Electric Motor for Canoe-Feedback requested

[bwoods]

I am looking at electric motors for my 14' Gazelle fiberglass canoe. I fished out of it in protected waters last year with good result, however, I'd like to go upstream against current more easily. I'm looking at MinnKota freshwater versions b/c they're cheap. Question: anyone have strong opinions about the amount of thrust necessary to push two people against current for several hours? I'm focusing on the 30, 36 and 42 pound thrust capacities. I'm also interested in any bright ideas for necessary fishing accessories for canoes (I use a bow mounted anchor device which is very handy when I'm alone). I will obviously get some kind of side mount for the motor, although I wonder if anyone has rigged one off the bow so that the pulling, rather than pushing, capacity of the motor is better used. Thanks for any feedback--especially from the large number of lurkers out there. barry

[Hawkeye]

<P><FONT face="Times New Roman" size=3><FONT color=black>I rigged my 17' coleman with both a 5 horse gas and an electric (I don't recall the thrust) for fishing the Puget Sound area.&nbsp; It didn't take much current to buck the electric but I don't think it is very powerful.&nbsp; One item you might want to rig is pontoon outriggers.&nbsp; They are pretty easy to make and attach.&nbsp; If you would like my &quot;blueprints&quot; drop me a line.</FONT></FONT><FONT color=black></FONT></P>
<P>Tight lines</P>
<P>Gregg</P>

[parr]

I used a MinnKota mounted on the stern of an Old Town 17 footer. It worked fine on a lake with two persons aboard, but avoid quick changes of direction. Mounting at the bow may make the ride less tippy, but would work only when two are in the canoe.

[frankd]

I have a 17' Mohawk Canoe. Prior to buying a "real" boat, I ran the Canoe on Joppa Flats in Newburyport with a 36 Thrust Minkota. I carried two batteries and had no problem fishing and running for up to 8 hours. I made some very slow runs back to the ramp against the outgoing tide, but still made it back no problem.
One of the best things I purchased was a canoe motor mount that mounted behind my seat and put the motor off to the side a bit.

[bwoods]

Frank: Did you somehow stabilize the battery from sliding. I've become concerned because of the weight of those things (65lbs)and I want to make sure that it won't unstabilize the canoe. Also did you carry two because you kept running out of juice or for safety? Did you use the freshwater version and, if so, did you take any steps to protect it from the salt? I'm starting to look at the 40 lb thrust now. Thanks for any feedback. Barry

[justin080799]

Barry, Did you end up buying a trolling motor yet. I have a new Minnkotta Edura 45 I am looking to sell. I bought it for my 12 foot rowboat to run along with the outboard, but never used it. Let me know

Rob

robleva@charter.net