Battery question

[bass buster]

Is it possible to use one battery to operate a trolling motor and fish locator at the same time? If I'm trolling for awhile, will this reduce my battery power drastically?

I have a 30 lb thrust Minn Kota Endura motor.
Thanks!

 

[JB]

Re: Battery question

To Electrics, etc.

 

[JB]

Re: Battery question

I use one battery to start, run all of my electronics and lighting and my troller, BB. Never had a problem.

Get a large dual purpose battery. I use the Wal Mart Everstart Marine Maxx.

 

[drewpster]

Re: Battery question

The amount of battery power you will need depends on many factors. There is no hard set rule. Using both items on one battery will cause the battery to discharge more rapidly. However how "drastic" this discharge is depends on how you use the items connected to the battery. JB has good luck with his set up because of the way it is used. My suggestion is to connect whatever you like to your battery and go fishing. I would however take a fresh spare battery with you the first few times to see how it all works out. If the single battery meets your needs after a few trips out, then your good to go. But I would bring a spare for the first couple of trips. You will only know if the system you choose is reliable after a few discharge/recharge cycles.
Lets go fishing!

 

[roscoe]

Re: Battery question

A single battery will work for you.
Should get you 5-8 hours of use.

 

[bass buster]

Re: Battery question

Thanks for the tips, everyone! Much appreciated!

 

[Boatist]

Re: Battery question

One big battery will work. The electronics are not that much of a draw compared to your trolling motor unless you have a 200 watt stereo or big spotlights.

Just be aware when your trolling motor starts to slow down that your starter will act the same. Also when you get back to your dock or home fully recharge your battery as your alternator will not do that job. If you do not fully recharge your battery when your done for the day then your battery will not last long. Example is yor fish all day long Saturday with your trolling motor then start up and run 15 minutes back to your trailer. Drag the boat home but are tired so do not hook up your battery charger. Then Friday say better recharge the battery for the weekend. If you do this you will soon be telling people that that brand battery is junk but the fact is no battery will last long if you do not recharge as soon as you can. Get a Automatic charger of at least 10 amps.