Trollling Motor on a Tiller boat

[Fishchaser]

I have a 17' Lund Angler tiller
and want to add a transom mount trolling motor.
(Probably a MinnKota)
Which side do you mount it on?
Right (near gauges)
or left (over my left shoulder?
Any recommendations on lbs. of thrust?
I think a 12 volt will be sufficient.
I do have an extra 24 volt battery
although I dont think I want the additional weight.
Thanks for your help.

[Fred_G]

I have the same boat. I have a 12 volt 36 lbs thrust on the back, but it is woefully inadequate. Barely moves the boat. I plan on replacing it next year with a 65 lbs 24 volt motor. I would suggest at least 55 lbs thrust in a 24 volt motor. I have mine on the left, but I think it really depends on your seat positioning and your fishing style which side you mount it on.

Fred

[gmerz]

Minnkota Maxxum 65 BT. A great 24V trolling motor designed for transom mounting and back trolling.

[Dealer]

If your Angler is fairly new, you'll want it on the starboard side, because it is too far away to reach easily when mounted on port.

[Shellback]

I'm running a 55# Maxxum on my 16 foot tiller. I've got it on the starboard side, and what I did was redrill the top shaft mounting hole so the tiller handle was offset to portside some so it was easier on my arm for steering. Just like your motor's tiller is offset some, I did the same to the electric motor.

[polak19d]

I happen to have a 65# maxxum brand new in the box, If interested e-mail me at polak19d@hotmail.com. And I will give you the specifics on the motor.

[fishnet815]

A 100 DOLLAR 36LB THRUST mINN-kOTA WORKS JUST FINE FOR ME. ALTHOUGH A 40- 60LB IS RECOMENDED FOR YOUR SIZE BOAT

[Just Curious]

Just curious as to why people like transom mount motors so much? I had one on my tiller and could not stand it. I tried to cast while maneveuring (sp) through trees, or along a wind blown shorline and it was horrible. With my new Maxxum bowmount it is an abosulute breeze! Vertical jig, cast shorlines, and following breaklines is now a joy!

[karpbuster]

When you are fishing in the wind and trying to hold on a spot, back trolling gives you pin point control in the toughest of conditions. That is when the transom mount is at its best. If I am fishing shore line I back troll as well - I guess I am not coordinated with my foot. The AP bow mount is great for trolling it frees you up to work the lines. So I would have both.