Got my start ice fishing at PIB 15+ years ago. At the time the Vexilar Fl-8 was what the ice guides were using so that is the model I purchased. I recently upgraded to the Fl-18 with auto zoom feature. Both units produce results time and time again. Note: if you own a vexilar and you are fishing neer someone fishing with a Marcum both units will cancel each other's flashers and you won't be able to mark anything. The solution is you will have to pack up and move farther away. Never experienced this but just a notification.