Best Garmin LiveScope Setup for Offshore Fishing Australia
If you’re heading offshore chasing tuna, marlin or working bait schools out wide, having the right electronics setup isn’t just handy - it’s everything.
Garmin LiveScope has changed the game for Aussie offshore fishing, but not all setups are created equal. The difference between a basic install and a properly designed system is night and day when you're out on the bluewater.
At Shotgun Marine, we build complete offshore sonar systems - not just sell boxes - so you can actually see what’s happening under the boat in real time.
What Makes a Good Offshore LiveScope Setup?
Offshore fishing is a different beast compared to inshore or estuary work.
- ✔ You need longer detection range
- ✔ Better target separation
- ✔ Clear imaging at speed and depth
- ✔ A system that integrates properly with your boat
That’s where the right combination of LiveScope system + display + installation becomes critical.
Recommended Setup for Offshore Fishing
1. LiveScope XR System (Core Unit)
If you’re serious about offshore fishing, this is the go-to system.
What Offshore Fishos Are Saying
“Upgraded to LiveScope XR through Shotgun Marine and it’s a different game offshore. We’re marking bait schools before they even show on the sounder.” – Mark R, NSW Game Fisher
- ✔ Extended range (ideal for deeper water)
- ✔ Designed for pelagic species and bait schools
- ✔ Handles offshore conditions far better than standard LiveScope
This is what most serious offshore fishos are running now.
2. Pair It with a Proper GPSMAP Display
LiveScope XR needs processing power and screen real estate to really shine.
- GPSMAP 9013 – premium offshore setup
- GPSMAP 8412xsv – excellent all-rounder
- GPSMAP 1222xsv – solid mid-range option
Bigger screens = better target tracking and easier interpretation when things get busy.
3. Correct Installation (This Is Where Most Go Wrong)
You can have the best gear on the market - but if it’s installed poorly, it won’t perform.
- ✔ Transducer placement is critical
- ✔ Angle and alignment matter
- ✔ Clean power supply is essential
- ✔ Network setup must be correct
At Shotgun Marine, we design installs based on your hull, usage and fishing style — not guesswork.
LiveScope XR vs LiveScope Plus for Offshore
We get this question all the time.
- Fishing offshore chasing pelagics? → Go XR
- Fishing reefs, structure or inshore? → Go Plus
It really comes down to how far and how deep you need to see.
Real-World Offshore Use
A properly set up LiveScope XR system lets you:
- ✔ Spot bait schools before they hit the sounder
- ✔ Track fish movement in real time
- ✔ Stay on structure and fish longer
- ✔ Make better decisions while trolling or sounding
This is where the system pays for itself.
Why Get It Set Up Properly?
Anyone can sell you a box - very few can make it work properly offshore.
We’re authorised dealers across all major brands and we focus on building systems that perform - not pushing products for margin.
- ✔ Authorised Garmin dealer
- ✔ Full supply & install packages
- ✔ On-water tuning available
- ✔ Backed by real marine electricians
Our install partner Port Macquarie Marine Services (PMMS) handles workshop-level installs built to last.
Get the Right Setup for Your Boat
Every boat is different - and getting the setup right the first time saves a lot of headaches.