, etc. That's my opinion... ;)
I think I need some eXcedrin after reading this thread and that some of the posters might need some eX-lax.
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Hahaha, brand loyalty and brand warfare is lame.... So are all the nascar looking fisherman
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X2 they all catch fish some of us just like things simple and some of us like computers on ice it's all choices
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So much for the flasher talk, the video is funnier.
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Welcome to ice shanty Dtro! ;D Loved that video.
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Ya that's a funny video
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Great video LMAO
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Thats some funny chit right there
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I'd like to jump in with some thoughts. Having owned a number of different models (Vexilar, Lowrance, Marcum - I love my Marcum camera!), and fished with many friends and competitors over the years, I believe that most units out there are good at doing what they're supposed to do, some having different features than others.
One thing I've never had adequately explained to me though, is why Humminbird and Marcum push such high peak-to-peak wattage - up to 2,500 watts or more - when a Vexilar gets by just fine on 400 watts peak-to-peak? The only result I've seen is vastly shorter battery life and more interference w/ nearby units (which is probably why the new FLX-28 has 20 levels of interference rejection) - and the 'Birds with digital readouts have an internal heater to keep the LCDs from freezing, which eats up more battery juice.
I've had an opportunity to play with the new FLX-28, and for anyone to say it is not radically different than previous models is a mistake, IMO. For starters, there are no brushes.... huge! Digital readout; demo mode to learn on or to show your buddy how it works; 5 color palettes; Weed Mode; Auto Depth Range; day/night mode; 525 lines of resolution; 1/4" target separation; 20 levels of I.R., as stated. The new face is a cross between the original sunshade style and the later flat-face style... a nice compromise.
The big concern I have is with the new ProView IceDucer - it is only a 9 degree cone angle. I've read elsewhere that the cone angle changes as the gain is increased, but I've not seen this confirmed or explained by Vexilar. Seems like it may be very limiting in shallow water. Does anybody have any insight into this new transducer?
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This gives a pretty good description of the differences between how the ProView and Tri beam ice ducers work. Of course it is advertising for Vexilar so the usual amount of bad mouthing and bashing of Vexilar products is to be expected. ;)2 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HHL15xfm5ds (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HHL15xfm5ds)
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the proview is pretty much like a tribeam except you turn the gain knob to change the cone angle instead of flipping the tribeam switches.proview will go from 9 degree up to 40 degree.i have no problem catching fish at any depth with my fl20 with the proview.
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One thing I've never had adequately explained to me though, is why Humminbird and Marcum push such high peak-to-peak wattage - up to 2,500 watts or more - when a Vexilar gets by just fine on 400 watts peak-to-peak? The only result I've seen is vastly shorter battery life and more interference w/ nearby units (which is probably why the new FLX-28 has 20 levels of interference rejection) - and the 'Birds with digital readouts have an internal heater to keep the LCDs from freezing, which eats up more battery juice.
I don't pay attention to the power output claims. I am concerned how it works. We are fishing in relatively shallow water with our ice units and sitting still. Can be a different ball game than open water.
The big concern I have is with the new ProView IceDucer - it is only a 9 degree cone angle. I've read elsewhere that the cone angle changes as the gain is increased, but I've not seen this confirmed or explained by Vexilar. Seems like it may be very limiting in shallow water. Does anybody have any insight into this new transducer?
I wish they would still make the 9 degree ducer. I have the 9/19 and I use the 9 degree the most even in shallow water. Rarely if ever use the 19 degree as I find the 9 degree works much better even in 6' of water. Works especially well in cover or drop offs.
I will be picking up an FLX-28 head unit sometime this season so I will see how it does with my 9/19 ducer as I don't have any use for a ducer that widens the cone angle as gain increases.
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Upgraded from a FL18.. which I still own currently.
http://ragingazn.com/at/vexilar.flx-28.jpg
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I have a question on the new FLX_ 28. I see no numbered markings for ft of water around the screen, . In auto mode I guess you can see the bottom mark. and the display shows the depth in a digital number but if you have some fish on the screen up from the bottom and you want to say to your buddy the fish are hanging at??(what ft) are the blue dots on the screen every 5 ft so you have to do the math or what??? What if you pick a selected depth? I'm not sure I like the fact there are no reference numbers.
