It depends: Trolling motor design, and how it clamps onto transom. Ask again with photos of both.
A kayak. One that is for "sitting on top", bc it's easier/better for fishing than one designed for sitting inside.
Make sure all other reel adjustments are right first, before focusing on the scratch
Buff out the scratch. Don't use a file, which will likely make the problem worse.
Start where the fish are.
A floating worm. Fish it through weeds.
I agree with saw1. Another caution with braid: It's slippery compared to mono or fluoro, ie., it'll slip and untie itself with a clinch knot. Best use a Polomar knot instead.
Yep. Had a lot of luck in local farm pond with red squarebills, whether sunny or overcast.
The Bobber
I believe it is Rapala lure. Very popular when it first came out. I suggest putting new (smaller) treble hooks on it, and test the action on it before fishing with it.
bamboo pole, wire hooks, split shot, and 6 lb. test mono filament, and small bobber... for pan fish from boat or shore line. Suggest you look at youtube videos by Richard Green, the "fishing machine". He tells/shows how and where to fish, especially for crappie, and in an well-explained/entertaining way. Best of luck, and wishing you tight lines!!
Bob