55 Terrova

[UMC]

Going to upgrade from an older minnkota 60 lb. thrust bow mount (the kind with the white head) to a terrova. The 60 works well on my 16.5 foot alumacraft yukon but I'd just like some feedback on how the 55 would work. I realize I'd be going from a 24v system to 12v if I make the switch (would probably just take the two batteries and put them in parallel), so I think the only concern would be battery life. A minnkota repair man said the terrova 55 would have more power than the 60, due to design improvements. I do fish in current quite a bit but mostly would use it to slow a drift or for spot lock. I almost never have to run my current one above 5 (10 being highest), so I can't imagine I'll be underpowered with the 55. Obviously I could just get the 80 lb. but I doubt I need the power and I'd just be throwing $250 away. Thanks for any advice.

[jigginjim]

The extra power is always a good thing if you can afford the higher unit. I run a 55lb pd2 on the front, and 55lb 3x vector on the back of my 690 Ranger, both working the same Battery. I may have had only 3 times in 4 years where I didn't have enough power for the whole day. Much of my trolling motor use is time management. where do I need my big motor Vs. the battery motors. I have used mine boat for slip drifting the river, in the current, sometimes using both motors to control boat for clients to fish the banks easier. Even there I still use the bowmount for steering in & out, sometimes the main engine to hold position in the current.

[ammoman16]

Get the 80 lb. I have a 55 lb Terrova on a 16' aluminum deep V and when the wind picks up it is definitely under powered. Under the best conditions that thing won't even get much over 2 mph. Plus if you ever do upgrade the boat to something bigger, you could still use your motor.

[PerchJerker]

If your boat is set up for a 24 volt motor then I would get the 80 lb Terrova. With a boat your size you would probably get by with the 55 lb motor most of the time, but I expect there will be times when you want the extra power.

[titelines]

I've got an 80# Terrova on a 18.5' fiberglass boat and it works great. Been in some pretty strong winds but it hasn't affected the speed or maneuverabilty at all.

[Savage Brewer]

I would recommend the 80. I have a 24V 70 PD on my Yukon 165, and having a little extra juice doesnt hurt if you are trying to maintain position in a current.