Trolling Motor On A Kayak?

[buzzed bait]

Anyone have any experience mounting a trolling motor on a kayak?  If so, what method did you use (there are dozens of different ways on the web) and what did you like/dislike about that method.  I have a 30lb Minn Kota and a Deep cycle marine battery/box at home from an old inflatable boat I used it on.  I would like to rig that same unit up on my Ascend FS10 Sit in 10' Kayak.  This would allow me to cover more water on the larger lakes and get to the fishing hole quicker.  Once at the hole, I would likely just use the paddle but it sure would be nice to use the motor to cover some ground. 

Thanks for your input!

[Darren.]

Anyone have any experience mounting a trolling motor on a kayak?  If so, what method did you use (there are dozens of different ways on the web) and what did you like/dislike about that method.  I have a 30lb Minn Kota and a Deep cycle marine battery/box at home from an old inflatable boat I used it on.  I would like to rig that same unit up on my Ascend FS10 Sit in 10' Kayak.  This would allow me to cover more water on the larger lakes and get to the fishing hole quicker.  Once at the hole, I would likely just use the paddle but it sure would be nice to use the motor to cover some ground. 

Thanks for your input!

 

I built my own modeled somewhat after a BassYaks, but since I don't have ability to fabricate stuff, I improvised with bolts and such things.

 

On your 10' yak, I'd consider a lighter battery, something like a wheel chair battery so as not to overload the boat.

 

I have actually removed all the rigging for my motorized system because I'm not going great distances at this time, and I'm also working at strengthening my elbows which suffered from poor paddling technique and over use from fishing.

 

You will need to rig a system whereby you use your foot braces as steering mechanisms. You can remove the top of your MinnKota, place a PVC elbow and use some sort of sealing for the wiring all the way to your right/left side where you would put the switch into a Radio Shack project box...

 

I'd post some pix of my setup, but I'm unable to get MyMedia to load on the site right now.

[Jrob78]

Also, make sure and check your state regulations.  In TX, a trolling motor on a kayak requires registration and the GW's will write you a ticket.

[flyfisher]

Also, make sure and check your state regulations.  In TX, a trolling motor on a kayak requires registration and the GW's will write you a ticket.

Same thing applies here in VA.

 

If you want the tricked out lightweight mac daddy set up check out the

http://www.torqeedo.com/us/

 

They have kayak specific models that are pretty awesome and lightweight but definitely cost a little bit of coin.

[Darren.]

Same thing applies here in VA.

 

If you want the tricked out lightweight mac daddy set up check out the

http://www.torqeedo.com/us/

 

They have kayak specific models that are pretty awesome and lightweight but definitely cost a little bit of coin.

 

Yeah, the Torqeedo is amazing, lightweight, powerful, super light battery, etc., etc. If you can afford it, it's the way to go, IMO.

[flyfisher]

When i finally decide to pull the trigger on a pedal boat i may just get a torqueedo instead.....gonna be a year or two before that happens though

[Jake...]

Torqueedo is also $1800! It's only 15lbs light, but I don't think it lasts very long compared to a standard trolling motor + battery.

 

 

Here are two quick ideas to using a trolling motor, one using a crate the other using 2 flushmount rod holders. The best place for the motor is the rear but it should work well enough off to the side.