Just got my trolling motor and excited to get it set up. While this arrangement is truly stunning, the average Joe like me doesn't have near the skills for this. Amazing job!
Ive watched a lot of trolling motor installs and this is hands down one of the nicest I've seen. Just moved to NC from Centreville MD and I miss MD already.
It is an awesome install. However, your insane, MD is a degenerate commie hell hole. NC is America and awesome! As a NoVa native, I avoid DC and MD like the plagues they are, absolute chitholes!
Thank Erich, it's worked very well so far, no hiccups at all! I've really enjoyed trolling for and catching Striped Bass the spring. If you watch one of the other videos I posted since the one that you viewed the I shortened the shaft 6" and made it even more streamlined.
Thanks man, it's really working well. I'll do another end of season review. I also plan to do another trolling motor setup with a larger pound thrust motor just to have options.
@eugene5438 Thank you for your kind words. That's a very good question, and actually, I use my trolling motor, pedal drive, and paddle quite equally. It all depends on what I'm targeting, what kind of water I'm in, and so on. I use my trolling motor a lot. Trolling for Striped Bass and also just to get around. Certain water I fish, I actually prefer using my pedal drive. And lately, I've been targeting Northern Snakehead, which is in very skinny water, so I use my paddle. So in reality, it is very situational depending on what my fishing mission happens to be on any given occasion. I've also done an additional trolling motor setup. I call it 2.0. The video is also on my channel. If you view other fishing videos on the channel, you'll see how I rotate through all 3 methods of propulsion.
@@TravelnFish Thanks for your reply. I took my PDL106 out for the first time this weekend and loved it. This winter I plan to do trolling motor build. I'll check out your other videos!
Thanks man! I've really been enjoying it! Was out fishing yesterday and it's doing really well. I just checked out one of your videos, the one with you and your wife, LOL, I really enjoyed it!
Very clean install! How many layers did you use to build up the deck insert? Are you able to tilt the motor up like you are the pedals if you need to operate in the shallows, or do you need to remove the drive unit altogether?
Thank you for the question. I used two small peices of the same material to do a build up underneath for extra support. Yes I am able to articulate the motor similar to the PDL drive. I demonstrate this is the update video that followed. I lift and lower the motor at launch and recovery as well as when I fish skinny water. ruclips.net/video/eEAnAUcTMl4/видео.html
Wow what an awesome build. I'll be using my yak in the ocean as well, how do these yaks take waves? I'm getting a Sportsman 106 PDL. I'd definitely consider doing this motor down the road as well.
I've had my Sportsman 120 PDL in the ocean and it does just fine in ressonable conditions. The Big Water, Predator, Salty and other larger Old Town Kayaks would do a little better. Just have to feel comfortable on the water after some experience and use good judgment.
@@TravelnFish I'm gonna be using the Sportsman 106 PDL. I hope it's ok in the ocean with slight waves. I could just use it in the bays and when the ocean is flat I suppose. I hope I didn't waste my money, maybe I shoulda gotten the 12 ft yak. Ughhhh. Live and Learn.
@@Arcturian1111 you'll be fine, just fish more open waters when the water conditions are more favorable. I primarily fish inshore, on bays their tributaries and inlets. Inlets and other areas where the current rips when the tide is moving is as challenging as fishing near shore fishing in the ocean. Most Fisheries waters are different but the same kayaking principles and preparation applies no matter what water you are on.
One day if you have a friend, etc that needs a trolling motor install, maybe you can do a video on the full install. I bet you'd get a lot of hits on your RUclips account. Who knows, maybe you'll get some awesome advertisers as well. Cool Page anyways, love your gear and mods.
Hey Dave, thank you very much for the shout-out! Lol, yeah those numbers didn't last very long I changed those out to Orange with no backing to match some of the other coloring on the kayak. You can see some of that in this video. ruclips.net/video/BW2AEADwDUc/видео.htmlsi=v0augrUQyyEE4n3v I've also streamlined that trolling motor setup and have also done a 2.0 version with a 55 lb thrust motor. I love the whole trolling motor integration with the kayak, that's the best of both worlds. I can use the paddle, the pedal drive or the trolling motor. I'm just an old timer out there trying to make stuff happen, so I appreciate the love and the fact you enjoy the channel!
The Old Town Kayak I just bought, has the scudder plugs built into the front deck area for drainage, basically it drains all the water out into the center hull dry well, and back into the water, does yours have them also, I didn't see it. Maybe mine is a newer version. I'm not sure.
My kayak has that same style drive mount. Been looking for a clean way to use a trolling motor in that spot. Do you have a video on the mount itself? Just the pvc piping setup I mean
Hi, thanks for your comments. I don't have a video of the trolling motor PVC mount construction, sorry. However, I have since removed all the mount structure because I found that it is all unnecessary. The weight of the trolling motor itself provides all the stability needed. If you watch this video, you will see what I mean. It shows another motor motor setup I did where there is no support structure, just six inches of the trolling motor shaft above the deck plate is all that shows, that I use as a handle to maneuver the motor in and out of place. ruclips.net/video/-rLmXfXBqE4/видео.htmlsi=HSnWps-sTdePV0tu The box I used for the first motor setup I did I got at homedepot to mount the trolling motor switch inside. www.homedepot.com/p/Carlon-1-Gang-19-cu-in-3-4-in-PVC-Type-FSC-FS-Box-E981EFN-CTN/100404133
I tried this setup today and my trolling motor shaft moves a lot.I ordered a shaft lock from Amazon today so I'll place that underneath the insert. Hopefully that will help.
Yeah, there are easy enough ways to tighten things up. I put a depth collar on the top and bottom sides of the deck plate. I also put a screw into the deck plate between the gap in the depth collar. The setup is very solid.
