Thread: Trolling Motor For Pontoon

I would think a big old barge like that would need a 12v 55 lb. thrust model at the very least. Are you using it on an electric-only lake? If electric-only I'd personally go for a 24v system and get like an 80 or 105 lb. thrust model since tht will be your sole source of power. But if using a gas motor for most of your long distance moving then you should be fine with a 55.

I have a 24 volt Navigator that mounts on the flange of your outboard motor. Speed is variable and is 55 lb thrust. Steering is accomplished by using your regular steering wheel. If you think this might work for you let me know. Price would be 325.00 plus shipping.

Originally Posted by crappie cowboy

Need a variable speed tm for 24 foot pontoon, would perfer hand control.

Thanks... crappie cowboy

Go with the biggest one you can afford.I have a 18' Suntracker with a 55# & it works ok untill we get some wind, then it is not enough.

Auto pilot would be good on these since it is a full time job keeping on course in the wind when trolling.

I see a new minn kota in my future.

How do you fellows keep a trolling motor battery charged? This is about the 6th battery I've been through in as many years. Seems like I have to get a new battery every year - sometimes two. Any ideas on getting more life out of a pontoon trolling battery & yes I do always buy the marine deep-cycle.

Originally Posted by Jefferylong

How do you fellows keep a trolling motor battery charged? This is about the 6th battery I've been through in as many years. Seems like I have to get a new battery every year - sometimes two. Any ideas on getting more life out of a pontoon trolling battery & yes I do always buy the marine deep-cycle.

Jeff, Don't just buy a deep cycle, buy a size c-29 [bigger] they last longer. Buy a fresh battery no older than 30 days old, some may be 6 mos. old before being sold, don't buy them unless there fresh, the date there made is stamped on the side of it, don't be shy about asking for a fresh on, they will sell you a older one to keep the stock rotated.
Next... buy a good on board battery charger, and ALWAYS plug in back in after you come in off the lake, also check your water in them once a mo.
This is what works for me, my batteries are from Walmart and there 4 years old.
Good luck Jeff..........crappie cowboy

A C-29? Never heard of that. Thanks, I'll look for that one. Say they have 'em at WalMart? I've got an old battery charger at the marina I usually plug in the night before I go fishing & let it slow charge all night & I check the battery water pretty often. I think I've heard of the onboard charger from our marina guy. Is that the one that pigtails off your main boat battery and recharges as your running the motor? I've thought about that but was afraid it might run the main battery down. Wouldn't want to be out on the river & my main battery go down. Where can you get one? I might check into one.