Help in choosing a trolling motor

[Nivekt]

I have decided that I would like to attach a trolling motor to my boat:

It is an 18' trihull that weighs approximately 2700lbs with no one on board. I know that I will have to measure the distance from the top of the bow to the water to determine how long of a shaft I will need. Also, I am prepared for the eventuality that I will need to make some kind of custom mount for it. Can anyone tell me how many pounds of thrust I should get? If there are any recommendations as to a specific make/model, that would be helpful. As always, the lower the price the better. Also, there has to be a foot pedal. Trying to keep this project under $500 if possible, sans additional battery.

 

[rndn]

Re: Help in choosing a trolling motor

Your outfit is about the same weight as my rig and I get along just fine with a 55# thrust even in a decent wind and waves. Anything bigger and you would need to go to a 24 or 36 volt trolling motor. An additional bit of information for you is the need to keep the deep cycle charged. I went to an onboard charger a couple of years ago and love it. I bought a 3 bank charger as I have 2 startering batteries and 1 deep cycle. When I get back from fishing I get plug in an extension cord and all 3 batteries are always ready to go at full charge. It cost $149 at Bass Pro, but they are also available here at iboats.com.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Help in choosing a trolling motor

You probably don't need a custom mount since there is a fair bit of space between the bow rails. Install a quick release plate so you can quickly remove the motor when not needed. I would also suggest you up the ante a bit and go for an electric steer (wireless or wired) so you can operate the motor from anywhere in the boat. These motors have very small footprints. MinnKota Power Drive or MotorGuide wireless are both good candidates.

 

[rndn]

Re: Help in choosing a trolling motor

I totally agree with Silvertips suggestions as I just upgraded to the Minn Kopta Terrova with autopilot, but it is well above your stated $500 budget. You should be able to get the electric steer model and still stay close to your budget.
This one is for a 54 inch shaft but you may be able to use a 48 inch. Make sure you give yourself at least 20 inches of depth into the water and maybe more if you plan on big water.
http://www.iboats.com/55PD_Powerdri...9157192--**********.005502043--view_id.274457

 

[Nivekt]

Re: Help in choosing a trolling motor

Thank you for all of the information everyone. I will keep my eye on some trolling motors in Ebay to try to snag a good deal. Maybe I can pick up a used one for much less.

 

[Nivekt]

Re: Help in choosing a trolling motor

Well after failing at a few auctions, I just won this used Minn Kota:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/e...0367897674&viewitem=&sspagename=STRK:MEWNX:IT

score!