Any one out they been playing with one of these yet??
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Have to do the math. The marks change depending on mode and depth. You can see some of it in the video below.(around middle of video)
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Have to do the math. The marks change depending on mode and depth. You can see some of it in the video below.(around middle of video)
FACE DIAL Comparison
[ Invalid YouTube link ]t=357
Click above for direct shortcut, I'm the creator of the video.
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Disclaimer - I'm not a Vex owner, or a huge fan of the Vex interface, I'm a Marcum owner.
Man oh man did this unit (FLX-28) impress me.
Dial was vibrant, easy to see, and very easy to use/switch modes. Not being a Vex guy I was very surprised at how intuitive this model was, and how well the zoom features and sensitivity of the gain worked. Loved the dynamic adjustment of the depth ranging, and again - even under bright store lights I was surprised at how vibrant and really easy the unit was to see in bright overhead lights, even at a non-direct angle.
Within about 2 minutes I was more than comfortable with the unit and could easily see myself fishing with it happily. I wonder if there's an option for pallet selections like the HB units, but even if there wasn't I'd be fine with it.
Only thing that kind of made me sour faced was the price. In store wanted 600 for it, and I feel honestly that's about a hundred to high. Putting it up against the LX5, it'd blow the Marcum out of the water, and is nicer to view over the HB (even though the HB has dynamic and ranged zoom).
Really well done, Vex. Definitely an awesome unit for a traditional flasher.
:tipup:
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Ya all my vexilar s are easy to use but my new FLX 28 is the simplest of all can't wait to see ice
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I agree wipike. I have had them all and went back to Vex. I think its like the LX5 just a lot more features and easier to use and read. The FLX does have 5 color settings. I'm really looking forward to some time on the ice and play with the weed mode and the provide ducer. Not sure I'm going to like the proview yet but time on the ice will tell all.
Matt
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Will be purchasing my first sonar shortly, am going with the FLX-28. As much as I am drawn to the LX-7, all I really care about is keeping it enjoyable for my son, and want something he and I (and his friends) can use. Marcum could very well be in the future, but right now I think it’s just too much tech for him, and maybe me... I think we’ll both be happy with the Vex though.
BTW – My first auger arrived yesterday - a NILS! They sent me the hand auger though, and I asked for the drill version. Emailed customer service at FishUSA, and they called my no more than 10 minutes Later. Situation is being corrected, but thought I’d give them a shoutout for great customer service!
And yes, I’m a rookie…
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for new to the shanty you sure are making great choices on equiptment ;D
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Welcome cdroessler! This is a great site where you can meet a lot of new friends and the people are very helpful. I bought a new FLX28 and have had my Nils power auger for three years now. They are super fast and very light. All you need Noe is a couple of TBROS power noodles and your ready for the ice!
Good luck this year!
Matt
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X2 thorne bros are a great rod and meatstick rods are the best rods I've used in the 30 years Ive been ice fishing
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That's just because you have not caught a fish on your power noodle yet! ;D
X2 thorne bros are a great rod and meatstick rods are the best rods I've used in the 30 years Ive been ice fishing
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Thanks guys. Got hooked late last year, and have been saving my cents all summer. Will be attempting my first smitty sled this weekend. Hoping to fit it all in my Corolla!!! If nothing else, it should provide a good laugh. Will post pics.
Thanks again,
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I have been on this site for a few years and have met several new friends here and I have yet to meet a bad person on this site they have all been great guys and trusted friends . Hope you meet some new fishing buddies also .Good Luck and be safe this ice season ;D
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Well I had a choice to make this year after selling my 22. I could go back to the 55 which I really liked (about an even trade or a bit less in money), go totally digital with a Marcum for a nominal upgrade fee, or stick with the Vex and upgrade to the 28 also for a bit more money. I thought pretty hard about this one, and just about went back to the 55, but I knew it might be the last flasher I buy for quite a while and the thought of the 55 maybe taking a dump on me in a few years really worried me. Nothing warranted those fears, just mostly a gut feeling and third hand stories, but nonetheless worried me. Why not the LX6 or 7? Not really sure why, other than thinking about the possibility of it being awkward and klunky for hole hopping. I'm sure I would have been very happy with one though.
