Trolling Motor ?

[SpinnerBait_Nut]

Ok, here's the deal.<br /><br />I have a Minn Kota 65AT foot control now.<br />I want to change to a hand control and keep it 12/24.<br /><br />Need opnions on which brand you like the best for the buck.<br /><br />On a 18' bass boat and I would like to keep it up there around the 65# thrust area.<br /><br />Thanks all.

 

[Drowned Rat]

Re: Trolling Motor ?

Hi SBN. Minn Kota is of course an excellent choice and the best brand for your buck based on durability alone. I think the Maxxum 65# goes for about five to six hundred and is 24V. This is the best model with a pulse modulator out there with a reasonable price. Hope this helps.

 

[dyelinbo]

Re: Trolling Motor ?

I just purchased the Minn Kota "Co Pilot" ($149.95) for my 65PD/AP. It easily attached to the side of the unit and allows wireless control of the motor form anywhere in the boat. Just hooked it up yesterday and plan to use it this weekend.

 

[Gerald Barnes]

Re: Trolling Motor ?

Hey dyelinbo! Saw your post about Copilot. I am planning on getting one within the next few days. How about giving me a report on my email after your first run with it. Would like to know how easy it is to get used to. elk_river_@msn.com Thanks

 

[JRC1490]

Re: Trolling Motor ?

I have been fishing bass professionally since 1989 and have used them all. The biggest difference between MinnKota and Motorguide is thrust force. When you step on a Motorguide it is immediate, but the Minnkota spins slow then builds to full thrust. This can be a benefit if you forget you left it on high and you have it turned. <br />Both will give you years of use. I think the MK is a little easier on batteries. But, I like to set the power level to 2 on my MG and tap it on/off to control the boat. The MK you have to stand on it a little longer to get the same push.<br />Good luck.

 

[rpddoc]

Re: Trolling Motor ?

JRC, that's nice to know. I currently have a MG 24 lb thrust foot control on the bow. I just bought a older MK Turbo Drive 324 48 lb thrust hand control TM that I plan on installing hopefully by next weekend. Now that I think about it, my MG is like instantaneous. The MK does take a second or two to build up the power. Interestingly enough, my dad has a 21 foot Stratus with a MK 74AT hand control. That TM moves that Stratus through heavy brush like 4x4 monster truck climbs cars. It's SWEET!!!<br /><br />TakeEm

 

[imported_JD__]

Re: Trolling Motor ?

I've had a Minn Kota AP 65 for almost 2 years now. THe compass circuit board went out but since it was replaced under warranty, no problems. I later added the co-pilot. Its easy to use and after a little practice becomes second nature. I would really hate to go back to a foot controlled trolling motor.<br />JD

 

[dyelinbo]

Re: Trolling Motor ?

Used my new Co Pilot on a 65PD/AP driving a 22 ft Crest Superfish over the 4th. Love it! Saw a post where someone said this was the best $ he had ever invested for his boat and I whole heartedly agree. Easy to install, 15 minutes. Super easy to learn and use. I am using the supplied wrist band.

 

[SpinnerBait_Nut]

Re: Trolling Motor ?

ok, how do them little hot foot switches wire up?<br />I will not need the constant on since I have an onboard charger.<br />Will not be charging back thru the trolling motor plug in.<br />Just wondering how they wire into the system.

 

[Beck]

Re: Trolling Motor ?

SBN<br /><br />I just bought one from WM and the diagram says in the negative side. I'm gonna wire mine in the neg. wire from the outlet going back to the battery. The switch itself is momentary and there is a kind of slide black piece that you would slide with your foot to make it ON, then slide it again for OFF. Hope that makes sence.<br /><br />Beck

 

[SpinnerBait_Nut]

Re: Trolling Motor ?

Yea Beck, that is the constant on lever that slides up over the button.<br /><br />I kinda figured after studying it a little bit that the neg. wire would be the place to wire it into.