FS Digest

Hey guys! I recently got a nice deal on a 14ft aluminum flat bottom boat. I'm wanting to get a trolling motor that would be safe to take on a small river and lake. What lb thrust should I get? Any other tips/recommendations are always welcome. Thanks!

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by GavinMF

FS Digest

Minn Kota has a great guide on their website for sizing a motor for the boat. Thrust, shaft length, etc. I would check that out!

https://www.minnkotamotors.com/learn/buying-guide/trolling-motors

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by just_gopher-it

FS Digest

Minn Kota's Endura Max 55 is your best bet. I have one for my 14 semi-vee rowboat, and it's great. Not going to run you up tyre Susquehanna, but no 12v trolling motor will.

It has their digital maximizer, which means your battery rarely runs out before your desire to fish does (with a 24-series AGM), and the battery meter means you can keep an eye on where you can go without needing to paddle home.

I've had mine for like 5 years and use it every summer (though never as much as I'd like to!). I've run a 30 and a 45 on that boat, and didn't notice a huge speed difference on the lakes, but you might find battery life difference. Depends on your target water.

I work for a large outdoors company, and I'd encourage you to go see an expert! Any boat shop, outdoors store, or Minn Kota/Motorguide dealer can give you a better idea of the technical specs required to do what you want to do. Also, hold out for spring for rebates, unless you're in the south where they sell them year round. In that case, you're on your own!

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by kingbloop

FS Digest

I have a minn kota edge 45 on a 14 foot lowe with a casting deck. I can run it for an entire weekend before I need to put the charger on the battery.

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by bassacre

JRK227 Loc: Cedarburg, WI

The Minn Kota Endura 40 or 55 will do the job. Both are tiller style motors that are easily mounted on the back of the boat. If you do a lot of river fishing opt for the 55.

GLA Loc: WA State

I second (or third) the Minn Kota Endura 55. I've had one on my 14' Aluminum boat for several years. Other than replacing the batteries (I use two in Serial configuration), it's been everything I've needed. I added a 15 hp Honda 4-stroke to get me from the dock to the fishing area(s) and it's been a sweet combo.

Ron620DVS Loc: Guntersville Alabama

How to Choose the Right Trolling Motor for Your Boat:


Fishing has long been known as a game of stealth. Putting yourself in the optimum position for making that next cast (while being extra quiet) can also lead you on your way to a hearty bend in the rod. These two characteristics are what make trolling motors a godsend for the fishing fraternity. Not only can anglers have total control over their craft at all times, they can also move effortlessly from spot to spot, and ultimately put more fish in the boat. Come and jump on the trolling motor bandwagon, and find out which is the right pick for you and your boat.

Importance of Thrust to Move Through the Water
shop boating accessoriesTrolling motors, or electric motors, use battery power in order to propel a boat. The amount of power or strength needed to move through the water is described as "pounds of thrust." This power rating is common to all motors on the market, and is one of the most important aspects to consider when selecting the right unit to match your craft. With insufficient power behind you, working your boat through wind, high waves or weedy conditions can be all but impossible.

Many factors fall into the equation when deciding on the necessary power needed for optimum performance. Some common questions to ask yourself are: Is your boat heavy, and what is the length? Do you store a lot of gear, or fish with more than one person? Do you fish in adverse conditions, such as high winds and rough water?

Min Thrust Required trollingmotorsThe minimum thrust chart on the right details the minimum amount of thrust required depending on the size of your craft.

https://1source.basspro.com/news-tips/boat-rigging/7860/how-choose-right-trolling-motor-your-boat


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Old75 Loc: Broken Arrow, OK

Although I haven’t chased it, I understand the trolling motor technology is about to change. Will probably depend how deep your pockets are.

GlennMc928 Loc: Tualatin OR

For a river and current and that size boat a 55 Pound thrust motor should work just fine. My first boat was a 17-foot aluminum tracker bass boat and I only got into a problem one time is super fast current on the Calif Delta. My current boat is a 18-foot Nitro and I only have a 70 pound thrush trolling motor on it and it will take me any place I want to go.

imjac54 Loc: Waynesburg Pa. area

I have a 14’ aluminum boat. Bought it used it had a odd 23 lb thrust motor. I replaced it with a 55lb thrust it works great!

Bubbadon

I have 2 of the minntoga and they can go for quite a few hours without recharging I am selling both of them and also a 12 ft tracker boat only been on lake 2 times I don't know were you from but I am in denver colorado also have 2 life jackets a harbor freight trailer and ramps for loading and like new battery and other selling all retired selling house and travel for a while

Sinner Loc: witness protection program

Everyone has given you good advise on sizing your motor.
I will recommend one with a GPS and Spot Lock or Anchor lock.
Best innovation for trolling motors ever created.

joat Loc: Southeast MO

For a 14' john boat, I'm sure a 45 lb. thrust would be adequate. Like a lot of others said, a 55lb. would be good too. All you need is a 12 volt trolling motor. If your going to use it to actually fish, you will probably want to consider a bow mount. Transom mounts are mainly just to get you to your spot without much maneuverabiilty. I like Minn Kota better than Motorguide, myself. Each to his own, I guess.

finschasers69 Loc: taylor co. w.v.

go for a 42 lb. thrust or 55 lb. thrust clamp-on mina Kota maxismear built-in battery meter .best two choices have been using these trolling motors for the last 12 years in rivers as well as lakes. 1 battery on a deep cycle 12 volt should do the job. use mine on a 14 ft. lowes john boat. bow-mount is the way to go!

jessicaherron Loc: NY

My recommendation for you is the Newport Vessels NV-Series among many other models of reputable brands. No doubt, with 36lb thrust and a 30-inch composite shaft, this model is the best choice for you to go fish with according to your needs. You want to use the motor for freshwater fishing. Right?
I’m an avid angler like to spend time fishing in lakes and small rivers. I’m currently using this model for freshwater and saltwater fishing. This is perfect for both conditions.
The iconic model comes with a 30-inch-long shaft, 8 speed, 19 lb. weight, and 2 blade propeller. The most interesting feature is it is made of salt-water-friendly corrosion resistant material.
Although the model is not sealed with the head and shaft, this is a great value for money and comes with a 2-years of warranty.
Check the price, features, specifications, and many more right here https://kayakfisherly.com/best-trolling-motors-review