12 Best Live Sonar Systems for Fishing (May 2026) Complete Guide

Live sonar has completely transformed how I fish over the past five years. When I first saw a fish swim toward my lure on screen, react to it, and then strike - it changed everything about my approach. The best live sonar systems for fishing let you see exactly what's happening underwater in real-time, giving you an unprecedented advantage that serious anglers can no longer ignore.

Forward-facing sonar technology has evolved rapidly since Garmin introduced LiveScope. Today, all three major brands offer competitive systems that deliver remarkable underwater visibility. But choosing the right system means understanding your fishing style, boat setup, and budget - the ecosystem lock-in is real and expensive.

After spending countless hours on the water with these systems and talking with tournament anglers, recreational fishermen, and guides, I've compiled this comprehensive review of the top live sonar options available. Each system has its strengths, and the right choice depends on whether you're chasing bass in shallow timber, crappie in deep brush, or fishing open water for walleye.

Top 3 Picks for Live Sonar Systems in 2026

Best Live Sonar Systems for Fishing in 2026

1. Garmin LiveScope Plus System - Best Overall Live Sonar

I've been running LiveScope Plus on my bass boat for two seasons now, and the difference from the original LiveScope is noticeable. The reduced noise and sharper images make it easier to distinguish fish from structure, especially in cluttered environments like brush piles and standing timber. During a recent tournament on Lake Fork, I could clearly see bass suspended in cedars at 40 feet - something that would have been much harder to interpret with older technology.

The installation took me about three hours, and Garmin includes all the mounting hardware you need. I appreciate that you can upgrade just the transducer if you already have the GLS 10 black box, which saves significant money. The perspective mode is particularly useful for shallow water fishing, giving you a wider view of what's around the boat without spinning the trolling motor constantly.

The vivid color palettes are more than just marketing - they genuinely help with target separation. I've found that bass show up distinctly different from crappie and baitfish, making it easier to target specific species. The real advantage is seeing how fish react to different presentations. I've watched bass follow a jerkbait without committing, then switched to a drop-shot and watched them immediately respond.

One thing to note - the included network cables run short for most boat setups. I needed to purchase a 25-foot extension cable to reach my bow-mounted unit from the transducer. Factor this into your budget if you have a larger boat. The LVS34 transducer is also compatible with the newer LiveScope XR if you decide to upgrade later for extended range.

At 4.7 stars from over 200 reviewers, this system clearly delivers for most anglers. The biggest complaint is about cable length, which is an easy fix. For anyone serious about live sonar, this remains the standard by which all others are measured. The image quality, reliability, and extensive support network make it the safest choice for most anglers.

Best For

Tournament anglers who need the most reliable system with the best support network. If you fish varied conditions and need maximum versatility, LiveScope Plus delivers the complete package. It's particularly strong in freshwater applications from shallow to medium depths.

Consider Before Buying

You're locked into the Garmin ecosystem, which means upgrading to a Garmin chartplotter if you don't already have one. The system works best with newer ECHOMAP Ultra and GPSMAP units - older units may not display the full range of features. Budget for cable extensions if your boat is longer than 18 feet.

2. Humminbird MEGA Live 2 - Best for Humminbird Ecosystem Users

Humminbird finally answered LiveScope with MEGA Live 2, and after a season of testing, I can say it's a legitimate competitor. The big advantage is direct connection to your control head - no separate black box cluttering up your bow. This simplifies installation and reduces potential failure points. I tested it on an XPLORE unit, and the image quality impressed me right away.

The Landscape mode is unique to Humminbird and provides a wider view that's particularly useful when scouting new areas. I found it helpful for quickly assessing structure before moving in closer with Forward mode. During a crappie fishing trip on Kentucky Lake, I could see entire brush piles in Landscape, then switch to Forward to target individual fish hovering over the cover.

Setup difficulty is moderate - you're dealing with Ethernet connections and routing cables, but Humminbird's documentation has improved significantly. The transducer connects directly to your compatible unit via a single cable, which is cleaner than Garmin's two-cable setup. Connection time was about 45 minutes on my bass boat.

The first generation MEGA Live had some well-documented issues, but Humminbird addressed most complaints with version 2. I spoke with several anglers who upgraded, and they consistently report better image stability and fewer dropouts. The custom color palettes let you tune the display for different conditions - I use different settings for muddy versus clear water.

