Trolling Motor Depth

[JimS123]

For a transom mounted electic motor, how deep should it be set? I would think the prop should just be below the boat. Is that about right?

 

[mike64]

Re: Trolling Motor Depth

i have a transom mounted electric trolling motor, and I keep the prop pretty shallow so I can get into shallow/weedy water. I've been in water so shallow I had the prop just breaking the surface of the water, but I usually have it a few inches lower than that. It's easy to adjust, so experiment with different depths depending on how deep the water to see what works best for your boat.

 

[JimS123]

Re: Trolling Motor Depth

I don't have one yet. My reason for the question is so I buy the right length. It will either be a 30" or a 36".

 

[mike64]

Re: Trolling Motor Depth

What kind of boat do you have? If you have something like mine, a 16' glass runabout, probably a 36". If it's a little tinny, probably a 30". Get the measuring tape out and see what length it takes for the prop to be submerged and the tiller to be at a good height.

 

[Knightgang]

Re: Trolling Motor Depth

I agree, prob end up with a 36". As for how much in the water, as long as it can pull water to gain thrust, you are fine. Just make sure that it does not swing around and hit the boat with the prop...

 

[fishrdan]

Re: Trolling Motor Depth

I think you are fine with that Jim.

On thing to consider, are you going to be using the TM while standing? I have a 45" TM on my jon boat and adjust it's depth for sit-down operation and standing operation. It's a real PITA bending down to steer the TM while you are standing,,, if the TM's shaft is too short.