trolling motor for ss

[72mtwain]

I want to start shopping for a trolling motor, bow mount, for the 16' ss. Any of you guys have one? What I need to know is what length of shaft will I need? Don't want to wait till its in the water to measure!! I know one of you guys can help me out and thanks!
Also if you have recomendations that would be great also. thanks

 

[dozerII]

Re: trolling motor for ss

I went with a MinnKota PD55 with a 54" shaft on my 16SS. It worked great, had loads of power so you could throttle back to conserve battery. I then found a screaming deal on the same one, and will install it on my SS18. My best friend has a 16SS as well and we put a Motor Guide Brute 55, 54" shaft on his and it works very well, but I am not impressed with the quality of the MG as compared to the MK.

 

[Starman8]

Re: trolling motor for ss

My 18SS came with a MK 36lb with a 54", not what I want, and may hit CL with it even
though it has a 25 foot cord.

Since I am not interested in a gas kicker for trolling, I may consider this setup.

I use them for pecking shorelines, but also need to troll below 2 mph at times, and the Merc won't get that low. Whichever brand is the best deal, going to upgrade the bow TM, maybe add the wireless or extended foot control. For trolling, use that, but also find a cheap MK Endura that I can clamp on the transom for added thrust while steering with the bow TM.

I would leave it off the boat for skiing time, but may also add a rack system to store it on the back rail top of splashwell.

The Lake Erie guys with cash all have auto/i pilots and gas kickers. The kicker pushes the boat and the bow motor steers it, hands free. Maybe my idea is the cheapo method to achieve similar results????lol

 

[72mtwain]

Re: trolling motor for ss

Thanks guys, it sounds like 54" will work. I knew it looked like it had to be a pretty long one. No kicker here where I go so just a trolling motor. Lots of options out there, just want plenty of time to look around.. Thanks again!