how to set sonar

[mitch4570]

How high do you lake erie guys set your sensitivity on your sonar. Over in lake Michigan I have been told they set it till the screen blacks out and then bring it back till they can see the screen. It seems this might not be the best settin for 20 to 30 fow and a mud or clay bottom. I've read the manual fro my lowrance, but would like to hear from the voice of experiance. I fish Bolles Harbor area, so Fermi, to Turtle Island, and the Light House to the turnaround bouy.
Thanks
Mitch

[spoontang]

What make and model of sonar do you have?

[mitch4570]

A Lorance 520c.

[spoontang]

That is very similar to the unit I have. I run an eagle 640c. I think many of the features and details are the same. I have downriggers on my boat. I have 6,8,10 and 12 pounds cannon balls. I can run them under the boat and go to my sonar features and dial the sensativity in so I see a solid line or fade it out and see a broken, dotted line. When I am in less than 50 fow water, it works better on the 200 mhz setting and 50 mhz in deep water. I like using my cannon balls as a reference as I know the exact depth and size of the ball. Things that make a difference are current, motor noise and interference and water clarity,waves or debris. I hope this helps. If you don't have downriggers, you might improvise.

[athenskid]

I have a lowrance lcx 16ci which is similar to your unit just a bigger screen. I run my sensitivity around 75% unless I am in very deep water.