Hi Angelo, I used three-quarter inch PVC on the bar that goes under the lockdowns. The outside diameter is about one inch which closely matches the stock bar on the pedal drive.
Your kayak is so clean you could eat out of it. I wish you could commercially sell this arrangement but then I couldn’t install it. Great job. Did you mention your top speed, I know it was rough but when you get a chance can you let us know what it is.
Thanks "D" I think, lol! I've enjoyed it this past season. I probably average 3mph. It's definitely not a speed boat; my 12ft. Yak is loaded down when I'm fishing and the hull design is not built for speed but stability. Non the less I am able to troll fast enough to catch Striped Bass which is what the setup is for.
Very nice setup 🤝🏼. I have the same type of PDL drive. I get water coming in from drive area. Was wondering if the extra seal that you put on the kayak side would helps keep water stay out? And what type of weather stripping did you use on the kayak and what would i use to make the weather stripping Stick to the kayak?
Hi, thanks! I used Frost King EPDM Rubber Self-Stick Weatherseal Tape. To answer your question; it does prevent water from entering around the drive. I bought mine at HomeDepot but this is the stuff - www.amazon.com/Frost-King-Self-Stick-Weatherseal-D-Section/dp/B00FQ5A5RM/ref=sr_1_5?crid=NN3WHXGC7WVG&keywords=frost+king+weather+stripping&qid=1640806573&sprefix=frost+king%2Caps%2C58&sr=8-5 It's actually the same profile as the gasket on the bottom of the PDl drive. The adhesive on the tape holds it on just fine. When the PDL drive or trolling motor is in place it is gasket on gasket.
@@TravelnFish thank you im definitely going to do this. I've trying to find a solution to that water problem and you are the only one i seen that did. Thats so awesome of you to share the picture and the website as well thanks again 💯🤝🏼 i appreciate you.
@@DetroitFishigan No problem; as you can see from the picture I only used one strip of the two piece weather striping which seems two work but you could use both which may work even better. Let me know how it works out.
Did you add a kill switch and lanyard? One consideration is being 2 miles out, hit by a rogue wave, ending up in the water, and watching your boat driving away at 3 knots. Just wondered. Almost all the commercial rigs I've seen include a kill switch. Other than that I have to echo many of the other comments. The cleanest motor build I've seen.
Thanks G! No, I never considered a kill switch; I know a lot/most of motorized systems for kayaks incorporate safety features (kill switch) and I could have but decided not to. I know "things" could happen, however, I'm an experienced kayaker and very comfortable on the water. As well, the kayak I chose is Very Stable; had I picked another model (less stable) I would have considered a kill switch. I've fished all sorts of rough water, passing by container ships in shipping channels(big rollers), storms, etc. I've never felt like the water was going to remove me from the kayak. I pay pretty careful attention on the water just like I did when I rode a motorcycle. Interestingly, I've seen as many operating boats go overboard while there boat spins out of control and boats don't use kill switches 🤔. Sorry, for the long reply; good observation! PS, I may do another Trolling Motor setup next winter to see if I can make some other refinements.
Will the motor pivot just like the PDL drive? I did the same but with a 30 lb Minn Kota and the head hits the back of the opening. I want to cut another piece of HDPE and move the hole forward to try to be able to pivot. As far as a PWM I used a Minn Kota controller
Hi William, the motor clears the hole in the deck just fine. I don't attempt to to pivot the motor like the PDL drive; I stop the motor and will raise the shaft to tuck the motor against the hull to paddle in skinny water or just raise the whole assembly out and set it on the bow. I don't intend to raise and lower the motor but I stead use my depth finder to stay in deep enough water most times.
In this particular case, it's Rust-Oleum gloss black. But I've also used flat black, I've done hydro dip treatments, textured paint, used various things, but in this case, it was gloss black.
Hey, I appreciate the interest however I'm not wanting to get into the business of making these setups to sell. Hope you understand. If you want to ask specific questions about different details of my build, I'll be happy to answer them.
@@mooseadolfson8002 no, it was not hard at all. I got a lot of ideas from others on RUclips and came up with some of my own. When you've got visual examples online and can study the videos, it's pretty easy.
Hi Hector, thank you for the question. Hey can you look in the description where I've listed I think most of what I used and see if that addresses your question, if not get back to me let me know and I'll try to clear up any other questions you might have.
@@TravelnFish maybe I missed it but I didn't see the quick release bracket on the motor shaft listed I couldn't find it on amazon. Also have you hit bottom with it yet? When im in my bigwater and Im getting near the shallow water, pull up my pdl drive and padel to shore. Can you do that?
@@hrios3016 Hi Hector, I have not hit bottom with the motor but I have run into some submerged logs in shallow water. I pay attention on my fish finder and watch my water depth when fishing skinny water and yes I lift the trolling motor up when I get into water less than 1.5 ft. I'm not sure but I think the part you're referring to is part of the Tilt mechanism on a stock trolling motor. I uploaded a few of the pictures to a Amazon photo album that you can view with this link. www.amazon.com/photos/shared/vHTQLVTpS9mnU012Z669Yw.QVUZzSq50CxOB2Cwr8Cxgz Also in this trolling motor update video I show the ability to lift the motor which is what I do when I get into skinny water and when I launch in recover the kayak. ruclips.net/video/eEAnAUcTMl4/видео.html
@@hrios3016 yeah, that's part of the stock trolling motor. I also removed that spring etc.; stripped it all off. On another note, that bracket and mounting structure is really not needed. I did another trolling motor setup where I don't use anything at all. All I have is the cutout floor plate and the trolling motor shaft going through it sandwiched by two depth collars top and bottom.
I've never used a Hobie in saltwater but I'm sure they work well. I chose an Oldtown for price and the PDL drive. For me the Mirage drive failures and maintenance are a negative. As well the Old Town Sportsman is a very stable kayak.
