Trolling motor shaft length

[TRACKER0611]

Which shaft length should I use for a bow mounted motorguide x3 on a Tracker 1542 john boat? either a 36" or a 45"?

 

[Sea Rider]

If you can adjust the shaft height go for the larger one, useful at choppy waters.

Happy Boating

 

[Silvertip]

The only issue with going too long on the motor shaft is you end up with sort of an "antenna" looking thing when operating in shallow water. Get your boat in the water with normal load. Measure from the mounting surface on the boat to the water line and add one foot. That length still provides enough up/down adjustment. Only if the measurement ends up at or very close to the length of the shaft should you select the next longer one.

 

[UncleWillie]

The only issue with going too long on the motor shaft is you end up with sort of an "antenna" looking thing when operating in shallow water...

That might be considered a Plus if you fish standing up.
But, that might be an Iffy proposition with a 15ft Jon Boat.
There is a lot of personal preference in this decision. Ask 3 people and get 4 answers.

 

[gm280]

Personally I'd purchase the longest one available, and here's why. If you are using it on only one boat (not swapping it around to other fishing rigs) then take the longest shaft and install it and if it is too long for your liking, you can actually cut it off to the desired length you want. It isn't as difficult as you may think to do that. It is always easier to cut it off then to try to add on to one. However, remember you can also purchase replacement shafts and change them out if need be... Yes it takes a little mechanically incline individual. but certainly not above most folks' abilities...