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Buying A Trolling Motor? Here’s What To Look For

A simple outboard can take you anywhere, from the shore to the fishing spot, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll be able to navigate smoothly in the hot spot, where all the fish are. This is the time where trolling motors shine at their best.

When you’re using an electric trolling motor, you’ll be able to move in the waters smoothly and quietly without alerting the fish to your presence or disturbing their environment. To win this game of stealth, a trolling motor is all you need. We’ve compiled all the necessary features that you should be looking for when buying a trolling motor.

The Importance of Thrust

Trolling motors operate on battery power to operate a boat. To move through the water, the boat needs a certain amount of power. This amount of power is referred to as “pounds of thrust”. Thrust is one of the most important factors that should be considered when one is planning to buy a new trolling motor. Higher doesn’t always mean better. When you get a motor with a high thrust power, you can definitely assume that it is going to consume more power which translates to more money. Thus, you need to pick the right power amount depending on the weight of your boat. The larger your boat, the more thrust power you are going to need.

Bow or Transom Trolling Motors?

Trolling motors are categorized into two groups; bow mount and transom mount trolling motors. The bow mount is installed at the front of the boat while the transom is designed for the back. If you’re going with a bow motor, make sure that you have enough space in the front because the motor, mounting bracket, and overall housing can take a considerable amount of space. You might want to make sure that there is a flat bottom platform available to make this setup convenient.

Transom trolling motors are more convenient in their requirements because they are easily installed by clamping them on the stern of the boat, which makes them useable by any boat. Keep in mind that bow trolling motor are known for their precise maneuverability and control, which makes it easier for anglers to fish. What makes it smoother is that it pulls the boat into the direction it’s flowing to, compared to the transom’s push motion. If you’re looking for a motor for kayaking, transoms are the best trolling motor for kayak or even a canoe. These motors are great for positioning and providing enough power to the boats.

Self-Directional Motors

Self-directional motors are a recent addition to the trolling collection and it quickly proved their worth. It will allow you to operate without having to use your hands or legs, functioning entirely with a built-in GPS. If you’re having trouble steering, self-directional motors will ensure that you’re traveling in a straight line even in the worst winds.

Trolling Motor Shaft Length

Once you’ve decided on the type of trolling motor you want, you need to think about the shaft length because it’s very important in control applications. If the shaft is not long enough, it will affect the submergence of the prop during harsh conditions. Unnecessarily long shafts will pose many problems in navigation in shallow waters. The right size for your boat and fishing course is very important if you want to take full advantage of trolling motors.

Voltage and Battery

Usually, all trolling motors come in three power systems that you can choose from 12, 24, or 36 volts. The 12-power system needs a 12-volt deep cycle to operate the motor. The 24-volt needs at least two batteries to work. Both the 24 and 36-volt power systems allow the angler to work for long hours out on the water. Also, they both provide the motor with the necessary power for the thrust to show its full potential. In order to make the right choice, make sure to choose a compatible system with your boat.

Built-In Battery Gauge

Boat

Since trolling motors use electricity to work, it means that it requires the usage of a battery. The last thing you want is for your motor to run out of power in the middle of a fishing session. Some trolling motor models have a built-in gauge that identifies the percentage of power left in the motor, helping you know how much time you have left for your session or at least know when to charge it.

Even when you are fishing alone, it all comes down to teamwork. Your fishing equipment, boat, and even motor have to work in coordination if you want to call this day a successful fishing session. There is no shortage of features that you include in a trolling motor to get the best and most convenient experience.


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Buying A Trolling Motor? Here’s What To Look For

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