trolling motor thrust

[mike b.]

How do I figure out what size(thrust)bow mount trolling motor I need to buy.My boat is 21ft center console deep v hull and weighs about 2500-2700lbs loaded.Can I get away with a 12volt motor because of battery space concerns?Any brand favorites Minn Kota or Motorguide?Boat is used in saltwater only.<br />Thanks

 

[aeronutt29]

Re: trolling motor thrust

I've had good luck with a 30 lb thrust trolling motor on my 2000 lb boat, but only when the wind isn't blowing. I borrowed a friend's 50 lb thrust motor and had only marginal improvements in windy conditions, but more power than I needed on calm days. It really boils down to how much you plan on using the trolling motor and how much you plan to fire up the gas motor for positioning. As far as brand is concerned, everybody I know uses Minn Kota

 

[Boatist]

Re: trolling motor thrust

Loggerhead<br />For that size boat I would get the biggest one you can afford. The 24 volt model have higher thrust and are a little more efficent but require special charger on land or at sea. For me I would get the highest thrust 12 volt Model with a auto pilot made for saltwater. Here is the reason. All model use a lot of battery power on there highest setting but the good model have power saving device that uses a pulse of power then coast then another pulse on low power. A 54 lb thrust motor set to 30 lb of thrust will use less battery than a 30 lb thrust on high.

 

[FlyBoyMark]

Re: trolling motor thrust

Boatist is rite...I have a 13'10"' aluminum bass boat and use a 55 lb thrust 12v Minnkota Maxxim Back Troller trolling motor mounted on the bow, has plenty of power but could use more if I could get a 12 volt model that would deliver more...weeds are sticky and the wind is a real pain in the neck on some days. Get all the thrust ya can afford money wise and battery wise.....You can never have a "too big" trolling motor.

 

[revertmastec]

Re: trolling motor thrust

Logger to answer your question take your max weight and devide by 70. That will give you the min. amount of thrust you need. A 12v will wotk fine.

 

[mike b.]

Re: trolling motor thrust

Thanks Revert I thought there might be formula for that.Ill probably go with a Motorguide 52lb Great White series.Formula calls for 37-40lbs.

 

[495v]

Re: trolling motor thrust

loggerhead, I would go even bigger if possible. I have a 21' bassboat that weighs aprox. 2800lbs. I currently have a motorguide 52lbs. and can't wait to upgrade for more. The rest of these guy's feel the same, it's plenty of power on a good day, but how often are you on the water with high winds or a good chop? Go for more power if the budget allows, and if not, 52 will do just fine.