Trolling Motor Quick Release Plate, is it worth it?

[Andyfender]

I am in the process of installing a TM on my boat. I was wondering if getting a quick release plate is a good idea?

Andy

 

[riverkeg]

Re: Trolling Motor Quick Release Plate, is it worth it?

My last boat was a 17' aluminum bass boat and I installed a quick release plate because we also used the boat for watersports/cruising and it was nice to be able to remove the TM quickly (less than a minute). Other benefits were better travel cover fit and the ability to easily remove and lock up the TM in the truck on fishing trips. It was well worth the money IMHO.

 

[swl]

Re: Trolling Motor Quick Release Plate, is it worth it?

I mounted a TM on the front of my open bow runabout. Not only did it make the install easier, but also I can still use the same cover. It is cool to be able to just take it off when we're out with the kids or not fishing, and also thats one less thing someone can steal!!! worth it for me

 

[DonHof]

Re: Trolling Motor Quick Release Plate, is it worth it?

Yes!

 

[fishrdan]

Re: Trolling Motor Quick Release Plate, is it worth it?

If you can use their features, then yeah they are great.

My boat is about 95% fishing so the plate wasn't appealing to me, just something else to have to take on/off the boat and it could create clicks and pops while fishing. I wanted my TM mounted as low as possible too since I have had it suck air when in rough water, 1" could be the difference between sucking air or not.

I have my TM mount through bolted and then chain the TM to the mount when not in use. It was a pain to install (bolts/nuts) so it will be a pain to steal. Also, I didn't want to install/remove the TM every fishing trip, store it in the garage, haul it in the SUV, or leave it in the boat while towing (where it would be a sitting duck for thieves).

Just my $.02

 

[I Fish]

Re: Trolling Motor Quick Release Plate, is it worth it?

I like mine, for all of the reasons listed above. Mine is an older aluminum Minn Kota. I leave it on most of the time. It doesn't crack or squeek. I have it mounted with rubber washers between it and the boat to help reduce any vibration.