What kind of trolling motor should i buy?

[jrloomis]

I have a 15' fiberglass runabout and am looking for a trolling motor. How many pounds of thrust will i at least need to get the thing moving? I've never had one before so i have no idea how big of one to buy. I have looked at a 34 pound thrust, not sure if thats enough.

 

[John_S]

Re: What kind of trolling motor should i buy?

Need to know if you have area to mount a bow mount, or just transom mount. What are the water conditions that will be your primary fishing grounds? Still water, is much different to constant chop or river current conditions.

On our 14' alum fishing boat, converted from a 37lb transom to 45lb bow mount, and couldn't be happier. The 37 was ok on flat water, but was challenged in any current or wind. I went wireless, because of a bow railing, and like infinite speed to dial down below what the "1" setting could provide.

 

[jtexas]

Re: What kind of trolling motor should i buy?

I think once you get accustomed to foot control it's the only way to go, but lots a guys who always fish standing up seem to prefer tiller steer.

I have a 15' glass trihull, had 36lbs, it was fine in calm, not bad in light wind, but open water and a good chop it's pretty much underpowered.

replaced with 46lbs, way way better. if it's in the budget, go for 50 or even 55lbs.

My local fishing board reports a lot of problems with the wireless steering on both MK & MG, circuit boards burning out, apparently they must've gone to market before they were ready.

Variable speed (vs. 5-speed "adjustable speed") models significantly more energy efficient. Myself, I went with motorguide cable-steer 5-speed model cause I didn't want to spend the extra $$$. Got nothing against Minn Kota, MG was just a better deal that day.

 

[jrloomis]

Re: What kind of trolling motor should i buy?

Thanks for the info. I'll probably be transom mounting it. More than likely i'll have some choppy waters and calm. Im in wisconsin so i'll be on lots of different little lakes. I'll look into something with at least 45 or 46 then.

 

[jusfloatin]

Re: What kind of trolling motor should i buy?

Minnkota makes a 55lbs that mounts onto the cavitation plate of an outboard but I don't know anyone that has one.
I have been considering getting one as I have a closed bow boat and don't much care to be streching over the back trying to steer or to give it more juice.
It comes with a 18' remote.