Trolling Motor replacment 17foot CC

Jgebb

I have a 2003 17" sailfish.  The trolling motor is almost done and starting to think about a replacement.  When it was new the TM seemed to push boat pretty good.  It is a motor guide 12 Volt 55lb.  I would need to add a third battery to go with a 24volt system or just go with another 55lb 12 Volt.  Looking for suggestions or maybe someone else with a similar size boat and what they have done.  

lemaymiami

You really have to think about how much you use a troller - and what you're actually doing with it.  I run an old 17' (almost) Maverick skiff in hard commercial service.  I'm using a 24 volt Minn Kota Terrova with spot lock and a remote control - and couldn't be happier.  Yes, you'll need that third battery and it's a good idea to have a quality on-board charger (mine is PowerMania - but you'll hear lots of contrary views about every part of a trolling setup... doubt that there's any kind of consensus...).  If you're fishing alone you might not want a remote control version - like I said, a lot depends on how  you use it..

I can run my skiff against a good current to be able to fish under bridges - and if I forget to put it on the charger at the end of a long day... I'll still have enough juice for a second day... The most valuable feature - that spot lock... With it I haven't reached for an anchor once since I installed it  - it's that good in places like rivers where otherwise an anchor at every spot would be required... 

Hope this helps... "Aren't boats fun?"

1outlaw

What Bob stated is pretty much dead on. 

james 14

I have a 36v on my 18 footer and I can't imagine having less. Odds are you will not regret getting a 24 volt unless you already have weight issues that would cause the extra weight from another battery to be prohibitive.