Fishlessman,
I found myself on Sebago using the split screen feature with the 2D and GPS with the high def. 1 foot contours. The side imaging does show the drop offs but you need to learn how to read it to be effective. There's definitely a learning curve. One piece of advice on the 797 vs. 997. If you do use a split screen alot while trolling(I always do) then I think the 797 might be too small for you. The 997 has an 8" screen and I find myself wishing it were a bit bigger while I'm in split screen mode. Also, when I bought my unit the 797 only had one memory slot and the 997 had two. This means I can use my Hot Maps premium card and store images/data on a separate memory card in the second slot. On the 797 you couldn't do this due to it only having the one slot. Not sure if the new 797's have 2 slots or not. Check it out. From a previous post I think I remember you having offices in Methuen, Ma. Are you from there? I spent the first 25 years of my life in Methuen. Graduated from Methuen HS in 1984, not sure if you did to. Have since moved up to NH.

Hope this helps,
Chris

i think i can still manage with the small screen, pretty used to it with what i have, still havent added any gps mapping so thats a big upgrade for me. i moved the other way, nh to mass, welding shop near the 5 corners has been there since 75 and was my grandfathers back in the 50's. house is over on forerest lake, been there 10 years now.

If you ever want to see the unit in action let me know. I live up on Swain's Lake in Barrington, NH. I honestly don't think I could ever troll again without a high def. map up on half the screen. You can literally stay a foot or two away from major dropoffs and not lose your balls, hit bottom etc... I did this out of Nason's Beach and the Northwest River up at Sebago and it helps beyond comprehension, especially on an unfamilar lake. Just something to think about. Best of luck with your decision.

Chris