Trolling Motor Shaft Length versus Higher Thrust

[Bama John]

I am replacing the TM that came on a used Pro Craft 16' bass boat. I calculate about 2,000lbs when I am alone so less than 2,500lbs even with a big friend. The existing motor is a 36lb Bill Dance / MotorGuide and it does OK unless I get in the wind. I wanted to go to a 70-80lb thrust motor until I realized that meant a 45" shaft. I have a 36" now and have whacked a lure off the head more than once so I am concerned having another 9" of TM sticking up is not worth the 15lbs of increased thrust. 

 

It seems to me increasing from 36lb to 55lb would give a good performance increase and avoid a higher TM head sticking up but I am new to bass boats and wondered what some experienced people thought.

 

Thanks in advance for your help.

[Way north bass guy]

I’ve had different length and powered motors on my boats over the years, right now I have a 60” Terrova on my deep v. The longer shaft is definitely an adavantage in open water especially if your on big water where the waves can get larger, it’s a pain when the trolling motor pops out at the crest of every wave. When I’m in super shallow water, I often have the motor raised up quite a bit, but it doesn’t seem to be a big deal for me, I just try to watch where my rod is swinging ?. Personally I’d rather have too much length in a trolling motor than not enough, but you’ll have to decide for yourself if that’s going to be an issue down the road. If your only fishing smaller, calmer waters, you’d likely be fine with the shorter shaft.