How To Use A Chartplotter? (2023)

A chartplotter uses GPS technology to map out the general area that you’re in. Think of it as a GPS for the water. It will pick up marine obstacles like rocks and reefs.

It can also detect buoys, beacons, and other aids of navigation. A chartplotter will also have the ability to store all kinds of preset routes. You can even set some routes of your own and store it in the memory bank. 

The following is a step-by-step list on how to use a chartplotter. While not all of them are created equal, the concept is basically the same. Follow the instructions these instructions below:

Just like any GPS you have used in the past, you enter your way points. This is your origin and destination. 

Mark your current position using the display options and then set your destination by pressing on the screen. The option buttons may be labeled as “set” or something similar to it. 

With electronic navigation, this is pretty self-explanatory. Using your boat, you can navigate to your destination with ease. However, you’ll want to keep a close eye on what’s around you. This could mean that you’ll need to switch course temporarily in order to get to your destination. 

The last thing you want is to cruise along and hit a large rock. Enough of an impact could render your boat useless and leave you stranded. 

For best results, use your chartplotter and navigate through the waypoint menu. You can set the route manually or have the chartplotter autoroute your current position to your destination waypoint. If you’re setting it up manually, you’ll need to remember to “add turns”. 

While most chartplotters are different, your navigational display will usually be under the “Waypoint” options (look for similar labeling depending on the brand you use like Garmin). 

While using a chartplotter seems simple enough, there are some tips that you want to follow every time you’re out boating. Even if you are a bit of a newbie behind the helm, following these tips will quickly level up your boating abilities in no time.

Here’s what you need to know:

• If the water conditions are shallow or tricky, take advantage of your chartplotter’s zoom feature. Zoom in as far as possible so you get an accurate indication of where you are going on your route.
  
• Use a compass and a paper chart if needed. Sometimes, electronic devices may not be as reliable as we assume. Hard copies of your route will always win the day even if your chartplotter somehow fails you
  
• If you love to fish, you can use a chartplotter to mark or bookmark specific parts of the map. Let’s say there’s a part of the lake where you have generated the most success. You can mark that on the map so you can revisit it any time you want. Since most chartplotters have a sizeable memory bank, you can set your own routes and save them for the next time you’re out on the water
  
• Are you navigating your boat on open waters for longer distances? If so, make sure that you have a part of the route that allows you to “set and drift”. Remember, it can take a strong breeze to throw you off course. In the even of that happening, steer your boat to the starboard side of your waypoint to where it’s an equal amount
  
• Do you love to fish? You’d be hard-pressed to not find a good fish finder. Some chartplotters may have a built-in fish finder. If not, you can find one that is sold as a standalone. 
  
• There may be some marine electronic stores that will sell chartplotters and fish finders as a package deal. These are reliable for both freshwater and saltwater anglers who want nothing more than to take on the open waters with their fishing poles. Even if they catch something or go home empty handed, a fish finder will definitely help them find some good hotspots that they can mark on the plotfinder
  
• Don’t be afraid to go deep when fishing. Using a chartplotter, it will let you know how deep the water is below the surface. The deeper the water, the better off you might be. Just stop your boat in a place of interest, cast your line and find out if it’s a good spot to hit up on a regular basis or just a dud

A chartplotter is a boater’s best friend. Whether you ride around or spend a day on the water with your fishing pole in hand, this is a reliable tool that does its job brilliantly. Back in the day, it use to be where you just relied on maps and nature alone.

Even with today’s current technology, you still need a map and any hard copies of navigational data handy (if available). And as always, you should never set sail without a compass. Nevertheless, a good chartplotter is easy to use and will take you to distances near and far.