Pond Prowler II (10ft) - No Boat control While Standing & Fishing - Traxxis Solution?

[TotalNoob]

Having major frustrations "controlling" the boat while trying to use both hands to fish. 

 

I posted this earlier in the long-running "Any Pelican Bass Raider Owners Out There?" thread, thinking this might be most applicable there. I now realize I may have limited visibility of my general concerns exclusively to readers of that thread. Hoping to tap into a larger pool of eyeballs with knowledge/experience of the Minn Kota Traxxis bow mount trolling motor. 

 

Currently have a Minn Kota 45lb Endura Max at the transom. It's terrific for getting me around to areas. But I can't do anything with this motor in terms of making adjustments to the boat while standing and slowly working a jerkbait (or any slow presentation for that matter). The motor handle sits too far down, so I'm constantly sitting back down to make adjustments... total mess. Putting this motor on the bow really doesn't change much in terms of how much time is taken away from actually fishing. 

 

I'm exploring all options including:

1) Engineering some kind of deck to add a traditional bowmount foot-controlled trolling motor

2) Minn Kota Traxxis 55lb for bow (possibly paired with a Bigfoot Switch)

3) Adding just a Bigfoot Switch

4) This "Troll King" contraption, though I can't find any reviews. Looks like a possibility but I don't see anyone else talking about it

5) "Motorguide Bulldog Peak Thrust Foot Control Trolling Motor, 54-Pound". Seems a little pricey and lists as a transom mount rather than a bow mount.

 

The ideal scenario is 100% foot control of boat while standing. Assuming that can't happen, thoughts on second best scenario? 

 

If I go option 2, I'm thinking I would leave the Endura Max 45 on the transom and add a Bullnose Rudder to it. The Traxxis looks pretty good in theory, would seem to offer some boat control while standing. Can anyone speak to their experience with the Minn Kota Traxxis in terms of fishing while standing and controlling the boat at the same time? 

 

Additionally, what shaft lengths are you guys running on your trolling motor on these small crafts? Amazon has the Traxxis 55 available in 36" and 42". The 42" is actually cheaper than the 36" (both have the Digital Maximizer). I'm thinking the longer shaft might allow me to keep the motor head in a higher position, offering even better access to the tilting handle while standing. Are there any "cons" to the 42" shaft I should consider if I go this route? 

 

Any/all feedback much appreciated. 

[LonnieP]

I have an Endura Max on the front of my Pond Prowler, use a Bigfoot switch and use my foot to move the motor handle. The Bigfoot switch makes a world of difference.Takes some practice but it works. 

[dman]

trolling motor up front and a rudder in the back. world of difference!

[TotalNoob]

18 minutes ago, LonnieP said:

I have an Endura Max on the front of my Pond Prowler, use a Bigfoot switch and use my foot to move the motor handle. The Bigfoot switch makes a world of difference.Takes some practice but it works. No need for a 42” shaft, 36 is plenty.

That's interesting! I hadn't even considered using my foot to manipulate the tiller for direction.

 

Would you happen to have a pic of how you have your bigfoot switch setup in relationship to the trolling motor? Are you mostly sitting while fishing, or standing? Do you have a rudder on the transom?

 

I've read multiple people say the Bigfoot Switch fails (or can fail) fairly quickly/often. Have you had it fail while on the water? 

[LonnieP]

45 minutes ago, TotalNoob said:

That's interesting! I hadn't even considered using my foot to manipulate the tiller for direction.

 

Would you happen to have a pic of how you have your bigfoot switch setup in relationship to the trolling motor? Are you mostly sitting while fishing, or standing? Do you have a rudder on the transom?

 

I've read multiple people say the Bigfoot Switch fails (or can fail) fairly quickly/often. Have you had it fail while on the water? 

I sit and stand while fishing. I put my old trolling motor on the transom when I bought my new one, it acts as a rudder and as a backup. I’ve had the Bigfoot switch fail twice while on the water in the past 3 years but they’re only $20. It’s a good idea to keep a small collapsible paddle in your boat in case the switch does go bad (or your battery dies).

