1157 or 997

[jim 2row]

Was wondering what you guys think? I have the 997 in the back was wondering what you guys think if I should get the 1157 or another 997 for the front. Just dont know haw much I would use the side imaging in the front except for night fishing. But would love the bigger screen for split screen between gps and sonar. But would like some input from guys that im sure have have both setups. Thanks alot guys.

[djkimmel]

The bigger screens is really nice. Do you have enough room up front?

Thanks for joining BTW.

[BryanP]

Bigger is always better when it comes to fishfinder/gps displays.  I ran an 1197 at the console and 997 at the bow last year, but I rarely used SI up front.  The 1157 would be great up front if you have thr room.  I know Jonathon Vandam ran an 1157 on the bow all year last year and he's running the same again this year.  Just make sure you get the biggest RAM mount you can find (2 1/4" ball).

[kgr624]

Ran a 1197 at console and a 798 up front. Didn't use SI much up front. If you turn trolling motor it distorts the picture. But man was the 1197 nice at the console. If I had the money I would put a 997 up front, but I think 1197 might just be too big for me.

[jim 2row]

One other question. Fish Erie 90 % of the time, was wondering how bad they get beat up, up front. I have a 21' skeeter so I think I have enough room. The other thing is with the new down imaging do you think I would use the 997 more up front? Im ok with 2 997 up front I just thought it would be sweet with the big screen for split screen. Wont be ice fishing till I get everthing figured out cause I want to get it done before I move on to ice fishing then next spring comes and Im not ready. Ive been known for dragging my feeet if I dont finish something.

[BryanP]

Most guys, myself included, remove the front graph for real long runs where I know it's gonna be rough (like running to Pelee).  Most of the time I just lay the RAM mount flat and tighten it as tight as I can and it's fine. 

I have not had a chance to use Down Imaging yet, so I can't answer that question.  But I suspect it will have applications on the trolling motor, how much you'll use it is your call. 

[djkimmel]

I like pictures. I would probably use it quite a bit.

[Waterfoul]

I like pictures. I would probably use it quite a bit.

Would be easier to find those rock piles (that you say are there) on St. Clair!

[djkimmel]

Yes. And there are plenty of rock piles. Though some of them I have never caught a decent bass off of... but then some of them... well, I like them a lot!

[jim 2row]

Ended up going with the 997 for the front too. Wasnt sure what the downimaging was going to be like so didnt want to be bumbed out that i didnt get it. Plus im sure I would be able to break the 1157. Thanks for all the input.

[BryanP]

Heck, why not just put an 1197 on the front too