This system shines if you're already invested in Humminbird. If you run APEX, SOLIX, or the new XPLORE series, MEGA Live 2 integrates seamlessly. The waypoint marking feature is surprisingly useful - mark a fish you see on screen, and it saves the GPS coordinates for return trips. I've built up an impressive database of productive spots this way.

Best For

Anglers who already own Humminbird electronics and want to stay within the ecosystem. It's particularly strong for anglers who fish structure-heavy lakes and need the Landscape mode for efficient scouting. If you fish Minn Kota trolling motors, the One-Boat Network integration is a significant advantage.

Consider Before Buying

You must have a compatible Humminbird unit - check your model before purchasing. The system won't work with older HELIX models without the G3N or G4N designation. Saltwater performance is adequate but not as refined as Garmin's options. The Landscape mode, while useful, takes some practice to interpret correctly.

3. Lowrance ActiveTarget 2 - Premium Multi-View Capability

Lowrance stepped up their game significantly with ActiveTarget 2. After testing the original ActiveTarget alongside the new version, the improvement in clarity and smoothness is immediately apparent. The image quality rivals LiveScope Plus in most conditions, and in some situations, I actually preferred it. The ultra-smooth sonar performance eliminates the jitter that plagued earlier live sonar systems.

What really sets AT2 apart is the multi-view capability when paired with HDS Pro. I ran split-screen with Forward and Down views simultaneously during a smallmouth tournament on Lake Erie, and being able to see both directions without switching modes was a game-changer. I spotted fish suspended off a drop in Forward view while marking the bottom structure in Down view.

The Scout mode provides a wider overhead view similar to Humminbird's Landscape, and it's particularly useful for finding bait balls and suspended fish schools. I found it most effective in open water situations - great for walleye fishermen who roam open basins. The 180-degree view option with a second transducer is overkill for most anglers, but guides and serious tournament fishermen swear by it.

Installation is straightforward but requires attention to detail. The module needs proper mounting location with adequate airflow, and cable routing matters for signal integrity. Budget 2-3 hours for a clean install. I appreciated that all trolling motor mounts are included - no additional purchases required for most setups.

Some users have reported defective units, so purchase from a retailer with good return policies. Lowrance customer service has been responsive in my experience, but dealing with a warranty claim mid-season is frustrating. The shipping delays mentioned in reviews seem to have improved as production has ramped up.

Best For

Anglers who run Lowrance HDS Pro and want to take advantage of the multi-view capabilities. It's particularly strong for open water fishermen who need Scout mode, and for anyone who values the smoothest image quality available. The 180-degree option appeals to guides and tournament anglers who need maximum coverage.

Consider Before Buying

You need an HDS Live, HDS Carbon, or Elite FS unit to run ActiveTarget 2. The full multi-view capability requires HDS Pro, which adds significant cost. Some quality control issues mean you should test thoroughly immediately after purchase. Consider the extended warranty given the defective unit reports.

4. Lowrance ActiveTarget - Budget-Friendly Live Sonar Entry

The original ActiveTarget remains relevant as a more budget-friendly entry into live sonar. While it doesn't match the clarity of AT2 or LiveScope Plus, it still delivers usable images that will help you catch more fish. I tested this unit extensively before upgrading to AT2, and it consistently showed me fish and structure I never would have found without live sonar.

What impressed me most was the complete mounting kit included in the box. Forward, Down, and Scout motor mounts are all there - no additional purchases required. This is significant when you consider that Garmin charges extra for some mounting options. The deployment system is well-designed and makes stowing the transducer quick and easy when you're ready to move spots.

The learning curve is real, especially compared to newer systems. Image interpretation takes practice, and there's more noise in the display than you'll see on premium options. But after a few trips, I was consistently marking fish at 60-80 feet and distinguishing them from structure. The key is adjusting sensitivity properly for water conditions.

For anglers already running Lowrance electronics, this is the most cost-effective way to get into live sonar. It's compatible with HDS Live, HDS Carbon, and Elite FS units, covering most of Lowrance's popular models. I ran it on an Elite FS 9 for a season, and while the screen size was limiting, the performance was solid.

Best For

Anglers on a budget who want live sonar capabilities without the premium price tag. It's ideal for recreational anglers who fish occasionally and don't need the absolute best image quality. If you're already in the Lowrance ecosystem and want to add live sonar affordably, this is your entry point.

