I appreciate everyone's comments and suggestions... just a bit of side info
about my use...

I will be using this on a nice sized reservoir or two here in the Baltimore
area. I've been out before with a 12volt setup and 24-30lb motor and was
stranded a couple of times when the juice ran out (one time was a windy day
and I was battling a good headwind, small little waves, and some current).
Since then I've taken an extra battery with me and it has come in handy at
least twice. I hate being stranded!! Soooooooooooo, (making a short story
longer) I figured that as long as I'm going to be using 2 batteries I might
as well make it a 24 volt system. And, at slower speeds, the 65lb motor
should be using less current (and being more effecient) that a smaller motor
at the same speed. And, with a variable speed control, I can run at any
speed I choose.


Is the 65lb motor overkill? Maybe. But, one other thing I hate is when a
late afternoon summer storm pops up to be puttzing along against a headwind
knowing that all holy hell is going to break loose if you don't get back to
shore in a hurry.

And, it shouldn't be any different than running a 2hp - 4hp motor on this
thing... I think the boat is actually rated for 6hp.

Sooooooo -- that said -- any other recommendations for batteries or
chargers?

--
Marty S.
Baltimore, MD USA


"Marty S." wrote in message
...
Hi all...

I'm looking for suggestions of deep cycle batteries for my 12' jon boat
with
a 65lb, 24volt Minn Kota transom mounted motor. I will be using it in a
local reservoir that only allows electric motors. I'm looking for a good
trade-off between the weight of the battery (I'm going to be needing 2
batteries), the reserve time & amps, and cost. I've ruled out the sealed
gel-type batteries due to their weight and COST! The total capacity of my
boat is about 500lbs (including equipment and people).

Any suggestions? From here I have access to most battery distributors and
outdoor-type stores including Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's.

And -- suggestions for a charger. I'm supposing that I will be taking the
batteries out of the boat at the end of the day and recharging them in my
garage. I've heard not to let the batteries run down too far and that
recharging them after use is the best way to maintain a good charge --
yes??
Is this right?

Thanks in advance!!!

--
Marty S.
Baltimore, MD USA