Trolling motors for saltwater boats

[cvtech1]

I am new to saltwater fishing and was wondering is there an trolling motor for a 17-18ft Bowrider are any boat that size for back-up or just trolling and fishing? I am used to having a trolling motor for back-up. Thanks

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Trolling motors for saltwater boats

you first need saltwater trolling motor if electric. or a 6 hp gas engine.

 

[cvtech1]

Re: Trolling motors for saltwater boats

I have a 2hp yamaha that I used for my Jon Boat would that work?

 

[wa2712nj]

Re: Trolling motors for saltwater boats

Around here (PacNW) most people would have a 6 to 8hp outboard on a boat that size for trolling and emergency backup. Most 6hp and below are single-cylinder motors, and 8 and above are two-bangers. The later tend to be a lot smoother running.

You will probably need to install a "kicker bracket" on your transom. The kicker (trolling) motor clamps to that, and the bracket itself can move up and down.

Electric motors tend to be for smaller boats (e.g. skiffs) and most are not salt-water rated. At any given time Seattle Clist will have dozens of kicker motors in the 3-10hp range listed so there is usually lots of choices.

If you are really serious, each of the manufacturers even make a motor specifically designed for pushing a large boat slowly (but with only a 17 I don't think it is necessary to have one of these motors). For example I have a Mercury 9.9 "Bigfoot Pro Kicker". Lower gearing, bigger and flatter prop, and (supposedly) a stronger transfer case than their other small motors.

-dm

 

[cvtech1]

Re: Trolling motors for saltwater boats

Thanks dm, I am in Houston Tx and I will try to find a small motor for this bowrider so I will feel comfortable on the water. I will look for a kicker bracket around here. Thanks again.

 

[CheapboatKev]

Re: Trolling motors for saltwater boats

Just to answer the ?? on the 2 hp..

NO..

I assume it is a short shaft motor as well? Don't buy a kicker that wont reach the water..lol

Ideally you want the kicker prop on the same plane as the OB prop

 

[cvtech1]

Re: Trolling motors for saltwater boats

Thanks for the advice. I will look for a backup motor.

 

[Solittle]

Re: Trolling motors for saltwater boats

Kinda depends on where you do your boating - - how rough is the water? - - how windy does it usually get? - - plus what kind of comfort level are you looking for in a get home motor whan the main fails. I'd go for a 9.9 - the older ones are relatively cheap, reliable and have enough punch to get you home when it gets a bit windy.

 

[cvtech1]

Re: Trolling motors for saltwater boats

Thanks solittle. What do you call cheap and any idea where I can start my search for a GOOD motor?