Trolling Motor vs Kicker: Making the Right Choice Many fishing boats benefit from auxiliary power. Should you go electric or gas? Here's a comprehensive comparison. Electric Trolling Motor What It Is : Battery-powered electric motor, typically bow or transom mounted. Power Ran...
- What thrust do I need for my electric trolling motor?
- General rule: 5 lbs thrust per 200 lbs of boat weight. A 2,000 lb boat needs about 50 lbs thrust minimum. Go bigger if you fish windy conditions.
- How much battery for a trolling motor?
- At minimum, one deep-cycle battery. For all-day use with high thrust, consider two batteries in parallel or a lithium setup. Battery bank size depends on thrust and run time.
- Can I run main motor at trolling speed instead?
- Yes, but it's inefficient and can harm the engine. Main motors aren't designed for extended low-speed operation. A kicker is much better for your main motor's longevity.
- What's "sailboat mode" on Mercury outboards?
- A programming option that adjusts idle and throttle response for trolling/auxiliary use. Available on many Mercury outboards when used as kickers.