[TotalNoob]

1 hour ago, LonnieP said:

I sit and stand while fishing. I put my old trolling motor on the transom when I bought my new one, it acts as a rudder and as a backup. I’ve had the Bigfoot switch fail twice while on the water in the past 3 years but they’re only $20. It’s a good idea to keep a small collapsible paddle in your boat in case the switch does go bad (or your battery dies).

Where do you get the Big Foot brand switch? Amazon has it for $33 (non-prime). 

 

 

There is a $20 switch available by another manufacturer, Seachoice.

 

[LonnieP]

Bass Pro 21.99. Couple on eBay 24.99 free shipping

[TOXIC]

A LOT of the salt water fishermen on big boats prefer a hand control TM.  You can get extensions to raise the handle up, extend and at the right angle to fish standing up.  

[TotalNoob]

Okay so after another trip out on my reservoir I've determined I'm going with two trolling motors and two batteries. 

 

This will ensure I'll never be without propulsion should something unforeseen occur.

 

I currently have an Endura Max 45 (on the transom). This is attached to a minn kota trolling center.

 

What 2nd trolling motor would you get and how would you pair it with the current motor (second one in the front,  etc)? What lb thrust is appropriate for a second motor given the situation?

 

Does anyone like the Traxxis motor? My research makes me think it might not be as "powerful" as the Endura Max but I'm willing to make that trade for better control at the bow/having hands free as much as possible for casting.

 

I intend to have both batteries in the rear and both hooked up to minn kota trolling centers. 

 

This may be a stupid question but, if it rains or water splashes in, is there any issue with the exposed terminals on the trolling centers? I know the plastic wing nuts cover most of the terminals but where the trolling motor leads attach would be potentially exposed to water. Sorry if this is a silly question but I just want to make sure I set things up correctly.

 

Additionally, for those who use the Big Foot switch, how does the switch handle water on the deck? I have ordered a Big Foot switch, it's coming next week.

 

These are just some of the questions that have popped into my head after going out on this thing a few times. I'm glad I'm getting this all figured out now before fishing turns on. 

 

Oh I also picked up a 7" riser for the seat and also swapped for a Butt Seat. Hoping this gives me a little more height and control over casting and presenting to the fish. 

 

[Chris at Tech]

I think TOXIC's got the best advice. 

 

With the size and weight restrictions you have on that rig, you're unlikely to end up with bass-boat like control.  You don't have the space required for a foot-controlled motor and the weight of that rig lends itself to easily being moved around by wind or water.

 

When you're fishing, are you anchoring yourself or are you trying to actively adjust with the TM?  You may need to add an anchor to the equation to give you the freedom you're looking for to concentrate on the presentation.

[crypt]

I use a Bigfoot handle extension with a Bigfoot trolling motor switch. also put my batteries all the way in the back.yes I carry 2 24 series batteries for those long days on the water. also have gps/scanner on board.

[TotalNoob]

26 minutes ago, crypt said:

I use a Bigfoot handle extension with a Bigfoot trolling motor switch. also put my batteries all the way in the back.yes I carry 2 24 series batteries for those long days on the water. also have gps/scanner on board.

Are you using a trolling motor center like the minn kota battery center for those batteries?

 

Is this the Big Foot handle extension you're referencing (bottom)? How effective do find the combination of a switch and a handle in having your hands free for staying on a spot while casting?

 

Does the Bigfoot Switch handle moisture well?

 

 

1 hour ago, Chris at Tech said:

I think TOXIC's got the best advice. 

 

With the size and weight restrictions you have on that rig, you're unlikely to end up with bass-boat like control.  You don't have the space required for a foot-controlled motor and the weight of that rig lends itself to easily being moved around by wind or water.

 

When you're fishing, are you anchoring yourself or are you trying to actively adjust with the TM?  You may need to add an anchor to the equation to give you the freedom you're looking for to concentrate on the presentation.

I'm trying to actively adjust with the TM while fishing.

 

I have a 10lb anchor currently but it only holds me when wind is at a minimum or I'm tucked away in a cove. I haven't yet figured out what weight anchor I truly need (or how many). 

 

This reservoir is notorious for wind and it's not at all uncommon for strong gusts to kick up out of nowhere.

 

I'm looking at this vessel to get me around our shoreline/back into creek channels that are largely unfishable from shore due to the rough and steep terrain. I'm not looking to cross the main body of the reservoir or be over deep water at anytime. I'm keeping a tight proximity to the shoreline at all times.

