how well does a trolling motor work on a kayak

[robert1965]

im thinking about using one this spring, how big of a motor do I need. is thirty pound thrust enough or is bigger better.

[JohnK]

I tried a 55lb on my old 17' fiberglass canoe and with me (300lbs) my dad, and 2 kids it was enough to push us upstream against about a 3mph current. So I'd think 30lbs would be enough for a kayak, but really I'd rather have to much than not enough thrust.

[TruthWalleyes]

If you can mount it on you kayak then it will work fine. Keep in mind it will make it easier to tip. i.e. if you want to turn very fast and turn the trolling motor so it is pushing adjacent to the boat you could easily roll the kayak with the motor thrust.

I put a 55# on my canoe and go like nuts!