Shaft length for transom trolling motors.

[MidCoast]

Hello,

The distance on the top back of my boat to the water line is about 14 to 15 inches.  A 36 inch shaft transom trolling motor is recommended for distance of 10 to 16 inches, and 42 inch shaft for 16 to 22 inches to water line.  

Would it be best for me to still purchase a 42 inch shaft trolling motor instead of 36 inches?  I like to go on big lakes with waves sometimes and I am concerned 36 inch shaft may not be long enough in big waves situation to push my boat as the propeller may come up too high....

Will it really make a difference if the shaft is longer then recommended?  Is there a substantial weight difference?

 

Thanks. 

[RebelSS]

Go with the 42" ....no problem if it's longer, lock it up "higher" if it bothers you. Too short, and you're fudged.