Fishing by trolling requires the vessel and the power plant to comply with special driving conditions. Electric motor In this context, it becomes not just an alternative to a gasoline engine, but a specialized tool for precise speed control, and the quietness of the course allows you to sneak up on a cautious predator without scaring the fish with the sound of an operating engine.
Unlike high-speed walks, where maximum power is important, for fishing on the wobblears or the track, the ability to move at minimum speeds for a long time is critical. electric It demonstrates its best performance by providing a stable speed without vibrations and exhaust gases. Modern models are equipped with sophisticated electronics that make it easier to control the boat even in windy weather.
The choice of a particular model depends on many factors: displacement of the vessel, type of battery and conditions of the reservoir. Mistakes in the buying phase can lead to the fact that fishing turns into a fight against equipment, not with trophies.
Key specifications of an electric motor for fishing
When choosing a trolling device, the first parameter that you pay attention to is thrust, measured in pounds (lbs), and it directly affects the motor's ability to push the boat against the wind or current. Traction force It is not an analogue of horsepower, it is a specific parameter that determines the static load.
The second most important characteristic is the length of the lower unit. For trolling on inflatable PVC boats, standard length is often enough, but for keel or metal vessels with high sides, an elongated shaft may be required. The wrong choice will lead to cavitation or, conversely, to excessive dip of the screw, which will reduce efficiency.
Control is also critical, and trolling is most convenient for motors with the ability to vary speed in stages or smoothly, and ideally with the function of anchoring (Spot-Lock). digital management allows you to set speed with an accuracy of tenths, which is critical for the correct game of baits.
- 🔋 System voltage: Most often 12, 24 or 36 volts, which determines the number of batteries connected in series.
- 🌊 IP protection: the level of moisture protection, mandatory for work in conditions of constant contact with water and splashes.
- 🔄 Reverse: the presence of a smooth or stepped reverse for maneuvering when catching fish.
Calculation of the required traction and length of the lower unit
For the motor to perform the task, you need to correctly calculate the required thrust. There is a rule of thumb: for every 50 kg of total weight (boat + engine + crew + equipment), it takes about 10-15 pounds of thrust. However, for trolling against high winds or currents, this stock is better increased.
The length of a lower unit is measured from the engine attachment to the top rotor blade. When trolling, it is important that the screw is immersed in water deep enough not to capture air when the boat rolls, but also not to create unnecessary resistance. 60-70 cm is optimal for inflatable boats, and 80 cm or higher for metal boats.
When calculating weight, always add 20-30% of the reserve in case of strong headwinds or the need for rapid movement in the water area.
The table below gives an indicative selection of the engine according to the mass of the vessel:
| Total weight (kg) | Recommended traction (lbs) | Voltage (B) | Type of boat |
|---|---|---|---|
| 500 | 30-34 | 12 | PVC, small aluminium |
| 500-900 | 40-55 | 12-24 | Keel PVC, aluminum |
| 900-1400 | 60-80 | 24-36 | Boats, heavy boats |
| more than 1,400 | 80+ | 36-48 | Heavy boats |
It should be borne in mind that the manufacturer's declared thrust is often achieved at maximum current, which quickly drains the battery. For comfortable trolling, it is better to use the motor at 60-70% of its maximum power, which will prolong the battery life.
⚠️ Attention: Using a motor with insufficient thrust at the limit of its capabilities will overheat the windings and the controller will fail. Always take a model with a margin of power.
Types of batteries and battery life
The heart of any electrical system is the battery, and outboard motors are not necessarily designed for the short-term high-current starter batteries. tractionThey can give energy in small currents for a long time.
The most popular lead-acid batteries are AGM and GEL, which are sealed, safe and well-loaded, but they are significant in weight and have limited charge-discharge cycles, and the more modern version is lithium-iron-phosphate.LiFePO4They are 2-3 times lighter than lead, have a longer cycle life, but are more expensive and require a special control system (BMS).
The operating time of the motor directly depends on the battery capacity in Ampere-hours (Ah) and the current consumed by the motor. Current consumption is uneven: at 1-2 speeds, the motor can consume 5-10 A, and at maximum - up to 50-60 A. For trolling, 3-5 speeds are usually used, where consumption is moderate.
Working time formula
Divide the battery capacity (Ah) by the motor consumption current (A) at the selected speed. For example, a 100 Ah battery at 10 A will provide approximately 8-9 hours of operation (taking into account the depth factor of the discharge 0.8).
