Choice of Saltwater Trolling motor and mounting question...

[malone1956]

I recently changed boats and now have a Key Largo 160. I will be mounting a Saltwater trolling motor and have two questions.... For those who have used them, how do the power drive type motors hold up over time? I am tossed between the hand control which is extremely durable, or a power drive which looks very convenient. Also, I have always had bassboats before this and mounted my trolling motors with those rubber shock mounts that have the nut molded into the bottom of them. Are they still used for a Saltwater application, or do I need to do something more durable?

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Choice of Saltwater Trolling motor and mounting question...

I've had MinnKota power drives on my last three personal boats and have never had an issue with any of them. But be aware that foot pedals can be an issue if left out in the elements. When you are done for the day, stow it in a dry locker. You can also get the key fob style remote controller as part of the Co-Pilot accessory. I don't know about the durability of the salt water versions as I'm an inland boater.

 

[RicMic]

Re: Choice of Saltwater Trolling motor and mounting question...

I have two of them, but have not used the saltwater version, so can't speak to that. The "rubber shock mounts" are just well nuts and only meant to be used where there is no access underneath, so it can't be done properly with fender washers and nylok nuts. I wouldn't use the rubber mounts if there is access, if you do use them, I would remove the motor and give the mounts a thorough inspection at least once a year.

 

[catch14me]

Re: Choice of Saltwater Trolling motor and mounting question...

Ricmic,
I have the well nuts, and this weekend I about lost my trolling motor. I hit a large wave and the trolling motor became dis-lodged and released itself into the water, the next wave came along and just about ripped the trolling motor off my bow. I am now looking for those well nuts/ rubber grommets to remount my motor but I can not find them anywhere. Do you have a clue where I can get them?

 

[malone1956]

Re: Choice of Saltwater Trolling motor and mounting question...

If you are looking for the rubber mounts I was talking about, Bass Pro or Cabelas both carry them.