The HDS-10 has a 10.4" screen that is so large you can split the screen up into multiple windows and still be able to read everything very easily. The new SolarMAX™ PLUS display renders brilliant detail in sunlight with the best wide-angle viewing ever available, while advanced pure-white LED screen/keypad backlighting fully adjusts to zero-dim for night fishing.

The unique new FlyWheel™ dial and command soft keys give anglers easier and quicker control of Broadband Sounder fishfinding and satellite navigation precision via the built-in 16-channel GPS+WAAS antenna. USA™ with combined Inland and Coastal coverage (Americas) - Or Navionics World Background map (non-Americas). Plus, this HDS is now fully compatible with all Navionics® chartcards – Platinum+, Platinum, Platinum HotMaps – with two high-speed SD card slots. Fully ready to build your complete stand-alone or networked onboard system.

As one would expect a unit this high end comes at a price, and that price is $2499 dollars for the HD-10. Better start saving if you want this unit on your rig in time for Christmas.

Ranger Z521: Zander got bug eyed when he saw the new Z521, and even though there were signs right on the boat that said don't climb on deck both he and pros Scott Martin and Brent Ehrler couldn't resist taking a closer look at this full sized premium rig. 

The Z521 Comanche is huge at 21 feet, 3 inches in length with a 95-inch beam. Rated for 250 horsepower, the Z521 is available with a wide range of precision-matched outboards to meet the preferences of anglers across the country, while a 52 gallon fuel capacity ensures plenty of range for long runs in search of fish.

The interior is highlighted by a completely redesigned console that's not only taller for more protection, but offers built-in mounting options for today's popular, large-screened electronics directly above the steering wheel, eliminating the need for gimbal and swivel mounts in most cases. The redesigned consoles also integrate a stylish-yet-functional concave beveling on the outside, allowing the tips of rods stored on the front deck to stay more secure while in use. With tons of storage throughout, the Z521 incorporates the same stainless steel key lock system with powerful compression locks and triple-lip-sealed storage lockers as previous Z500 models.

Other new features include an integrated front deck step with storage, which can be used for tackle and gear or thanks to a gel coated, insulated interior – an additional cooler. Z521 owners can also choose between Ranger's patented SRS bench seat design or opt for a new bucket seat configuration, which in place of a third, middle seat features a console with storage and cup holders.

The cockpit features ample room for full sized electronics, HDS-10 anyone?

Conclusion: There initially wasn't going to be a Bass-A-Thon this year but were glad that the team at Anglers Marine put the event back on the schedule, and judging from the turnout we think attendees were too. This show centers around big baits but has plenty of other offerings worth a look at. Since Bassjam and Bass-A-Thon were only separated by a week this year a lot of readers have asked us the question "which show was better?" The answer really depends on what your most interested in. Both shows had their own unique flavor and while BassJam was definitely the larger show in sheer real estate for manufacturers it was good to see different brands, many of which were regional, at both events. The Bass-A-Thon has been around so long that the team at Anglers Marine deserves props for putting on a quality show year after year, and the Bassjam really couldn't have been any better for the first annual event. The bottom line is now Norcal anglers have a show in their own backyard, a void that really needed to be filled, and now is being fully addressed with the Bassjam, and yet Bass-A-Thon still has enough pull to get anglers to drive from afar. Two shows are better than one.