Trolling Motor (electric) question

[ironmachineus]

I'm upgrading the older trolling motor on my bass boat. There are now two different types of steering available - one is the rack and pinion type, with a direct mechanical connection between the pedal and the motor, and the other has an electric connection with a separate motor on the top of the shaft to turn it (motor guide also makes this type in a cordless version). My question is whether there is any disadvantage to the electric type. One advantage is that you can put the pedal just about anywhere because the cord is so thin (or go cordless). However, my concern is that there won't be enough torque in the steering motor to go through the really heavy lillies/weeds that I encounter on my lake. It seems like the rack and pinion drive has the advantage here. This motor will be 65-75 lbs thrust. Any thoughts? Thanks.

[chamookman]

The advantage of cable steering, is instant feedback on the pedal. Steer by wire/wireless is some what slower in responce time . Heavy weeds shouldn't affect either. Bob

[thedude]

the only thing on the wire steer i would be concerned with is if the motor dies or part of the wiring gets hosed....seems like its just one more link in a chain of things that can break (and cost $$$ to fix).

[ESOX]

Powerdrives are the way to go IMHO, if you get one with wireless and autopilot it WILL put more fish in the boat, you can concentrate more on fishing, less on boat control.