Using Keel Offset on Garmin Devices

The Keel Offset function adjusts the digital depth readout to display depth readings from either the waterline or from the keel (lowest point) of the boat, instead of from the location of the transducer which is usually somewhere in between. This permits optimum transducer location and depth readouts suited to the needs of the vessel.   

When an adjustment to the keel offset is needed, keep in mind that many devices will not provide a menu option for this setting unless the transducer is actually sensing the bottom. This means the value cannot be set if the vessel is out of the water. To determine the value to enter as the keel offset, first decide whether depth from the waterline or depth from the keel is desired. 

For depth from the keel of the boat, accurately measure the vertical distance between the face of the transducer and the keel of the boat. This measurement will then be entered into the keel offset function as a positive (+) number.

For depth measurements from the waterline, accurately measure the vertical distance between the face of the transducer and the waterline of the boat. This measurement will then be entered into the keel offset function as a negative (-) number.