 

Another advantage this boat has is it's agility in terms of not needing to launch from the two very busy marinas - nor are there any inspection hours to abide by for the boat ramps. I can put her in anytime, anywhere.

 

Because of these factors I'm looking at having 2 trolling motors and probably 2 batteries. I'm also trying to determine how to have the best possible control over the boat that I can. I'll be throwing all types of presentions that require me to not be drifting too much (or at all, in the case of jerkbaits - a prime early Spring presentation). 

 

Looking for thoughts on the best type of 2nd trolling motor to get (Traxxis or another Endura Max) and what thrust is recommended for the 2nd TM given the situation. 

 

Btw the transducer is mounted to the transom trolling motor. 

[crypt]

1 hour ago, TotalNoob said:

Are you using a trolling motor center like the minn kota battery center for those batteries?

 

Is this the Big Foot handle extension you're referencing (bottom)? How effective do find the combination of a switch and a handle in having your hands free for staying on a spot while casting?

 

Does the Bigfoot Switch handle moisture well?

 

 

I'm trying to actively adjust with the TM while fishing.

 

I have a 10lb anchor currently but it only holds me when wind is at a minimum or I'm tucked away in a cove. I haven't yet figured out what weight anchor I truly need (or how many). 

 

This reservoir is notorious for wind and it's not at all uncommon for strong gusts to kick up out of nowhere.

 

I'm looking at this vessel to get me around our shoreline/back into creek channels that are largely unfishable from shore due to the rough and steep terrain. I'm not looking to cross the main body of the reservoir or be over deep water at anytime. I'm keeping a tight proximity to the shoreline at all times.

 

Another advantage this boat has is it's agility in terms of not needing to launch from the two very busy marinas - nor are there any inspection hours to abide by for the boat ramps. I can put her in anytime, anywhere.

 

Because of these factors I'm looking at having 2 trolling motors and probably 2 batteries. I'm also trying to determine how to have the best possible control over the boat that I can. I'll be throwing all types of presentions that require me to not be drifting too much (or at all, in the case of jerkbaits - a prime early Spring presentation). 

 

Looking for thoughts on the best type of 2nd trolling motor to get (Traxxis or another Endura Max) and what thrust is recommended for the 2nd TM given the situation. 

 

Btw the transducer is mounted to the transom trolling motor. 

I use this handle.battery box I made, and yes the switch works great when wet. I also use a hand control model on my Ranger. would rather use a hand model.that's my preference.

[crypt]

2 hours ago, crypt said:

I use this handle.battery box I made, and yes the switch works great when wet. I also use a hand control model on my Ranger. would rather use a hand model.that's my preference.

also forgot, have a stick it shallow water anchor also to stay in place instead of a traditional anchor.

[TOXIC]

Take it from me, standing up in that boat and trying to use a foot controlled trolling motor is more than likely going to put you in the lake at some point.  The boat is not stable enough for you to be able to stand and keep you foot on a TM peddle and keep your balance.  Especially if there are any waves or rough water.  The handle extension is the best way to go if you want to stand up.  Also the stick pin type of anchor is a good idea but remember, you are going to have to put the pin somewhere when you are moving.  I simply got used to fishing sitting down when I had my Bass Hunter.  I could stand in some situations but 95% of the time, I was sitting.  It's just a different style.  If the butt seat you got doesn't extend to your rear end while standing, it is useless.  

[LonnieP]

2 hours ago, TOXIC said:

Take it from me, standing up in that boat and trying to use a foot controlled trolling motor is more than likely going to put you in the lake at some point.  The boat is not stable enough for you to be able to stand and keep you foot on a TM peddle and keep your balance.  Especially if there are any waves or rough water.  The handle extension is the best way to go if you want to stand up.  Also the stick pin type of anchor is a good idea but remember, you are going to have to put the pin somewhere when you are moving.  I simply got used to fishing sitting down when I had my Bass Hunter.  I could stand in some situations but 95% of the time, I was sitting.  It's just a different style.  If the butt seat you got doesn't extend to your rear end while standing, it is useless.  

