I have a new ProKat 2360(26'4") that I trailer. No one told me that transom mount transducers don't work on cats. So, I am now considering a thru-hull transducer. I trailer on a MagicTilt TPC2360.
Can anyone give me guidance on how close to the bunk I can mount the transducer? Any comments about this setup? I fish in New Jersey and Chincoteague, Va.

I have a relatively small transducer for my Garmin transom mounted and it does not effect performance.

I have another for my new Humminbird side imaging and it is a real pain in the @$$. It is a large transducer on a two position mount (up and down). In the down position, it causes so much cavitation that the prop on that side barely bites. I am considering going to thru hull if even possible for this huge transducer.

Someone told you that? lol Mine does not work well at times like speed over 10 mph. There is not alot of clean hull area to mount mine. It also seems to pop up alot.

I have transom mount for my raymarine ds500 and does fine doesnt cause any cavitation and I have read bottom at 40mph on a smooth day.

Gregg I've been considering the side image humminbird.  The thruhull will not work on our WC's it will not be able to shoot sideways.

How long have you had it?

How do you like the side image is it what you expected?

JimC,

The side imaging sonar is really nice when it works properly. I find it most useful when anchoring over structure. I can really nail down my position. I can also see bait balls in 3D and some large fish. It is very cool.

I hoped it would be great for finding "secret" structure while trolling, but the noise and constant hassles with the transducer make it far less useful at speeds above 5 knots and in any kind of seas.

It also provides me a backup GPS that works great and a backup 2D sonar that works better than my Garmin when the transducer is positioned properly.

If spending the money is no big deal, then I say get one. It is has some utility at idle speeds and is fun to play with. If you need to optimize your dollars, then I think there are better things to buy and the damn thing is a bit expensive.

Bottom line -- I think it is designed for bass fishermen using an electric trolling motor.

One more comment on the SI Sonar. It does give you a great representation of the texture of the bottom. I can see the line where sandy bottom turns to limestone and have used that line to catch fish when others are not.

We dive alot and it would be nice if I could see the structure to decide whether its worth rolling on or not.  Most of our stuff is in 30-80' and up to 130'

Gregg, have you been out lately? How's the humminbird?

JimC,

I haven't been able to get down to my boat in a while - regrettably.

If you are using the Humminbird to check out structure for diving, you will probably like it. It does show amazing detail at slow speeds. You will probably have to flip the transducer up when running and down when using the humminbird.

If you get a chance I'd like to see a picture of the transducer on your transom.

Thanks