Need suggestions for rigging my new boat

Just bought a Mako 18 LTS w/ 115 Optimax. It has no depth finder, trolling motor, or rod holders at this time. This is my boat til I die, so I'm willing to spend the money. I plan to go to the coast once or twice a year, crappie fish a lot, and maybe some striper and occasional bass fishing. Help me out with comments on the following: Trolling motor - iPilot Riptide, 80 lb. thrust with 2 batteries and an on board charger. Depth finder - Lowrance HDI 7 with chart plotter. Do I go with Lake Insight? Rod holders - always been a big fan of driftmaster and plan to take off my old boat and add to the new one. Thanks,TW

I've always liked this guys setup.

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if he ever got into them , he would have a mess. too many rods for me. Just my 2 cents.

True--this is definitely a two-man setup. Nice thing is he has a remote-control trolling motor and has taken advantage of completely covering a large swath of water as he goes about the lake.

Here's another guy who has a good setup.

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Monk knows how to rig a boat, now, don't he?

I can show you many rod holder options for rigging your boat for anything. I custom make trolling bars and carry a full line of Driftmaster and Santee rod holders and accessories. We are in Lexington so not too far from you. You can bring your boat here and we can discuss many options including our no hole bases. Check us out at Extreme Fishing Concepts You can also call us at 336-249-6782.

Driftmaster

I would suggest that if you are going with the IPilot that you go with the hummingbird fish finder 898 or up and the ILink with the Ipilot. will work super on sea or fresh water.

I just got a new boat somewhat similar to yours as well and em quite excited about getting it set up the way I want.....until the sticker shock sets in! Will post pics once done. May be a few weeks.

Hummingbird and Ipilot work great together. I have a 998si on the console coupled with a 898di on the bow. They share transducers and communicate well with the tm.. Took a little bit to learn how to use, but hands/foot free operation is great when your catching fish. I sold my Driftmaster set awhile back and bought some trolling racks from Cumberland Crappie. Strong construction, fully adjustable at a reasonable price. Hope this helps.

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Originally Posted by chief

Monk knows how to rig a boat, now, don't he?

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That's Miss Monks boat:biggrin