Bow mount trolling motor for 175 - what shaft length?

[kchaudha]

I'm planning to get a trolling motor for my 175 but I'm a bit confused about what shaft length to get.  Obviously I'd like to get the shorter one if possible to save the dough if possible.
I'm currently looking at the motorguide varimax V75SW that has 50" shaft.
Further info - I am mostly going to use this motor in calm freshwater and occasionally in Boston harbor (which is usually pretty calm and lake-like when I go out).
Can folks let me know their experience with various shaft length of bow-mount trolling motors on their 175s?

[GoneFission]

I know you don't want to hear this answer, but it depends on how you mount it.  Usually a 48-50" will be OK on a 175 if you mount it on the edge of the bow.  Does this MG have the composite shaft or stainless?  Are you going to use a removeable mount or make it permanent?  A 50 should work, but the best thing is to get it and see how it fits - so check out the return policy.

[Capt Matt]

60 inch unless you plan on using it in flat calm water,
Any kind of chop with a 50 inch shaft it will come out of the water
Capt matt

[GoneFission]

Matt is right about the prop surfacing in rough water.  The V75SW is avialable in 50 or 60 shaft - I would go with the 60.  But you might want to consider the W75SW - it's only about $100 more and gives you a composite shaft, smaller footprint on the boat (easier to mount), and wireless remote versus hand steer.  You can operate the trolling motor from anywhere on the boat.  Once you get used to a trolling motor with the remote - you won't go back to hand steer.    

I know it's a bit more money, but my favorite trolling motor right now is the MinnKota with the I-Pilot.  With the built-in GPS, it will hold you over a point, follow a course, learn a course and backtrack, and do some other tricks.  It's like a robo-boat option.     http://www.minnkotamotors.com/products/ ... water.aspx

[kchaudha]

I know you don't want to hear this answer, but it depends on how you mount it.  Usually a 48-50" will be OK on a 175 if you mount it on the edge of the bow.  Does this MG have the composite shaft or stainless?  Are you going to use a removeable mount or make it permanent?  A 50 should work, but the best thing is to get it and see how it fits - so check out the return policy.

What do you mean by mounting at the edge of the bow?  I haven't done this before so I don't follow...
Thanks

[Capt Matt]

I have the I-pilot 36V and the mount is very small as the trolling motor tilts and slides down a collar. Check out the website at minn kota. Once you have a remote you can never go back to steering with your knee.
Capt Matt

[GoneFission]

What do you mean by mounting at the edge of the bow?  I haven't done this before so I don't follow...
Thanks

You've got to think about the mounting surface - a flat spot near the bow where you can get a solid mounting location and through-bolt the motor.  MinnKota seems to have the smallest footprint for a removeable mount.  As the old saying goes - measure twice, cut once...

[RickK]

GF, didn't you post a thread on how you set your up, mating a couple parts together to get your the way you want it?