C-MAP vs. Navionics: Why Cabo’s Top Captains Use Both

C-MAP vs. Navionics: Why Cabo’s Top Captains Use Both

C-MAP vs. Navionics

Why I Recommend Having Both a SIMRAD C-MAP Reveal and a Navionics Card on Your Screen

As the owner of Tag Cabo Sportfishing here in Cabo San Lucas, I’ve spent years fine-tuning the electronics setup on my boats to give my clients the best possible fishing experience. One of the biggest game changers has been running both a SIMRAD C-MAP Reveal card and a Navionics card side by side on my screens.

While they serve different purposes, together they give me an unmatched level of detail and efficiency on the water. Here’s why I highly recommend having both.


Navionics – My Go-To for Navigation

Navionics has become an industry standard for navigation, and for good reason:

  • Highly detailed nautical charts for accurate route planning.
  • User-friendly interface that’s quick to read while underway.
  • Precise waypoints and markers for safe navigation through known fishing grounds and harbors.

I rely on Navionics to set up my routes and control my autopilot, especially when running long distances. Its navigation features are clean, easy to follow, and give me the confidence that I’m on the most efficient and safest path.


SIMRAD C-MAP Reveal – My Secret Weapon for Finding Fish

When it comes to fishing-specific detail, nothing beats C-MAP Reveal.

  • High-resolution bathymetric data that clearly shows canyons, ledges, and underwater structures.
  • Shaded relief view for a 3D-like perspective of the ocean floor.
  • Ideal for pinpointing prime fishing spots where bait and big pelagic fish are likely to gather.

I use C-MAP Reveal primarily after reviewing water temperatures, chlorophyll concentrations, and wind conditions on my SatFish App in the morning. Once I identify a promising zone, I switch over to my C-MAP screen to find nearby canyons, ridges, or drop-offs where the fish might be holding.


My Daily Setup

I run two screens on my bridge:

  1. Screen One – SIMRAD C-MAP Reveal: To identify underwater structures and potential fishing hotspots based on my morning SatFish analysis.
  2. Screen Two – Navionics: To plot my route and engage the autopilot so I can head straight to the fishing grounds while keeping an eye on navigation hazards.

This combination lets me find the fish faster, navigate more safely, and spend more time with lines in the water rather than guessing where to go.


Why You Should Have Both

While either system works great on its own, using both unlocks their full potential:

  • C-MAP Reveal gives you the fishing detail you need to locate productive waters.
  • Navionics keeps your route precise and safe.
  • Together, they save fuel, time, and increase your chances of hooking into big game.

As someone who has been sportfishing in Cabo for over 16 years, I can tell you—having the right charts on your screens can make the difference between a slow day and a record-breaking catch.


If you’re looking to upgrade your electronics or get the most out of your current setup, feel free to visit us at Tag Cabo Sportfishing. We’re happy to share what works best for us on the waters of Baja California Sur.


Arturo Chacón
Owner, Tag Cabo Sportfishing