what size trolling motor?

[simplystressed]

hi there - I'm looking at a 40lb and 55lb bowmount motor for my v-hull aluminum boat (probably weighs 350lbs with everything including motor).

Will 40lb be enough to move me around or should I be looking at a 55?

also wondering weather to consider a electric or cable steer model. I'd like some opinions on that as well if possible.

thanks in advance.

SS

 

[rndn]

Re: what size trolling motor?

I use a 55# on my 20 foot 2400 pound Crestliner. Unless you're planning to water ski with the trolling motor, the 40# will do just fine.

 

[simplystressed]

Re: what size trolling motor?

Well that puts things in perspective

What do you guys think about the electric or cable steer models?

 

[Mark_VTfisherman]

Re: what size trolling motor?

Cable/foot peddle is instant control.
Electric takes a little longer to do corrections, but you can operate it from anywhere in the boat.

Somehow I like the foot peddle/cable models.

 

[ProTurbo]

Re: what size trolling motor?

hi there - I'm looking at a 40lb and 55lb bowmount motor for my v-hull aluminum boat (probably weighs 350lbs with everything including motor).

Will 40lb be enough to move me around or should I be looking at a 55?

I'm using a 55lb Minn Kota Powrdrive v2 with my 17 foot boat and it very good. But sometime I which I had a little more when its really windy...

Pro

 

[John_S]

Re: what size trolling motor?

I have a MG W45 on our 14' Starcraft alum fishing boat. I think it weighs close or a little more than your boat. It does fine on my boat under most conditions I fish which does include wind and curent. I would recommend an infinte variable speed. I also like the wireless because of the flexibility and freedom. Bass fisherman who spend all their time on the casting deck still prefer the cable control models.

FWIW: The MG has a small install footprint and includes a removable mount.

 

[simplystressed]

Re: what size trolling motor?

hmm...something to considoes anyone know if the Motorguide Wireless series have similar technology as MinnKota's "maximizer" battery saving technology? Preferring minnkota but if motorguides are as efficient I'd consider one of those.

 

[John_S]

Re: what size trolling motor?

It is my understanding that they are similiar, but MG doesn't market it that way. I haven't had any battery not lasting the fishing day problems. BTW, a MK PDV2 w/co-pilot and mount, would be the equivelent. If you have had very good experience with MK, there is no need to switch. I started with MG transom mounts, so have beeen happy with them. When I purchased last spring the W45 had a price advantage once you added the co-pilot and removable mount.

 

[simplystressed]

Re: what size trolling motor?

It is my understanding that they are similiar, but MG doesn't market it that way. I haven't had any battery not lasting the fishing day problems. BTW, a MK PDV2 w/co-pilot and mount, would be the equivelent. If you have had very good experience with MK, there is no need to switch. I started with MG transom mounts, so have beeen happy with them. When I purchased last spring the W45 had a price advantage once you added the co-pilot and removable mount.

Ok good to know thanks

 

[Volabama]

Re: what size trolling motor?

Here's a guide from the West Marine website on lbs/thrust vs. boat length: