Lenco Trolling Tab system vs. Bow Mount Trolling Motor

[bcreel]

Investigating the lenco trolling tab trolling motor system vs. a minn-kota bow mount for a Scout 175. Does anyone have any experience with the Lenco trolling system? Looking at motor placement, it appears that fish could be lost at the transom when trolling with the Lenco motors. Also, does anyone use a bow mount in a 2-3' chop? If so, do you have any issues with the motor coming out of the water.

[HOTSPOT]

There is NO setup as good as a bow mount.

With the proper shaft length, a little rocking and rolling is okay.

I do not think you will be using a trolling motor in 2 to 3s on a 17 foot boat!!!

Seriously, a little chop is okay with the proper length shaft.

Minnkota is the way to go!!

[walden75]

DITTO

Ive been using my MK80AP in rough water, but 1-2' chop is about it (60" Shaft), Its a strong motor, and lets me work pilings in a stiff current, or power trolling for flounder.

Ive only had it since December, but Ive had a chance to use it in several different ways, (Fresh & Salt) I think you would lose some of that versitilty with trim tab trolling motors, just my thoughts.

[Flat Out Charters]

Ditto on what was said above. I have heard some negative things about the Lenco motors with regard to reliability in the past, I believe the use Motor Guide motors.

The Lencos would be great for chasing Tarpon down a beach. Any time you needed to fight strong wind or current, or go real fast, ... they would get the nod. Their maneuverability is a real pain, ... constant adjustment is required if you are in tight quarters, they will drive you crazy.

I hear Motor Guide is good now that Mercury owns them, but I don't have personal knowledge. Minn Kota is always my first choice. I have used three of the Riptide AP series (65, 74, and now 80) with the wireless remote (copilot). They are fantastic! Get the extended warranty though. Like all sophisticated pieces of electronics they tend to break or malfunction a little more than a basic model, and you will likely have to return it for repairs. All in all it is still the best thing on the market.