Jon Boat setup - need info

[Bumgarner]

I just have some questions about setup I need for a small jon boat (12'). First of all, I don't own a jon boat and will only be using this setup when I go on vacation about 3 times a year, so I want to keep everything as inexpensive as possible. I rent a vacation home on an 80 acre lake about 3 times a year. Only electric trolling motors are allowed on the lake and the house has a nice canoe and jon boat, but only paddles, no trolling motor. The lake has some nice bass in it and I wanted to maximize my fishing experience when we go to the lake house, so I purchased a transom mount 34 pound thrust trolling motor. I have no experience with trolling motors, so here are my questions.

I know that it is preferable to purchase a deep cycle marine battery when you'll be using the trolling motor a lot, but is it necessary if I will only be using the trolling motor maybe 3 times a year, 3 days at a time. Could I possibly get by just using a regular 12 volt car battery and if so, how many hours of use could I get out of each charge. Also, do I need a special battery charger if I do purchase a deep cycle battery. I have a regular 12 volt/6 amp battery charger now. Will that be ok to use? Thanks for your help.

[Jim McC]

Yes, you need a deep cycle battery. Your battery charger will be fine, but don't leave it on too long.

[Grey Wolf]

Don't "cheap" your self out of a possible good fishing experience!!!! Buy your self a good battery for the motor.

[mayassa]

Walmart has a good cheap trolling batterie for 75 bucks you will not be stuck paddling from the other side of the lake