I agree about using a foot controlled trolling motor.I fish a mixture of standing/sitting in my pond prowler. I don't feel comfortable standing when it's windy,the water is choppy or if I have to ride out a wake from another boat.

[TotalNoob]

4 hours ago, TOXIC said:

Take it from me, standing up in that boat and trying to use a foot controlled trolling motor is more than likely going to put you in the lake at some point.  The boat is not stable enough for you to be able to stand and keep you foot on a TM peddle and keep your balance.  Especially if there are any waves or rough water.  The handle extension is the best way to go if you want to stand up.  Also the stick pin type of anchor is a good idea but remember, you are going to have to put the pin somewhere when you are moving.  I simply got used to fishing sitting down when I had my Bass Hunter.  I could stand in some situations but 95% of the time, I was sitting.  It's just a different style.  If the butt seat you got doesn't extend to your rear end while standing, it is useless.  

I won't have a foot-controlled trolling motor. I ordered a 55lb Traxxis for the bow and a Big Foot switch. 

 

45lb Endura Max will stay on the transom (w the transducer attached to it). Adding a Bullnose Rudder to the transom TM for improved maneuverability. This thing has gotten expensive... at least I'll have peace of mind with a back-up TM. 

 

I've "test run" this thing 4 times now (trying to get everything figured out before Spring) - I'm 100% sure I won't be standing up and controlling the boat the way I want to. 

 

Like Lonnie says below, I can already tell I won't be at all comfortable standing when there's wind or choppy water. Unfortunately that's often when there's some of the best fishing ☹️

 

Perhaps I'll learn to fish from a sitting position. 

 

Next thing I'm looking to "solve" is the anchor situation. I'm looking at this "stick pin" style, and others. Whatever holds me in place effectively and efficiently. 

 

I'm probably looking at adding some kind of "raised casting spot" (some type of deck). I don't know what it will look like but getting a little bit of height above the water to work jerkbaits and such is important to me. 

 

1 hour ago, LonnieP said:

I agree about using a foot controlled trolling motor.I fish a mixture of standing/sitting in my pond prowler. I don't feel comfortable standing when it's windy,the water is choppy or if I have to ride out a wake from another boat.

 

[TOXIC]

15 minutes ago, TotalNoob said:

I'm probably looking at adding some kind of "raised casting spot" (some type of deck). I don't know what it will look like but getting a little bit of height above the water to work jerkbaits and such is important to me. 

The depth of the boat at the floor is no different than any other boat.  You are not sitting any lower or if you stand you are not lower but you will have less stability.  If you put any kind of raised deck on it, you are going to make it even more unstable especially if standing.  I neve had a problem with jerkbaits in my boat, even sitting down.  You just have to adjust the rod position.  

[Chris at Tech]

I have and really like my stick-it anchor pin.  But keep in mind you can only anchor in depths equal to or less than the length of the pole.  So if you're looking to secure the boat in depths 6 ft or greater, an anchor is a better bet.  Not to mention that the pin would be a bit unwieldy to store and deploy on such a small rig.

 

Like Toxic says, I think you're asking for trouble with any sort of casting platform on that rig.  Standing, 2 motors, 2 heavy batteries, fishing rods, an anchor pit and all your tackle -- I can't imagine it would take much to find yourself off balance.

 

I don't pretend to know your situation (financial, vehicle or otherwise) but your best bet may be to start putting a few bucks away for a larger jonboat.  I think that really opens up your options for stability, storage, standing casting position, etc.

 

 

[TotalNoob]

My 55lb Traxxis came today. I mounted it on the bow. This was the first time mounting a TM on the bow of this Pond Prowler 2. 

 

The transom has a plating material of some sort over the plastic. This plating does not exist on the bow mount area.

 

Below is a quick vid I just took showing the mounted Traxxis on the bow. I'm not a fan of how much "flex" seems to be going on with the plastic, but, I don't know if this is normal with this kind of material. 

 

Any thoughts on this appreciated. 

 

 

[TOXIC]

hmmmmmmm......My Bass Hunter had the reinforced bow plates as well as the stern.  I guess you could rig something up like a piece of tin that slides over the mounting area.  That would distribute the force better.

[Junger]

Cut a piece of plywood to the dimensions you want to distribute the clamp force.