04-02-2013, 07:00 PM
[cool][#0000FF]I might also weigh in on the issue of front vs rear mounting, etc. I have experienced or witnessed both tubes and toons with a variety of motor mounts. Some pontoons are more ideally suited for front mounts than others. But my personal recommendation is almost always to go with the rear mount...and with the motor head reversed to pull the toon backward. That is a lot more efficient use of the power and makes it a lot easier to steer. Also, if you like to drag flies or lures (trolling) it is better to have them trailing out in front of you than dragging behind where you can't watch as easily.
I will also point out that the potential for angler injury is much greater when the motor is in front. There have been some nasty cuts incurred with front mounts...even though the blades are not turning as fast or strongly as with a gas motor, they still have damage potential.
My own personal preference has always been to have the motor in the rear...pulling me backwards. I like "hands free" and with the motor tightened so that it does not rotate too freely you can set a course and then make minor steering adjustments with the fins. Amazing how little effort you need to run straight...or make even a fairly tight turn with just your fins.
Yes, you can land fish from the side. I sometimes do it even with an open front. But for better control of big fish...with less potential for loss or for damage to you or your craft...you will do better by having the option to bring the fish straight in to the front.
But...all that is assuming you WILL catch a big fish.
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I will also point out that the potential for angler injury is much greater when the motor is in front. There have been some nasty cuts incurred with front mounts...even though the blades are not turning as fast or strongly as with a gas motor, they still have damage potential.
My own personal preference has always been to have the motor in the rear...pulling me backwards. I like "hands free" and with the motor tightened so that it does not rotate too freely you can set a course and then make minor steering adjustments with the fins. Amazing how little effort you need to run straight...or make even a fairly tight turn with just your fins.
Yes, you can land fish from the side. I sometimes do it even with an open front. But for better control of big fish...with less potential for loss or for damage to you or your craft...you will do better by having the option to bring the fish straight in to the front.
But...all that is assuming you WILL catch a big fish.
[/#0000FF]
[signature]