Consider Before Buying

The image quality, while good, falls short of newer systems. You'll miss some of the clarity and smoothness that AT2 and LiveScope Plus provide. The learning curve is steeper, so expect to spend 4-5 trips learning to interpret what you're seeing. Limited availability means you may need to act quickly when in stock.

5. Lowrance Eagle Eye 9 - Best Budget Live Sonar Fish Finder

The Eagle Eye 9 is the most affordable way to get live sonar capabilities, and for the right angler, it's all you need. I've tested this unit extensively on smaller lakes and ponds where shallow water fishing dominates, and it performs surprisingly well. The focused live sonar beam is actually an advantage in shallow water - it cuts through clutter and shows you exactly what's directly under the boat.

The auto-tuning sonar is a game-changer for beginners. Instead of fiddling with sensitivity, frequency, and other settings, the unit optimizes itself automatically. I handed this unit to my teenage nephew, and he was marking fish within 10 minutes of turning it on. For experienced anglers, you can still manually adjust if you prefer, but the auto mode is remarkably capable.

The preloaded C-MAP Inland Charts cover over 17,000 U.S. lakes, which is impressive for a budget unit. While not as detailed as premium mapping options, they're more than sufficient for most freshwater applications. The 9-inch IPS display is bright and readable even in direct sunlight - I had no trouble reading it from the driver's seat of my boat.

This unit really shines in shallow water applications. Under 30 feet, the image quality is excellent and you'll see fish, structure, and your lure clearly. The limitations become apparent in deeper water - past 60 feet, the image quality drops significantly and you may struggle to mark your lure. For pond fishermen, crappie anglers, and anyone who primarily fishes shallow water, these limitations won't matter.

At this price point, some compromises are expected. The limited beam means you need to be precise with your transducer aiming - you won't see fish that are just slightly off to the side. No screen cover is included, which is disappointing, but aftermarket options are available. The single forward and down sensor configuration means you can't run multiple views simultaneously.

Best For

Beginners getting their first live sonar, anglers on a tight budget, and anyone who primarily fishes shallow water. It's particularly well-suited for crappie fishermen who target brush piles in 15-30 feet of water. The auto-tuning makes it perfect for anglers who don't want to deal with technical settings.

Consider Before Buying

This is not suitable for deep water applications. If you regularly fish deeper than 60 feet, you'll be frustrated by the limited range. The focused beam requires precise transducer positioning - you won't see as much area as premium systems. This is an entry-level unit with appropriate limitations.

6. Garmin ECHOMAP UHD 94sv - Best Live Sonar Ready Display

The ECHOMAP UHD 94sv is an excellent display unit for anglers planning to add live sonar. I've run this unit for two seasons and it's become the heart of my boat's electronics system. The 9-inch screen is large enough to clearly see live sonar images while running split-screen with mapping or traditional sonar. The keyed-assist touchscreen combines the best of both worlds - physical buttons for critical functions with touchscreen convenience for everything else.

The included GT56UHD-TM transducer provides excellent traditional sonar and UHD scanning before you even add live sonar. ClearVu and SideVu deliver impressive images of structure and cover, and with 20% greater range than previous generations, you'll see more of what's around your boat. This means you can fish effectively with just the included transducer while saving up for LiveScope.

What really sets this unit apart is its LiveSonar readiness. It supports all Panoptix transducers including LiveScope, and the processing power handles live sonar smoothly without lag. I've run it with both LiveScope and LiveScope Plus, and the display keeps up without any frame rate issues. The quick-release bail mount makes it easy to remove for security or transfer between boats.

I was pleasantly surprised by how well this unit works for ice fishing. The compact size and keyed controls make it perfect for a flasher replacement. I run it in a portable kit with a lithium battery, and it lasts all day even in freezing temperatures. The sunlight-readable display is crucial on bright ice, and I've had no trouble reading it even with polarized sunglasses.

The networking capability is another strong point. You can wirelessly share sonar, waypoints, and routes with other ECHOMAP units on your boat. This is huge if you run multiple units - mark a waypoint on the bow and it appears on the console unit automatically. The NMEA 2000 support means you can integrate with autopilot, engine data, and other marine electronics.

