Re: Trolling Motor Recommendation
This has been my experience:
I had a Lund boat in your size with a 90hp outboard and a Motorguide 54lb thrust 12 Volt bow mount troller. It moved the boat OK, but I used it more for maneuvering than trolling. I'm not sure how your storage is on your Nitro, but I really wouldn't have had much bow storage left with two trolling motor batteries up front and the starting battery back by the transom (not to mention the extra weight). So even though higher thrust would have been appreciated, I preferred the storage over another battery to run a higher thrust troller.
I've had experience with both Motorguide and Minn Kota motors and both have been very reliable. I've not had the need to contact Motorguide customer support, but I've read that they are pretty good. I have contacted Minn Kota's customer support and the service was excellent. On my new boat I chose Minn Kota due to it's higher level technology over Motorguide. The i-Pilot GPS technology allows you to spend more time fishing than maneuvering, so if fishing is important to you, I would strongly suggest you consider spending the extra cash for this technology, you will absolutely love it. If you prefer sticking with a more "manual-style" operated troller, then it's a toss up between the two manufacturers in my book (Motorguide does offer a wireless remote on one of their models).
Hope this helps.