Hi Jeff, to your first question, I don't have an actual total runtime on that battery yet. I have four and a half hours of continuous run time per the Sea Trial video I did two months ago. In addition to that I had another two and a half hour separate session on the same charge. That battery has been sitting in my garage since then without recharging and still has over 50% charge still on the battery. I don't think I could kill this battery on a single full day of fishing. In fact I'm sure I could fish two days back-to-back on a single charge and still have power leftover. I don't regret getting the 100 amp hour battery because in fact I don't want to be left dead in the water, and in fact I will be doing some back-to-back days of fishing (on the road) and I won't have to recharge the battery. I hope that answers your questions, let me know if you have any other questions. I've done a few other modifications to the set up since that video and when I get back on the water in a month or so I'll comment on some of those changes as a part of my fishing trip. From my limited experience I certainly think an 80 amp hour battery would suffice.
Wow, back at you; to kind. Just took ideas from others and some trial & error. Though this setup works well, I actually like this one even better. ruclips.net/video/-rLmXfXBqE4/видео.html
This is the battery box I chose to use. www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01AE2TG7G?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title The "Rebel" battery I use fits the battery perfectly; no extra room.
Very Clean build but if trolling as you described in the video on speed "2" can be heard through the hull and in the video doesn't say much for how stealthy that brand of trolling motor is. Or maybe its propellor is to close to the hull, but either way it just sounds loud in the video.
Hey man, thanks for taking a look and for your observation and comments. That's a good observation you made. I think the brand of trolling motor is okay and the propeller is approximately the same distance from the hull as the pedal drive propeller. However I can try it at a little bit deeper depth and see if that matters. I am able to adjust the depth of the motor easily. I can probably also cushion some of the connections to the shaft to see if that makes any difference. I had the same observation while I was doing the sea trial though it didn't seem that it would spook fish from what I could tell. I will certainly take your comments too heart and see if that can be refined a bit. Thanks again!
Hi Steve, this is what I'm using... reBel Batteries 100ah Lithium Battery - LiFePO4 12V 100Ah Battery - www.amazon.com/stores/reBel+Batteries/page/0B1FD003-D15B-42CB-AA8E-C8618CEC1B62?ref_=ast_bln There are other equally as good batteries out there for less money. This guy does a good job of evaluating batteries. ruclips.net/channel/UCoj6RxIAQq8kmJme-5dnN0Q
I've never used a Hobie in saltwater but I'm sure they work well. I chose an Oldtown for price and the PDL drive. For me the Mirage drive failures and maintenance are a negative. As well the Old Town Sportsman is a very stable kayak.
Hey, while I appreciate the compliment and flattery and though I would love to hook you up, I'm just not in the business to build these setups other than for my own use. Two main reasons are: I don't want to invest the extra time and I would feel horrible if you were not satisfied. Sorry, I've had a couple other inquiries and my response has been the same.
@@TravelnFish no worries man! Sorry to bother you on the subject .putting that aside a day on the water with a new buddy would be great let me know if you ever want to fish with some subscribers
@@rondumb6055 Yeah, we could try to get out on the water at some point. Another subscriber and I head to Ocean City Inlet in the fall to target Tog; let me know if you're interested and I'll try to let you know when we're going to head that way. Where do you like to fish and what do you like to target? What day of the week are you generally available?
Where did you get all of the ‘know how’ to do this? Do you have an engineering background? I find myself getting stuck in an endless research cycle when trying to do something like this.
Lol, thanks, no I do not have an engineering background or any special ability. Just watched what some other guys have done on RUclips and a lot of trial and error. Also a lot of time sitting on my garage floor staring at it trying to think of ways to do it.
Anywhere from 2 to 4 mph on average. It all depends on the conditions, that is tide and wind. Going into the tide you are slower; going with the tide you are faster. I also have the Sportsman 120 and usually have it loaded down very heavy. The setup is not for Speed; I use the setup to troll for Striped Bass which if you watch some of my videos works just fine. I troll at 3 mph for Striped Bass. My buddy who has the Sportsman 106 goes faster through the water because his kayak is smaller. He probably can go 4.5 mph.
Hi Thomas, this is the actual battery I bought. I actually put 7 hours of runtime on between two separate trips. Three weeks lapsed between the first and second trip without recharging and the battery is more than 50% charged. - reBel Batteries 100ah Lithium Battery - LiFePO4 12V 100Ah Battery - www.amazon.com/stores/reBel+Batteries/page/0B1FD003-D15B-42CB-AA8E-C8618CEC1B62?ref_=ast_bln There are other equally as good batteries out there for less money. This guy does a good job of evaluating batteries. ruclips.net/channel/UCoj6RxIAQq8kmJme-5dnN0Q
Very nice build but like others who did the same I feel that pvc is too weak and being painted black will get soft and weaker in the summer heat. I would have used wood or aluminum perhaps. I am still waiting for someone to fit an ipilot unit in the OT PDL drive hole, that's what I really want as I don't like bow mounts or stern mounts (can't reach for clearing prop of tangles) or drilling holes in my yak. OT ipilot kayak is insanely overpriced, like all their kayaks. I feel the $2500 I paid for my OT 120 PDL is a huge ripoff after one year ownership based on it's shortcomings and soft bottom. Lack of a swivel seat is a real issue to me, along with poor stability if you raise the seat even a little... Nucanoe clearly does better kayaks and is what I should have bought.
Interesting observations. With regard to my build materials, PVC, the setup has actually held up very well. I've been fishing all summer with it and everything is as it was when I put it together in the winter. The PVC has not deteriorated at all, no fatigue, cracks, breaks or anything and I use the setup a lot. I too also wanted to use the cutout of the pedal drive to locate the trolling motor. I agree, I did not want to stern or bow mount a trolling motor because I fish a lot of structure and bump my bow into the structure. I agree with you regarding the cost of the OT Autopilot. Furthermore I follow Facebook groups where owners of that kayak have been frustrated with mechanical failures and operations of that setup. There are certainly other kayaks whose hull design makes them faster in the water but I've been very satisfied with the stability and quality of the OT Sportsman.
