Trolling Motor on Center Console with High Bow Rails

[Frugal Floater]

I have a 17.5' Seapro Center Console and I am trying to figure out if I can mount a bow-mount trolling motor. Minnkota sent me the footprint and it looks like I can angle it so it does not cover the anchor compartment, cleat, or bow rail support pole.

My problem is that I am not sure I can slide the motor under the rail, and pivot it into the water once the top of the motor clears the rail. I searched the forums and only found others that had the low bow rails, not tall ones like I have.

Has anyone out there done this? Any other ideas or concerns you would have?

 

[Barnacle_Bill]

Re: Trolling Motor on Center Console with High Bow Rails

I had the same type rails with a MK and it would just clear to deploy. But it was such a hassel, I took the rails off. Yeah, it doesn't look as pretty but I'd rather fish.

 

[JB]

Re: Trolling Motor on Center Console with High Bow Rails

You mean like this?

 

[BigNiner19]

Re: Trolling Motor on Center Console with High Bow Rails

Just take the rails off...or get smaller rails fit. The rails will be in the way while trolling around trying to fish.

Cory

 

[crb478]

Re: Trolling Motor on Center Console with High Bow Rails

If it will not fit under or outside the rails you can either take them off or cut a section out and cap the ends. I have been contimplating doing the same thng on my boat, but have not cut the rails yet. We cut the rails on a friends boat and so far he has no complaints about the missing sections.

 

[Frugal Floater]

Re: Trolling Motor on Center Console with High Bow Rails

I'll see if it can slide under the bow rail and post some pics next week if I can get it to work...If not, I may have to customize a cantilevered platform of some sort...I like the bow rails and don't want to saw them up, but thanks for the suggestion.

 

[fishmen111]

Re: Trolling Motor on Center Console with High Bow Rails

These are not great photos but I cut out an angled 10" section and mounted the motor. I did not like the gap, so I hold the original cut piece in place with two ss slip collars. Works great and retains most of its original strength.

 

[Frugal Floater]

Re: Trolling Motor on Center Console with High Bow Rails

I took the advice from you guys and cut the rail with a pipe cutter and capped of with white chair leg covers I got at Home Depot...Looks great...Thanks for the advice everyone!

http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u47/dsiedt/boat1/boattrolling.jpg