Ultrex vs Xi5 Minn Kota vs MotorGuide GPS Lock

[Champ188]

3 hours ago, jeb said:

Yep, tap the SL button on the fob or the foot pedal. Or tap the prop on/off button either control. I've never lost a fish due to my iPilot system, but it has made it a lot easier to catch more fish!

What happens if the switch on the foot pedal gets stuck in SL and you drop your remote overboard and your big engine won't start and your cellphone goes dead? Are you just stuck there from now on? Kinda like Ned rig Dave and his Hotel California fishing spots (You can check out anytime you like, but you can never leave)?

[jeb]

 

What happens if the switch on the foot pedal gets stuck in SL and you drop your remote overboard and your big engine won't start and your cellphone goes dead? Are you just stuck there from now on? Kinda like Ned rig Dave and his Hotel California fishing spots (You can check out anytime you like, but you can never leave)?

Sorry for the slow response, just seeing this. I take it this is tongue in cheek, but that's a lot of if's! :-)

[RangerDanger]

 

I wonder if the head, shaft and motor position and alignment is correct?

Adjusted the cable one notch now it doesn't kick off trying to reverse.  Thought I'd give an update.

[vernon]

 

Adjusted the cable one notch now it doesn't kick off trying to reverse.  Thought I'd give an update.

Good deal - glad it was a simple fix!

[DavidB]

Bill, I was looking at reviews on the new trolling motors, and turned to Ozark Anglers to see if there had been a discussion about them.  I stumbled across your comparison of the MinnKota and Motorguide versions, posted in this thread.  Have you had an opportunity to further evaluate them?  And, have you had an opportunity to review any of the newer models, and/or to talk with any of your friends about them, speaking candidly?

My buddies and I missed our Table Rock trip, the third week in April.  While self-quarantining on Toledo Bend, it's just not the same as making our annual trip to beautiful Table Rock to chase smallmouth and those football Kentuckies!  My first trip to Table Rock was in 1982, and I have not missed a year since, until this year.  We're hoping to come the third week in October, and again next April.  I'll be following along closely as we get closer to our October trip, since none of us have ever fished Table Rock in the fall.  Another Cajun Basket may be in the works!

[Seth]

On 4/28/2017 at 6:18 AM, Ketchup said:

All this talk about SpotLock while landing fish.   What happens when its adjusting itself and fish do as fish do, and pull your line under the trolling motor when your not expecting it?  Guess just the loss of fish/lure.  But tournament guys may see it as more than a lost fish/lure. 

You fix that by running to the back of the boat screaming "GIANT"  at the top of your lungs. Gets them away from the trolling motor and everybody within hearing distance thinks "Now that guy must be a pro!".

For a serious answer, you just grab the cable and lift up the trolling motor like you always did before IF you're using an Ultrex. Everything disengages when the trolling motor is stowed. Otherwise I just try to fight the fight in the middle or back of the boat away from the trolling motor without the screaming part and not worry about it. Spot lock will keep the boat in place so no worries about floating off. I always spot lock when I hook in to a good fish and focus on landing it.

[Bill Babler]

Dave, yes I have.  McClelland has the new spot lock Motor Guide.  I'm going to say it may still need some tinkering.  Right now the Ultrex is probably better and this depends on your electronics.  If your a bird man you just still have to have that Ultrex.

On another note if you are a Lowrance guy their new Ghost is a great motor and if your like 90% of the current buying public.  The choice is pretty easy if you have the $$$$$.

Leading the way of course would be the Garmin Force equipped with PanOptix and the rest of the Garmin to good to be true goodies.

Good Luck

[DavidB]

Thank you for your prompt response, Bill.  I may wait a bit to see how the great trolling motor debate shakes out, before I lay out the $$$$.  In the meantime, best of luck to all of you who contribute to the best fishing forum I've found.  You're so fortunate to be able to enjoy such a beautiful and productive fishery!

[snagged in outlet 3]

I do the same as @Seth does (except the yelling part😀) and I regularly fish rivers so it is highly likely the motor will be running.

[Bill Babler]

Buddy just bought a new Bird 360 and we are going on Friday so I will try and post on that.  Unlike Panoptix the Bird 360 builds information and its history rather than real time, but I'll let you know.  Pretty soon with all this weight on the bow, your going to have to add weight to the back of the boat to get  it on plain.