@@TravelnFish Thanks for the feedback on the PVC. I just have a personal hate for anything electrical related being black that is used outside in summer weather. Really interesting that it has held up so far, but I am doubtful it will last for many years as the UV rays will eventually break down the PVC, as it's not rated for outside use that I am aware of? Your build is certainly one of the cleanest I've seen, if not THE cleanest, very good work sir! Yea bow and stern just seem like a hassle/danger to me fishing rivers with grass and rocks and lakes with same. I had not heard of many issues with the autopilot, aside from it being slow, which is a function of the hull shape and weight more than anything else. Interesting to hear. They definitely cost ways to much, you can get a really nice actual boat for those prices, all kinds of boats actually. I personally feel the PDL should top out at about $1500 and the autopilot should be about $2500. I mean the kayak itself is super cheap to make, it's just plastic for crying out loud. They are not special or groundbreaking in any way. They are making a killer profit for sure. As to the seat, I have 1in front and 2in rear seat risers. Yes this is not stock, but the stock position is way too low and gives me leg cramps and I can't stand up from the seat at 6'1" 250lbs (yes I'm overweight). With the risers the seat is very comfortable now and I can stand (which is also very unstable imho) idk how people say kayaks are stable for standing, they're not, and I grew up on, and still ride motorcycles of all kinds and have good balance. However, the risers make the kayak pretty unstable when I lean over much, let alone in any current. I broadsided some minor current one time trying to go upriver and almost got dumped in winter water! Scared the crap outa me for sure lol. I just want autopilot in my kayak, but they too are super overpriced lol. I personally find it near impossible to get anything out from behind me in the kayak and it also sometimes causes cramps when I try. Swivel seats should be standard on all fishing kayaks imho. Nucanoe really makes a better all around boat, I just do not like their PDL system for several reasons, but the hull is built for any powering you want, is wider, has higher weight capacity, is faster, and is more stable. But a Nucanoe Unlimited + PDL would have cost me more than the OT PDL and also not available atm I bought my OT. Live and learn! OT makes the best PDL drive system for sure, if only Nucanoe had through hull design like that it would be perfect!
Can you please take a picture of of the bottom of trolling motor insert that you lined with all the gasket Because I have two inserts that I got, but when I put them in some water gets through what I want to do what you do because you have a nice system thanks again
@DanielADOLFSON-b4k Here's a link to a couple of pics I uploaded to an Amazon photo album. Hope it helps.www.amazon.com/photos/shared/gknDheRmRke_RU8LQ3FBTg.-ZjQZ7G1bftH5EoACbcFtO I also included a picture of 2 trolling motors that I use without all of the support stabilizing PBC structure. I found that structure is not needed as the weight of the motor holds it in place. Also I put gasket on the kayak itself so that gasket is up against gasket when the motor is in place.
That's got to be the cleanest build I have come across. I thinking about it 🤔
a nice no bullshit review and a nice looking job
Thank you! I'm actually going to do an update video review in a couple of weeks now that I've been running this setup now for a while.
Just got my trolling motor and excited to get it set up. While this arrangement is truly stunning, the average Joe like me doesn't have near the skills for this. Amazing job!
I'm just an average Joe as well, I watched a lot of other people on RUclips and learned from them along with my own trial-and-error.
Nice to see other Md kayakers on here. 🤘🏻
Agreed 👍
Ive watched a lot of trolling motor installs and this is hands down one of the nicest I've seen. Just moved to NC from Centreville MD and I miss MD already.
Thanks! That's interesting, I'm a transplant MD resident and just vacationed @ the OBX in NC this past week & love the fishing there.
It is an awesome install.
However, your insane, MD is a degenerate commie hell hole. NC is America and awesome!
As a NoVa native, I avoid DC and MD like the plagues they are, absolute chitholes!
Dope set up and engineering and definitely love the Honesty bro! “I just dont have the patience”🤣😭🤣
Lol, you know it; some stuff I'm not down for. If someone had a question I'd be glad to handle it that way.
very clean set up, the best I’ve seen…..thanks for sharing….going to do this in my oldtown pdl…
Thank Erich, it's worked very well so far, no hiccups at all! I've really enjoyed trolling for and catching Striped Bass the spring. If you watch one of the other videos I posted since the one that you viewed the I shortened the shaft 6" and made it even more streamlined.
I really like your set up!
Thanks man, it's really working well. I'll do another end of season review. I also plan to do another trolling motor setup with a larger pound thrust motor just to have options.
Great video, thank you. Now that you’ve got your motor dialed in, what do you find you use more - pedal or motor?
@eugene5438 Thank you for your kind words. That's a very good question, and actually, I use my trolling motor, pedal drive, and paddle quite equally. It all depends on what I'm targeting, what kind of water I'm in, and so on. I use my trolling motor a lot. Trolling for Striped Bass and also just to get around. Certain water I fish, I actually prefer using my pedal drive. And lately, I've been targeting Northern Snakehead, which is in very skinny water, so I use my paddle. So
in reality, it is very situational depending on what my fishing mission happens to be on any given occasion. I've also done an additional trolling motor setup. I call it 2.0. The video is also on my channel. If you view other fishing videos on the channel, you'll see how I rotate through all 3 methods of propulsion.
@@TravelnFish Thanks for your reply. I took my PDL106 out for the first time this weekend and loved it. This winter I plan to do trolling motor build. I'll check out your other videos!
Amazing conversion, very clean setup
Thanks man! I've really been enjoying it! Was out fishing yesterday and it's doing really well. I just checked out one of your videos, the one with you and your wife, LOL, I really enjoyed it!
