What Is a Trolling Motor and Why Do I Need One?
What Is A Trolling Motor?
A trolling motor is a small electric powered outboard engine that is typically mounted on the bow or transom of a small boat, providing a secondary mode of propulsion. It consists of an engine that is enclosed in a water proof casing which attaches to a prop shaft that, when submerged, prevents engine overheating. A propeller is attached to the other end of the shaft. This provides advantages for fishermen that larger gasoline powered engines cannot provide: precise boat control and quiet operation. It allows the helmsman or fisherman to precisely maneuver a boat so an angler can cast a fishing line and bait to an exact location. For example, if a fisherman spots heavy insect activity close to the water surface of a lake, it might be an indication of heavy fish activity. He can then deftly position the boat in that area in hopes of capitalizing on a feeding frenzy. The other advantage relates to the small size and electric operation. Trolling motors do not have the loud rumble of a 75hp engine, and will not scare off fish upon your arrival, especially when running along shallow areas of a lake. The bottom line is the better your ability to both control the boat and remain silent, the greater your potential to catch a lot of fish.
Trolling motors are suitable for freshwater lakes that prohibit gasoline powered engines and are usually 12v or 24v although larger sizes are available. The smaller size is an advantage to a fisherman because, as mentioned, it means that the boat can quietly motor up to a school of fish without scaring the fish due to loud engine noise. Unlike gasoline powered outboard engines which are rated by horsepower, trolling motors are rated by pound thrust instead. No direct conversion from thrust to horsepower exists as other variables such as boat speed affect the comparison.