Trolling Motor for Large Kayak

[Run2jeepn]

I've got an Ascend 133x and trying to figure out what Trolling motor to go with. I fish mainly just Rivers, but also lakes. 

 

I've heard the GPS doesn't always work on rivers due to trees blocking signals. Anchor lock would be nice, but not sure if I really need it. I don't tournament fish. I might try it next year.

 

These are the 3 I'm looking at.

 

Motorguide xi3 $669 Wireless remote, No Foot controls. But can add GPS for another $449 later if I like.

45lbs 48in Shaft

 

MinnKota PowerDrive $619, No Wireless remote, Has Foot Control. Can add Co-pilot for $150 or i-Pilot for$450

Also 45lbs 48in Shaft

 

Haswing Cayman $669 Wireless remote and Foot controls with Quick release mount, No way to add GPS that I know of

55lbs 48in Shaft (The GPS Version is $1300)

 

I did find a used MK Powerdrive with I-pilot, but the GPS doesn't work. The remote powers the motor and turns though. It was $300 and another $100 to ship. Not sure what it cost to fix the GPS. It's a 55lb 48in Shaft. Also no Warranty. Kind of a gamble.

[FryDog62]

No question, go with the iPilot with Spot-Lock. You'll be able to rattle off 4-5 casts from one stationary position, without it - 1-2 casts before needing to re-position. Over the course of a day, its a big difference. 

[Run2jeepn]

18 hours ago, FryDog62 said:

No question, go with the iPilot with Spot-Lock. You'll be able to rattle off 4-5 casts from one stationary position, without it - 1-2 casts before needing to re-position. Over the course of a day, its a big difference. 

 

The iPilot is a 2013. Not sure I want to gamble on that old of one I have to fix right off the bat. Basspro has the Kayak Motorguide Xi3 Kayak 55lb 36in Shafts for $730. Thinking I should go with it. Gets me wireless right way and I can still upgrade to GPS without buying a whole new unit.

 

Does anyone here have issues with GPS loosing signal on Rivers and Streams?

[Run2jeepn]

Well I ended up finding a Brand New Motorguide Kayak TM. 55lb 36in... It was still in the Box for $500 off of Marketplace. So now I can upgrade to GPS later.