@@TravelnFish yeah thats a normal occurrence if she doesn't bring her tackle box or I steal some of her lures.
@@AlexOnTheWater that's awesome!
Nice install. That set up would work GREAT here in south Florida. Sebastian River, Indian River Lagoon - ship me one!
nice job..!!
Thank you.
Really nice setup!
Thanks!
Do you have directional control on the trolling motor, or are you using the rudder for for all the turning activities?
I use the rudder. Thanks for the question. The setup has been working well for three years.
Very clean install! How many layers did you use to build up the deck insert? Are you able to tilt the motor up like you are the pedals if you need to operate in the shallows, or do you need to remove the drive unit altogether?
Thank you for the question. I used two small peices of the same material to do a build up underneath for extra support. Yes I am able to articulate the motor similar to the PDL drive. I demonstrate this is the update video that followed.
I lift and lower the motor at launch and recovery as well as when I fish skinny water.
ruclips.net/video/eEAnAUcTMl4/видео.html
Wow what an awesome build. I'll be using my yak in the ocean as well, how do these yaks take waves? I'm getting a Sportsman 106 PDL. I'd definitely consider doing this motor down the road as well.
I've had my Sportsman 120 PDL in the ocean and it does just fine in ressonable conditions. The Big Water, Predator, Salty and other larger Old Town Kayaks would do a little better. Just have to feel comfortable on the water after some experience and use good judgment.
@@TravelnFish I'm gonna be using the Sportsman 106 PDL. I hope it's ok in the ocean with slight waves. I could just use it in the bays and when the ocean is flat I suppose. I hope I didn't waste my money, maybe I shoulda gotten the 12 ft yak. Ughhhh. Live and Learn.
@@Arcturian1111 you'll be fine, just fish more open waters when the water conditions are more favorable. I primarily fish inshore, on bays their tributaries and inlets. Inlets and other areas where the current rips when the tide is moving is as challenging as fishing near shore fishing in the ocean. Most Fisheries waters are different but the same kayaking principles and preparation applies no matter what water you are on.
I'm getting my gear ready, so for awhile I'll be paddling. Eventually I'd like to do a trolling motor.
One day if you have a friend, etc that needs a trolling motor install, maybe you can do a video on the full install. I bet you'd get a lot of hits on your RUclips account. Who knows, maybe you'll get some awesome advertisers as well. Cool Page anyways, love your gear and mods.
What Fish finder would you recommend. I'm looking at a few now near or under $200.
Just one more thing for Gus to add to his kayak now.
Oh yeah, the idea 💡 is going through my head..............
🤣😆😅 lol!
Love the setup but the only thing I would change is the registration number with no backing for a cleaner look other than that love the channel
Hey Dave, thank you very much for the shout-out! Lol, yeah those numbers didn't last very long I changed those out to Orange with no backing to match some of the other coloring on the kayak. You can see some of that in this video.
ruclips.net/video/BW2AEADwDUc/видео.htmlsi=v0augrUQyyEE4n3v
I've also streamlined that trolling motor setup and have also done a 2.0 version with a 55 lb thrust motor. I love the whole trolling motor integration with the kayak, that's the best of both worlds. I can use the paddle, the pedal drive or the trolling motor.
I'm just an old timer out there trying to make stuff happen, so I appreciate the love and the fact you enjoy the channel!
The Old Town Kayak I just bought, has the scudder plugs built into the front deck area for drainage, basically it drains all the water out into the center hull dry well, and back into the water, does yours have them also, I didn't see it. Maybe mine is a newer version. I'm not sure.
I don't use Scupper Plugs; any water that comes in my kayak drains right out of the scupper holes.
My kayak has that same style drive mount. Been looking for a clean way to use a trolling motor in that spot. Do you have a video on the mount itself? Just the pvc piping setup I mean
Also where did you find that particular speed control box? I like the stove knob on top.
Hi, thanks for your comments. I don't have a video of the trolling motor PVC mount construction, sorry. However, I have since removed all the mount structure because I found that it is all unnecessary. The weight of the trolling motor itself provides all the stability needed.
If you watch this video, you will see what I mean. It shows another motor motor setup I did where there is no support structure, just six inches of the trolling motor shaft above the deck plate is all that shows, that I use as a handle to maneuver the motor in and out of place.
ruclips.net/video/-rLmXfXBqE4/видео.htmlsi=HSnWps-sTdePV0tu
The box I used for the first motor setup I did I got at homedepot to mount the trolling motor switch inside.
www.homedepot.com/p/Carlon-1-Gang-19-cu-in-3-4-in-PVC-Type-FSC-FS-Box-E981EFN-CTN/100404133
@@TravelnFish good to know it wasn’t necessary. Looks great though. . Trial and error strikes again lol. Appreciate the link.
Great job really cool
Thanks!
Nice bro did you install a kill switch ?
Thank you! No, I did not install a kill switch.
I tried this setup today and my trolling motor shaft moves a lot.I ordered a shaft lock from Amazon today so I'll place that underneath the insert. Hopefully that will help.
Yeah, there are easy enough ways to tighten things up. I put a depth collar on the top and bottom sides of the deck plate. I also put a screw into the deck plate between the gap in the depth collar. The setup is very solid.
@@TravelnFish thanks I’ll try again tomorrow. If it’s a no go I’ll just go bow mount.
Thanks for the video. What size pvc did you use under the lockdowns?
Hi Angelo, I used three-quarter inch PVC on the bar that goes under the lockdowns. The outside diameter is about one inch which closely matches the stock bar on the pedal drive.
Thank you. Very inspiring
@@ForgottenFisherman Thanks man! Check back during the summer I'll have some follow-up comments on the trolling motor, I hope to use it a lot.
