New electric trolling motor setup

[notmuchtime]

After my last outing on the Detroit river battling those ferocious winds with my transom mounted 50 lb thrust motor and blowing 8 30amp fuses in the process, I have decided to buy a new bow mounted trolling motor. I have a couple of questions to ask my fellow boaters. First, which brand have you had the best performance/cost with? Second, I already have 2 batteries on board. One for the main motor to start and the other is a deep cycle for the troller. I have a battery selector switch and an on board charger. Will I need to change out either or both of the latter items if I choose a 24v trolling motor or will the selector switch just see the two (I'll have to add a deep cycle battery, right?) batteries for the trolling motor as one? Thanks for the input.

[ESOX]

You will need two deep cycles + a crank battery if you go for a 24V troller.
I have owned MinnKotas and Motorguides. I much prefer the Minn Kotas.

[Swamp Monster]

I've had both brands, I've had problems with each brand and a couple from each brand with no problems. Look at the foot controls (unless your going with tiller steer) and see which one you like better, they have a bit different feel, or atleast they used to. Buy as much power as you can fit into your budget and get a second prop to store on the boat for "just in case".

[notmuchtime]

Thanks guys.

[The Whale]

Not sure of the size of your craft, but you can go up to a 55 lb thrust motor from Minn Kota (my preferred brand also) and stay in the 12 volt class. Seeing how your transom mount is a 50 lb'er, this should be adequate especially from the bow position. Now then, we can get to the "Co-Pilot" or even the "Auto-Pilot" upgrades...................:p .....Good luck !

[WALLEYE MIKE]

I got the Minn-Kota Auto pilot. I also added the co-pilot. Absolutely fantastic. Kept me vertical and on course last friday on the river. Had the controler in my hand for any adjustments needded from the back of the boat.

[ESOX]

Autopilot with the copilot here too. Lets you concentrate on the fish, not boat control.:)

[notmuchtime]

Thanks again guys. You know, when you ask for help here and receive responses from 4 of the top people on this site, you'd better take advantage of it... :bowdown: Guess what brand and accessories I'm going with.