Okay … going to break down and get a trolling motor … I have an idea what I want but I still value everyone’s opinions …
I have a Sea Pro 2100CC so best I can tell I’ll need at least a 54# motor, but more likely an 80# will do and I’ll need at least a 60" shaft …
So now that size is out of the way I wanna know what you all think about manufacturers and features … I will not go with a freshwater series because we use the boat several times a year in Florida - so it’s only the Saltwater Series …
I have no idea about Co-Pilot or i-Pilot or Auto-Pilot or Anchor lock or if I can even use any of those features (Basic Hummingbird Matrix with no GPS) … and I have no idea regarding manufacturer …
Any thoughts advice or otherwise would be greatly appreciated …
Everyone should say the same thing but minn kota ipilot is the ONLY way to go. 80# 24v 60" shaft would be perfect. U can probably find some remanned 54" units alot cheaper. My fishing partner had a 54" on his 06’ 22’ seahunt bxpro and it worked fine but if price isnt a problem go with the 60"
Ps when I am chasing bait with a cast net or chasing schools or even just kicked back my son can run it and understand how to. He was 7 when he first started using it. It’s very simple.
My dad is a die hard “keep it simple” tournament guy. And doesn’t believe in too many electronics too fail so he bought a 101# hand controlled Minn Kota for his 22’ bay boat.
After seeing my Ipilot he wished he had went ahead and bought it instead.
What they said, Ipilot is the only way. I have a 70# on mine and it is plenty strong. Mine is on a quick release plate. If you have a Minn Kota plate on your boat I can meet up with you and let you try it.
i have a minn kota with auto-pilot and co-pilot and works very well for trolling and allows you to use a footpad and remote. i might be wrong but i think the ipilot only allows the use of a remote which is difficult when chasing schooling fish. ipilot is another $350-$400
Different models of the ipilot come with a foot control as well. Only thing is I have had 2 people that I personally know pay the extra money for one that come with the foot control and both have yet to open the package the foot contol came in.
You always hear the same thing that the ipilot I is over rated then they come to the dark side and never look back. U literally can follow a school of fish and not have to touch anything with the correct settings.
after reading what I typed it may sound like I was down talking bioguy. Didnt mean for it to come off like that.
Rick, don’t let these guys talk you into spending big bucks like they did for something you dont really need. They won’t admit it, but they are all jeaolous of my set up.
Rick, don’t let these guys talk you into spending big bucks like they did for something you dont really need. They won’t admit it, but they are all jeaolous of my set up.
'07 198 DLX Carolina Skiff
FS90 Suzuki
been there done that…lol…when I sold my ipilot to my buddy, it replaced that set up… 35# thrust hand control…ha
i have the i-pilot. 80# with foot control and wireless remote; gps etc… got them both and the motor brand new for just a little over $1200 from sportsman’s guide magazine. did not hurt that i got $80 rebate from minnkota also. i made a great move in buying this motor.
After seeing Fogman’s setup I fully agree that the spotlock option is great for specific locations that are holding fish summer or winter. I’m using an old foot controlled (cable) trolling motor. It’s good for certain applications, but overall, the ipilot puts it to shame.
I will not own anything other than an I-Pilot. It’s hard to imagine anything better. Sure. It’s not perfect. Sometimes the gps takes a few extra seconds to adjust in gusty winds. However, it beats what even the best with a foot or hand control can do themselves. Your hands and feet are always free for setting lines and fighting fish, and you’re not confined to one end of the boat. Why settle if you’re already planning to spend a grand or so? The Minnkota I-Pilot will not disappoint!
I need to purchase a trolling motor myself. I have a couple that are good on my skiff but not big enough for my Angler. I have been anchor fishing for the last two summers. Dont get me wrong you can catch plenty of fish anchored, but I see everybody else hanging in a spot with these nice trolling motors and I am over there pulling up 300 foot of anchor rope. Thanks everyone for their input sounds like the I Pilot is the way to go.
it has a gps and compass build in. You can do autopilot with gps or the old style with the compass. I prefer the old Autopilot option, the advance AP seems to twist and turn more as it tries to hold you on a straight line.