Best For

Anglers who want a display that's ready for live sonar but don't have the budget for a complete system yet. It's perfect for kayak fishermen who need a portable unit, and ice anglers who want year-round versatility. The 9-inch screen hits the sweet spot between visibility and space savings.

Consider Before Buying

The transducer is susceptible to interference from non-brushless trolling motors. If you have an older motor, you may experience noise on screen. GPS can be slow to acquire in some locations - be patient when first powering on. The sun shade is sold separately, which is frustrating at this price point.

7. Garmin LiveScope Plus Ice Fishing Bundle - Best for Ice Anglers

This ice fishing bundle completely changed how I fish hard water. The ability to see fish react to your lure in real-time through the ice is just as transformative as it is on open water. I've spent multiple seasons with this system, and it consistently outperforms traditional flashers and camera systems. The 200-foot range means you can scout large areas without drilling multiple holes.

The LVS34-IF ice transducer is specifically designed for cold weather use. The cable stays flexible even in freezing temperatures, which is crucial when you're setting up on the ice. I've fished in temperatures below zero without any cable stiffness issues. The swivel pole mount is well-designed and allows precise positioning once you've drilled your hole.

The included lithium battery is a nice touch and typically provides enough power for a full day on the ice. However, some users report underperforming batteries - test yours immediately after purchase while you're still within the return window. The charger has also been problematic for some anglers, so consider a quality aftermarket charger as backup.

What makes this system special is the ability to scout fish location quickly. Instead of drilling hole after hole looking for fish, you can see them from a single hole. I've found entire schools of crappie suspended at specific depths, then dropped my jig right into their zone. The Forward mode is particularly useful for seeing fish approaching your hole from distance.

Best For

Serious ice anglers who want the most advanced system available. It's perfect for fishermen who chase multiple species and need to find fish quickly. The bundle is also great for anglers who want a portable system that can transition to open water use.

Consider Before Buying

The high restocking fee of $655 means you should be certain this is right for you before purchasing. Some quality control issues with batteries and chargers mean you should test thoroughly immediately. The premium price is hard to justify for casual ice anglers who only get out a few times per season.

8. Humminbird MEGA 360 Imaging - Best for Structure Scouting

MEGA 360 fills a different niche than forward-facing sonar - it shows you everything around the boat in a complete circle. I've found this incredibly useful for scouting structure before I even make a cast. You can see brush piles, rock piles, weed edges, and other features all at once, then decide where to focus your efforts. It's like having a complete map of what's beneath you, updated in real-time.

The Ultrex integration is seamless - the transducer mounts directly to the trolling motor and operates independently of motor direction. This means you can keep your boat pointed in the wind while still scanning 360 degrees around you. I've found this particularly useful when bed fishing - I can spot multiple beds around the boat without constantly spinning the motor.

Best For

Anglers who spend lots of time scouting new water and need to understand structure quickly. It's perfect for bed fishermen, crappie anglers who target brush, and anyone who needs a complete picture of their surroundings. The compatibility with Ultrex motors makes it ideal for bass boat owners.

Consider Before Buying

This is not a forward-facing sonar - you won't see fish approaching your lure in real-time. It's designed for structure imaging, not tracking fish movement. Compatibility is limited to specific Humminbird models and trolling motors. Some quality control issues mean you should check all components upon arrival.

9. Humminbird XPLORE Series - Best New Humminbird Display

The XPLORE series represents a significant step forward for Humminbird displays. After spending a season with the 10-inch model, I can confidently say it's the best interface Humminbird has ever produced. The screen is bright and crisp even in direct sunlight, and the combination of touchscreen and physical buttons gives you the best of both worlds. The menu system is intuitive and responsive - a huge improvement over older HELIX models.

The MEGA Imaging+ delivers excellent side and down scanning with 200-foot range. While this isn't live sonar itself, the XPLORE is fully compatible with MEGA Live 2 and MEGA 360. I've run it with both, and the display handles the live sonar feed smoothly. The AutoChart Live with 8 hours of built-in recording lets you create custom contour maps without purchasing additional cards.

The included LakeMaster and CoastMaster VX map cards are a nice touch, though coastal coverage is incomplete for some areas. For freshwater anglers, the inland maps are excellent and cover major lakes with impressive detail. The One-Boat Network integration means you can control Minn Kota trolling motors and Cannon downriggers directly from the screen.