That’s realllllll nice.
Thank you.
Your kayak is so clean you could eat out of it. I wish you could commercially sell this arrangement but then I couldn’t install it. Great job. Did you mention your top speed, I know it was rough but when you get a chance can you let us know what it is.
Thanks "D" I think, lol! I've enjoyed it this past season. I probably average 3mph. It's definitely not a speed boat; my 12ft. Yak is loaded down when I'm fishing and the hull design is not built for speed but stability. Non the less I am able to troll fast enough to catch Striped Bass which is what the setup is for.
Very nice setup 🤝🏼. I have the same type of PDL drive. I get water coming in from drive area. Was wondering if the extra seal that you put on the kayak side would helps keep water stay out? And what type of weather stripping did you use on the kayak and what would i use to make the weather stripping Stick to the kayak?
Hi, thanks! I used Frost King EPDM Rubber Self-Stick Weatherseal Tape. To answer your question; it does prevent water from entering around the drive. I bought mine at HomeDepot but this is the stuff - www.amazon.com/Frost-King-Self-Stick-Weatherseal-D-Section/dp/B00FQ5A5RM/ref=sr_1_5?crid=NN3WHXGC7WVG&keywords=frost+king+weather+stripping&qid=1640806573&sprefix=frost+king%2Caps%2C58&sr=8-5
It's actually the same profile as the gasket on the bottom of the PDl drive. The adhesive on the tape holds it on just fine. When the PDL drive or trolling motor is in place it is gasket on gasket.
@@TravelnFish thank you so much buddy💯🤝🏼
@@DetroitFishigan I uploaded a picture to my Dropbox so you can see a picture.
www.dropbox.com/s/hwe0lthg6izpfxj/20211229_143417.jpg?dl=0
@@TravelnFish thank you im definitely going to do this. I've trying to find a solution to that water problem and you are the only one i seen that did. Thats so awesome of you to share the picture and the website as well thanks again 💯🤝🏼 i appreciate you.
@@DetroitFishigan No problem; as you can see from the picture I only used one strip of the two piece weather striping which seems two work but you could use both which may work even better. Let me know how it works out.
Did you add a kill switch and lanyard? One consideration is being 2 miles out, hit by a rogue wave, ending up in the water, and watching your boat driving away at 3 knots. Just wondered. Almost all the commercial rigs I've seen include a kill switch. Other than that I have to echo many of the other comments. The cleanest motor build I've seen.
Thanks G! No, I never considered a kill switch; I know a lot/most of motorized systems for kayaks incorporate safety features (kill switch) and I could have but decided not to. I know "things" could happen, however, I'm an experienced kayaker and very comfortable on the water. As well, the kayak I chose is Very Stable; had I picked another model (less stable) I would have considered a kill switch. I've fished all sorts of rough water, passing by container ships in shipping channels(big rollers), storms, etc. I've never felt like the water was going to remove me from the kayak. I pay pretty careful attention on the water just like I did when I rode a motorcycle.
Interestingly, I've seen as many operating boats go overboard while there boat spins out of control and boats don't use kill switches 🤔.
Sorry, for the long reply; good observation!
PS, I may do another Trolling Motor setup next winter to see if I can make some other refinements.
You had me at troll
🤣
Will the motor pivot just like the PDL drive? I did the same but with a 30 lb Minn Kota and the head hits the back of the opening. I want to cut another piece of HDPE and move the hole forward to try to be able to pivot.
As far as a PWM I used a Minn Kota controller
Hi William, the motor clears the hole in the deck just fine. I don't attempt to to pivot the motor like the PDL drive; I stop the motor and will raise the shaft to tuck the motor against the hull to paddle in skinny water or just raise the whole assembly out and set it on the bow. I don't intend to raise and lower the motor but I stead use my depth finder to stay in deep enough water most times.
Thanks. I’m in SOMD if you ever wanna fish this way
@@weekendwarriorfishing6836I'm up for that. I have fished out of Point Lookout, Piney Point Landing and Solomons. Where do you fish in SOMD?
Fish out of Mattawoman creek for largemouth and stripers. The Patuxent River north of Solomon’s for stripers.
@@weekendwarriorfishing6836 We'll have to fish the Pax for some Stripers sometime.
What is the paint you used to paint the pvc?
In this particular case, it's Rust-Oleum gloss black. But I've also used flat black, I've done hydro dip treatments, textured paint, used various things, but in this case, it was gloss black.
I have the same kayak as you what would u. charge if you were to build that system for me thanks again
Hey, I appreciate the interest however I'm not wanting to get into the business of making these setups to sell. Hope you understand. If you want to ask specific questions about different details of my build, I'll be happy to answer them.
I totally understand was it hard making everything
@@mooseadolfson8002 no, it was not hard at all. I got a lot of ideas from others on RUclips and came up with some of my own. When you've got visual examples online and can study the videos, it's pretty easy.
You should make a video step by step
@@mooseadolfson8002 I'm thinking about making another setup with a 55# trolling motor, if I do, maybe I'll do a video.
can you list all the parts used, like the trolling motor bracket.
Hi Hector, thank you for the question. Hey can you look in the description where I've listed I think most of what I used and see if that addresses your question, if not get back to me let me know and I'll try to clear up any other questions you might have.
@@TravelnFish maybe I missed it but I didn't see the quick release bracket on the motor shaft listed I couldn't find it on amazon. Also have you hit bottom with it yet? When im in my bigwater and Im getting near the shallow water, pull up my pdl drive and padel to shore. Can you do that?
