best size trolling motor and battery set up

[stevepgill]

Hello,<br /> I just finished building a wide beam flatbottom skiff. It weighs about 450 pounds with out the Honda Bf 20 and with out a load. I am using it on inland lakes for commercail crayfishing. What electric motor do you suggest as a backup and also manuevering in the shallows. Do I need a dual battry system for starting the BF 20 and running the trolling motor? Thanks in advance.<br />Best regards,<br />Steve Gill

 

[Silvertip]

Re: best size trolling motor and battery set up

A 30 - 35# thrust trolling motor would be just fine on that boat. A dual battery system (one deep cycle for troller) and one marine starting battery for the engine is preferred. Unless you make very long, high speed runs, don't plan on charging the trolling motor from the engine. It simply takes too long. Install a smart on-board charger (6 - 10 amps) for the trolling motor battery and plug in at the dock. Good fishing.