How to Upload Waypoints and Tracks to Lowrance (Step-by-Step SD Card Guide)

Uploading waypoints to a Lowrance unit using an SD card is a simple process once you know where to find it in the menu.

This guide walks through exactly how to import waypoints, routes, and trails using a micro SD or full-size SD card, how to confirm they loaded correctly, and how to organize them on your map.

What You Need Before You Start

Before uploading anything, make sure you have:

SD card (micro or full-size)
32GB or smaller (required for Lowrance to read it)
File already saved on the card
GPX or USR file format

GPX files are commonly used because they transfer cleanly between different units.

Step 1: Insert the SD Card Into Your Lowrance

Insert your SD card into the unit.

Nothing will pop up on the screen. That is expected.

Lowrance units do not automatically prompt you when a card is inserted, so you need to manually access the file.

Step 2: Open the Files or Storage Menu

Press the Pages button to go to the home screen.

From there:

Select Storage or Files
Choose your memory card

Once opened, you will see the files stored on the SD card.

Step 3: Import Waypoints, Routes, or Trails

Select the file you want to upload.

Tap Import and confirm.

The unit will begin loading:

Waypoints
Routes
Trails

This usually takes a few seconds depending on file size.

Step 4: Confirm Your Waypoints Imported Correctly

After importing, press Pages again and open Waypoints.

You will now see:

All waypoints listed
Routes and trails available at the top of the screen

A waypoint is simply a saved GPS location on your unit , so once it’s imported, it behaves exactly like anything you mark manually.

You can scroll through the list and verify names, distance, and location.

Step 5: Change Trail Colors for Better Visibility

Imported trails often default to the same color.

Changing colors makes your map easier to read.

Open the Trails tab and select a trail.

Adjust colors based on purpose:

Green for safe boat lanes
Red for hazards like timber or shallow areas

Save your changes.

Step 6: View Waypoints on Your Chart

Go to your Chart view.

Zoom into the lake or area where you uploaded data.

You should now see:

Waypoints plotted on the map
Trails showing lanes or structure

If nothing appears, zoom in further. Waypoints will not show when zoomed too far out.

Common Issues When Uploading Waypoints to Lowrance

SD card not showing up

Card is likely larger than 32GB

File not importing

Check file format (GPX or USR recommended)

Waypoints not visible on map

Zoom in closer on the chart

Why Uploading Waypoints Matters

Uploading waypoints to your Lowrance unit allows you to:

Follow boat lanes without guessing
Track creek channels accurately
Return to specific fishing spots
Organize structure, hazards, and travel routes

Once loaded, these points integrate directly into your chart and navigation.

Improve What You See on Your Screen

Getting waypoints onto your unit is only part of the equation.

How your sonar is set up determines what you actually see. Settings like sensitivity (gain) directly control how much detail and clutter appears on the screen.

If your screen looks unclear or you’re not seeing your bait consistently, your settings need adjustment.

Fishfinder Coach provides: