new trolling motor

[pmih61]

I have an old Memphis of Tennessee closed bow. The boat is 14' . I have been looking at buying a trolling motor. I have noticed that they come in different thrust options. I was wondering what is good for my boat?

Thank you,
pat

 

[foodfisher]

Re: new trolling motor

Many variables. Overall, bigger is better.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: new trolling motor

Trollers up to 55# of thrust are 12 volt motors that require just a single deep cycle battery. Anything over that and you are in 24 volt (two batteries) or even 36 volt (three batteries). On a 14 foot boat (of a hull type and approximate weight you've not discloses) you are probably looking at about a 40# motor. Be aware also that there are transom mount and bow mount motors. If you are a serious fisherperson then I suggest you pop for a bow mount as they are far more controllable in windy conditions than a transom mount. They are also more money. If you are a casual and infrequent fisherperson, then a transom mount would fit the bill.

 

[BoomerD]

Re: new trolling motor

In general you want to have as much thrust as possible for the times when you run into wind and current. The rule of thumb in choosing thrust is to take the total weight of the loaded boat and divide it by 70. For example, if your boat with people and gear weighs a total of 3500 lbs you will then divide that by 70. That means that ideally you should have a motor with at least 50 lbs. of thrust.

What's just as important is the shaft length. You need to measure the length from the waterline to the top of the bow or stern. You then ad 20 inches to that number and then round up to the NEXT longest shaft length.
If you get a Bow mounted motor that isn't long enough, then you are not going to be able to control the back end of the boat.

 

[pmih61]

Re: new trolling motor

Great... thanks for all your help. Now I am off to buy a new trolling motor.