@@hrios3016
Hi Hector, I have not hit bottom with the motor but I have run into some submerged logs in shallow water. I pay attention on my fish finder and watch my water depth when fishing skinny water and yes I lift the trolling motor up when I get into water less than 1.5 ft. I'm not sure but I think the part you're referring to is part of the Tilt mechanism on a stock trolling motor. I uploaded a few of the pictures to a Amazon photo album that you can view with this link.
www.amazon.com/photos/shared/vHTQLVTpS9mnU012Z669Yw.QVUZzSq50CxOB2Cwr8Cxgz
Also in this trolling motor update video I show the ability to lift the motor which is what I do when I get into skinny water and when I launch in recover the kayak.
ruclips.net/video/eEAnAUcTMl4/видео.html
@@TravelnFish thanks for your reply and all the pictures, the last picture shows the black bracket with the spring part I'm referring to.
@@hrios3016 yeah, that's part of the stock trolling motor. I also removed that spring etc.; stripped it all off. On another note, that bracket and mounting structure is really not needed. I did another trolling motor setup where I don't use anything at all. All I have is the cutout floor plate and the trolling motor shaft going through it sandwiched by two depth collars top and bottom.
Which is more better for saltwater old Town kayak or hobie kayak
I've never used a Hobie in saltwater but I'm sure they work well. I chose an Oldtown for price and the PDL drive. For me the Mirage drive failures and maintenance are a negative. As well the Old Town Sportsman is a very stable kayak.
How long does 100ah last? Would you’d rather have 80ah since it’s lighter? I am trying to decide myself
Hi Jeff, to your first question, I don't have an actual total runtime on that battery yet. I have four and a half hours of continuous run time per the Sea Trial video I did two months ago. In addition to that I had another two and a half hour separate session on the same charge. That battery has been sitting in my garage since then without recharging and still has over 50% charge still on the battery. I don't think I could kill this battery on a single full day of fishing. In fact I'm sure I could fish two days back-to-back on a single charge and still have power leftover. I don't regret getting the 100 amp hour battery because in fact I don't want to be left dead in the water, and in fact I will be doing some back-to-back days of fishing (on the road) and I won't have to recharge the battery. I hope that answers your questions, let me know if you have any other questions. I've done a few other modifications to the set up since that video and when I get back on the water in a month or so I'll comment on some of those changes as a part of my fishing trip. From my limited experience I certainly think an 80 amp hour battery would suffice.
@@TravelnFish thanks so much. Only 4 lbs more I think I will go with 100ah.
@@JeffLancaster1 you certainly won't be disappointed with the performance!
Wow! Well done! If you aren’t a fabrication engineer you missed your calling.
Wow, back at you; to kind. Just took ideas from others and some trial & error. Though this setup works well, I actually like this one even better.
ruclips.net/video/-rLmXfXBqE4/видео.html
LOL.……very nice………ok, now I subscribed
@51ddb thank you, I appreciate it!
What battery box is best fit for the battery you use
This is the battery box I chose to use.
www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01AE2TG7G?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title
The "Rebel" battery I use fits the battery perfectly; no extra room.
Very Clean build but if trolling as you described in the video on speed "2" can be heard through the hull and in the video doesn't say much for how stealthy that brand of trolling motor is. Or maybe its propellor is to close to the hull, but either way it just sounds loud in the video.
Hey man, thanks for taking a look and for your observation and comments. That's a good observation you made. I think the brand of trolling motor is okay and the propeller is approximately the same distance from the hull as the pedal drive propeller. However I can try it at a little bit deeper depth and see if that matters. I am able to adjust the depth of the motor easily. I can probably also cushion some of the connections to the shaft to see if that makes any difference. I had the same observation while I was doing the sea trial though it didn't seem that it would spook fish from what I could tell. I will certainly take your comments too heart and see if that can be refined a bit. Thanks again!
great!!
Thank you.
Can I please ask as to the type of battery? Lithium? Thank you
Hi Steve, this is what I'm using...
reBel Batteries 100ah Lithium Battery - LiFePO4 12V 100Ah Battery - www.amazon.com/stores/reBel+Batteries/page/0B1FD003-D15B-42CB-AA8E-C8618CEC1B62?ref_=ast_bln
There are other equally as good batteries out there for less money. This guy does a good job of evaluating batteries. ruclips.net/channel/UCoj6RxIAQq8kmJme-5dnN0Q
Do you prefer old Town for saltwater or hobie pro angler kayak for saltwater
I've never used a Hobie in saltwater but I'm sure they work well. I chose an Oldtown for price and the PDL drive. For me the Mirage drive failures and maintenance are a negative. As well the Old Town Sportsman is a very stable kayak.
@@TravelnFish so you like pdl drive better than the hobie kayak
Do you think I should use the hobie in saltwater with a 360 drive or the pdl drive on the old Town instead
@@edgars00789 after you've done your own evaluation it comes down to budget and preference.
Well done I’ll pay you to hook my oldtown salty up man gotta extra trolling motor to work with im on the eastern shore inbetween oc and Salisbury
Hey, while I appreciate the compliment and flattery and though I would love to hook you up, I'm just not in the business to build these setups other than for my own use. Two main reasons are: I don't want to invest the extra time and I would feel horrible if you were not satisfied. Sorry, I've had a couple other inquiries and my response has been the same.
@@TravelnFish no worries man! Sorry to bother you on the subject .putting that aside a day on the water with a new buddy would be great let me know if you ever want to fish with some subscribers
@@rondumb6055 Yeah, we could try to get out on the water at some point. Another subscriber and I head to Ocean City Inlet in the fall to target Tog; let me know if you're interested and I'll try to let you know when we're going to head that way. Where do you like to fish and what do you like to target? What day of the week are you generally available?
Where did you get all of the ‘know how’ to do this? Do you have an engineering background? I find myself getting stuck in an endless research cycle when trying to do something like this.
Lol, thanks, no I do not have an engineering background or any special ability. Just watched what some other guys have done on RUclips and a lot of trial and error. Also a lot of time sitting on my garage floor staring at it trying to think of ways to do it.
