Like with many other items, the resale value drops dramatically once you walk out of the store. This makes it hard for the original owner to recoup much of the original price. 

That’s why buying used marine electronics is such a great deal. So, you can sometimes buy equipment at 25-50% of its retail price by buying it this way.  Just remember… buyer beware.

Let’s take a look at some of the best ways to find and acquire used marine electronic equipment.  You can find great deals on fish finders, chartplotters, sonar and radar devices, fishing and mapping software, and boating accessories like stereos and radios.

Nine ways to find used marine electronics!

1. Watch for boating and angling friends and relatives who are looking to buy new equipment.  They will likely be very interested in selling off their old equipment to partially fund their new purchases.
2. Watch the classified ads in your local newspaper.
3. Search online for classified ads for used marine electronic equipment.
4. Go to marinas and see what they might have taken in for trade.
5. Check with local fishing organizations.
6. Check with local boating and yachting organizations.
7. Search online for the item you are looking for such as “used fish finder” or “used Lowrance chart plotter”
8. Check out the “used” section of the various online stores that sell marine electronic devices.  Some even have an “overstocked” section which also has good deals.
9. Look for “trader” publications that have fishing and yachting items.  Many people have good luck reading the various “trader” publications.  You may have something someone else wants (and can make a trade) or you can simply contact them for a straight sale of whatever used electronics you’re looking for.

And, finally…

Use your creativity when looking for used marine electronics! 

Keep your eyes and ears open for people selling what you’re looking for.  Seek sources much as you would if you were looking to buy any other item.

Remember… you can frequently save a lot of money buying used marine electronics.