Trolling motor questions.

[lhcbassman]

I have a very basic 10ft fishing kayak and was thinking about putting a little trolling motor on it. I'm pretty new to all of it so what do you guys recommend and are there any tips you guys suggest. If it helps my kayak is the lifetime sport Fisher kayak.

[WTodd]

I've never kayaked but I would think a 12V in the 25 FP range would be enough


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[TheLastRodBender]

I dont think you'd need much at all on a kayak.  You'd probably have to rig up some sort of a mounting system that wouldn't offset the weight to one side or the other.  I'd also be a little weary about the weight with the motor and a battery.  As small as possible would be the best bet. 

Some of the higher end companies have trolling motor units that can be integrated into the kayaks, but they are designed for it and equipped to handle it.  Might not hurt to research those and see what kind of FP they use as a gauge???

[analfisherman]

When you say, "I'm pretty new to all of it."
How new are you.
How many times have you taken out the Kayak?

Reason I ask is,
1) 10fter can actually move fairly fast with just paddles......and once moving in calmer waters or wind to your back....you can 'coast' for a pretty good distance.
2)Are you planning to be fishing 'Large Bodies of Water'?
   Otherwise you will be messing with the troller constantly.....pulling weeds, adjusting depth in short waters, simply pulling up or putting it down if you mount it in the back of the kayak. (side mounted trollers are/can be a NIGHTMARE!)
3) A 12v battery takes up a lot of room in a 10ft kayak....especially if you plan on doing any standing and fishing.
4)The  act of reaching back to simply put the troller down and up 'on water' will almost demand you being an acrobate.
5)  Steering the troller.. ..YOU ARE NOW TALKING SUPER NIGHTMARE!

Just an idea, give it a full season........fish the waters you think you'll fish most often.......see how you feel about it and then next season/year decide.

You may decide to go longer/larger/wider and get a different Kayak in a year.
I have a Hobie PA14 and when in shallow water OFTEN pull peddals up and paddle. Thing coasts like a dream....your Lifetime will too.
My Humm. 798 SI transducer (side mounted and has to go below the kayak to work) causes me grief at times in shallow waters.

This is just some things to think about/consider BEFORE you make the commitment.

[basss]

Check out the "Kayak Bassin" show.  They have all sorts of tips and tricks.