An echo sounder emits sound waves under water and receives their echo back. From the time between transmission and reception, the device calculates the depth and displays objects such as fish or underwater structures on a screen. The new GT360UHD from Garmin extends this principle to include a complete all-round view. Instead of scanning in just one direction, the system captures a circle 50 metres in diameter around the boat. The market launch was planned for March 2026, with a retail price of €999.99.
How the GT360UHD works
The centrepiece is the OneVü function, which provides 360-degree images in two different display formats. The 2D view shows a top-down view of the bottom of the water with all objects, while the 3D view offers a spatial perspective. However, this function only works in conjunction with the Spy Pole encoder rod, which is available separately. A special feature is the True Motion technology, which connects the echo sounder to the GPS system. This means that the scans remain accurate even if the boat is moving or drifting.
Anglers can choose between three scan modes: automatic scans continuously capture the surroundings, manual scans start at certain points at the touch of a button, and constant scans run continuously in the background. The settings can be customised using a compatible Garmin chart plotter. If you already have a LiveScope system, you can superimpose its real-time echo sounder images over the saved 360-degree scans. According to the manufacturer, this creates an extended 3D view that combines both saved and current data.
The electric Spy Pole transmitter rod
The Spy Pole is a motorised pole that precisely aligns and moves the depth sounder. It is either mounted directly on the Garmin Force or Force Pro trolling motor or attached to the boat deck with an optional bracket. A quick-release mechanism allows you to quickly switch between different mounting positions. The cables are protected by the shaft of the rod. The Garmin Spy Pole is available in two lengths: 42 inches (approx. 107 centimetres) for €1,999.99 and 49 inches (approx. 124 centimetres) for €2,199.99. The sizes are matched to the corresponding trolling motor models in 50 and 57 inches.
It can be controlled in three different ways: by remote control, via a foot pedal or directly on the Garmin chart plotter. Three automatic modes facilitate operation while travelling. SpyLock fixes the transducer at a specific point and maintains this position regardless of the boat's movements. SpyScan automatically swivels the transducer back and forth to scan a larger area. SpyLink synchronises the transducer rod with the Force Pro trolling motor and adjusts the transducer orientation to the speed and direction of travel. According to Justin Hamner, Bassmaster Classic winner 2024, the control system also works when the trolling motor's anchor lock is activated.
Compatibility and practical benefits
The Spy Pole works with all LiveScope transducers, not just the new GT360UHD. LiveScope systems display echo sounder images in real time, while the GT360UHD creates and saves all-round scans. In practice, this means that anglers can first use the GT360UHD to completely survey an area and then use LiveScope to observe specific points of interest in real time. The saved 360-degree scans can be called up on the chart plotter and labelled with markers.
For anglers, the system significantly simplifies the search for fish. Instead of constantly repositioning the boat or manually turning the transducer, the GT360UHD provides a complete overview of the surroundings. Structures such as sunken trees, rock formations or edges at the bottom of the water become visible before the boat passes over them. The Spy Pole's automatic scan modes make it possible to continuously search for schools of fish while travelling without taking your hands off the wheel.
Technical data:
GT360UHD depth sounder transducer:
- Price: 999.99 Euro
- Scan diameter: up to 50 metres
- Representation: 2D and 3D (with Spy Pole)
- Technology: True Motion with GPS connection
- Scan modes: automatic, manual, constant
- Compatibility: LiveScope systems, Garmin chart plotters
Spy Pole transmitter rod:
- Versions: 42 inch (1,999.99 euros), 49 inch (2,199.99 euros)
- Control: Remote control, foot pedal, chart plotter
- Modes: SpyLock (fixation), SpyScan (automatic swivelling), SpyLink (synchronisation with trolling motor)
- Assembly: Garmin Force/Force Pro trolling motor or boat deck with optional bracket
- Compatibility: all LiveScope encoders, GT360UHD
Jan-Ole Puls
Editor Test & Technology