How fast can you go with that set up?
Anywhere from 2 to 4 mph on average.
It all depends on the conditions, that is tide and wind. Going into the tide you are slower; going with the tide you are faster. I also have the Sportsman 120 and usually have it loaded down very heavy. The setup is not for Speed; I use the setup to troll for Striped Bass which if you watch some of my videos works just fine. I troll at 3 mph for Striped Bass. My buddy who has the Sportsman 106 goes faster through the water because his kayak is smaller. He probably can go 4.5 mph.
@@TravelnFish Thanks!
What size battery did you buy?
Hi Thomas, this is the actual battery I bought. I actually put 7 hours of runtime on between two separate trips. Three weeks lapsed between the first and second trip without recharging and the battery is more than 50% charged.
- reBel Batteries 100ah Lithium Battery - LiFePO4 12V 100Ah Battery - www.amazon.com/stores/reBel+Batteries/page/0B1FD003-D15B-42CB-AA8E-C8618CEC1B62?ref_=ast_bln
There are other equally as good batteries out there for less money. This guy does a good job of evaluating batteries. ruclips.net/channel/UCoj6RxIAQq8kmJme-5dnN0Q
Very nice build but like others who did the same I feel that pvc is too weak and being painted black will get soft and weaker in the summer heat.
I would have used wood or aluminum perhaps.
I am still waiting for someone to fit an ipilot unit in the OT PDL drive hole, that's what I really want as I don't like bow mounts or stern mounts (can't reach for clearing prop of tangles) or drilling holes in my yak. OT ipilot kayak is insanely overpriced, like all their kayaks.
I feel the $2500 I paid for my OT 120 PDL is a huge ripoff after one year ownership based on it's shortcomings and soft bottom.
Lack of a swivel seat is a real issue to me, along with poor stability if you raise the seat even a little...
Nucanoe clearly does better kayaks and is what I should have bought.
Interesting observations. With regard to my build materials, PVC, the setup has actually held up very well. I've been fishing all summer with it and everything is as it was when I put it together in the winter. The PVC has not deteriorated at all, no fatigue, cracks, breaks or anything and I use the setup a lot.
I too also wanted to use the cutout of the pedal drive to locate the trolling motor. I agree, I did not want to stern or bow mount a trolling motor because I fish a lot of structure and bump my bow into the structure.
I agree with you regarding the cost of the OT Autopilot. Furthermore I follow Facebook groups where owners of that kayak have been frustrated with mechanical failures and operations of that setup.
There are certainly other kayaks whose hull design makes them faster in the water but I've been very satisfied with the stability and quality of the OT Sportsman.
@@TravelnFish Thanks for the feedback on the PVC. I just have a personal hate for anything electrical related being black that is used outside in summer weather.
Really interesting that it has held up so far, but I am doubtful it will last for many years as the UV rays will eventually break down the PVC, as it's not rated for outside use that I am aware of?
Your build is certainly one of the cleanest I've seen, if not THE cleanest, very good work sir!
Yea bow and stern just seem like a hassle/danger to me fishing rivers with grass and rocks and lakes with same.
I had not heard of many issues with the autopilot, aside from it being slow, which is a function of the hull shape and weight more than anything else. Interesting to hear.
They definitely cost ways to much, you can get a really nice actual boat for those prices, all kinds of boats actually.
I personally feel the PDL should top out at about $1500 and the autopilot should be about $2500. I mean the kayak itself is super cheap to make, it's just plastic for crying out loud. They are not special or groundbreaking in any way. They are making a killer profit for sure.
As to the seat, I have 1in front and 2in rear seat risers. Yes this is not stock, but the stock position is way too low and gives me leg cramps and I can't stand up from the seat at 6'1" 250lbs (yes I'm overweight).
With the risers the seat is very comfortable now and I can stand (which is also very unstable imho) idk how people say kayaks are stable for standing, they're not, and I grew up on, and still ride motorcycles of all kinds and have good balance.
However, the risers make the kayak pretty unstable when I lean over much, let alone in any current. I broadsided some minor current one time trying to go upriver and almost got dumped in winter water! Scared the crap outa me for sure lol.
I just want autopilot in my kayak, but they too are super overpriced lol.
I personally find it near impossible to get anything out from behind me in the kayak and it also sometimes causes cramps when I try. Swivel seats should be standard on all fishing kayaks imho.
Nucanoe really makes a better all around boat, I just do not like their PDL system for several reasons, but the hull is built for any powering you want, is wider, has higher weight capacity, is faster, and is more stable. But a Nucanoe Unlimited + PDL would have cost me more than the OT PDL and also not available atm I bought my OT.
Live and learn!
OT makes the best PDL drive system for sure, if only Nucanoe had through hull design like that it would be perfect!
Early season Trolling Motor Setup Update ... ruclips.net/video/GoXUDFVR2gQ/видео.html
To you make the insert plate your self
@DanielADOLFSON-b4k I do. It's not perfect but works ok.
Can you please take a picture of of the bottom of trolling motor insert that you lined with all the gasket Because I have two inserts that I got, but when I put them in some water gets through what I want to do what you do because you have a nice system thanks again
@DanielADOLFSON-b4k Here's a link to a couple of pics I uploaded to an Amazon photo album. Hope it helps.www.amazon.com/photos/shared/gknDheRmRke_RU8LQ3FBTg.-ZjQZ7G1bftH5EoACbcFtO
I also included a picture of 2 trolling motors that I use without all of the support stabilizing PBC structure. I found that structure is not needed as the weight of the motor holds it in place. Also I put gasket on the kayak itself so that gasket is up against gasket when the motor is in place.
I made a couple of updates to the setup you can view here...ruclips.net/video/eEAnAUcTMl4/видео.html
May I know how old you are?
Haven't had that question yet; I'm 62.