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Bow mount trolling motors

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metlhead:
Been contemplating an electric bow mount for my wessel. Would like to hear opinions wether it would be worth it and troubles vs benefits. I run an 21' Sea Runner and have an 8hp kicker currently. Lotsa ocean and PS fishing plus BigC and some lakes. Thanks

ASHQUACK:
Game changer!
Get one that has autopilot (follows contours), spot lock and consider auto deploy. I have the Minnkota Riptide Ulterra 36v, 80# thrust on my sled. Makes controlling drifts easier and pretty much negates the anchor. I do run my kicker and bow mount together to save battery in strong current.

CP:
I love mine.  It's pretty basic, 12V, Bluetooth remote, no GPS but spot lock would be nice.   I can do a 180 degree turn within the length of the boat with it.  I don't even carry a kicker anymore; with the bow mount it isn't needed.  LiFePO4 batteries are a game changer, and they just keep getting cheaper and cheaper. 

My boat is only 16' but there are options for bigger boats.  Make sure that you get a long enough shaft, so you aren't sucking air with a following sea or a lot of weight in the stern. 

GWP:

--- Quote from: ASHQUACK on June 07, 2025, 10:56:59 AM ---Game changer!
Get one that has autopilot (follows contours), spot lock and consider auto deploy. I have the Minnkota Riptide Ulterra 36v, 80# thrust on my sled. Makes controlling drifts easier and pretty much negates the anchor. I do run my kicker and bow mount together to save battery in strong current.

--- End quote ---

I have an 80 MinnKota Riptide and have had two Fresh only Terrova’s after using both manual bow mount and transom mounted trolling motors.
As was said, once you go the route of Spot Lock and Contour Following it would be very difficult to go back. I also run my kicker to help hold position or troll in heavy currents.
If You are doing salt get a bigger then recommended and get more battery than recommended for the size of the boat.
My 80 is on a 19’ and during big tide changes, on spot, lock I have had it running just below wide open for hours without the kicker helping. I am using Lithiums on mine.

metlhead:
Shaft length was a question as it seems my bow rides high. Is the auto deploy worth the $$? Seems I'd only drop once or twice. And wondering if saltwater version is a good option

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