hand controlled electric trolling

[mtorts]

Hey guys i am looking into purchasing a new minn kota for this years spring jigging. I was thinking of going with a hand controlled model rather than the more popular foot pedal. They are much cheaper and appear to be easier to controll but im not sure how comfortable it would be and it does take one hand off your rod. Just looking for opinions, advise and wondering if anyone has experience with these models. I am aware that they sell a handle extension which may make things easier as well Thanks.

 

[JSGOLD]

Re: hand controlled electric trolling

I have used one the last 4 years. There are good and bad things about them depending on how you fish. If you like to cast and move they can be a pain but I was able to still use mine that way as long as I did not have to turn much. I am now getting ready to learn the foot control on my new motor. I was tempted to buy another hand controlled one to tell you the truth but got a good deal on an Edge unit after my old one bit the dust. Mine had a built in extension but still had to crouch over some. But if I had clear water ahead of me I could just set it and cast etc. and not keep my hand on it all the time...just moving it from time to time. Time will tell if I like my new foot controlled one better but I was Ok with the hand controlled one for us.

 

[mtorts]

Re: hand controlled electric trolling

Great info thanks for the input. I am noticing that the minn Kota edge has quite a few negative reviews. I am going to keep the option open but will be searching on craigslist for a good used unit. There are some power drives with foot pedal for a reasonable price which is Also a good option. I still have some time to make a decision

 

[Valley Boater]

Re: hand controlled electric trolling

I added the Minn Kota Co-Pilot to my 55 lb. V2 2years ago and just love it. Too each his own but for me it is so much more less stressful than the foot control and I seem to have better control of the boat with more gentle turning and gentle changes in speed. I was so impressed that I have since upgraded the motor to the I-Link GPS steering. No talk about a relaxing way to fish, it is like having a chauffeur driving you around the lake!