Trolling motors

[Fish Masterson]

Ok guys, I need a new trolling motor for my 18 Express, 96'" beam, flat bottom jon boat with a 90 yammy. I had a 24volt motorguide on it, and finally wore it out. I have had several people tell me that a 55# 12v minnkota would be more than adequate for my boat, but I just don't see it. Opinions? Also, who is familiar with the new Varimax motor from motorguide?

[Sea Fox]

Hey Fish, I would go with the 70 or 80lb riptide. You cant have to much power.

[tin can]

If you put a 12V motor on that boat you'll be very disappointed. 24V Minn Kota, the bigger the better.

[What a mess]

current + wind + tide = the bigger the better there is no way to have to much trolling motor.

If you use a smaller motor you will use a greater amount of its total capacity at any one time.

Therefore burning more battery faster and making more noise while you are doing it.

If it was a choice I would get as large as possible, if money is a problem save up and fish without one for a little while.

[Reel Cowboy]

I've got a 24V Motor Guide and can't complain other than I wish I had gotten the wireless one.

[RHTFISH]

Anything less than 80 24v methinks you will be very disappointed....

[fish on!!]

I have a 55# riptide on my 17 footer and I wish I had more everytime out.

[Flint River Pirate]

I have a 55# riptide on my 17 footer and I wish I had more everytime out.

I agree with you. I have a 55lb 12v Rip Tide on my Key West and it does fine...........unless it is really windy. I have been happy with it though, I can't imagine what a 24V would do because my 12V is a strong motor! Next time I would like to get a Motorguide wireless. Heck, if I hit the lottery I might just get us both one!

[sundown]

I got a 24v riptide on my 20' Triton.. Does a good job but definitely is not too much motor for the boat. I'd think it would be a good selection for an 18' Express.

[Fish Masterson]

I already knew the answer before I asked the question! I was just hoping I could get by with being a cheapskate. However, can any one respond to the inquisition of the new VariMax motors by MotorGuide? I know I am gonna have to dig a little deeper than I wanted to.