07-10-2024, 10:04 PM
I too lock my 15 hp EFI kicker straight forward, and steer/fine tune my speed with a 36v Minnkota Terrova connected to a 36v 100 AH Lithium battery.
The motor-mounted autopilots are expensive and struggle to compensate for stronger winds at trolling speeds, whereas a bow mount will force the boat in whatever direction you want it to go.
The lithium batteries are the only way to go, IMO. I spent three windy days fishing at Fish Lake/Otter Creek earlier this spring, and had 40% battery left by the time I got home. Lead Acid or AGM batteries could not do that - I know from experience.
The LiTime batteries are fairly well thought of in terms of a budget lithium. Don't bother with the 2x overpriced Dakota's.
The motor-mounted autopilots are expensive and struggle to compensate for stronger winds at trolling speeds, whereas a bow mount will force the boat in whatever direction you want it to go.
The lithium batteries are the only way to go, IMO. I spent three windy days fishing at Fish Lake/Otter Creek earlier this spring, and had 40% battery left by the time I got home. Lead Acid or AGM batteries could not do that - I know from experience.
The LiTime batteries are fairly well thought of in terms of a budget lithium. Don't bother with the 2x overpriced Dakota's.