trolling motor

mja113

Recruit
Joined
Dec 12, 2022
Messages
5
I have a 2017 Crestliner VT 17. It has a Minn Kota Edge trolling motor. I want to replace it with a new trolling motor with spot lock. Any suggestions on "plug and play" trolling motors?
 

RMClark

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
Jul 19, 2020
Messages
94
I'm not sure what you mean by "plug and play." I think any new system that has what you desire will require un-mounting of your current motor and installation of new.

I put a new MinnKota Powerdrive with US2 on my 14' Lund last year. The new Powerdrive replaced an old Motorguide troller that was so difficult to deploy and control that I never used it. That old Motorguide troller was already on the boat when I bought it.

I have a ProNav system coupled with the new motor and have all of the functionality of i-Pilot including Spot Lock. I have a full independent remote and an app on my phone that provides ability to control the motor. The foot pedal is also still active. Essentially, the motor can be controlled from anywhere on the boat. I can use my phone to control the motor and give the remote to my fishing buddy up front so that either one of us can control it. The system works well for my needs.

There's an "art" of sorts to getting good performance from spot lock capabilities and I have climbed a bit of a learning curve to use it effectively. I really like having the controller mind the boat while I'm fishing.

One thing I do wish the new motor had: Automated deployment. I often fish alone and if I'm at the back of the boat, I'd like to be able to raise and lower the motor remotely. However, that's a pricey capability.

There are lots of YouTube vids on various brands. Suggest watching some of those, deciding what you want to pay for and go from there. I don't think you're going to find many deals on a new motor out there in the retail world.
 

vroom ZOOM

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Aug 15, 2017
Messages
414
I have a 2017 Crestliner VT 17. It has a Minn Kota Edge trolling motor. I want to replace it with a new trolling motor with spot lock. Any suggestions on "plug and play" trolling motors?
Do you fish near the shore often? Do you fish in very rough water? Are your depth finders lowrance, garmin or humminbird? Need some more info to give a better suggestion.
 
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