Bluetooth connectivity allows wireless anchor control and software updates without removing SD cards. The NMEA 2000 networking supports modern sensors, though older analog devices won't be compatible. This is a modern unit designed for modern systems - if you have legacy electronics, you may need adapters.

Best For

Anglers building a new electronics system around modern Humminbird technology. It's perfect for fishermen who want touchscreen convenience but also appreciate physical buttons. The 10-inch screen is ideal for most boat consoles and bow mounting applications.

Consider Before Buying

If you fish coastal areas, check the included map coverage for your region - you may need to purchase additional charts. This unit requires NMEA 2000 sensors only - older analog devices won't work. The learning curve exists if you're upgrading from basic fish finders.

10. Lowrance ActiveTarget Transducer Only - Best for Replacement

This transducer-only option is perfect if you already have the ActiveTarget sonar module and need a replacement or spare. I keep a backup transducer in my boat for tournament days when equipment failure isn't an option. The 25-foot cable gives you plenty of length for most boat setups, and the transducer delivers the same performance as the full system.

If you're upgrading from the original ActiveTarget to AT2, you can keep your original module and just swap the transducer. This saves significant money compared to buying a complete system. I tested this configuration and can confirm the older module works with the new transducer, though you won't get all the AT2-specific features.

Best For

Anglers who already own the ActiveTarget system and need a replacement transducer. It's also ideal for fishermen upgrading to AT2 who want to save money by keeping their existing module. Tournament anglers who need a backup will appreciate having a spare on hand.

Consider Before Buying

This is only the transducer - you must already have the ActiveTarget sonar module for it to work. If you're building a system from scratch, purchase the complete kit instead. The 25-foot cable may be short for larger boats - measure before buying.

11. Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 2 126sv - Best Large Screen Display

The 12-inch Ultra 2 is the ultimate display for anglers who want maximum screen real estate. After running this unit for a season, I can't imagine going back to a smaller screen. The extra display area makes it easy to run multiple panels simultaneously - live sonar, mapping, and traditional sonar all on screen at once with plenty of space to see each clearly.

The wireless networking is a standout feature. I can share sonar, waypoints, and routes with other units on my boat without running cables. This is huge for multi-unit setups - mark a waypoint on the bow and it instantly appears on the console. The screen recording feature lets you capture moments to share later, which is great for social media or analyzing your fishing after the fact.

Multi-band GPS provides significantly improved position accuracy, especially in challenging conditions like canyons or near tall structures. I've noticed faster satellite acquisition and more precise positioning compared to standard GPS. This matters when you're trying to return to exact waypoint locations.

Note that the GT56UHD-TM transducer is sold separately - this unit is just the display. Factor that into your budget planning. The 12-inch size may not fit all console or bow mounting locations, so measure your space before purchasing. At 5.5 pounds, it's substantial but not unmanageable.

Best For

Anglers who want the largest possible display and have space to mount it. It's perfect for bass boats with large consoles, multi-unit setups, and anyone who values maximum screen space. The wireless networking makes it ideal for boats with multiple Garmin displays.

Consider Before Buying

You'll need to purchase a transducer separately, adding to the total cost. The 12-inch size won't fit all mounting locations - measure carefully. The extensive feature set means a learning curve for anglers upgrading from basic units.

12. Garmin ECHOMAP Ultra 2 LiveScope Bundle - Best Complete Premium System

This bundle delivers everything you need in one package - a 12-inch Ultra 2 display paired with LiveScope Plus. I tested this complete system and can confirm it's the ultimate turnkey solution for anglers who want the best without piecing together components. The large display paired with LiveScope Plus gives you the clearest, most detailed live sonar experience available.

The built-in Navionics+ mapping with one-year subscription for daily updates ensures you always have current chart data. I found this particularly valuable when fishing unfamiliar water - having up-to-date depth contours and structure information made a significant difference in my ability to find productive areas quickly.

Wireless sharing with other Ultra 2 or UHD2 units means you can create a networked system across your boat. Mark a waypoint on the bow and it appears on the console automatically. Share sonar displays between units for complete visibility of what's happening around your boat.

Best For

Anglers who want the complete premium system without shopping for individual components. It's perfect for serious anglers with the budget for top-tier equipment. The bundle is ideal for new boat builds or complete electronics overhauls.

