new to trolling motors

[ecblanks]

I am going to purchase a transom mount for my 18' runabout. I will probably get a saltwater model, but it will be used in both.<br />What thrust should I get? <br />Do I need a seperate battery?<br />Anything else I need to know?<br />Thanks!

 

[LubeDude]

Re: new to trolling motors

Tell us what you are going to be using the motor for and how long of a period at a time.<br /><br />In a nutshell:<br /><br />What thrust should I get? Bigger is better.<br /><br /> <br />Do I need a seperate battery? Yes, and bigger is better.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: new to trolling motors

Go to either the MinnKota or MotorGuide web sites. They have charts that can help determine what you need. I suspect you will need a 55# minimum which is at the top of the 12 volt motor range. Anything more than that is 24 Volt. If you are in salt water, you may be dealing with more wind and rough water so a bigger motor may be in order (65# or so). You will need two of the biggest deepcycle batteries that will fit in the space you have available for them. At the back of the boat that's a considerable amount of weight. If you are fishing a lot, you may consider a bow mount for better boat control and weight distribution. Bow mounts come with varying length of shafts. You would likely need a 54 to 60 inch shaft. Just my opionion!

 

[ecblanks]

Re: new to trolling motors

OK thanks guys.<br />Mostly what I will be using it for is "relieving" myself from shallow areas when I cannot get my prop down, and navigating in to shallow areas where I can begin a drift. It would not be an all-day type usage.