To increase the time of autonomy, you often use an assembly of several batteries connected in parallel, which doubles the capacity of the system, leaving the voltage the same. It is important to use wires of the same cross-section and length to connect parallel batteries to ensure uniform current.
- 🔌 AGM/GEL: Reliable, inexpensive, heavy, afraid of a deep discharge below 50%.
- ⚡ LiFePO4: light, expensive, can discharge almost completely, long service life.
- 📉 Starter: They are not suitable for long-term work, they quickly deteriorate.
Installation and installation of the transom motor
Properly mounting the motor on the transom is the key to its durability and efficiency. The motor should be fixed strictly in the center of the transmunist or with displacement, if necessary, if balancing the boat. The fasteners should be tightened reliably, and between the motor and the transmunist, it is desirable to use a rubber gasket to quench the vibrations.
The slope of the lower unit is adjusted according to the load of the boat. When trolling, the lower unit must be perpendicular to the surface of the water to ensure that the screw works in optimal mode. If the bow of the boat is up, the angle of inclination is changed.
Special attention should be paid to electrical connections: all contacts should be protected from water and oxidation; It is recommended to use thermal shrinkage and special sea terminals; wires are laid so that they do not interfere with fishing and can not be cut or squeezed.
☑️ Check before the first launch
Long-dadewood engines on lightweight inflatable boats may require the installation of a transom board, which reinforces the stern and allows heavy equipment to be securely secured without the risk of damage to the cylinder or PVC material.
⚠️ Warning: Never run the motor out of the water, even for a few seconds. No water cooling will instantly disable the coils and bearings, and can damage the propeller.
Features of operation in the mode of trolling
Trolling has its own specifics: the boat moves slowly, often against the wind or the wave, and in such conditions, it is important to use the power of the engine correctly. Spot-LockIt allows you to stay at the catch point, automatically compensating for demolition by wind and current.
When driving at low speeds, the propeller can operate in boundary modes, creating vibrations. It is important to choose a rotational speed that is minimal and the bait game is natural. Digital motors allow you to remember multiple speed profiles, which is convenient when using different types of wobblers.
In cold seasons, battery capacity drops. Lead batteries can lose up to 40% of their capacity at around 0°C. Lithium batteries are also sensitive to freezing, although they can be discharged at low temperatures.
For trolling, it is not the maximum speed that is critical, but the stability of its maintenance for several hours without jumps.
Also, consider the effect of overgrown screws with algae. When trolling in overgrown bays, the speed of the screw should be sufficient to throw out the grass, but not so high as to wind it on a shaft. Periodic check of the screw condition is mandatory.
Maintenance and storage
Electric motors require minimal maintenance, but they need to be regular, and after every fishing trip, especially in salt water, the motor needs to be washed with fresh water, which will prevent metal parts from corrosion and plastic elements from breaking down from salt.
Mobile parts, such as the lift/lower mechanism and the rotary hinge, require periodic lubrication. Use special lubricants designed for marine applications that are not washed away by water and do not harm rubber seals. Silicone lubricant It is excellent for processing rubber rings and seals.
In the off-season, the motor should be stored in a dry room at plus temperature. Batteries should be kept charged, periodically (every 1-2 months) checking the charge level and recharging them. Deep discharge of lead batteries during the winter can completely disable them.
- 💧 Washing: It is required after each release to salt water.
- 🛢️ Lubricant: Check the condition of the lubricant in the gearbox once a season.
- 🔋 Charging: Keep the batteries only in a charged state.
Visual inspection of the lower unit for damage to the screw or foreign objects (timber, wire) should be carried out regularly. Wrapped on the shaft fishing line can damage the omentum, which will lead to water entering the gearbox and expensive repairs.
What to do if the engine loses power?
If you notice that the motor is weaker or the battery is discharged faster, check the terminals — they may have oxidized. Also, the cause may be wear of the brushes (in collector motors) or battery degradation. Check the voltage on the battery under load: if it drops sharply, it is time to change the battery.
Can I use an electric motor in winter?
Yes, but with limitations. The engine itself is not afraid of cold, but the lubricant can thicken and the batteries will lose capacity. Lithium batteries work better in winter than lead, but you can only charge them at positive temperatures. Always have a spare battery kit in the warm.
How often should you change the oil in the gearbox?
Most modern electric motors replace the oil in the gearbox once a season or every 100 motor hours. If the oil has an emulsion (it has become whitish), then the sealing of the ossels is broken, and repair is necessary immediately.