Topic: 798ci HD SI

[Ggw2000]

I just traded in my boat and got a different one. Had to let my 787c2i go with the boat. I am looking for a replacement unit. Can't figure out whether the price difference (huge) between the 597ci HD DI and 798ci HD SI is worth it. We fish only one lake and at a depth of 30' or less with weeds in anything less than 8' of water. I was using a quadbeam 90 degree transducer on the 787c2i. I don't like the std sonar width of only 25 degrees on the 597 with no other options available. At least the 798 is 60 degrees on sonar. I see that quadbeam is an option for the 798 but doesn't this negate the side imaging?
I have looked at all the youtube videos I could find on side scan and I guess it appears to work ok after you figure out how to use it.
Any input from folks that use the 798 would be appreciated. About $300 difference is alot for me to swallow.
Thanks in advance, Gerry

[Kidott429]

I love mine.  I mostly fish one lake with others on special occasions.  The side imaging has shown why my favorite spots produce and I've seen new spots that I never knew where there. It's easier to find new stuff with the side imaging.

[newkid4si]

Gerry
    I have a 998cSI. It has 2D, DI, and SI. I use SI about 90+% of the time, with 2D and DI used to " fine tune " what I see in SI.
    The amount of information you will see using SI compared to 2D and DI only will be amazing.
    Learning to use SI isn't that hard. The obvious stuff is easy to see. With time you will be able to pick out things you missed originally.
    It's like looking at an Xray. The info's there, you just have to know how to read it.
    If at all possible, spend some time in a boat with someone that has a SI. You'll know the answer in less than a minute.
    The #1 feature I would look for in any unit is the ability to record to a SD card. Play these recordings back in Humviewer and you will REALLY see what's there.
    If that cayuga is Cayuga Lake in NY. ask at any good tackle shop. They'll know who has a Humminbird SI.

    Although you may have answered your own question--- " About $300 difference is a lot for me to swallow".
    The $2000. I spent didn't come easy, but I don't regret it for a minute.
    Good luck on you choice.

[Ggw2000]

Thanks for the replies, I decided to bite the bullet (so to speak) and bought the 798 w/SI. Got it yesterday and was playing with simulation mode to make sure it at least powers up and works ok w/o transducer. It looks pretty neat and if nothing else will give me something to play with when fish aren't biting.. There are some areas on the lake (cayuga lake, ny) that I want to check out better this year. If we don't get any rain before too long I won't have to worry about it though. The lake is about 40" low now and there is no launching for sure . Camp opens mid April so maybe the situation will be better by then.
Again thanks, Gerry

[sonar2000]

Gerry, you have the right idea.  Play with the unit anytime you get the chance.  If the fish arent biting then by all means see what the unit is or can do.  Play with settings. You will soon be one of the experts..

Chuck