Anyone have tips for using Sonar to locate fish?

[Json]

 Just got my first sonar (Humminbird 586c hd) and I am having trouble understanding it. In clear mode I can see trees and fish and such but in max mode I have no idea what I'm looking at. I fish several small lakes all are slightly murky to very murky and high amounts of obstacles such as trees. Common depth is 15-30ft depending on lake. Water temperature is usually around 80.

The main questions I have are-

What is a termocline and how would I use it to locate fish?
Which beam (83, 200, or combo) should I be using in which situations?
Does anyone actually use max mode? It just looks like a huge amount of clutter I don't see how anyone could get information from it.

Any and all tips much appreciated.

[Wayne P.]

Did I already answer this question for you on another forum?

If not send me an email to and I'll explain it all with unit screenshots included. Way to much to post in a forum format.

[Json]

Another forum? This is the only fishing forum I am on. I think we may have had a discussion on side imaging maybe. I'll email you