Simrad GO Chartplotter and Fish Finder - Compact Marine Navigation

Our review of the Simrad GO chartplotter and fish finder finds it best suited to anglers and boaters who want a compact, capable display that combines navigation and sonar in a single unit. The biggest reason to buy is the balance of useful fisheries tools and modern connectivity: a bright multi-touch display with support for C-MAP Discover charts, an Active Imaging 3-in-1 transducer option, and plug-and-play radar readiness that make day trips and inshore fishing more productive and safer.

Key Features

• Multifunction Display: The GO unit adds GPS navigation, sonar support and radar capability to smaller boats, providing core electronics without excess bulk.
• C-MAP Discover Card: Included vector charts, custom depth shading and high-resolution bathymetry give clear coastal and nearshore detail across the US and Canada.
• Active Imaging Transducer: The 3-in-1 transducer delivers CHIRP, SideScan and DownScan with FishReveal so structure and fish targets are easier to interpret.
• Radar Ready: Plug-and-play compatibility with Simrad radar solutions helps improve situational awareness for powerboats of varying sizes.
• Built-in Connectivity: Mirror the display to a smartphone or tablet and integrate with NMEA 2000 networks for expanded onboard data sharing.

Who It's For

The GO chartplotter is ideal for sportboats, center-consoles and smaller cruisers where space and simplicity matter most, and for anglers who want reliable inshore and nearshore charting plus detailed sonar. It suits owners who prefer a touchscreen interface that works like a phone or tablet and who want easy integration with existing marine networks.

Boaters who need very large displays, advanced offshore charting workflows or integrated autopilot control may want to consider larger or more feature-rich units; this GO model focuses on core navigation, sonar and optional radar, not high-end helm consolidation.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Bright, intuitive multi-touch display with simple menus that are easy to use even in rough conditions.
• Comprehensive chart coverage with the included C-MAP Discover card and useful bathymetric contours.
• Active Imaging 3-in-1 transducer gives clear CHIRP, SideScan and DownScan views with FishReveal to highlight targets.
• Radar-ready and NMEA 2000 connectivity make system expansion straightforward.

Cons

• Not a full helm consolidation option; larger boats or users wanting multiple large screens may need a more advanced model.
• Some advanced cartography options require separate purchases or upgrades beyond the included C-MAP Discover card.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Simrad GO chartplotter and fish finder is a compact, well-rounded system for inshore anglers and small-boat owners who want dependable navigation, clear sonar imaging and room to expand with radar or networked sensors. It delivers excellent value where simplicity, touchscreen ease and quality charts matter more than a full helm upgrade.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this unit include charts?
Yes, it ships with a C-MAP Discover card that includes vector charts, custom depth shading and high-resolution bathymetry for US and Canada.

Can I add radar and other instruments?
Yes, the GO is radar ready for plug-and-play Simrad radar units and supports NMEA 2000 for additional instrument integration.

What sonar does it use?
It supports an Active Imaging 3-in-1 transducer option that provides CHIRP, SideScan and DownScan imaging with FishReveal.