The next time you plan to go out on your jon boat, you’re going to want to make sure that you have a trolling motor to help you. There are many different kinds of trolling motors to choose from, so you’ll be able to find one that will be perfect for you.
Bow mount
Bow mount trolling motors are one of the most popular choices for anglers. They offer a wide variety of control and thrust levels. Many bow mounts also offer optional features like spot lock.
Bow mount trolling motors come in 12 and 24 volts. They are controlled with a foot pedal or by remote. Some are even equipped with GPS technology.
The size of your boat will determine the size of trolling motor that you should purchase. A rule of thumb is to get two pounds of thrust for every 100 pounds of boat weight. For example, a 12-foot jon boat should have a trolling motor that is at least 36 inches long. Similarly, a 16-foot skiff should have a trolling motor that is a minimum of 42 inches.
Once you’ve selected your trolling motor, it’s time to make your way through the installation process. First, you’ll need to remove the motor from its packaging. Next, you’ll need to find a good place for it. It’s best to place it near the tip of the bow. This will allow you to get a close-up view of the motor when it’s deployed.
Transom mount
A transom mount trolling motor is a fishing accessory that clamps onto the transom of a boat. These units are easy to install and offer reliable horsepower. They are also a good choice for saltwater or freshwater.
Before you start installing your new transom mount, you need to determine what type of motor to buy. There are different types, and each has its advantages and disadvantages. The type of fishing you plan to do will help you select a motor.
For a small jon boat, you will probably want to choose a 24 or 36 volt model. This will give you enough power for longer periods of use. However, you will need to purchase a battery.
Transom mounted trolling motors are great for keeping your boat in the same position when the wind picks up. Also, they are very easy to remove, so you can put them away in the winter. It is important to make sure that the unit has watertight components.
Shaft length
For a Jon boat, a trolling motor is a great accessory to own. It can help you keep your location in one general area and make your fishing experience more enjoyable.
The shaft length is important. If the motor is too short, it will lift off the water as it encounters waves. Similarly, a shaft that is too long will cause the propeller to cavitate, and you might lose a bit of run time.
Fortunately, there are a number of ways to determine the shaft length of your new motor. You can measure the transom height from top to bottom, or use the manufacturer’s recommended measurement. Regardless of which method you decide to use, the length of your motor’s shaft should match the length of its transom.
Measuring the shaft length isn’t as easy as it sounds. A boat is a complex and multifaceted beast, so you will need to take into account the weight of the engine and the batteries. Plus, you will have to consider the weather and sea conditions.
Autopilot feature
If you are making long runs, you may want to consider a trolling motor with an autopilot feature. This can make boating more efficient, fun, and relaxing. You’ll be able to stay on your course, avoid obstacles, and troll predetermined patterns.
Trolling motors with autopilot features come in a variety of models. Some are digitally controlled, while others are connected to additional sensors.
Digitally controlled trolling motors can sense their own position, and follow a series of waypoints on a chartplotter. They also have the ability to raise and lower the boat, and even apply power and steering.
Digital variable speed control, or DVS, improves efficiency and performance, and provides longer battery life. Many digitally controlled trolling motors also feature a cruise control function, which maintains speed on a specific heading.
The Minn Kota Maxxum 55 Hand Control is a budget-friendly model that offers dependable performance. It lacks a remote control, however. However, it does come with a variable speed motor and a level lock bracket.