What Size Trolling Motor ? / Alumacraft Magnum 16Ft

[John G.]

Hi,
I have an Alumacraft Magnum 16 Ft. boat.
The rig came with a Minnkota Maxxum 44 lb thrust - this is a very nice unit but it does not do the job in rougher water.
Thanks for any suggestions.
John

[John G.]

Hi,
I have an Alumacraft Magnum 16 Ft. boat.
The rig came with a Minnkota Maxxum 44 lb thrust - this is a very nice unit but it does not do the job in rougher water.
Thanks for any suggestions.
John

[ToddM]

John, a 55lb minnkota is the biggest 12volt model they make. You could try that or go up to the 65lb 24volt model. I doubt you would need a 74 but if your fishing 4fters maybe so.

[ToddM]

John, a 55lb minnkota is the biggest 12volt model they make. You could try that or go up to the 65lb 24volt model. I doubt you would need a 74 but if your fishing 4fters maybe so.

[Otter]

I don't think you'd notice much difference going from 44 to 55 and don't know if you want to go the 24 volt route. Can't you just use the main motor when the water gets that rough?

[Otter]

I don't think you'd notice much difference going from 44 to 55 and don't know if you want to go the 24 volt route. Can't you just use the main motor when the water gets that rough?

[Bill from Elma]

Hey John

I also have a 16 ft Alumacraft and I have a Minn 48# on it and it does a great job. But I don't fish big water in it. I stay on small lakes with bays. Its not to say the boat can't take the big water but the smaller trolling motors are not adequate to control your boat in that type of wind and waves.
I agree with Todd and Otter, get a 24volt, 74pound thrust. Its sounds like a lot untill your fishing that rock point in 4 footers and 20 or 30 mile an hour winds. You'll be happy you have that extra power.
Also make sure you go with at least a 50 inch if not a 52inch shaft. Those 4 footers will pull the motor prop out of the water unless the shaft is long enough. every time that prop comes out of the water you loose control of the boat until its back under water.
Not a cheap investment but worth it. Save your pennies till you can get it.

[Bill from Elma]

Hey John

I also have a 16 ft Alumacraft and I have a Minn 48# on it and it does a great job. But I don't fish big water in it. I stay on small lakes with bays. Its not to say the boat can't take the big water but the smaller trolling motors are not adequate to control your boat in that type of wind and waves.
I agree with Todd and Otter, get a 24volt, 74pound thrust. Its sounds like a lot untill your fishing that rock point in 4 footers and 20 or 30 mile an hour winds. You'll be happy you have that extra power.
Also make sure you go with at least a 50 inch if not a 52inch shaft. Those 4 footers will pull the motor prop out of the water unless the shaft is long enough. every time that prop comes out of the water you loose control of the boat until its back under water.
Not a cheap investment but worth it. Save your pennies till you can get it.