With that, I pulled the trigger on a 28. After opening it up and playing around with it, I am VERY impressed with how bright and crisp the colors are. It really pops and the videos I've seen do not do the display justice at all. Vibrant is the word I would use. Next is that it is whisper quiet compared to the 22 I had and also quieter than any other mechanical flasher I've owned (understood its new out of the box and only a first impression). I can't comment yet on any other "on the water" features, but looking forward to getting it on the ice.
The one bummer I came across is the battery voltage display. It will only briefly appear when you power cycle the unit. So in other words if I'm curious of the current battery status, I have to reach down and turn the unit off then on again. Not a huge deal, but I would have liked to have seen a simple battery check mode. Maybe I'm wrong about this, but I couldn't come up with any other way other than power cycling? It does however have a warning prompt/alert for low voltage, so being anal about the status is probably a non factor. @)
I'm also happy to know that if for any reason I need to fish over 60ft I will now have that ability, which I didn't previously have with the 22. I was once stuck dead in the water while out on Superior in over 200FOW with my LX5, and I don't want that to happen ever again. @)
Now lets make some ice
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Excellent choice dtro @)
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Had the unit out on open water last night to try a few things out. What I was really interested in was seeing how well the auto mode worked and how well it kept a lock on the bottom compared to past experiences I had with the 55. I figure it was kind of like hole hoping, just in a boat. I tried in a couple of different spots and it worked exactly as advertised. Drop it in the water and a second later it gave you a reading (not instant but close). However, the one spot at the end of the night was absolutely littered with big 4-9”shad (enough that it was nearly impossible to fish without snagging one every time you put a jig in the water). I figured it would be a good opportunity to try out the flasher to see how confused it got. I totally expected it to see the shad and get confuzled where the bottom was, but to my surprise it seen right through them and gave me an accurate depth reading. It was marking the shad though and filled up the screen entirely, so I figured I’d try and see if I could dial them out. Even at the lowest gain, I was still getting a lot of feedback from the baitfish, so I hit the Low Power mode and I was able to eliminate all but the biggest of the shad and see only my jig and the bottom. Pretty cool actually.
On a side note, I did notice that the digital depth display was not working in LP mode. Not sure if that is by design or not, but it was blank where the depth usually is displayed
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nice report DTro
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I have an FL8-SLT. It is from before they brightened up the screen. I have been wanting it to die so I can justify a new unit. The thing just keeps going and going.
I am going to get an FLX28 next week when the brother-in-law heads over to Vexilar to pick it up.
I used a FL-22 once last year and didn't realize it had a max depth of 60'. Made lake trout fishing interesting until the next day when I had my FL-8 again.
I was considering an FL-20 but there seems to be enough nice new features on the FLX28 to make it worth the money.
I hope that this unit lasts the 20 or so years that the old FL-8 has for me.
When I go out with my son do I let him use the new unit or the FL-8?
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I have an FL8-SLT. It is from before they brightened up the screen. I have been wanting it to die so I can justify a new unit. The thing just keeps going and going.
I am going to get an FLX28 next week when the brother-in-law heads over to Vexilar to pick it up.
I used a FL-22 once last year and didn't realize it had a max depth of 60'. Made lake trout fishing interesting until the next day when I had my FL-8 again.
I was considering an FL-20 but there seems to be enough nice new features on the FLX28 to make it worth the money.
I hope that this unit lasts the 20 or so years that the old FL-8 has for me.
When I go out with my son do I let him use the new unit or the FL-8?
The 28 should be a very nice upgrade from your Fl-8. I would go with the 28 over the 20 also, the 28 has more features and reads to deeper depth.
