The Garmin GPSMAP 65 Multi-Band Handheld GPS is our best handheld gps for fishing pick, and it scored 84 out of 100 in our testing.
Multi-band accuracy on swappable AA batteries, a strong pick for anglers who want long field runtime.
A button-operated multi-band handheld that, unlike the 66sr, runs on two AA batteries you can replace anywhere, so it keeps going on long water and shore days.
Now:
We tested it head to head against the other top handheld GPS units, and below we break down how it did on Reception, Ease of Use, Display Quality, Speed, Weight and Size, Versatility, where it falls short, and whether it is worth your money.
Table of Contents
Best Handheld GPS For Fishing
Garmin GPSMAP 65 Multi-Band Handheld GPS
Bottom Line : Multi-band accuracy on swappable AA batteries, a strong pick for anglers who want long field runtime.
Pros
- Multi-band accuracy on AA batteries
- Swap batteries anywhere for long trips
- Reliable buttons in wet cold weather
- Hunt and Fish tools built in
Cons
- No altimeter or compass on the base 65
- Lower-resolution 160 by 240 screen
- About 14 to 16 hr runtime per AA set
Our Verdict: Garmin GPSMAP 65 Multi-Band Handheld GPS
Multi-band accuracy on swappable AA batteries, a strong pick for anglers who want long field runtime.
A button-operated multi-band handheld that, unlike the 66sr, runs on two AA batteries you can replace anywhere, so it keeps going on long water and shore days.
So, is it any good?
Multi-band GNSS across GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS and IRNSS.
Delivers accuracy around six feet that holds in canyons and heavy cover.
Getting multi-band accuracy on AA batteries is the whole reason I grabbed it, and it holds a mark near the water beautifully. Just know the base 65 has no compass, so headings come from movement.
Ryan, Top-Notch field tester
Reasons to buy:
- Multi-band accuracy on AA batteries
- Swap batteries anywhere for long trips
- Reliable buttons in wet cold weather
- Hunt and Fish tools built in
Reasons to avoid:
- No altimeter or compass on the base 65
- Lower-resolution 160 by 240 screen
- About 14 to 16 hr runtime per AA set
Our Analysis, Comparisons, and Test Results
The Garmin GPSMAP 65 Multi-Band Handheld GPS scored 84 out of 100 overall.
It is strongest on reception and weakest on versatility.
Here is how it did on every metric we tested, with exactly how each score compares to the rest of the field.
Reception
Multi-band GNSS across GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS and IRNSS.
Delivers accuracy around six feet that holds in canyons and heavy cover.
Nearly the accuracy of the pricier 66sr, in a swappable-battery body.
A rare mix of multi-band precision with AA power.
| Reception | Rating |
|---|---|
| Best in test | 10/10 |
| Garmin GPSMAP 65 Multi-Band Handheld GPS | 9/10 |
| Category average | 8.4/10 |
| Worst in test | 7/10 |
Ease of Use
Full button keypad with a central joypad, no touchscreen to fail in wet weather.
Buttons work reliably in rain, snow and cold with gloves.
But here is the catch:
Menus follow the standard GPSMAP layout, which takes some learning.
| Ease of Use | Rating |
|---|---|
| Best in test | 9/10 |
| Garmin GPSMAP 65 Multi-Band Handheld GPS | 7/10 |
| Category average | 7.4/10 |
| Worst in test | 6/10 |
Display Quality
A 2.6 inch, 160 by 240 color TFT screen that stays legible in direct sun.
Lower resolution than the eTrex screens but readable for maps and waypoints.
Quick zoom in and out helps switch between detail and overview.
| Display Quality | Rating |
|---|---|
| Best in test | 10/10 |
| Garmin GPSMAP 65 Multi-Band Handheld GPS | 7/10 |
| Category average | 7/10 |
| Worst in test | 6/10 |
Speed
Fast satellite fix in the open.
Zooming and page changes are responsive.
Map panning is adequate on the topo maps.
| Speed | Rating |
|---|---|
| Best in test | 8/10 |
| Garmin GPSMAP 65 Multi-Band Handheld GPS | 7/10 |
| Category average | 7.4/10 |
| Worst in test | 7/10 |
Weight and Size
Candy-bar body a bit larger than an eTrex, pack-pocket friendly.
Heavier than an eTrex once you load the two AA cells.
| Weight and Size | Rating |
|---|---|
| Best in test | 10/10 |
| Garmin GPSMAP 65 Multi-Band Handheld GPS | 7/10 |
| Category average | 7.7/10 |
| Worst in test | 5/10 |
Versatility
This base 65 model has no barometric altimeter or compass, unlike the 65s.
Includes a Hunt and Fish menu, geocaching and custom map support.
Battery runs about 14 to 16 hours on two alkaline AAs in normal use.
| Versatility | Rating |
|---|---|
| Best in test | 9/10 |
| Garmin GPSMAP 65 Multi-Band Handheld GPS | 7/10 |
| Category average | 7.7/10 |
| Worst in test | 6/10 |
Should You Buy the Garmin GPSMAP 65 Multi-Band Handheld GPS?
Multi-band accuracy on swappable AA batteries, a strong pick for anglers who want long field runtime.
It is best suited to anglers who want multi-band accuracy with swappable aa power.
Bottom line?
The big win: Multi-band accuracy on AA batteries.
The main compromise: No altimeter or compass on the base 65.
We scored it 84 out of 100.
What Other Handheld GPSs Should You Consider?
Not sold on this one? A few others from our testing are worth a look.
The Garmin GPSMAP 66sr Multi-Band Handheld is our best handheld gps for hunting. Multi-band accuracy in a proven button body, ideal for hunters who need a precise, rugged unit.
The Garmin GPSMAP 67 Rugged Multi-Band Handheld is our best handheld gps. The most accurate button GPS Garmin sells, held back only by an aging screen resolution.
The Garmin eTrex 22x Rugged Handheld GPS is our best budget handheld gps. A cheap, light, dependable entry point that trades multi-band accuracy for AA simplicity.
Specifications
| Display | 2.6 in, 160 by 240 px color TFT |
| Battery | 2 AA, about 14 to 16 hr |
| GNSS | multi-band, multi-GNSS |
| Water rating | IPX7 |
| Sensors | none (no altimeter or compass) |
| Memory | 16 GB internal |
| Interface | button and joypad |
Conclusion: Garmin GPSMAP 65 Multi-Band Handheld GPS
After testing it against the other top handheld GPS units, the Garmin GPSMAP 65 Multi-Band Handheld GPS earns its place as our best handheld gps for fishing pick.
Its standout strength: Multi-band accuracy on AA batteries.
Still deciding?
The main thing to weigh before you buy: No altimeter or compass on the base 65.
If you want anglers who want multi-band accuracy with swappable aa power, it belongs at the top of your shortlist.
Still comparing? See exactly where the Garmin GPSMAP 65 Multi-Band Handheld GPS ranks against the full field in our 10 Best Handheld GPS guide.
