Trolling (bow mount or kicker)

[brian]

I purchased a lund pro-v 1660 last year and had a 8hp Johnson kicker on it but it was my grandfathers and he passed away so we got rid of it in an auction in hopes to get a new one this spring. Problem is i've had a hard time finding what i want and even harder finding one in my price range. The guy i purchased the boat from said he used the bow mount. ITs a Minn-Kota Autopilot with a 48" shaft its also 24 volt so it goes all day and also has a remote control pedal. He said for all trolling applications he used the bow mount. I was wondering what you guys thought about this. Take in consideration i fish the bay of green bay and also a few tournaments where i could be running it all day. Any info or if any of you use the bow please get back to me. Thanks in advance. Brian B.

[perchjerker]

I think it would be fine until you get into some big waves. It will probably come out of the water quite a bit. I would keep looking for a gas kicker. In the meantime, give it a try.

[REW]

I think that any time that a person trolls for more than about 2 hours a day - and in medium to big waves - they will be happier with the use of a kicker.

A bow mount is fine for up to a couple of hours of trolling in relatively calm water - but when the wind begans to blow, and or you need to be trolling for 6-10 hours a day - the kicker is probably the best solution for you.

Most folks find a T-8 Yamaha a tough rig to beat as far as a kicker is concerned.

Check the Walleye classifieds on this board, as well as your local papers. There are often - used kickers for sale.
If you can - go with the 4-stroke. No smoke, or fumes - it makes those long hours of trolling so much more pleasant - as well as much quieter.

Take care
REW