FYI you can send your FL-8 into Vexilar or buy a kit to upgrade your Fl-8 to have a brighter screen and add new brushes.(plus clean all the old brush dust out) Would add some new life to an old unit. Always good to have a spare around.
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Mine is going to hit the ice on saturday morning, WOOP WOOP!!
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When I go out with my son do I let him use the new unit or the FL-8?
HA! Kinda depends on how old he is. If he's just a pup, the new flasher will make him feel pretty cool! If he's old enough to buy his own, better stick him with the FL-8! :laugh:
Q
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Okay I'm jealous :'( wish we could get some ice around here in IL!!
quote author=Layne link=topic=257073.msg2703615#msg2703615 date=1385065755]
Mine is going to hit the ice on saturday morning, WOOP WOOP!!
[/quote]
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We are getting snow and colder weather for the next 5 days will be below freezing day and night so I'm hoping to be on a small bluegill pond by thanksgiving ;D ;D hopefully
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Rub it in Jumbo! You had better be careful or else u r going to have an extra person for Thanksgiving dinner ;D
Matt
quote author=jumbo chaser link=topic=257073.msg2703967#msg2703967 date=1385085725]
We are getting snow and colder weather for the next 5 days will be below freezing day and night so I'm hoping to be on a small bluegill pond by thanksgiving ;D ;D hopefully
[/quote]
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I stopped and looked at a 28 in Gander Mountain tonight. I have fished with Vexilars for the last 20 years and currently use a 22. My initial impressions were that the screen is definitely very crisp and the unit is virtually silent. For those of you who are used to listening to a Vex with some miles on it that sounds a bit like a coffee-grinder, this would take some getting used to. On the downside, I am somewhat color blind and the red and green on the screen gave me a little bit of a headache. You ever see someone in a really bright striped shirt and the stripes sort of start to pulse when you are looking at them? That is what I had with the display. I'm not talking about the actual flasher readings (bottom, jig, fish) I'm talking about all the other stuff that is flashing and blazing on the screen. The other thing that makes me want to walk away is the "demo" mode. Seriously? Is there another feature you could have built in? Seems like a waste of space, time and effort to me. I don't get it.
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The 28 has different color options
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I stopped and looked at a 28 in Gander Mountain tonight. I have fished with Vexilars for the last 20 years and currently use a 22. My initial impressions were that the screen is definitely very crisp and the unit is virtually silent. For those of you who are used to listening to a Vex with some miles on it that sounds a bit like a coffee-grinder, this would take some getting used to. On the downside, I am somewhat color blind and the red and green on the screen gave me a little bit of a headache. You ever see someone in a really bright striped shirt and the stripes sort of start to pulse when you are looking at them? That is what I had with the display. I'm not talking about the actual flasher readings (bottom, jig, fish) I'm talking about all the other stuff that is flashing and blazing on the screen. The other thing that makes me want to walk away is the "demo" mode. Seriously? Is there another feature you could have built in? Seems like a waste of space, time and effort to me. I don't get it.
are you aware the last color option of the 5 color options on this unit is for color blind people. the colors when set to this are Red, White, & Blue. if you didn't check that out I would go look at it again and turn the dial to the "CS" position and then press the gain button until you get to this color option and see if that helps you .
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Yes, I knew that you could change the colors on this but I think it is just for the "signals" you get back like the jig, the fish, etc. I'm talking about the inner dial that lights up, the words that travel around the screen, etc.
Maybe I've officially "gotten old". I'm a die-hard Vex fan, but my first impression was that they are starting to cross a line between "fish-finder" and video game. Messages scrolling across the screen, "demo mode"......that is where you start to lose me. Starts to feel more like a "toy" than a "tool".
But, I also laughed when the first cell phones came out with cameras in them. I remember thinking that was crazy. Who wants/needs a camera in their cell phone? I had a bit of a swing and a miss on that too....
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Most new flashers have a demo mode, it's awesome for explaining how to read a flasher to someone that is new to them.
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Yes, I knew that you could change the colors on this but I think it is just for the "signals" you get back like the jig, the fish, etc. I'm talking about the inner dial that lights up, the words that travel around the screen, etc.
