Minn Kota i-pilot

[Juan]

Anyone have the i-pilot on their trolling motor? I'd like to find out how well the gps option works before I shell out another $400. They claim it will hold it's position like an anchor.

[silverking]

Juan,

Funny coincidence. Just filed my column for SWS on the GPS-guided trolling motors including iPilot (February '11). I tested the Rhodan HD GPS Anchor+ and it works similar to the iPilot. The anchor mode (Spot-Lock) is a very cool feature. It'll hold the boat in position for hours, adjusting for wind and current. Our editor has the iPilot and he loves it.

Record a Track lets you manually run a track (like a shoreline or series of docks) and record it for repeat runs. The iPilot will store up to 3 tracks.

Seems like you just got your new motor, didn't you Juan? If I were you, I'd definitely spend the $400 and upgrade to iPilot. Installation takes less than 20 minutes according to the MK Product Engineer and the benefits seem well worth it. In other words, less time messing with the motor and more time casting!

[Juan]

Thanks silverking, Yep, I've had the new trolling motor for 5 or 6 months... I got the auto pilot and co pilot options and love both of those, but the more I hear about the ipilot, the more I wish I had ordered that too.. I just wanted to hear from someone who has the ipilot option that the Spot Lock works like Minn Kota claims it does since that's the option I'll use the most... the power pole won't stick in depths over 6-7 ft.
It's supposed to be an easy upgrade...just change out the top of the TM.

[Harmsway]

Hurry and get it, Juan. The tournament's on Saturday.

[Juan]

I don't think it will fit on a Panga.

[Old Dog]

Capt Ron has it, and likes it, and has recommended that I get it for my boat.
D

[Juan]

Calling Capt. Ron.........

Does the Spot Lock work?
Does it keep you within 5 feet like they claim?
Is the FOB hard to operate or see? (especially for those who need glasses)
Is there anything you don't like about it?

[Juan]

GREAT... Thank you...I think I'll mainly use the spot lock option, but the tracking ability sounds good too.

[Harmsway]

I don't think it will fit on a Panga.

That's what you think. Wavel Porter (of Porter's Marine in Woodville FL) can fabricate a mount for anything on any boat.