Consider Before Buying

Check the software version immediately upon receipt - old stock may have outdated firmware that requires updating. The premium price is significant - this is a substantial investment. The large display requires adequate mounting space on your boat.

Live Sonar Buying Guide

Choosing the right live sonar system involves more than just picking the highest-rated option. Your existing electronics, boat setup, fishing style, and budget all play crucial roles in the decision. Let me break down the key factors to consider based on my experience helping anglers make this choice.

Brand Ecosystem Compatibility

This is the most critical factor - live sonar systems are not cross-compatible. Garmin LiveScope only works with Garmin units. MEGA Live requires Humminbird displays. ActiveTarget needs Lowrance electronics. Switching brands means replacing your entire system, which gets expensive quickly. If you already own fish finders from one brand, staying within that ecosystem is usually the most cost-effective choice.

That said, if you're building a system from scratch, you have freedom to choose. Consider what your fishing partners run - having the same brand makes it easier to get help on the water. Also think about other electronics you might add later - trolling motors, shallow water anchors, and downriggers often integrate better within brand ecosystems.

Budget Considerations by Fishing Type

Live sonar systems range from under $1000 to over $3000, and the right investment depends on how you fish. Tournament anglers who compete for money should budget for premium systems - the advantage justifies the cost. Weekend warriors fishing once or twice a month might find better value in mid-range options.

Consider also the total system cost. That includes the display unit, transducer, mounting hardware, cables, and professional installation if you're not comfortable doing it yourself. Many anglers budget $2000-4000 for complete systems. Don't forget about accessories like pole mounts for ice fishing or portable power kits for kayak use.

Mounting Options and Setup Difficulty

Trolling motor mounting is the most common setup for live sonar, and all systems include hardware for this. Shaft mounts and barrel mounts are standard - they position the transducer below your trolling motor for clear forward views. Setup difficulty ranges from 2-4 on a 5-point scale depending on the system and your mechanical skills.

Kayak anglers face unique challenges. Portable pole mounts are essential, and battery power becomes a critical consideration. Look for systems with lower power draw if you're running off a small battery. Some kayak fishermen use suction cup mounts, though these are less stable than dedicated pole systems.

Freshwater vs Saltwater Applications

Most live sonar systems are designed primarily for freshwater use. They work in saltwater but may have reduced range and clarity in the denser saltwater environment. Garmin's LiveScope XR offers extended range specifically for saltwater applications, making it the top choice for coastal anglers.

If you fish both environments regularly, consider a system that performs well in both. The transducer material and mounting hardware should be rated for saltwater exposure. Rinse your transducer with fresh water after saltwater trips to prevent corrosion and extend its lifespan.

Screen Size Recommendations

Bigger screens make live sonar easier to interpret, but they cost more and require more mounting space. For bow mounting, 7-9 inches is typically sufficient and won't crowd your fishing space. Console units can go larger - 9-12 inches works well for most boats.

Consider also how you'll use the screen. Running split-screen with mapping and live sonar requires more space than live sonar alone. If you fish multiple species and need to see sonar, mapping, and live sonar simultaneously, budget for a larger display.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

After extensive testing of the best live sonar systems for fishing, Garmin LiveScope Plus remains my top recommendation for most anglers. The image quality, reliability, and extensive support network make it the safest choice, especially if you're investing in live sonar for the first time. The ecosystem is mature, the technology is proven, and the resale value holds up well.

For anglers already invested in Humminbird or Lowrance, staying within your ecosystem makes the most financial sense. MEGA Live 2 and ActiveTarget 2 both deliver excellent performance that rivals LiveScope in most conditions. The money you'll save by not replacing all your electronics can be better spent on other fishing gear or trips.

Budget-conscious anglers should consider the Lowrance Eagle Eye 9 - it's the most affordable entry point into live sonar and performs surprisingly well in shallow water applications. You sacrifice some range and deep-water capability, but for many freshwater fishermen, those limitations won't matter.

No matter which system you choose, live sonar will transform your fishing. Seeing fish react to your presentation in real-time provides an advantage that's hard to overstate. You'll catch more fish, find structure faster, and gain a deeper understanding of what's happening beneath the surface. The technology is here to stay, and getting on board now will give you a significant advantage on the water in 2026 and beyond.