I bought a Minn Kota 80 lb HAND control bow mount 3 years ago and had to replace a part because it was shorting out last year. Basically several speeds stopped working. Very aggravating. I noticed last week water was running out of the top of it each time I pulled it back into the boat. I took a look and the composite shaft has a crack pretty much going down the entire length. Needless to say, I'm not happy. I can get if fixed but I'm sure a few hundred $$ in labor as I've already called around. The shaft itself ain't but about $30. Just looks like a pain in the rear to take it apart and install. And I'd probably mess something else up. Plus I"m not sure I have down time NOT to fish and wait on it getting fixed.

I'm curious to feedback regarding Minn Kota vs. Motor Guide. Please don't tell me to get a foot control. I single pole jig fish ONLY and absolutely no way to use a foot control in the stuff I fish.

MotorGuideX5-80FW Fresh Water Digital Hand Control Bow Mount Trolling Motor - 80lbs-50"-24V [940500220]

https://www.mygreenoutdoors.com/moto...yABEgLZ6_D_BwE

Minn Kota Maxxum - 80 lb Thrust, 52" Shaft, 24V - Hand Control 1368640 WHAT I HAVE NOW.

https://www.iboats.com/shop/minn-kot...l-1368640.html