Introduction
As an avid bass angler, finding the best trolling motor for your bass boat significantly improves your fishing experience. In recent years, advancements in technology have revolutionized trolling motors, making them quieter, more efficient, and loaded with features that make your time on the water more enjoyable and productive. In this blog post, we will discuss four flagship trolling motors available today, which will help you decide which one is best for you and your bass boat. Let's dive in!
Minn Kota Ultrex
Minn Kota is a well-known brand in the world of trolling motors, and their Ultrex model is packed with features any bass angler would appreciate. The Ultrex is renowned for its power, precision steering, and convenience with its i-Pilot GPS system.
i-Pilot GPS System
The i-Pilot GPS system is a game-changer for bass anglers, as it allows you to easily navigate your boat by using GPS technology. You can lock your boat onto a specific location, set a desired speed, and even retrace your steps using the integrated GPS system.
Spot-Lock
The Spot-Lock feature of the Ultrex is perfect for fishing in one location without using an anchor. With the push of a button, your trolling motor will keep your boat in the same spot by making adjustments according to the wind and current.
MotorGuide Tour Pro
Next up is the MotorGuide Tour Pro trolling motor, which is designed specifically for bass boats. With its uncompromising durability, precision boat control, and advanced features, the Tour Pro is an excellent choice for serious anglers.
Zero-G Lift Assist
The Zero-G Lift Assist system in the Tour Pro eliminates the need for heavy lifting when deploying or stowing your trolling motor. This feature makes it easier than ever to launch or put away your trolling motor with minimal effort.
Pinpoint GPS
The Pinpoint GPS system integrated into the Tour Pro gives you greater control over your boat's position. You can mark waypoints, follow routes, and anchor your boat with precision accuracy, which is a huge advantage when it comes to bass fishing.
Lowrance Ghost
The Lowrance Ghost trolling motor is known for its efficiency, quiet operation, and advanced features that any bass angler can appreciate. Its brushless motor design reduces noise and increases power and battery life, making it a top choice.
TotalScan Transducer
The Ghost comes with a built-in TotalScan transducer, providing you with detailed sonar images of the underwater environment. This valuable information helps you locate bass-holding structures, enhancing your chances of success on the water.
Fly-By-Wire Steering
The Fly-By-Wire steering system in the Ghost offers an unparalleled level of control over your boat, allowing for smooth and precise navigation. This feature helps you position your bass boat perfectly for optimal casting and lure presentation.
Garmin Force
Finally, we have the Garmin Force trolling motor, which boasts high efficiency, quiet operation, and seamless integration with Garmin fishfinder devices. The Force features a brushless motor, increasing power while reducing noise and conserving battery life.
Built-in Fishfinder Compatibility
Garmin's Force trolling motor is designed to work seamlessly with Garmin fishfinders, providing you access to important fish and structure data. By combining these devices, you'll have a powerful toolset to locate and catch more bass.
Wireless Remote Control
The Force comes with a wireless remote control that gives you complete command of your trolling motor from anywhere on your boat. This feature allows you to focus on fishing and casting without constantly needing to adjust your motor.
Conclusion
When searching for the best trolling motor for your bass boat, you can't go wrong with any of these four flagship models. Each one offers unique features and benefits that can significantly enhance your fishing experience and up your bass-catching game. Be sure to consider your specific needs, budget, and boat setup when choosing the perfect trolling motor for you. Happy fishing!
What size trolling motor do I need for a 21-foot boat?
When choosing a trolling motor for a 21-foot boat, it's important to consider factors such as the boat's weight, wind resistance, water conditions, and the intended use of the motor. As a general rule of thumb, you will need a trolling motor with approximately 75-100 lbs of thrust for an average 21-foot boat. This should be enough power to efficiently maneuver under most conditions.
How does boat weight affect the trolling motor size I need?
Boat weight plays a significant role in determining the size of a trolling motor you will need. Heavier boats require more thrust to push them through the water. As a guideline, you should have at least 2 lbs of thrust for every 100 lbs of boat weight, including the weight of your gear and passengers. This should provide ample power for most recreational purposes. Keep in mind that if your boat is loaded with heavy gear, or if you plan to fish in strong currents, you may need a bit more thrust.
