I-pilot and trolling

For longlining who uses I-pilot? Who doesn't? How important, unimportant is it to you?

I troll a lot with my I pilot and have to use the auto anchor when I want to fish spots.

That’s a question you’ll have to answer for yourself. If you primarily troll both the I-Pilot and auto pilot will both do just fine. I face backwards and troll for 5 or 6 hours and never come off the motor with the auto pilot making all the small corrections to keep me going in the right direction. There are advantages to the I-Pilot that make it worth the money, and I sometimes wish that I had spent the extra for it. For 7 or 8 years I have depended on what i bought with no regrets. The spot lock is the one option I wish for most. For the durability mine has shown me, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the better of your options because you will have it for quite some time. I will say that when I’m not trolling I like having the foot pedal when it’s time to move and my hands are busy, I use it all the time. Power level is another variable that I’m kinda stuck on. My boat came with a 24volt 54lb cable steer that would not hold it in the wind. If my PD-V2 with 70 lbs won’t hold me in a wind, I don’t need to be there. 70 or 80 lbs for me, better enough than not quite. Good luck with your decision.

Is it absolutely necessary? - No
Does it make pushing and pulling jigs WAY easier? - Oh, yeah!

I had a Minn-Kota Powerdrive V2 that I converted to i-Pilot and wow, I'm glad I did. Best money I ever spent on a trolling motor.

Tom

Thanks for the replies! Tom, that's exactly what I'm debating now. I have co-pilot and the foot pedal but not thrilled dealing with those and rods, especially when alone. I suppose I had my mind made up to do what you have but wanted to get some input.

I have had my MinnKota Terrova 24 volt 80 lb thrust with I Pilot for over 7 years now..... i love it

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I’m on my third Terrova with iPilot over the last several years. I wouldn’t have another boat without it as I troll year round.

Man I tell you what it's like having a Guide with you all the time. I don't know how I ever did it with out it. Bite the bullet spend the money your gonna absolutely love it.

When I got my terrova I quit touching an anchor. I use the remote anywhere on my toon. Still have to pay attention but it’s definitely worth having. I would like it follow my track better at slow speeds better. I have the older link version so believe the newer version link w Bluetooth and a heading sensor would do that better since it spot locks better.

Best thing I've had on my boat. You won't be disappointed.