Maybe I've officially "gotten old". I'm a die-hard Vex fan, but my first impression was that they are starting to cross a line between "fish-finder" and video game. Messages scrolling across the screen, "demo mode"......that is where you start to lose me. Starts to feel more like a "toy" than a "tool".
But, I also laughed when the first cell phones came out with cameras in them. I remember thinking that was crazy. Who wants/needs a camera in their cell phone? I had a bit of a swing and a miss on that too....
Not sure why your hung up on the demo mode. If the inner dial display is different when in fishing mode what's the hang up?
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If u think the FLX28 is like a video game what do u think of the LX7? LOL ;D
Yes, I knew that you could change the colors on this but I think it is just for the "signals" you get back like the jig, the fish, etc. I'm talking about the inner dial that lights up, the words that travel around the screen, etc.
Maybe I've officially "gotten old". I'm a die-hard Vex fan, but my first impression was that they are starting to cross a line between "fish-finder" and video game. Messages scrolling across the screen, "demo mode"......that is where you start to lose me. Starts to feel more like a "toy" than a "tool".
But, I also laughed when the first cell phones came out with cameras in them. I remember thinking that was crazy. Who wants/needs a camera in their cell phone? I had a bit of a swing and a miss on that too....
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Its easy to see why companies can never win the battle of public opinion. One group says they didn’t do enough, then another group says they went too far. LOL
The Demo mode is obviously flaky and unnecessary to people who have spent any amount of time using a flasher, but you have to admit it’s a nice addition to show someone new to the sport how the thing works with a simple turn of the dial and there is a fish there taking the bait every time. :)
Personally, I have to say the more I look at 28, the more I like it. The face of the thing is so unobtrusive compared to previous Vex models, its just sleek and sexy.
Wait, did I just call a flasher sexy? Dang…..
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hey 74 Iceshanty folks are always welcome around here.
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Hey toofuss where do you get in my posts that I said someone just not welcome here? I am sorry if I offended but I dont see anywhere where I would have said something to offend someone.
Matt
hey 74 Iceshanty folks are always welcome around here.
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I hope the depth and mode display towards the center of the screen does not move around the dial while on the ice. That would annoy the hell out of me.
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All I'm going to say is nobody is going to be disappointed with their FLX28, I cant believe how good this thing works. On a spot that I couldnt read 18-24" of bottom with my bird because of rocks and a sharp drop, I can now watch myself lay my jigging spoon on the bottom.. full visibility!
I didnt have enough time to mess around with settings, all I did was stick it in Auto and it did all the work.. love it.
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Thanks for the update Layne! Can not wait to get mine out on the ice! Come on cold weather! ;)
Matt
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Been waiting to see the 28 go "on sale". New to the sport, and ice is starting to form. Does anyone think we'll be seeing discounted sale prices anytime soon, or should I go ahead an bite now...
Wishful thinking?
Thanks,
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They won't go on sale until February if there are any left. A lot of new items like the FLX28 sell out before the end of the season. I bought mine in sept. IMO I would buy now and enjoy it this season. Good luck!
Matt
quote author=cdroessler link=topic=257073.msg2709895#msg2709895 date=1385507480]
Been waiting to see the 28 go "on sale". New to the sport, and ice is starting to form. Does anyone think we'll be seeing discounted sale prices anytime soon, or should I go ahead an bite now...
Wishful thinking?
Thanks,
[/quote]
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Looks like I'll be going out on black friday after all. Thanks 74redzone!!!
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Couldn't wait, or maybe I just hate black friday - just ordered on line!!!
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Lol! I completely understand. I asked a guy at Scheels last weekend and he said the fl8 were going to be on sale but nothing else. By the way they were sold out of the FLX 28. Did u get the propack or the ultra?
Matt
Couldn't wait, or maybe I just hate black friday - just ordered on line!!!
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Ultrapack Matt, wife actually talked me into it.
Ready for the ice now!
