Trolling Motor?

[fishaholic20]

I have a 1995 17' Lowe Stinger Mod-V. The Evinrude trolling motor on it is outdated; I think it is somewhere between 30lb and 36lb thrust (or so I've been told). This is not enough power for my boat, as I fish rivers with some swift current. At some locations I can have this thing going at full power and the current is equal to the power. So, I decided to upgrade, but don't know the slightest thing about trolling motors. I have a few questions that I need help with. First, what pound thrust and shaft length would be good for my boat? And also, are the receptacles universal or do I need to change the receptacle at the bow of the boat? I guess it is also important to mention that I want a bow mount with foot control. Thanks for the help.

 

[fishingfrenzy]

Re: Trolling Motor?

Get at least a 55# thrust, and I think you'd be happier with something over 70# if you're fishing heavy current. If you go this large, you'll be upping to a 24 volt system which you may or may not have. This would take two large batteries (either group 27 or 31) and depending on what you have now, you would have to make some simple adjustments to your set-up. Shaft lenth depends on how you fish, I personally like the longest shaft possible because when I fish waves, the bow will rise and fall and the motor will still be in the water. For you, if you fish shallow areas that may not be as good of an idea.

 

[Barnacle_Bill]

Re: Trolling Motor?

Be prepared to replace your wiring. What you now have may not be big enough.

 

[fishaholic20]

Re: Trolling Motor?

I definately fish shallow water. I have a jet drive motor for the skinny water. I'm pretty sure it's a 12 volt, but I do have 2 batteries in the boat.

 

[Tacklewasher]

Re: Trolling Motor?

You will want to run you trolling motor of it's own batteries. 55# is about as big as you can go and stay 12v. If you can put in two batteries, you will be much happier with a 70# 24v motor. But don't run them off the same battery you are starting your main motor with.

I have an 18' Starcraft and have picked up a 55# motor. I will be happy as I don't plan to run in much of a current.

 

[fishingfrenzy]

Re: Trolling Motor?

Tacklewasher is spot on, if you go with the 24 volt you'll need two batteries just for the trolling motors.