trolling motor purchase

I am looking to buy a bow-mounted trolling motor. I have an older Minn Kota on the stern that has worked well. I am just looking for something that will be reliable; it doesn't need to be fancy. I see the more economical Minn Kota's like the "Edge" and "Power Drive V2"; they look better for the budget than the "Terrova" and "Fortrex". Would one of these fit the bill, or is there a MotorGuide model to consider? I will mainly use it to work around standing trees and submerged cribs. Any thoughts would be appreciated. Also, what's the best way to determine the shaft length to order if it's the middle of the winter and the boat is on a trailer? Thanks.

If you don't mind buying a used one there are at times some good deals on used ones here in the classifieds. Thats what I did. i bought a 70# Maxxum off of a member and I am happy with it. Some people do not like to buy used. I understand that.

I bought a reconditioned Terrova from Cabellas for cheap and added the i-Pilot

I had a Edge and did not like the foot controller. I had a stick steer boat and the foot controller took up a lot of room. I have never used a powerdrive V2 but if you read the forms a lot of guys have problems with the foot controller working. Go to BPS or a store that has the motors on display and play with them to see which one you would like. Then go find the kind you like new or used. Just don't do like me and go to get the cheaper power drive and come out with the terrova.

I would seriously consider at least a V-2 so you could add the i-Pilot later if you ever wanted to.

I got away from foot controlled trollers many many years ago and have been very pleased with a bow mounted hand control troller. All I ever fished was standing timber and it served me quite well. For the past year or so my fishing styles have changed drastically (slow trolling, and wanting to begin longlining) and now I too am looking at the PD with I-pilot. My only reservation is what if I wanted to fish the standing timber again?!? All I'm saying is think things thru before purchasing. Wouldnt hurt seeing some trollers others are using either.;) Good luck with your decision.:)

If you don't troll, a cable drive would probably better suit you. The response time will be much faster if you need to turn one way or the other. If response time is not crucial and/or you plan on doing any trolling, I would suggest the Power Drive V2 with Auto Pilot...or for just a little more Money you can get the I-Pilot. With the I-Pilot on the market, you can probably find some pretty good deal on a PD V2 with AP. I have only used my foot pedal on my V2 just a few times and have not had any problems. I use a "wired" hand control to operate my V2. I will never go back to the foot pedal except as a last resort. I have it mounted just below my rod holder next to my front seat and it works like a charm. I just bought my PD V2 with AP 8 months ago and cant justify spending another $350-$400 for the I-Pilot. The main feature I would use would be the Cruise Control, but the next one I buy will have I-Pilot on it.