Are you considering an engine mount trolling motor for your boat?
Maybe you’re just interested in learning more about the different options for trolling motors.
Either way, learning how an engine mount trolling motor works is interesting and could be useful.
Here’s what you need to know to understand more about engine mount trolling motors.
Table of Contents
What is an Engine Mount Trolling Motor?
An engine mount trolling motor is mounted to the cavitation plate on an outboard motor.
The cavitation plate must be at least 12 inches below the water line for the trolling motor to work efficiently . If the plate is any closer to the water, your trolling motor may not propel the boat effectively. It might also make so much noise that it disturbs the fish.
Once the engine mount trolling motor is installed, it provides the thrust for your boat while the outboard motor provides the steering. You will have a wired remote in your boat or control the motor via your main steering console.
An engine mount trolling motor needs to have enough thrust to move your boat through the water. You’ll need to know how much your boat weighs, then find a trolling motor powerful enough to move it effectively.
What are the Benefits of an Engine Mount Trolling Motor?
Engine mount trolling motors offer a set of benefits that work well for many boats and in many fishing situations.
- With an engine mount trolling motor, you control the motor from the main steering console or wheel of the boat. You may have a separate wired remote to control thrust and motor direction.
- Engine mount trolling motors save space.
- These motors allow you to use your boat for more than one purpose. Use the outboard motor for recreational purposes and the attached trolling motor when you want to sneak up on some fish.
- When you use an engine mount trolling motor, you don’t have to worry about multiple motor setups because it connects directly to your outboard motor.
What are the Drawbacks of an Engine Mount Trolling Motor?
There are just a few drawbacks of an engine mount trolling motor. Keep in mind that these may not be relevant for you based on the type of boat you have and where you fish.
- You can’t go as shallow, since your big motor skeg is in the water whenever you’re using your trolling motor.
- Engine mount trolling motors do not always offer as much control when it’s windy as transom or bow mounted trolling motors have.
- Most engine mount trolling motors do not offer as many features as other versions.
- When you take into account thrust and additional features, engine mount trolling motors are more expensive than the other options.
Conclusion
If you’re interested in trolling motors, it’s fun to learn about the different options.
Now that you know more about how engine mount trolling motors work, you can decide if you want to try one out for yourself or just appreciate having more knowledge in your arsenal.
Whether you use a trolling motor or not, we hope you have a great day out on the water soon.
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