Two Batteries

[gunflint]

Is there any reason not to put two deep cells in the boat for two trolling motors? It's a lighter 16 with a 40# bow and a 55# transom.I'm thinking of one in the bow and I already have one in the stern that handles both. Is having a dedicated battery for each overkill? Thanks.

[BoxMN]

I sort of think it is overkill. on most boats that have 12/24 volts plugs in bow and stern, they both go to the same batt(s). If you are using on a river and use them constantly, then maybe not, or if you can't recharge overnight, then maybe not.

But if you are not draining a single battery each outing, I would go with one batt. Good luck.

[GBPackerNut]

Every battery you add, adds 50 to 60 pounds to the boat and $100 less in your pocket.

I would normally say what Box said, give one a shot, and if you find it to not be enough, add a battery then.

[gunflint]

The weight in the front is actually a plus. As I usually fish alone. I get batteries at a good price. On the other hand, I could sure use the money for other things.

[BobT]

I'd agree with what's been said but in the same breath I would also say that overkill is a matter of the demand you place on the batteries. If you demand a lot from them, you may need more than one. Only you can answer that.

[steffanf]

I do like to do alot of trolling at times. That said, I knew that sometimes I used up more than 50% on a series 27 deep cycle trolling all day. So, I fitted my boat with 2 series 27 deep-cycles... that in addition to the starting battery for a total of 3 batteries in my boat. Also, my boat is only 14'9" and I have no excessive boat weight issues, so I guess it depends on your situation.

[Neighbor_guy]

I do a lot of trolling and cover a lot of water. I got tired of having to go home when the battery died. Now it is a 2 (12) deep cycle system. No more having a second batery in the truck to get stolen, or a loose second. Now I can go a weekend or back to back eavning trips on a single charge, or a 10,12,14 hour power fishing trip and not have to wory about a dead trolling motor.