trolling motor questions

[canoe fisherman]

how deep in the water should a trolling motor be below the surface with the boat in the water? or does it depend on the boat? I am looking at getting a late 80's stratus and the trolling motor is gone. also how many lbs of thrust would this boat need, it is an 18'6" with 150 mercury force

 

[jbh3]

You will need a 42-45" shaft. IMO, you need a 24V with at least 70#'s thrust rating. The Minn Kota Maxxum series with 80#'s would be my choice. You will also need 2 good, deep-cycle batteries - group 27 minimum. Good luck.

 

[finbully]

Like you ask it depends on the boat. I keep mine in the water enough so when there are swells the prop stays submerged. Depending on swell conditions I will sometimes make small depth adjustments. I think jbh3 answered the thrust question perfectly for your rig.

 

[canoe fisherman]

Thanks for the tips.. But why a 24 volt? What is the advantage over a 12

 

[derek81]

More power, you can only pull so much from a 12 volt plus it will run a good bit longer vs one battery.

 

[canoe fisherman]

ok, So 24 volt is stronger and last longer than 12. even if the thrust lbs are the same?

 

[stratos21xl]

Stick with 24 volt and I would suggest a digital series as well. They use far less current and will allow you to fish longer. I have a Minn Kota Maxxum on my 21 ft Stratos and its only 80 lb thrust and it does just fine. I would get the longer shaft if possible because like finbully said if its barely under the water and you fish in rough water your going to have a fit trying to stay put when the big boats hit the water this summer.

 

[canoe fisherman]

I am gonna have to make a decision when I get the boat home, probably be next weekend, was going to go to Pigeon forge and bass pro this weekend but my girlfriend decided she was too tired and she also wants to wait till next weekend when they have their fishing show and sale

 

[Carl Guffey]

<font size="2">This ought to be fun to watch !!!!!!!!</font>

 

[H-1]

The deeper the better!!

 

[canoe fisherman]

if ii take 2 batteries and wire the parralel vs series, it will remain 12 volts , and still have the extended battery run time. but that may be to many amps. better just get a 24v and 2 extra batteries. what about onboard chargers that charge them while running motor.