Chuck
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I will be watching for updates on the unit. When I first looked at one on display, my initial reaction was that it was very cool. My second reaction was that I that the colors seem to be kind of like flashing lights. I know there are different settings but I didn't really find one that I liked better than my 22. Guess I will stick with my 22 for this year and stay tuned.
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Very nice! I got the propack and wish I would have got the ultra pack. I really like the float holder. I will be heading up that way as soon as the ice thickens up. My wife has an uncle in Janesville. I look u up and we will hit some ice if ur interested.
Matt
Ultrapack Matt, wife actually talked me into it.
Ready for the ice now!
Chuck
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I will be watching for updates on the unit. When I first looked at one on display, my initial reaction was that it was very cool. My second reaction was that I that the colors seem to be kind of like flashing lights. I know there are different settings but I didn't really find one that I liked better than my 22. Guess I will stick with my 22 for this year and stay tuned.
Does not pick up well on video, I tried to make one but it didnt turn out good either. By far the nicest flasher display I have ever seen, with the least interference.
FLX-28 will definitely get all the marcum guys worked up.
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Nice I'm hoping to take my FLX28 for a great test drive on Friday and it should be a good test for the weed mode because the big blue gill and bass pond I go to on first is very weedy and only 5' deep so it should give it a good test but my only concern is will it sink or float the ice down on that pond tonight was only 2" or less in thickness
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I'll have mine out all weekend, I will try and post a better review ASAP.
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Out with the old. In with the new.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v503/tcarlson99/DSCF3280_zps2d2a417f.jpg)
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I had the 12 went to the 20. Then went with the 22. I liked the 20 for the type of fishing I do better than the 22. I will have to test drive the 28 when I see one out there. Maybe?
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Some of my friends up north are using the 28 and are fishing the weed beds with excellent results and if the wife wasn't so close to having our baby I would be right up there with them . They were catching fish in the weeds that other guys couldn't see Wow I can't wait ;D
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I'm absolutely in love with mine, they have so much power its unreal. Even the lowest gain setting is almost too much for the size of lures I use in 30 FOW, I couldn't believe that I almost had to consider using low power mode at those depths.
I probably iced 120 walleye with mine this weekend, the biggest was my new personal best.. 13.5 pounds!!
:tipup:
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Adding the demo mode was somthing they should have done YEARS ago. Hard for a retailer to show a customer what the unit looks like with no demo mode. I know for a fact they have lost sales due to that fact alone.
For you guys that have used the unit through the ice. When marking a small spoon in say 10 ft of water,how many inches of the water column dose the jig take up?
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Just wondering if the FL X 28 users are still happy with them. I really haven't been in love with my 22 since I got it and thinking about a change.
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I didn't think it would be better than my fl20.but the flx28 rocks. crisp/clear display even in the sun unlike my glare screen of the fl20 during the day.runs forever on a charge,weed mode in shallow weed filled water works great.auto mode for easy setup/quick.the different color pallets are great I like mode 3.ive ran the flx28 for around 40 hours without any troubles so far.
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I didn't think it would be better than my fl20.but the flx28 rocks. crisp/clear display even in the sun unlike my glare screen of the fl20 during the day.runs forever on a charge,weed mode in shallow weed filled water works great.auto mode for easy setup/quick.the different color pallets are great I like mode 3.ive ran the flx28 for around 40 hours without any troubles so far.
Thanks! I am beginning to wonder if the 22 is no longer made for a reason?
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Thanks! I am beginning to wonder if the 22 is no longer made for a reason?
I think that the 60ft max on that model did it in.why make a model just like a fl20 which goes to 300ft and limit the fl22 to only 60 ft.i understand some guys want a shallow water unit and only fish shallow water but all the vexilar lineup can fish shallow water with the s cable or using low power mode.
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I think that the 60ft max on that model did it in.why make a model just like a fl20 which goes to 300ft and limit the fl22 to only 60 ft.i understand some guys want a shallow water unit and only fish shallow water but all the vexilar lineup can fish shallow water with the s cable or using low power mode.
I see! I have no problem with the 60 foot. Never fished more than 30 in my life. I am just wondering though, if there might be other issues like I have described?