Hello everyone, and happy 4th of July! Have a safe and fun 4th!

Was wondering if there is a rule of thumb to go by regarding motor mounting height on this bass boat without a jackplate to achieve maximum performance? I have the following:

Stratos 2004 275 Pro XL
Johnson 90 V4
Solid boat and motor
Raker 18 prop
Max 45-46 speedo/43-44 GPS @5200-5300 RPM

Since purchasing new in 06, I upgraded the trolling motor to a 24 volt system, which added another battery (= more weight) in the back compartment of course. Bottom line is I know the boat sits in the water slightly deeper with the added weight. I can, and could always even when new, trim my engine up all the way to the top indicator line on the trim gauge without it being out of the water. Also, it does not throw a rooster tail when trimmed up.

My engine is mounted on the next to the last bolt position which allows for one more step up as a potential adjustment.

Since adding the additional battery I notice a little bit of porpoising and a slight loss on top end and hole shot.

So, this being said, do you guys think bumping the engine up another notch (looks like about an inch) would help in this case? Or, would anyone recommend a jack plate--with a 90 HP?

Any information appreciated. Thanks in advance.