In a message dated 3/3/02 9:03:03 AM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
<< The trolling motor looks like a great option for small ponds and trout lakes. >> I used a trolling motor on my pontoon boat, and found it was more trouble than it was worth. If it could have been mounted in the front of the craft, it would be much better, but even then you still have to deal with the 45 lb battery! As it turned out, with the motor mounted behind me, I used it primarily just to go straight, using my fins or oars for turning. In a big wind, it just barely moved, and had to be supplemented it with oars. I have recently purchased a Tanaka 3 hp motor that I will use in place of the electric motor this year. Since I fish with my fins, it will be used primarily to get me there and bring me home. This particular motor is made by a company better known for their lawn care products, and as might be expected it is an air cooled, 2 cycle engine. It weighs 23 lbs, and will have MUCH more power than the heavier electric rig. It is designed with a centrifical clutch, so the motor can run even when I am not moving, and to get moving I turn a handle just like that used on the trolling motor. It will be noisy, but now I can go places I have never been able to reach before, and more importantly, get back home! That is the plan, anyway. I hope it works out. My only concern is how easy it will be to start the dang thing when I am out in the water, reaching around behind my back. By the way, I have been pretty excited about the pontoon/kayak hybrid designed by Dave Scadden, a friend of mine. Dave has been part of the development of Pontoon craft from the beginning, and was the main creative force behind the Outcast pontoon boats which I think are the best in the industry. These craft consist of long, curved pontoons, attached at each end with a seat in the middle. They are lightweight, extremely stable, and very manueverable. Deflated, the fit easily in a back pack. If you want a portable craft, they are the ticket, I think.
