Whaler Central - Boston Whaler Boat Information and Photos

Posted by Gmondun on 05/14/13 - 7:47 AM

I'm looking to purchase an electric trolling motor for my Montauk 17. Does anyone have any recommendations? I'll use it for freshwater fishing.

The ones with the the foot pedals seem ideal, but they are mounted on the bow and I don't have much room there with the bimini top.

Maybe the Montauk 17 is too heavy for an electric trolling motor? Is that why people often discuss adding a "kicker"?

Posted by huckelberry145 on 05/14/13 - 9:33 AM

The foot control motors require less shaft length and don't hang out over the side as much. I have a tiller on my 15' which, like you, I opted for because of room on the deck but the motor does hang way out there.

Posted by Gmondun on 05/14/13 - 12:07 PM

Huckelberry,

Which electric troller do you have and what are the specs? Overall, is it an enjoyable experience to troll with an electric on your 15'?

Posted by huckelberry145 on 05/14/13 - 3:43 PM

I have a Minn Kota riptide 55lb. thrust with a 48" shaft. I don't use it to "troll" like one would with a kicker engine, I use it for putting and keeping the bow of the boat where I want it. Really, advice on my setup will not help you much because the 15 and 17 foot hulls differ so much as far as performance with lateral trim. In other words, how many and where the batteries are placed. Some of the Montauk owners will be better help. I just wanted to help your decision based on my experience with the long shaft of the motor hanging the controller two feet overboard and caching every wave when it gets rough lol. A foot controlled motor will be, I believe 12" shorter, therefor a lot more streamline at the bow.

Posted by Gmondun on 05/15/13 - 10:21 AM

I'm having a hard time picturing the motor hanging overboard. When you say "controller" do you mean the handle that controls the direction of the trolling motor? Why would it hang so far off, doesn't it just mount on to the stern?