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"Bill McKee" wrote in message
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"Shortwave Sportfishing" wrote in message
...
On 4 Oct 2005 12:46:32 -0700, wrote:

I would like to know how people mount a trolling motor onto the bow of
a 18-ft center console.

I am looking forward to buy a used 18-ft center console for fishing in
both freshwater and sal****er. Because I will be using it in
freshwater, I would like to add a trolling motor at the bow for
fishing. All the trolling motors that I have seen are being mounted
flat on the deck; but normally center console has a sunken deck at the
bow. I just cannot see how I can mount a trolling motor onto the sunken
bow deck of a center console. How do people get around with this
problem? Do we have to build up the bow deck to flush with the gunwale
in order to mount the trolling motor?

Thanks in advance for any info.

This could be a problem. Then again, maybe not.

It all depends on the width of the gunnel, height of the freeboard and
what kind you want.

First of all, you need to decide what kind of trolling motor you are
going to get - stick steer or remote operated (foot control). If you
have any kind of serious freeboard in the boat you intend to purchase,
then I would stay away from the remote control types and stay with the
stick steer.

Second, if you need to measure from the gunnel to the water line and
about a foot and a half beyond to see if you can even purchase a
trolling motor with a long enough shaft.

Third, you have to determine what pound thrust you require. I assume
that this boat weighs around 2200 or there abouts so probably anything
from 60 pounds to 100 pounds would be sufficient. I have a 67 pound
thrust 24 vdc on a Ranger bay boat that does a fine job.

Fourth, I would recommend a 24 volt rather than a 36 or 12 volt. I'm
not convinced that a 36 volt motor is of any more advantage other than
having the ability to say "I have a 36 volt trolling motor".

Fifth, how wide is the gunnel. If you have two to three inches of
width, then you should be ok, but you can easily make up a mount out
of oak or starboard and bolt the trolling motor through.

Sixth, you have to have a storage area for two batteries and the
ability to run at least #6 wire from where the batteries are to the
trolling motor.

That's for starters. Any questions?

I have lots of freeboard. 35" sides, and mounted mine on an aluminum
plate with a quick release mount bolted to the aluminum. I run a Minn
Kota autopilot 65#, and love the remote and the ability to turn on the
auto pilot feature. When trolling for trout in lakes, I lock the T-8
kicker straight ahead, and use the bow mount trolling motor to steer the
boat. If running a long straight course, the auto pilot feature will keep
the boat going in the same direction. Wind may cause a side drift. And
with a 20' control cord, I can be at the back of the boat by the
downriggers, and steer.

Now THAT is a cool idea. I hate you. Now I have to go spend more money.

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