How important is the shaft length of the trolling motor?
The shaft length of the trolling motor is an essential factor to consider. An improperly sized shaft can lead to difficulties in maneuverability and control. Generally, the shaft length required depends on the height of the bow or transom where the trolling motor will be mounted. A motor with a shorter shaft may not reach deep enough into the water, making it less effective. On the other hand, a motor with a shaft that is too long can cause the propeller to be inefficient and create handling issues. To find the right shaft length for your boat, measure the distance from the mounting point on the boat to the waterline and add 16-20 inches.
Does voltage matter when selecting a trolling motor for my 21-foot boat?
The voltage of a trolling motor is important because it directly impacts the motor's power and runtime. Trolling motors are available in 12V, 24V, and 36V options. Generally, a 12V motor will have a runtime of approximately 2-4 hours, while 24V and 36V motors can provide extended runtimes and increased power. For a 21-foot boat, it's advisable to choose a 24V or 36V motor with adequate thrust needed based on the boat's weight and intended use. This will provide enough power and runtime to handle most situations.
Do I need a bow mount or transom mount trolling motor for my 21-foot boat?
There are two types of trolling motor mounts available: bow mount and transom mount. Bow mount motors are typically mounted on the front of the boat, while transom mount motors are attached to the rear of the boat.
For a 21-foot boat, a bow mount trolling motor is usually the preferred choice as they offer better maneuverability, improved boat control, and the ability to maintain a constant speed. This is especially helpful when fishing in windy conditions or in heavy currents. However, transom mount motors can still be effective for smaller, lighter boats, or for those who prefer a simpler setup with fewer controls.
By taking the factors mentioned above into consideration and understanding your specific needs, choosing the right trolling motor for your 21-foot boat should be a breeze.
Additional Questions
What size trolling motor do I need for a bass boat?
Considering my years of boating experience, I can confidently tell you that boats such as Jon boats, mud boats, and bass boats are lightweight enough to use a standard trolling motor. In terms of size, typically motorists use a trolling motor with a thrust of around 55lbs. This is sufficient to power and maneuver these types of boats efficiently. It’s essential to consider not only the size of the boat but also the conditions in which you’ll be boating. For extremely windy conditions or strong currents, you might want additional thrust from your motor to ensure smooth sailing.
What size trolling motor do I need for a 18 foot bass boat?
The size of the trolling motor isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer; it depends on various factors. However, the general rule of thumb is: for every foot of your boat, you should have at least 2 pounds of thrust. So, if you own an 18-foot bass boat, your trolling motor should ideally have a minimum thrust of 36 lb. From personal experience, I would suggest taking the boat and water conditions into consideration as well. If you mostly fish in calm waters, then a 36-40lb thrust trolling motor should be enough. For harsher conditions, I would recommend going for a trolling motor with 50-60lbs thrust.
What size trolling motor do I need for a 20 foot boat?
Once again, let’s employ our rule of thumb of 2 pounds of thrust for every foot of the boat. For a 20-foot boat, we are looking at a minimum of 40 pounds of thrust in calm waters. From my own experience, under normal conditions and with average load, a 40-50lbs thrust trolling motor will typically be sufficient. However, if you’re planning on boating in tough waters, or if your boat carries heavy loads, you may want to consider a trolling motor with 70-80lbs of thrust. Remember, the heavier the boat and the rougher the water, the more power you’ll require. Block out the noise and focus on what suits your exact needs.
How fast will a trolling motor push a bass boat?
Speed is another factor to consider in your fishing expedition. In my fishing years, I’ve learnt that maximum speed isn’t always the goal, especially in trolling. Trolling by definition, involves dragging baited fishing lines behind a slow-moving boat to attract fish. Therefore, trolling motors typically max out around 5 mph. While this might seem slow, the ease and precision they provide make them ideal for fishing.