Zacs-
I have a transom mounted 'ducer on my SeaCraft and it works really good when at a troll or a bit higher, say 7kts. Anything higher and I lose bottom and get zero fish locating abilities.
But, in the real world, I only need it when I arrive at the spot where I am going to fish. If I want to check out a spot, I am sure going to come off plane to have a look-see. I wouldn't make a decison on a spot at cruising speed!
Don't know much about the shoot through type, but by all accounts, those that use them seem to like them.
But I agree with Jon, the best readings are with a thru hull transducer. If you can do it yourself or can get someone to do it for you that's the way to go. Make sure you know what the heck your doing tho because it takes major 'nads to cut a hole in your hull and it really should be done right the first time!
