I posted this on yahoo group for the side image wanted to see what you all thought about it and get some imput from you guys.

I recently installed a 797 si on my 16' jon boat with only a trolling

motor on it. I got up to 2mph by the gps but the water was choppy and i

could not get a good bottom scan with the si. When i pulled back in a calm cove i

got a decent scan of the bottom. If I drop my transducer down some more

would that help with the choppy water.  I just

need some suggestions.  Also the 2D always showed up good. The Si did in the calm water. Any suggestions from you guys.

Where did you mount the transducer?

Where did you mount the transducer?

transducer is mounted on the back left side at the very botom of the boat and trolling motor is mounted on the front leftside

I can't say for sure, but yes put the transducer deeper.  The air mixed in the choppy water could be an issue.  Putting it deeper is a cheap option to try and I hope that will fix it for you.  If that doesn't fix it then at least you have peace of mind that that wasn't the problem and can move on to the next possible fix.

I have my 997c transducer of the side of my canoe.  About 6 inches in the water so I can see under the canoe to the other side.  3mph on gps.  Was out on choppy days only so far and no problems.  Same performance in the calm coves.

I friend of mine has a jon boat of similar length and it is somewhat narrower at the bow than the transom (a Tracker Grizzly). When he fishes alone, the back of his boat is at or very close to the surface. That may be your problem with getting a constant signal in disturbed water. Putting more weight in the back of your boat may be the best option. Add a spare battery, carry your anchor (if you carry one) in the rear. He weighs more than I and when we fish together in his boat, the front is still lower in the water than the rear. Is your trolling motor battery already at the back of the boat? If not move it there and just run wires to the front to a receptacle for the motor and electronics.