Trolling Motor Shaft Length??

[Zaraspooks]

Getting ready to upgrade to a new trolling motor. I'm trying to decide between the Minn Kota Terrova (80 lb thrust) or the Power DiveV2 (70 lbs thrust). However, my real question is shaft length. I run a Pro-V 1775 currently with a 48" shaft. I know I have issues with it coming out of the water on windy days. Can I get buy with a 54" or do I need to go to a 60". Price isn't the issue since it's only about a $10 difference for the additional 6". I'm just thinking about mounting and the space the 60" takes up.

Any input on shaft length or lbs of thrust would be appreciated.

Thanks

[Casey Sunsdahl]

I'm a big believer in longer is better.. You won't lose all that much space.. and the times it might be in your way if your fishing in the front.. It's probably in the water anyways..

[bucketmouth64]

I think it depends on how your motor will be stowed and the shape of your boat. I just installed one with a 42" shaft. There was no way I could have installed the next longer shaft otherwise the motor would be overhanging the side of the boat. Look at what you have now and try to visualize if your boat can handle a longer shaft and what the position of the motor would need to be to keep it inside the boat.