Tethered to the real world

Garmin iReach Mini 2

When I crossed the 65-year-old threshold my very smart wife suggested that, notwithstanding my view of my capabilities, it might be a good idea to have some way to let her know if things didn’t go as planned while I was in the backcountry. At that point I had learned to listen to sound advice, especially my wife’s, when I got it.

Because my fishing takes me to places with limited or no cell coverage, it compromises my ability to contact someone. If I want to get help, I’ll need something that can communicate with the satellite network.

My first unit was a Spot Gen3 and it worked well. It tracked my location, let me send check in messages and if things went bad, I could hit the panic button and get help headed my way. I couldn’t navigate with it or send messages other than those I had pre-set. It was a safety item akin to a first-aid kit.

Recently, I upgraded to a Garmin inReach Mini 2.¹ Here are a couple of reasons I made the switch.

Garmin inReach Mini 2 in the wild

Navigation

The Mini 2 wirelessly links to my mobile phone even if I don’t have cell coverage, letting me navigate using a larger screen. I’ve loaded landmarks like access points and notable terrain features on the map.² This comes in handy with trip planning, allowing me to see the big picture, refresh my memory and see what lies ahead.

The unit itself can track my movements, allowing me to review the trip later. If I get turned around and need to retrace my steps, the unit’s Tracback feature lets me do it quickly. This is especially handy for scouting trips where I occasionally decide the direction I’m heading will not work out and need to try again.

Messaging

When I head out on my own, I tell my wife where I plan to fish and when I expect to get back. Occasionally, the plan will change, and I’ll decide to head somewhere else. If I don’t have cellphone coverage, the Mini 2 lets me send a message to my wife (or any contact for that matter) and let her know. The Mini 2 has two-way messaging, so she can send me a message as well.

I can do both the navigation and messaging on the unit alone. Being able to use my cellphone is faster and easier.

The unit is smaller than my Spot and lightweight (3.5 oz). As you can see, it hangs out of the way on my fishing vest or pack. It’s ruggedly built, waterproof and the buttons are easy to use and well protected. It’s supposed to go four days on a charge but I haven’t come close to testing those limits and don’t expect to.

I’ve used Garmin GPS units in the past and found them reliable and easy to use. Garmin’s reputation is solid and I feel good about having this unit in my kit in case of trouble and to assist in my land navigation needs.

1. The Mini 2 is $399. I’m currently using the $14.95/month Consumer: Safety subscription plan. There’s also a $34.99 annual program fee.

2. If you are thinking prime fishing spots, you’d be correct.